Week 2 of the college football season is here and I am fired up after going 4-3 last week. That’s a decent start but I want a pool for the new country home, and I need to go on a heater. After a slew of big games last weekend, we are strolling into a group of week 2 cupcakes. In theory that should play in my favor.
Oregon vs. Ohio State over 63.5
This is one of the few games this weekend between ranked teams. Oregon got off to a rocky start last week but picked up the win over Fresno State. OSU was every bit as explosive on offense as we expected them to be, but the Gophers proved they could move the ball and score, making their season opener with the Buckeyes appear far closer than it should have been. The Ducks defense is already banged up and likely missing their top linebacker and future NFL first rounder Kevin Thibodeaux went down with a knee injury last week and is listed at day-to-day. Even if he plays there’s no chance he is at 100%. That should clear the way for OSU to hit the explosive plays we’ve gotten used to, but I expect the Ducks to sneak in enough offense to help push the over. Take the Over 63.5.
Notre Dame vs. Toledo over 55
It’s very easy to have a knee jerk reaction to the Irish finding themselves in a dogfight against FSU last week, that’s the fun of picking games in September. Brian Kelly (despicable person) let his feelings known about watching ND drop an 18 point lead. Toledo will likely win the MAC, but this game is set up for the Irish to make a statement and keep their coach happy by staying on the gas for four quarters. Take the Over 55.
Miami -8.5 vs. App. State
Miami got boat raced in Atlanta last Saturday against Bama, who hasn’t at this point? The Canes are better than what we saw last week everyone looks bad playing Bama. Last time the Canes took on App. State during a “shaky season” they came out firing and walked away with a 45-10 victory. Moral of the story? The Canes still got it at times. Miami -8.5.
Kentucky vs. Missouri under 56
One thing Mark Stoops has brought to the Wildcats is defensive toughness. I feel like I say the same thing every time I watch UK and cringed at how old school their games turn out as an all out slugfest. The last three times these two team got together, they’ve averaged 37.5 points. Unless they are getting blown out UK does not play in high scoring games. Take the Under 56.
Utah -7 vs. BYU
This is a rivalry game that most outside of Utah don’t pay attention to. The line for this one is moving quickly it opened at -4 and is continuing to grow as the week continues. The reason for the big move is injuries. BYU’s QB is likely to miss the game due to concussion protocols. Top receiver Gunner Romney is doubtful with a leg injury. The Utes are loaded with 19 starters back from last year’s team and are locked and loaded on both lines. That’s going make for a long evening for the Cougars. Utah -7.
South Florida -28.5 vs. Florida
Florida wins this game, let me get that out the way upfront. But I do love a big spread, and history tells us the Gators are 0-4-1 against the spread in their last five games. They’ve failed to cover in the last three road games. The 28.5 is the largest home dog the Bulls have been since 2000. Florida wins comfortably, but I like USF with the backdoor cover. South Florida -28.5
Illinois +10 vs. Virginia
This line is a prime example of why I don’t bet Virginia games. Illinois beat down Nebraska in week one and then lost to UTSA last week. That tells me they are still trying to find their footing under their new coach. The Hoos beat the wheels off William & Mary to open the season, but even with the shutout they did not look great for the first half on offense. That tells me it’s likely more of the same Jekyll and Hyde play for Virginia. Illinois does not turn the ball over, and they are capable of finishing the majority of their possessions with points. But thanks to the conservative nature of their offense, it’s unlikely they will test the Virginia secondary often. This is a game where I bet myself happy. Take Illinois to keep it close at +10. If they do and the Hoos win great double win, if IL. If the Hoos win by 20? great Hoos win and I don’t mind losing the cash. If Illinois pulls the upset and beat Virginia? Well at least I got a few bucks to take a stroll down Elliewood with and enjoy a few shots.