The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl has Ohio U taking on Nevada. Both of these teams just did become bowl eligible with the Ohio Bobcats finishing at 6-6 and the Nevada Wolfpack finishing at 7-5. Ohio had to win its final two games of the season just to get here beating Bowling Green and Akron by a combined score of 118-27. Don't let their six losses fool you too much, as Ohio lost those six games by a combined 41-points. The Cats have also won their last two bowl games, the 2017 Bahamas Bowl and the 2018 Friso Bowl. The latter bowl they shutout a good San Diego State team, 27-0. Nevada finished the season with a bitter loss to their rival from the South, UNLV, 30-33. The game was marred by a brawl after the game that has led to some suspensions. Saftey Austin Arnol will miss two games, Corner Daniel Brown and DT Hausia Sekona also will not play today. Nevada will also play with three interim coaches on the defensive side. For me, these suspension will play the biggest role. Ohio's offense, which was flying high at the end of the season, will take advantage of these absences. I'm taking the Bobcats here. Play OHIO.

Sugar Bowl here on New Year's day as No 7 Baylor takes on No 5 Georgia. Georgia just missed out on the playoff final four teams, finishing fifth in the country. Both teams had a chance to make the Football Playoffs, but both teams lost in their respective conference Championship games. Both of these defenses are excellent, as both allow fewer than 20 points. Georgia QB Fromm will likely be without two of his top targets in Lawrence Cager and Dominick Blaylock. That will be a big loss here for the Bulldogs. In a great defensive matchup like this I like taking the points. Take Baylor.

Alamo Bowl action here on New Year's eve has Texas taking on No 11. Utah. The Texas Longhorns finished the regular season with a win over Texas Tech, 49-24. The Longhorns defense is their Achille's heal, they had a terrible year. The good news, the Utah offense isn't exactly all that great. Utah had hopes getting into the College playoffs, but those hopes were dashed when they lost the PAC-12 Championship to Oregon. The big problem for Utah, as we are seeing more and more these years, are players opting out of the game for the NFL upcoming draft. That's the case here with Utah. The Utes will be missing some of their star players here. The defense is their key and one loss is star defensive cornerback Jaylon Johnson who opted out of today's game. They will have to content with WR Collin Johnson, who is returning from an injury. I'm going to take the touchdown here with the Longhorns. Play Texas.

The First Responder Bowl on Monday has Western Michigan taking on Western Kentucky. These are teams that have had a long history a long time ago in the pre 1950 era. The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are led by QB Ty Storey. Storey is a grad transfer who had 11 TD's and a 70% completion rate. The only bad thing is that Storey also had 10 INT's this year. WKY scored 20 points or more in all but one game this year, while averaging 30 ppg. They will have to cutdown on turnovers though, with 19 give aways this year. Western Michigan has a balanced attack with QB Jon Wassink and RB LeVante Bellamy. Bellamy was the MAC offensive player of the Year. They rely a lot on Bellamy, who had over 1400 yards and 23 rushing TD's this year. This is going to be if Western Kentucky's defense can stop the Western Michigan offense. I think this is a close game and as such I'll take the points with Western Michigan.

One of the Final four games here on December 28th has No 3 Clemson playing No 2 Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl. Both these clubs went undefeated in FBS regular season.  This is a rematch from three years ago and Clemson came away winners in that game as they went to win the Championship.  This game will be all about the Clemson defense vs the Ohio State offense. Clemson has the nation's overall top rated defense, allowing just 245 yards per game. They also have one of the best redzone efficiency ratings of 53.7%. Ohio State has the 5th ranke offense in the country, averaging 531 yards per game. Clemson ranks 3rd in offense with 548 yards per game.  Ohio State is one of the few FBS teams allowing fewer than 100 yards per game, which will be put to the task against this potent Clemson offense today.  Clemson will be tasked with containing Ohio State QB Justin Fields. Fields had 40 passing TD's this year and only one INT. For me, Clemson is just too talented on both sides of the ball and with that many weapons and laying just one point here today, I'm taking the defending National Champions in what could be a high scoring game. Play Clemson.

 Playoff game here as No 1 LSU takes on No 4 Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl from Atlanta, GA. This marks the first time we'll see a Heisman trophy winner in Joe Burrows vs OK QB Jalen Hurts. Oklahoma finished the season 12-1 with their only loss coming at Kansas State. This is a high flying offense with Hurts tossing for over 3,600 yards and 32 TD's. This is the nation's 2nd ranked overall offense. They will have their work cut out for them gainst this LSU defense. Plus, the Sooners will have to contend with Joe Burrows and that LSU offense, ranked No 1 in the country. Burrows has thrown for over 4,700 yards and 48 TD's with the Tigers being undefeated this year. Oklahoma's defense is much improved over last year, ranking 24th overall in the country. I think this one comes down to if Hurts can do damage on the ground as he has done most of the year. LSU is going to have to account for Hurts and that could be a key here. I'm going to take the double-digit points with an Oklahoma offense I believe can stay up with LSU. Play Oklahoma.

Two more teams that have never met before will matchup here in the Cotton Bowl. The Nittany Lions were 10-2 in the regular season. Memphis was 12-1 in the regular season under new HC Ryan Silverfield. Memphis has a top 10 ranked offense this year with 40.5 ppg average. QB Brady White is the leader with 33 touchdowns and 3,560 yards passing. For Penn State it's all about the defense, especially stopping the run. This will make getting Kenneth Gainwell starting tough. This Penn State defense will be the best Memphis has faced all season. This PSU defense is the only one that was able to handle Ohio State for most of the game. They should have little trouble containing Memphis. I'm taking Penn State.

 First meeting every between these teams and that's with both teams being in existence since the 1800's. They finally meet here on Saturday in the Camping World Bowl. No 14 Notre Dame finished the season 10-2 and a 5-0 record in November. Not so for Iowa State, that ended their season losing three of their last five. I have to wonder how much Notre Dame will be into this game considering they had a legitimate chance at the Playoffs. Iowa State finished 7-5, however of their five losses four of those came to ranked teams. I like the points here with Iowa State.

Independence Bowl action here on Thursday with afternoon start time between Miami Florida and Louisiana Tech. Miami is coming off a season ending loss at Duke, 17-27. It was the team's 2nd straight loss to finish the season both S/U and ATS. La Tech finished their season with a win at home over Texas San Antonio, 41-27, but failed to cover the 20-point line. It was the club's third straight spread loss after winning four straight. The Tech offense, which ranked 30th in total offense, faces a Miami defense ranked 16th vs the run and 22nd vs the pass. Miami had just a 6-6 year and just got to bowl eligible. With losses to Florida International and Duke, it was not a good finish to the season. Miami's offense has been inconsistent all season while the defense has been strong. However, the defense did wear down those final two games and face a solid offense here today. For me, Louisiana Tech getting 6 1/2 points is a bonus since I look for a straight up Tech win. Play Louisiana Tech.

New Orleans Bowl action here on Saturday is the late game between UAB and 20th ranked Appalachian State. UAB coming into this game after getting totally demolished in their conference championship game. UAB lost to Florida Atlantic in the Conference USAQ Championship, 6-49 and never was in that game. Appalachian State finished 12-1 on the season after beating Louisiana in the Sun Belt Championship. App State lost to Georgia Southern in October and since then has average 40.8 points per game and over 400 yards per game. UAB has relied way too much on their running game since QB Tyler Johnston has been injured. Johnston should be back here today, but I'm not sure that will help the Blazers out that much. App State has an excellent rushing defense, allowing just 2.79 yards per carry in November. This App State team has it all, balanced offense, excellent defense and they should easily get their first ever 13 win season. I expect a Appalachian State blowout here on Saturday. Play Appalachian State.

Las Vegas Bowl action on Saturday evening has No 19 Boise State taking on Washington. Despite being ranked, Boise finds itself a small dog here in this game. The Broncos are 12-1 S/U and 8-5 ATS. The Broncos finished their regular season with a win over Hawaii, 31-10. Washington finished 7-5 S/U and and ATS. The Huskies finished with a win over Washington State, 31-13. Boyd Stadium hosts its final bowl game with the new Allegient Stadium taking over next year. The Broncos might be sorry to see Boyd go away, they are 4-0 on this field in bowl games. The Broncos were a 7-point dog vs Oregon in the 2017 Vegas Bowl and won, a 2.5-point dog in the 2014 Fiesta Bowl and won. They are now 5-3 on neutral site games. Washington HC Chris Petersoon announced his retirement and that means DC Jimmy Lake will be taking over has head coach. Two of the Huskies best offensive players have opted to skip this bowl game in favor of the NFL draft. A disappointing offensive season will be all the more disappointing this season. I don't see much motivation for Washington here. They are playing in a bowl they really don't want to play in and with a new coach. Look for Boise State to take this one. Play Boise State.

 Cure Bowl action here on Saturday from Orlando Florida has the Liberty Flames taking on Georgia Southern Eagles. Liberty finished the season 7-5 to become bowl eligible. Liberty in just its 2nd season in the FBS and their first ever bowl trip here on Saturday. The highlight of the season for Georgia Southern this year was a big win over Appalachian State on the road, 24-21. After that big win, it was a flat rest of the season with just a 2-2 record. Liberty has the 31st ranked offense with 33.7 points per game this year. They have a balanced offense both through the air and on the ground. Georgia Southern is a better running team than passing. This is evidenced by a 8th ranked nationally rushing game. I look for a shootout here and that favors Liberty. They don't want to let GSU take this to a ball control game. I'm taking Liberty here on Saturday.

 Big 10 Championship from Indianapolis, IN has Wisconsin taking on the nation's top ranked team in Ohio State. Wisconsin is coming off a win over Minnesota last week, 38-17. It was the team's fourth win since they lost to these Buckeyes back on October 26th, 7-38. The Wisconsin offense is ranked 35th in the country and is predominantly a running team, averaging 244 yards per game. The defense comes in ranked 6th in the country. They will have their work cut out for them today against the 5th ranked offense of Ohio State. Ohio State also has the nation's top ranked defense, holding rushing teams to just 91 yards on the ground. I'm looking for a repeat of the first meeting where Ohio State dominated. I'm having no problem laying the points here with the Buckeys who have covered three of the last four in this series. Play Ohio State.

Boise State is 19th ranked in the nation as they play the Mountain West Championship here today against Hawaii. Boise gets somewhat home field here today with the game being played in Boise. Hawaii already having to make the long trip East to play here today. The Rainbow Warriors have one of the best offenses in the country, ranked 12th thanks in big part to a passing game that racks up 332 yards per game. Hawaii beat Army last week, 52-31. They trailed most of the 1st half before Army went for a 4th and 1 on it's own 32 yard line late in the half and failed, allowing Hawaii to score a TD. It was all Warriors after that. Hawaii is vulnerable to good defenses though, evidenced by their 14 points against San Diego State two weeks prior. I expect a shootout though in this one as Boise has the 29th ranked offense. They get to face a Hawaii defense ranked 94th in the country. Boise has scored 50 or more points in three games this year and 30 or more in nine games. Here on the mainland this Hawaii team doesn't have that huge home field it possesses back on the island. Boise should have little trouble against this poor defense today. Take Boise State and parlay it to the OVER.

 Late game here as Arizona takes on rival Arizona State. Arizona has lost three straight to drop to 5-6. The Wildcats offense has generated just 13 total points the last two games vs Utah and Oregon. Arizona State broke a four-game losing streak with a upset win over Oregon last week, 31-28 as 14.5-point favorites. That win made the Sun Devils season and I can't help believe they will be in for a huge let down this week. This matchup has been a shootout the last five years with four of those going over the total and the one under they combined for 72 points and went under the 75 total. I still believe ASU got their big win last week and this week they will be in a let down mode. take the visitor, Arizona U.

Huge game here today for top ranked Ohio State. A loss to their bitter rivals, Michigan, and it will be interesting to see if they drop from the Playoff final four - though I doubt they would. Still, Ohio State has the nation's top rated defense with Michigan ranked 4th. Ohio State has the 6th ranked offense with Michigan coming in at 69th. Michigan getting more than a TD at home here is very tough to pass on. Michigan has covered three of the last five years, though OSU has won all five of those. I'm taking the points here today in what looks to be the best game on the board. Play Michigan.

Louisville is bowl eligible, but would like nothing better than to end its season with a big win over its rivals, Kentucky. Louisville has been a potent offense, scoring 30 points or more six times this year including last game in a big win over Syracuse, 56-34. Kentucky is 6-5 S/U on the season and last week had a easy win over Tennessee Martin, 50-7. The road team has covered the last five meetings between these rivals and that's what I'm looking for again here today. Play Louisville.

Florida International 6-5 S/U and 3-6-1 ATS on the season. FIU looks like they are bowl bound after beating Miami Florida last time out, 30-24. Fla Intl has the 62nd ranked defense in the country with Marshall ranking slightly better at 46th. FIU offense comes in at 93rd in the country with Marshall at 65th. Marshall is 7-4 S/U and 4-7 ATS on the season. I'll lay the 7 1/2 or 8 points here with Marshall.

We could be seeing a preview of the AAC Championship game here on Friday as Memphis plays Cincinnati. A Memphis win here on Friday means that Cincinnati would have to stay in town and play the AAC Championship next week. A Cincinnati win means they get to host the AAC Championship and that would either be against Navy or these Memphis Tigers. Memphis has scored at least 42 points in each of its last five games, including last week's win over South Florida, 49-10. Cincinnati is more a of the defensive team, holding each of its last three opponents to 17 points or fewer. This looks to be a great matchup on Friday, but more at state here for Memphis. I will take the Tigers in this one. Play Memphis.

The late game on the college slate for Saturday has 8-2 San Diego State playing at 7-4 Hawaii. Both these clubs will be playing in Bowl games. But I'm a bit surprised to see the very good defensive San Diego State team getting 2 to 3 points in this contest. Hawaii is a very good offensive team, ranked 10th in the country in overall offense. However, they are facing the 8th ranked defense in the country in the Aztecs. This really comes down to just that, can San Diego State contain the Hawaii offense? If they can, they get the win and cover. San Diego State is not a team built to outscore their opponents. I do think a great defense beats great offenses. So I'm taking the dog here on Saturday night. Play San Diego State.

Number 6 ranked Oregon takes its 9-1 record on the road to Arizona State this evening. The Ducks still hoping to make that final four playoff group, though it looks like a very long shot at this point. Oregon's only loss of the season came way back in week one to Auburn, 21-27, a game they could have easily won. The Ducks are 6-3 ATS since that game and are off a win at home over Arizona, 34-6. The Ducks offense is ranked 23rd in the country right now and the defense comes in at 14th. Arizona State is off a loss at Oregon State, 34-35. It was the team's four straight spread loss. The team also dropped to 5-5 and needs another win to possibly be bowl eligible. The Sun Devils are a double-digit home dog here tonight and would like nothing better than a huge upset win over Oregon. I don't expect that, but I do expect them to be competitive. Take the 14-points with the home team here. Play Arizona State.

A nice Big 12 matchup here today as 6-4 Texas travels to No 14. Baylor. Texas had a tough loss last week, losing at Iowa State 21-23 but covering the 7-point dog line. The Longhorns will be bowling this year but would like to upset Baylor here today. Baylor is 9-1 on the season and is laying around 6-points here today. The Bears fell from the ranks of the unbeaten last week with a home loss to Oklahoma, 31-34. They covered the 10-point line, but still little consolation for Baylor in that heartbreaking loss. Baylor now will be playing for a decent bowl game as they play Texas this week and then close out against Kansas next week. I am going to take the points here today. I have to feel Baylor will be in for a letdown with that perfect season now gone and really nothing else left to play for. Take Texas.

13th ranked Michigan hits the road today for a game at Indiana. Michigan will be laying 9 1/2 points in this one, but they better not get over confident. They are facing the best passing attack in the Big 10 in Indiana. Michigan has won three straight games in easy fashion since their loss to Penn State four weeks ago, 21-28. Since then they have beaten Notre Dame 45-14, Maryland 38-7 and last week over Michigan State, 44-10. The one problem this week is that they might be looking past this Indiana club to next week's showdown with Ohio State. They better be careful here today against this Indiana team. The Hoosiers gave Penn State all it could handle last week, losing 27-34 on the road as a 14-point dog. The Hoosiers offense is ranked 31st in the country to thanks to their Big 10 best passing offense. Indiana has score 30 or more points in eight of their 10 games. These points look like a gift here today, especially with Ohio State up next on the Michigan slate. Take Indiana.

Colorado State lost last week at home to Air Force, 21-38. That snapped a three game win streak for the Rams and also a spread run of three wins. The Rams have covered five of their last seven games. The Rams can still become bowl eligible but they need big wins over Wyoming and Boise, both tough games. Wyoming has an excellent defense and they have yet to allow any of their last nine opponents more than 26 points. They are coming off a loss last week at Utah State, 21-26. The problem is that they don't score a lot of points. They are a great dog, but covering as a favorite can be a problem when you don't score a lot. Here tonight they are 6 1/2 point favorite. This is a rivalry game with the Rams in nearby Fort Collins Colorado and Wyoming in Laramie. I expect a close game here. Play Colorado State.

 Undefeated No 12 Baylor hosts No 10 Oklahoma here on Saturday. The Sooners are 8-1 and even though they are on the road against an undefeated and higher ranked team, they are a 10 1/2 point favorite. No doubt Oklahoma will be tough to stop here on Saturday with the nation's top ranked offense in the country. Baylor is no slouch though, ranked 25th in the country. Oklahoma has the 41st ranked defense while Baylor comes in at 31. Oklahoma had a narrow win last week at home over Iowa State, 42-41, failing to cover the 14-point line. The teams only loss came the week prior at Kansas State, 41-48. Baylor had to work hard last week to beat TCU in OT, 29-23. The Bears trailed at the half and needed a 2nd half rally to take the win. The defense has been solid though, allowing over 21 points just two times this season. I don't expect them to be able to contain this Oklahoma offense, but 10 points on the road is too many to lay to an undefeated Bears team on their own turf. Play Baylor.

PAC-12 matchup as Washington State hosts Stanford. The Stanford Cardinal coming off a loss at home to Colorado, 13-16 as a 3-point favorite. The loss dropped the Cardinal to 4-5 S/U. The Cardinal have a tough slate left with Washington State on tonight, then home games against Cal and Notre Dame. They will have to win some games yet to become bowl eligible. Washington State also coming off a loss to Cal, 20-33. That loss dropped the Cougars to 4-5 and the same remains for them. They have home games with Stanford, Oregon State and then close on the road at Washington. The Cougars have won and covered the last three years of this matchup and covered the last four overall. Washington State has the 7th ranked offense in the nation. The difference in this game is the Washington State offense. I will lay the points at home. Play Washington State.

Iowa almost pulled off the upset win at Wisconsin last week, losing a narrow 22-24 game, but covering the 9.5-point line. The Iowa defense was solid again, though they allowed their most points this year in that game. Only two teams have score 20 or more points against them. No 7 Minnesota kept its perfect season in tap and proved they are for real with a huge home win over Penn State, 31-26. The Gophers quieted many critics who though they might not have been a legit undefeated team. However, they have to worry about the let down this week. They have to travel to Iowa here, a great defensive team. Iowa is a field goal favorite and really I think they are in the perfect spot to pull out the win over the Gophers. Play Iowa.

No 22 Texas takes to the road today to play at Iowa State. Texas lost two weeks ago at TCU, 27-37 and rebounded last week at home vs Kansas State, 27-24. The Longhorns are just 1-5 ATS in their last six games. Texas has two straight games on the road with today's game at Iowa State and then at Baylor before closing out the season at home vs Texas Tech. Iowa State dropped its second straight game last week in a shootout with Oklahoma, 41-42. The Cyclones almost pulled the upset win, but came up just short, still covering the two TD line. Iowa State could miss the Bowl season if they aren't careful. They host Texas today before close out at home with Kansas and then a tough road game at Kansas State. Two losses are a distinct possibility for Iowa State. Texas has the 20th ranked offense in the country with Iowa Sate coming in at 18th. This promises to be a high scoring game with these offenses. Texas getting a TD here today to me is just too many points. The Longhorns have too good of an offense to be spotted that many points by this 5-4 Iowa State team. Play Texas.

Huge game here between ranked teams as No 5 and 8-1 Georgia takes on No 13 and 7-2 Auburn. Georgia cruised to an easy win last week at home over Missouri, 27-0. It was the teams 2nd cover in a row, as improved to 5-4 ATS on the season. This is really Georgia's final tough game. They finish with a home game against Texas A&M and then close on the road at Georgia Tech. They have an outside shot at the Final four, but either way will be in a top Bowl game. Auburn followed their 20-23 loss two weeks ago to LSU with a win last week at home over Ole Miss, 20-14. A little concerning is the offense that has now scored 20 or fewer points in three of the last four games. Two tough games left for the Tigers as they host Georgia today and then Alabama to close the year. Georgia laying a field goal or less is just too much to pass on such a quality club. Play Georgia.

Fresno State coming off a tough home loss to Utah State last week, 35-37. The loss dropped the Bulldogs to 4-5 S/U and 3-5-1 ATS. The Bulldogs have to win out to become bowl eligible and it's very possible. Today's game at San Diego State is the key one with a home game against Nevada and closing out at San Jose State left on the slate. San Diego State also coming off a loss last week at home to Nevada, 13-17 as a 17-point favorite. The Aztecs have a excellent defense, but the offense has not been very good. They scored just 20 points against a terrible UNLV defense two weeks ago and then just 13 at home against Nevada last week. The Aztecs rank 8th nationally on defense but just 115th in the country on offense. New Mexico State ranks higher than San Diego State. Fresno ranks 62nd in offense and holds the edge there. This game pick or Fresno a slight favorite. I expect Fresno to put up a good fight here or else their bowl season is gone. Play Fresno State.

The late game on the board has a pesky San Jose State squad playing at Hawaii late on Saturday. The Spartans are coming off a loss at home to Boise in a shootout, 42-52. The Spartans did cover the 17.5-point line, their second cover in a row. San Jose is 4-5 on the season, but has an outside shot of a Bowl eligible season if they can win here tonight. Meanwhile, Hawaii has lost three of its last four games including last week at home to Fresno State, 38-41. The Warriors give up a lot of points and they also score a lot of points. That's why laying over a TD, as they are tonight, is risky business with this Hawaii club. I believe San Jose has the offense to keep up and therefore I'm taking the points with the visitor. Play San Jose.

 Applachian State dropped from the top 25 last week after losing at home to Georgia Southern,21-244 as a 16 1/2 point favorite. It was a huge loss for App State since their defense let them down after holding the previous three opponents to a combined 17 points. Now they have to face a very good South Carolina team on the road. South Carolina is coming off a home win over Vanderbilt, 24-7. The Gamecocks improved to 4-5. It's highly unlikely the Gamecocks will make the postseason since they finish the year against Clemson. Still, this is a team they can beat here on Saturday. I'm laying the points with South Carolina.

Iowa improved to 6-2 with a win last week at Northwestern, 20-0. It was the team's 2nd win in a row. Iowa with three tough games left on the schedule including today's game, then at home against Minnesota and a road game at Nebraska. Wisconsin hung in the first half with Ohio State last week, but the 2nd half was a different store as the Badgers lost, 7-38. It was the team's 2nd straight loss after starting the season 6-0, including holding four of those opponents to no points. The 52 points allowed the last two weeks is more than the previous six games combined. Wisconsin laying 8 1/2 to 9 1/2 here today. That to me is too many points for a team that doesn't have the most dynamic offense in the world. I look for a low scoring game and will take the points.

USC ran into a buzzsaw last week at home in the form of Oregon. The Ducks just had too much offense and beat the Trojans, 56-24. It was the 2nd straight cover loss for USC. ASU covered this game last year, winning at USC 38-35 as a 3-point road dog. USC is 5-4 and has three games left to still become bowl eligible. Meanwhile, ASU has lost two straight games both S/U and ATS. The Sun Devils lost two weeks ago at Utah, 3-21 and then last week at UCLA, 32-42. The Sun Devils started the season 3-0 including a road win at Michigan State. Since then, they are 2-4 and now are 5-4 overall. These are two teams that had much higher expectations for the season. I like the home team here tonight. Take Arizona State.

The Louisville Cardinals 5-3 on the season after last week's win at home over Virginia, 28-21 as a 3.5-point dog. The Cardinals are 5-3 vs the spread also this season as they travel to South Florida to take on the Miami Hurricanes. Miami coming off a win over Florida State last week, 27-10. It was the Canes 2nd straight win and their 5th of the season against four losses. The Canes have Louisville as their last home game here on Saturday and then close the regular season with road games at Florida International and Duke. If the Canes want to make a Bowl game, they will need at least two more wins to secure that. These teams have met just one time in the last five years and that was in 2014 with a Louisville home win, 31-13. The 6.5 points with Louisville just too much to pass on here. I'll take the dog. Play Louisville.

22nd ranked Kansas State taking on Texas today. Kansas is 6-2 on the season while Texas is 5-3. Kansas State Wildcats are also 6-2 ATs on the season and have won and covered three straight. Texas is coming off a loss at TCU, 27-37. The Longhorns have covered just one of their last five games. K State has covered the last three years against Texas and four of the last five years. I like the road team here today. Play Kansas State.

Central Florida will be bowling this year again with a 7-2 S/U record and 4-5 ATS mark. That will mark the fourth consecutive year that the Knights will have gone to the Bowl, first time in their history they have done that. This club ranks ninth in the nation in holding opponents to just 29.4% third down conversions. The Knights have scored 151 points in their last three games. Tulsa is 2-7 S/U on the season and winless in conference play. The club's only two wins this season came against San Jose State and Wyoming. The Golden Hurricane have lost five straight games and have allowed 40 or more points in four games this year. I expect Central Florida to score in bunches here on Friday. They have to lay around 17, but that shouldn't be an issue with this offense. Play Central Florida.

Nice rivalry here tonight between two Ohio schools as Miami Ohio plays at Ohio University. Miami is ranked 64th in defense and 123rd in offense. Ohio U ranks 111th in defense and 63rd in offense. Last year Miami won this game on the road, 30-28 as a 3.5 point dog. Miami coming off a win at home over Kent State, 23-16. They have covered two straight games now. A lot on the line in this game as the winner will be in first place in the MAC-East. Miami is 3-1 in conference but only 4-4 overall. Ohio is coming off a win over Ball State, 34-21. Ohio is also 3-1 in conference and 4-4 overall. Ohio is a 7-point favorite here tonight. I really expect a close game and with that wouldn't be at all surprised by a Miami outright win. So I'll take the points in a close game. Play Miami-Ohio.

Little bit of instate-rivalry as BYU and Utah State matchup here today in Logan. Utah State is coming off a loss last week at Air Force, 7-31. The loss dropped the Aggies to 4-3. Utah State is also 4-3 ATS on the season. BYU had a big win last week over one of the Mountain West's favorites in Boise State. BYU was a 6.5-point home dog and pulled the upset win, 28-25. The win improved the Cougars to 3-4 both S/U and ATS. With Liberty on deck, the Cougars won't be in any look ahead situation and can actually get back into the Bowl picture with a win here this week. They have three easy games after this week with Liberty, Idaho State and U Mass in the coming weeks. That makes this game huge for BYU as a win here today and a sweep the next three weeks will make this team from 3-4 to 7-4 and secure a bowl spot. I like BYU today, they have no reason not to put forth all their effort into this game. Play BYU.

No 7 Oregon makes the trip down South to take on the USC Trojans at the Coliseum. Oregon is 7-1 S/U and 4-4 ATS on the season. The Ducks improved to 7-1 with a huge, come-from-behind win last week at Washington State, 37-35. That makes three straight weeks that the Ducks have scored at least 35 points. QB Hebert finally looks to be coming into his own as he leads this Oregon team. Now they have to travel to USC that has had issues this year. The Trojans held on to beat Colorado last week, 35-31, but failed to cover the 13-point favorite spread. The win improved the Trojans to 5-3 S/U and 4-4 ATS on the season. Oregon is ranked 25th in offense with USC 35th. USC is 98th defensively and Oregon is 20th. USC in the rare spot as a home dog here tonight. It's not often you can get points at home with the Trojans. I think this is one of those games that could come down to a last possession. I'm going to take the points with the home team here. Play USC.

It's a big SEC Matchup here on Saturday as No 6 Florida takes on No 8 Georgia from Jacksonville in the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. The winner of this game should become the SEC East champion, which will mean an SEC Championship showdown with either Alabama or LSU for the conference championship. To the loser, that means elimination from the top 4 playoff picture. The Gators will rely on pressuring the Georgia QB as they lead the SEC in sacks with 29. They will go up against a Georgia offensive line that has allowed just four sack all season. Georgia is just 3-4 ATS on the season and has failed to cover its last two games. Florida started the season 0-2-1 ATS and has since gone 3-1 ATS. Last year Georgia won this matchup, 36-17 as a 6.5-point dog, outgaining the Gators, 423-275 yards. Georgia has covered the last two seasons with Florida taking the previous three. This should be a great matchup, best of the day in fact. I like the points here with a Florida team I expect to win outright. Play Florida.

 Central Michigan dropped to 5-4 last week with a loss at home to Buffalo, 20-43. CMU is having a very good year vs the number, now 7-2 on the season. Northern Illinois improved to 3-5 with a win over Akron at home last week, 49-9. The Huskies are now 5-3 ATS. Northern Illinois is 89th ranked in offense with Central Michigan at 53rd. Central Michigan is 50th defensively while NIU is 35th. Northern Illinois won this game last year at home, 24-16 as a 14-point favorite. Central has now covered this matchup the last five years. I like them once again here on Saturday. Play Central Michigan.    

The San Diego State Aztecs look to be the best team in this Mountain West Conference. The Aztecs are 6-1 S/U and 5-2 ATS on the season. The Aztecs have covered three straight games now, mainly because of their defense. SDG State's defense now ranked 8th in the nation in total defense. The clubs only loss came three weeks ago at home to Utah State where they lost to the Aggies, 17-23. Meanwhile, UNLV has a 2-5 S/U on the season and 3-4 ATS. The Rebels do not have a good defense, giving up 30 or more points in four of their six games. UNLV's defense ranked a poor 106th in the nation. UNLV has three of their five remaining games at home, so they do have an outside shot at a record that will make them bowl eligible. However, I don't feel this club will attain that after they lose this week to the Aztecs. Take San Diego State this week.

Marquee matchup here on national television Saturday as the 8th ranked Notre Dame Irish travel to take on the 19th ranked Michigan Wolverines. Notre Dame is 5-1 S/U and 4-2 ATS on the season. Their lone loss coming at Georgia, 17-23 as a 15.5 point dog. The Irish have the 30th ranked offense in the country and the 37th ranked defense. Michigan ran into a defensive buzzsaw last week, losing at Penn State in a white-out, 21-28. The Wolverines were down 7-21 at half, but did make a rally in the 2nd half but came up short. Michigan is ranked 13th in defense and 80th in offense. Notre Dame covered the last two meetings between these teams over the last five years, including last year 24-17 at home as a 2.5-point home dog. This game is basically a win and cover the spread with the line around Notre Dame laying 1-point. I like the Irish here today against a Michigan team that at times has trouble scoring. Play Notre Dame.

A couple of 5-2 teams matchup here in Philadelphia as Temple hosts Central Florida. Even though these teams have identical records, the Owls are double-digit dogs here. UCF has failed to cover the spread now in four straight games after starting the season 3-0. UCF is coming off a win at home over East Carolina, 41-28, but failed to cover the 32.5-point favorite line. Temple is coming off a loss on the road to SMU, 21-45. The Owls have covered four of the seven games they have played. Temple is a very up tempo team and will run and gun with this UCF team. Don't know why Temple is a double-digit dog here when I think they can actually win this game outright. But, I will take the points. Play Temple.

Western Kentucky has been using a stubborn defense to help them to a 5-2 ATS mark and 5-2 ATS mark. The Hilltoppers have covered four straight games. During that process they have allowed no one to score more than 14 points and held two of those under 10 points. WKY now has the 15th ranked defense in the country. Marshall is 4-3 S/U and 2-5 ATS on the season. They are coming off a win at home over Florida Atlantic, 36-31 as a 5.5-point dog. Marshall has the 60th ranked defense in the country and the 48th ranked offense. Marshall won this matchup last season on the road, 20-17, but failed to cover the 3.5-point chalk line. The Hilltoppers have now covered the last five years against Marshall. I like that to happen here again on Saturday. I'm taking Western Kentucky.

Boise State comes into today's contest with a perfect 6-0 record and a national No.14 ranking. The Broncos have also covered four straight and five of six games. Their only non-cover came in week two against Marshall at home. They dominated that game statistically, but just failed to cover the 12-point line. Boise ranks 18th offensively in the nation and 33rd defensively. BYU is 2-4 S/U and 2-4 ATS. They have failed to cover in three straight games after losing last week at South Florida, 23-27 as a 6-point chalk. BYU ranks 87th in offense and 83rd in defense. Boise looking for another undefeated season has to weather four of its last six games here on the road. I like Boise though in this one. BYU isn't a very good team and Boise should have little trouble in this one. Play Boise State.

18th ranked and 6-0 Baylor puts its perfect record on the line today at Oklahoma State. This looks to be the Bears biggest test thus far, as they have only played on the road at Rice and Kansas State. They did get a scare at home against Iowa State, pulling out a late win on a field goal back on Sept 28th, 23-21. Oklahoma State is 4-2 this year and 4-1-1 ATS. The Cowboys have only played two home games, beating McNeese State and Kansas State. Ok State had the benefit of a week off last week to prepare for this game. That for me is big. Oklahoma State is a 3.5 point home favorite against an undefeated team. That should tell you something, that these teams are pretty evenly matched. I won't be convinced Baylor is as good as its record until the Bears can win this kind of road game. As for today, I'm taking the home club. Play Oklahoma State.

PAC-12 matchup here on Saturday between two ranked teams as No 12 Oregon takes on No. 25 Washington. Oregon is 5-1 S/U and 3-3 ATS on the season. The Ducks are coming off an easy win at home over Colorado, 45-3. It's the offense and their QB Justin Herbert that you think of when it comes to the Ducks. However, the defense has been a start this year. Oregon has the 8th overall ranked defense and has held each of its last five opponents to a touchdown or fewer points. The only team to score more was in the season opener at Auburn where they lost 21-27. Should be interesting today for this defense against a Washington team that has scored 40 or more points in four of its seven games. Strangely, despite their big scores, the offense is ranked only 57th in the country in total yards. Moreover, they have a fairly low offensive red-zone efficiency of just 69.2%. Oregon's offense ranks 30th and has a red-zone efficiency of 72.3%. I believe that this Washington team is a bit over rated and will drop out of the rankings after today. I like Oregon, they have a solid defense and Hebert running that offense. Take Oregon.

North Carolina had last week off to prepare for this game. The previous week they won on the road at Georgia Tech, 38-22 as a 10-point favorite. The Tar Heels have covered four of their six games and are 3-3 S/U. Virginia Tech played at last last week against Rhode Island, an easy win 34-17. The Hokies are now 4-2 S/U and 1-4 ATS. Their only cover of the season came two weeks ago at Miami Florida. Tech is ranked just 90th in the nation in total offense and 59th in defense. NCU is 53rd in offense and defense. I'll be laying the small points here on the road. Take North Carolina.

Bailout Game of the Week: Navy is 3-1 S/U and ATS this season and travels to Tulsa tonight who is 2-3 S/U and 3-2 ATS. Navy is always one if not the top rushing team in the nation, and this year is no different. The Middies average 312 yards on the ground and 125 yards through the air. This offense ranks 47th in the country overall. Tulsa's 68th ranked defense will have its hands full of the Navy rushing game. The Golden Hurricanes allow 167 yards per game rushing and that won't be good for them here today. The Tulsa offense only ranks 82nd in the country. I look at this game as a Navy ground attack that Tulsa won't have an answer for. Navy will control the ball against this poor Tulsa rush defense and when they have the ball, Tulsa won't be able to convert enough of those touches into points. Take Navy.

Fresno State comes into tonight's contest with a 2-2 S/U mark and 1-2-1 ATS record. They will face an Air Force team that is 3-2 S/U and 2-3 ATS. The Bulldogs of FSU started the season with a loss at USC, 23-31, and then a lost at home to Minnesota, 35-38. They then hosted Sacramento State and won 34-20 and won two weeks ago at New Mexico State, 30-17. The Bulldogs will have two weeks off to prepare for Air Force today. Air Force is coming off a loss at Navy, 25-34. Th Falcons have failed to cover their last three games after a 2-0 start. With Air Force it's all about the running game with over 200 yards rushing in four of their five games. Air Force ranks 59th in the nation in total offense while Fresno is 69th. Fresno's defense isn't bad ranking 47th in the country. I like the points here today with the visitor. Take Fresno State.

Michigan State is 4-2 S/U and 2-4 ATS and takes on Big 10 foe Wisconsin today. Wisconsin is 5-0 S/U and 4/1 ATS. Wisconsin has the nation's top ranked defense and a defensive red-zone efficiency of just 49.2%. Michigan State is no slouch on defense either, ranked 22nd in the nation and a defensive red-zone efficiency of 57.1%. Offensively Wisconsin is 32nd in the nation and Michigan State is 81st. Wisconsin laying double digits here today is what concerns me. This Wisconsin team relies on its defense more than offense and Michigan State should give them enough competition to stay close here. I'll take the double digits with Michigan State.

Two nationally ranked teams meetup in this storied rivalry as No 6 Oklahoma takes on No 11 Texas from Dallas, TX. Oklahoma improved to 5-0 last week with a win over Kansas, 45-20. Oklahoma has the overall top offense in the nation, averaging 644 yards per game. They also have a 89.3% redzone efficiency. Texas will be a big dog here today, currently 11-points. The Longhorns offense ranks 19th overall in the nation. Oklahoma covered this matchup last year, winning 39-27 as a 9.5-point favorite. However, that was the first time the Sooners have covered this Red River Rivalry in the last seven years. Texas has also covered 10 of the last 15 in this series. Texas beat West Virginia last week, 42-31 and improved to 4-1 S/U and 3-2 ATS on the season. The Texas defense is not very good and that means a lot of Oklahoma points here on Saturday. However, Texas has a offense that can also produce points and with a double-digit line I'm going to take the dog here. Play Texas.

 Two very good teams meet in Philadelphia today as Temple hosts Memphis. Memphis is 5-0 on the season S/U and 4-1 ATS. This will be the Tigers first real test of the season after wins over LA Monroe, Southern, South Alabama, Navy and Ole Miss. Their biggest test came at home vs Ole Miss where they just got the win, 15-10. Temple plays an upbeat offense that can produce points. They should have got the cover last time vs East Carolina, but poor coaching with the clock at the end of the game gave E.Carolina the back-end cover. Still, this Temple team is tough at hoe where they beat Georgia Tech 24-2, Maryland 20-17 and Canisius 56-12. Temple has a solid defense, ranked 20th in the country. They also have an excellent red-zone efficiency rating of 46.6%, well below the national average. Memphis is ranked 36th in the nation defensively, but has a 74.7% red-zone efficiency. Both teams are also in the top 43 in offense yardage. Not sure why Memphis is this big a favorite as I like Temple to win this game outright. Play Temple.

Virginia travels South to take on Miami Florida. The Cavaliers are 4-1 S/U and 2-2-1 ATS on the season. Miami is 2-3 S/U and ATS on the season. Virginia had last week off to prepare for this game after suffering their first loss of the season at Notre Dame, 20-35. The Cavs have already beat Florida State, 31-24 as they now turn to another powerhouse Florida team. Miami having a sub-par year so far, opening with a loss at Florida 20-24 and then losing at North Carolina, 25-28. They did destroy Bethune Cookman, but then barely beat Central Michigan at home, 17-12. Virginia has an excellent defense, ranked 13th in the country while Miami comes in at a 15th. Miami is 39th offensively, but a lot of that came in a 63-0 win over Bethune Cookman. 23rd ranked Virginia getting two-points is great to me since I look for an easy win out of the Cavaliers. Play Virginia.

Mountain West action here late on Saturday evening. San Diego State (3-1 S/U and 2-2 ATS) travels to Fort Collins to take on Colorado State (1-4 S/U, 3-2 ATS). The Aztecs lost their first game of the season last week at home vs Utah State, 17-23. The defense has been very good for the Aztecs, holding each of their first three opponents to 14 points or fewer before Utah State scored 23 last week. The rush defense has not allowed more than 82 yards in any game. CSU Rams only win came at home over Western Illinois, 38-13. They have covered their last two games at Utah State and at home against Toledo. The defense is terrible, ranking 105th in the nation and allowing 440 yards on average. The offense ranks 16th with 501 yards per game. This one comes down to the SDG State defense against the CSU offense. I believe the Aztecs excellent rush defense will shut down CSU and force them to throw more here. I'm going to lay the points with San Diego State.

Big 10 matchup as Northwestern travels to Lincoln to take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Northwestern gave ranked Wisconsin all it could handle last week, losing on the road, 15-24, but covering the 24-point dog line. In fact, the NW defense held Wisconsin to just one touchdown as special teams and the defense accounted for the other 14 Badger points. Nebraska got buried at home last week by Ohio State, 7-48 as a 17.5-point dog. The Huskers are now 1-4 ATS on the season. The Huskers defense has taken a beating this year, with the Black Shirts ranked just 78th in the country. The offense ranks 46th. Northwestern's defense ranks 31st and the offense is 126th. We're getting a TD here with the visitor and I just don't trust this Nebraska defense enough to see them laying that kind of number. I'm taking the dog here today. Play Northwestern.

Both these MAC teams in desperate need of a win after both clubs have started the season 1-3 S/U. Ball State Cardinals are 2-2 ATS after covering last week at NC State as a 19-point dog, 23-34. The Ball State defense is very poor, allowing at least 29 points in each of their four games. The defense is ranked 94th overall, while the offense is much better at 28th. This is a passing team with over 300 yards in three of their four games through the air. Northern Illinois Huskies have covered three of their four games including last week at Vandy as 7.5-point dogs, 18-24. NIU has the 64th ranked defense in the league and 105th offense. NIU won this game last year at home, 24-16 and covered the three-point chalk line. Home field important in this matchup and NIU has it again today. I'm taking the home team again in this one. Play Northern Illinois.

A pair of 3-1 teams meet here in West Virginia as the No 11 Texas Longhorns take on the Mountaineers. Texas is coming off a win last week at home over Oklahoma State, 36-30, but failed to cover the 7-point chalk line. The Longhorns are now 2-2 vs the number on the season. Problem here today is that the Longhorns might be in a bit of a look ahead spot as they have Oklahoma up next week in their annual meeting in Dallas. West Virginia has won two straight games with a 44-27 win over NC State and then last week a win at Kansas, 29-24, covering both. This game was a shootout last year, with WVU taking an exciting contest, 42-41 as a 1.5-point home dog. Texas has the 19th ranked offense compared to the WVU 118th ranked offense. WVU has a good enough defense to stay close in this contest, with 56th ranked offense. WVU getting 10.5-points here today. I'm going to take the home team with Texas looking past this game to Oklahoma next week. Play West Virginia.

Utah State brings it's 3-1 record down to the Big Easy to take on fifth ranked LSU in an early start game. Utah State opened the season with a loss at Wake Forest, 35-38 and since then has won three straight games including last week against Colorado State, 34-24. The Aggies defense will have their work cut out for them against the 3rd rated offense in the country. Utah St is no slouch on defense, ranked 58th overall. The Aggies offense is what might keep them close here today, ranking 9th in the country. LSU has been a scoring machine this year, with at least 45 in every game and over 60 points the last two games. The defense does give up some points, as they did last week to Vandy (38) and vs Texas (38). That is what I'm counting on here today as they face a very good Utah State offense. We're getting 27+ points with the Aggies and with Florida coming to town next week they might be looking past this Utah State team. Play Utah State.

It's been a very disappointing season for Stanford. They started the season with a home win over Northwestern, but were lucky to cover, scoring the covering TD with just seconds left on a fumble recovery. Since then, they are 0-3 both S/U and ATS. The offense is ranked 118th. But of particular concern is the defense, ranked 75th. They have allowed 45 points twice this season and the passing defense has allowed 259, 347 and 377 the last three games. Oregon State won its first game of the season last time out over Cal Poly, 45-7. That followed their two losses at Hawaii (28-31) and vs Ok State (36-52). Oregon State ranks 110th in defense and and 31 offensively. OSU has a very balanced offense, with 229 yards average on the ground and 247 yard through the air. For me, the difference in this game is the offenses. OSU has the much better offense while both teams are struggling defensively. I'm taking Oregon State here today.

Temple got upset last week at Buffalo, 22-38 as a 14-point favorite. The Owls might have had letdown after beating ranked Maryland the week before. This for a team that ranks 33rd in the country offensively with 470 yards per game. Meanwhile Georgia tech still looking for its first cover of the season after a 0-3 start. Tech's defense isn't the best, ranked 86th in the nation while the offense ranks a dismal 126th in the country with just 284 yards per game. Tech had last week off to stew over its loss to The Citadel, losing 24-27 as a 27-point favorite. GT managed just 118 yards passing in the lass and allowed 320 yards rushing. Temple may have lost to Buffalo last week, but I believe that was in part due to a letdown. This Temple club returns home where they will demolish this Georgia Tech team. Play Temple.

BYU is 2-2 S/U & ATS after four weeks of their season. The Cougars play their fourth game of five away from Provo this week. In their lone home game, they beat Tennessee, 29-26, covering the 3.5-point dog line. In their three away games they are 1-2 SU & ATS. BYU has the 94th ranked defense and the 105th ranked offense in the country. Toledo comes into this game with a 2-1 S/U and 1-2 ATS record. The Rockets lost their opening game of the season at Kentucky, 24-38, and have since beaten Murray State (45-0) and last week at Colorado State, 41-35. Toledo is ranked 119th defensively, but has the 28th ranked offense. Expect a lot of ground and pound by this Toledo team, as they average 269 yard on the ground. Toledo is a slight home dog here and I think that's a bad line as BYU should not be a road favorite over many teams. I'm taking the points here today. Play Toledo. These teams have met once in the last five years (2016) with BYU winning a shootout, 55-53 but failing to cover the 3-point chalk line.

Duke comes into today's contest with a 2-1 record both S/U and ATS. Duke opened with a loss to Alabama, 3-42 and failed to cover the 33.5 point dog line. Then they rebounded with a 45-13 win over NC A&T and then two weeks ago winning at home over Mid Tenn State, 41-18 and covering both the last two games. The offense has been very balanced the last two games with 436 yards rushing and 601 yards passing.Duke has the 72nd rated offense right now and Virginia Tech is 81st. Defensively, Tech comes in at 40th and Duke is 63rd. Virginia Tech has yet to cover a spread in their three attempts. They lost their opening game to Boston College, 28-35 and then beat Old Dominion 31-17 but didn't cover the 29.5 points spread. Then they had last week off after beating Furman 24-17 as 24.5 point favorites. Looks like Tech gets their best test here today against a very good Duke team. I look for Duke to win this one outright today, but I'll take the small points anyways. Play Duke.

UCLA still looking for that first win of the season will be hard pressed to get it here on Saturday night as they have to travel and face No 19 and undefeated Washington State. UCLA is both 0-3 S/U and ATS after their resounding loss last week at home to Oklahoma, 14-48. Oklahoma just piled-up the yards with 309 rushing and 302 passing for 611 total yards of offense to just 311 for UCLA. UCLA has scored 14 points in each of their first three games as the offense has not been clicking. Meantime, Wash State has been an offensive juggernaut with 58, 59 and 31 points in their three games. The passing attack has been potent, with 507 yards against New Mexico State, 481 yards against Northern Colorado and 440 yards against Houston. I normally don't like laying this many points, but I see this a a late night massacre for the Bruins. Play Washington State.

Temple improved to 2-0 S/U with their win last week over ranked Maryland, 20-17. The Owls were a 5.5-point home dog to the Terapins, who had been rolling up the yards and points against their competition thus far. Temple held Maryland to just 179 yards passing and 161 yards rushing. The Owls take to the road for their first away game. Buffalo is 1-2 S/U and 0-3 ATS thus far in the season. The Bulls opened with a win over Robert Morris, lost to Penn State and then were shocked last week by Liberty, failing to cover the 5.5-point chalk line on the road. Liberty passed for 325 yards against Buffalo and scored 35 points. Temple definitely the class of this matchup today. We have to lay 14 points on the road with the Owls, but this Buffalo team has come way down from last year. Play Temple.

UL Lafayette brings their 2-1 S/U and 2-0 ATS record to Ohio today to play the Bobcats. The Rajin Cajuns have three games under their belt after wins vs Liberty and Texas Southern. They outscored the last two opponents by a 112-20 margin. The Cajuns also ran up the yards with 748 yards vs Tx Southern and 594 vs Liberty. Their one loss came at home over Mississippi State, 28-38, though they did cover the 18.5-point dog line. Now, the Cajuns take to the road for the first time this year. Ohio opened with a win over Rhode Island, followed by losses to Pitt and last week to Marshall, 31-33. Ohio has played the last two games on the road and played well really, though they didn't cover vs Pitt and did vs Marshall. The Cats have rushed for 223 yards vs Marshall and 278 vs Rhode Island. I know this Lafayette team has been an offensive powerhouse, but against very good competition and at home. Now they are tested on the road and for me, laying 3 or 3.5 points with Ohio is the way to go. Play Ohio.

Western Michigan improved to 2-1 S/U & ATS with a win at home over Georgia State last week, 57-10. This was after the pummeling they took the week before at Michigan State, 17-51. The Broncos are a passing team with 244 or more yards in each of their first three games. Syracuse is 1-2 S/U & ATS after three games. They started with a softball against Liberty, which they won 24-0. Then they got beat badly at Maryland, 20-63 and then lost to top ranked Clemson last week, 6-41. You can't fault the Orange for their loss last week, it's difficult to play in Death Valley, let alone against the top team in the nation. Syracuse only laying about 5 to 6 points here today, which to me is a gift. This Syracuse team is much better then they have shown thus far and they are in need of a big win today after a pair of humbling losses. I'm taking the home team, play Syracuse.

Michigan State (2-1 S/U 1-2 ATS) takes on Big 10 foe Northwestern (1-1 S/U 0-2 ATS) early on Saturday. Michigan State opened with a win over Tulsa, then demolished Western Michigan, 51-17. Last week the Spartans fell completely apart, losing at home to Arizona State, 7-10 as a 15.5-point favorite. The Spartans played very good defensively, allowing ASU just 140 yards passing and 76 yards rushing. ASU scored the winning TD with just 50 seconds left in the game over the 19th ranked Spartans. MSU had over 400 yards of offense in the game, but managed just seven points. They also managed just four scoring opportunities. Northwestern, a 9-point dog in this game, lost its opener to Stanford 7-17 and then beat UNLV last week, 30-17. The Wildcats lost QB TJ Green (foot) for the year in the Stanford game. I have to wonder if this offensive mystery that hit MSU last week will cover over today. MSU hits the road and now lays almost double digits. Northwestern is good enough to stay in this contest, especially if we see any near repeat of what the Spartans did last week. Take the points here, play Northwestern.

Two undefeated teams matchup here in Idaho on Friday as the 2-0 Air Force Falcons take on the 3-0 Boise State Broncos. Air Force opened with a softball game at home against Colgate, an easy 48-7 win. Then last week, the Falcons had to go to OT, but they got the upset over their neighbor to the North, Colorado, 30-23. The Falcons are as usual, a rushing machine. They had 423 yards vs Colgate and 289 yards against Colorado. However, they also added 155 yards of passing vs the Buffaloes. The defense has been very good, allowing Colgate 161 total yards and Colorado 325 total yards. Boise State beat Florida State to open the season, 36-31. Then came back at home against Marshall and beat them, 14-7. Last week it was an easy win for the Broncos at home against Portland State, 45-10. The defense has been very good, especially in the 2nd half of games. Today though they play an equally talented defense and must find a way to stop the Air Force ground attack. I believe that a TD is just too much for this Boise State team to be laying to a very good Air Force club. I'm taking the points. Play Air Force.

Stanford showed us they might not be as good as what was previously believed. They struggled in game one vs Northwestern and while they covered, they only did so because of a last second fumble recovery in the end zone that got them the cover. Then last week they were in the game with USC at the half before getting blown out in the second half and losing, 20-45. They gave up 377 yards passing to a USC true freshman at QB. In addition, the Cardinal are forced to play a true freshman after losing their starting QB against Northwestern. Now they make the West to East coast travel to play Central Florida today. The Central Florida offense is clicking, beating Florida A&M 62-0 and then last week beating Florida Atlantic, 48-14. That's a 110-14 scoring margin for UCF. UCF got 356 yards passing in game one and 262 yards passing in game two. But this is a balanced team as they have 650 total rushing yards in the two games. I think the loss of the Cardinal QB is bigger than they think and they will have trouble staying with this UCF team here today. Play Central Florida.

 USC is 2-0 S/U and 1-1 ATS after two games. USC opened with a win at home over Fresno State, 31-23 and then last week beat Stanford, 45-20. The Trojans shut out the Cardinal in the 2nd half after leading 24-20 at the break. USC playing with a true freshman at QB after their starting QB was hurt against Fresno. Still, they passed for 377 yards last week vs Stanford. BYU opened their season against rival Utah, losing 12-30 but staying much closer than the final reflected. Then last week went to Tennessee and won outright 29-26 as 3.5-point dogs. Now they return home for a huge game against undefeated USC. The BYU defense has been good against the pass, allowing Utah 106 yards and last week 176 to Tennessee. They will be tested here today against this true freshman of USC. But again, USC plays on the road for the first time and for me that's a big test. Much easier for the freshman QB to play before the home crowd. How will he do here against a raucous BYU fan base? I like the home dog here today. Play BYU.

Two Colorado teams that aren't all that far apart meet up here today as Colorado hosts their rival Air Force. Air Force is 1-0 S/U and 1-0 ATS after their initial win over Colgate, 48-7. Hard to get a gauge on how good AF is against a team of Colgate's level. Air Force does what they do, run the ball. They got 423 yards on the ground vs Colgate and just 41 yards passing while holding them to just 161 yards. Colorado opened with a win over Colorado State, 52-31 and then played Nebraska in week two. Nebraska dominated that game in the first half, but things changed in the 2nd half as Colorado rallied for a 34-31 win and their 2nd cover of the season. The Buffaloes passed for 375 yards against Nebraska and rushed for 89. But they played from behind most of the time which took away a lot of their run attack. Against CSU, they rushed for 243 yards, so we know they can run the ball. This game really comes down to ball control. Air Force will run, run and run and so far Colorado hasn't done well vs the run. Nebraska got 179 yards and CSU got 131 yards against them. So I fully expect Air Force to pile up the yards on the ground. I'm taking the points here with Air Force as I don't see Colorado being able to hold this Falcons rushing game down. Play Air Force.

 Kansas State off to a 2-0 start this season after wins over Nicholls State and then last week against Bowling Green. The Wildcats are a big running team, with 361 yards on the ground vs Nicholls and then 333 yards last week vs Bowling Green. The defense has been very good, but gets there first test this week vs Miss State. The Mississippi State Bulldogs are 2-0 with wins over La Lafayette and then last week vs Southern Miss. They did struggle vs La Lafayette, winning by just 10 as a 18.5-point favorite. The offense is balanced with 471 yards total rushing and 412 yards passing. The defense hasn't been all that good as they allowed 164 yards on the ground to Lafayette and 110 yards on the ground to Southern Miss. They might have trouble today against the Wildcats ground game. Getting TD here with Kansas State is too much to pass on for me. This K State running game could control this game today. Take the points with Kansas State.

Both these teams undefeated early in the season as Maryland is 2-0 S/U and ATS so far while Temple is 1-0 S/U and ATS. Maryland has been a scoring machine thus far, with 79 points against Howard in their opener and then 63 against a ranked Syracuse last week. Maryland has now outscored their two opponents 142-20. However, both those games have been at home and now they must travel to Philly to take on Temple. Temple got little push back against an overmatched Canisius club last week. Temple passed for 507 yards and rushed for another 188 in the win while holding Canisius to just 21 yards rushing in the 56-12 win. Today, Temple is getting a TD at home. Maryland has been good, but they get a big test here on the road today. This Maryland club isn't the same team away from home and laying points on the road is now what they should be doing. I'll take the points and won't be surprised at all by an outright Temple win. Take Temple.

Late action here on Saturday has Fresno hosting Minnesota. The Minnesota Golden Gophers hosted South Dakota State last week and won, but just barely at 28-21 as a 14-point favorite. The offense managed just 308 total yards while allowing 367 yards. Meanwhile, Fresno State gave ranked USC all it could handle last week in Southern Cal, losing 23-31 but covering the 14-point dog spread. The Bulldogs rushed for 206 yards and passed for another 256 against a good USC defense. That doesn't bode well for the Gophers here tonight who were outgained last week by South Dakota State. Step up in class and the long road trip doesn't make for a good night for Minnesota. I'm taking Fresno State as a late winner.

Both these clubs opened with wins last week and both covered their respective spreads. Tulane hosted Florida International and won easily, 42-14 as 3-point favorites. The Green Wave rushed the ball for 350-yards in the win and allowed just 59-yards to FIU. Meanwhile, Auburn came from behind to beat Oregon last week, 27-21. The Tigers were behind the entire game until late in the 4th quarter and ended up covering the 4-point spread. Today the Tigers are laying around 17-points to Tulane. If the Green Wave can control the rushing game like they did last week they can cover this spread. Plus, Auburn might be in for a bit of a letdown after that emotional win over Oregon. I'm taking the points here with Tulane.

Wyoming pulled a mild shocker last week at home with a win over Missouri, 37-31 as a 15.5-point dog. The Cowboys gave up a ton of yards, but somehow still pulled out the win. Missouri rushed for 114 yards and passed for 423 yards for a total of 537 yards to Wyoming's 411 yards. Meanwhile, Texas State was pummeled at Texas A&M last week, 7-41. They did manage a spread push though as 34-point dogs. TSU rushed for just eight yards in that game. Texas State getting points here today, seven points in fact. I'm not convinced Wyoming is all that good. Or at least good enough to lay a touchdown on the road. I'm taking the home club here plus the points. Play Texas State.

Colorado had its hand full last week with rival Colorado State, but pulled away late for the win and the cover. Still, CSU played with them for most of the first half and into the 2nd half before winning 52-31. However, the final score wasn't indicative of how the Buffs played in that game. Nebraska hosted South Alabama last week and won the game 35-21, but failed to cover the 35-point line. Have to wonder how interested the Huskers were in that game with Colorado up here this week. This game used to be a rivalry when both were in the same conference. Still, these teams look at this matchup as a rivalry. The Huskers ranked No 24 in the polls make their first visit to Folsom Field since 2009. Nebraska only laying 4.5-points here on Saturday. The Colorado defense needs work after allowing CSU to go up and down the field on them. I'm taking Nebraska here on Saturday.

Northern Illinois won their opener last week at home against Illinois State, 24-10, covering the 6.5-point favorite line. The Huskies allowed just 238 total yards to Illinois State in the win. Now, they make the trip west to take on a very good Utah club. Utah won last week in Salt Lake over their in-state rivals, BYU. The Utes pulled away in the fourth quarter for the win, 30-12 as 5-point chalks. Utah held BYU to 300 total yards. Utah has to lay around 3-td's here tonight. However, I don't see that as a problem with Northern Illinois' offense looking very sluggish against a much weaker opponent last week. Wouldn't be surprised by a Utah shutout here on Saturday. Play Utah.

Texas had its string of 17 straight home opening wins broken a few seasons ago, but rebounded back last year to beat Tulsa by just seven points as a 22 1/2 point chalk. The Longhorns return just eight starters (three on Defense). The good new though is the return of QB Sam Ehlinger. Tech returns 11 starters including QB J'Mar Smith who is a 1st Team all conference player. Tech getting 20 1/2 points is too many for Texas to lay. We saw last season how they barely survived their opening game over a much less talented Tulsa club. I'm taking the points here with Louisiana Tech.

 Northwestern is one of those teams with two QB's that could switch playing time. Hunter Johnson and Sr TJ Green look to split time at signal caller for Northwestern. Not so for Stanford, who returns Costello at QB after a 2018 campaign where he tossed 29 TD's and 11 INT's. The Cats have covered the last three vs the Cardinal. My only issue with this Stanford team is that they return just 9-starters and have to replace three wide receivers that Costello must now gel with. Northwestern as a dog is too much for me to pass on here. Play Northwestern.

This game being played in Charlotte, NC has the Tarheels of NCU taking on the Gamecocks of South Carolina. NCU has had back-to-back bad seasons of 2-9 and 3-9. Meanwhile, South Carolina off that shutout loss in the Bowl to Virginia, 0-28. The Gamecocks have won the last three in this series straight-up and covered two of those. This will be the fourth meeting between these clubs in the last seven year. The difference for me in this game is that South Carolina returns a lot more experience compare to NCU. The Tarheels are also having issues at QB and that will show here today. Take South Carolina.

Toledo won seven games last year and you might think that's not bad, but not for a Toledo club that saw those seven wins as their lowest win total in the last five years. The Rockets have their top two QB's back this year and 11 starters returning. Kentucky will be hurting early on defense as they return just four starters on defense. The Wildcats are 0-7 ATS in their last seven vs FBS teams. So why in the world is Kentucky laying double digits here? I don't know, but I do know I'll be taking the points with Toledo. Play Toledo.

The Utah State Aggies had an excellent season last year and returns seven starters to a defense that allowed a stingy 22.2 ppg last season. Wake Forest returns 12 starters including their top rusher, Cade Carney. QB Newman also returns to Wake. Utah State has just two starters on offense, but one of them is QB Jordan Love who tossed 32 TD's and just 6 INT's last year. Wake Forest hasn't been good at covering at home, evidenced by their 1-6 mark at home their last 7-games. I like Utah State in this one getting points with a very good defense an especially Love returning at QB. Take Utah State.

This is the 94th edition of what has become known as the "Holy War" between these Utah schools. BYU looking to snap an 8-game losing streak to Utah here on Thursday. Both teams have decent returning starters with the Utes returning 14 and the Cougars return 17 starters. BYU QB Zach Wilson and his top 3 wide outs return. The Cougars are 23-11 as a dog. The dog in this series is 7-2. I'm taking the home dog here on Thursday. Take BYU.

Arizona HC Kevin Sumlin hopes to wipe the slate clean after a horrific 2018 campaign. This is the second season for Sumlin and likely a key one if he hopes to stick around. Now the Cats have to travel the long distance to play at Hawaii to open the season. The Hawaii Warriors return QB Cole McDonald, who threw for 3,800 yards last year. The 6-foot-4 QB threw for 36 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions. The Wildcats are just 5-16 ATS in their last 21 road games and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 non-conference games. Hawaii has done well vs the Pac-12, going 8-2 ATS in their last 10 tries. Hawaii getting 11-points here with a big, strong QB who can play. I don't think so. I'm taking the points and wouldn't be surprised by an outright Hawaii win.

TV matchup here from Orlando, Florida has two old rivals facing each other as Miami-Florida takes on Florida. Expect these teams to be chippy here on Saturday as they meet to open the season. I also expect this game to be high scoring. Early games are usually not defensive battles, despite both of these teams being in the top 25 defensively last year. No 8 Florida is a 7-point favorite here on Saturday. The Gators begin their second season under HC Dan Mullen and return QB Franks. Former Dan Mullen assistant, Manny Diaz, begins his first season as the Miami head coach. Both teams return a lot of talent, but I just can't pass on the points here with the Hurricanes. Play Miami Florida.

I can make a case for either team in this Championship game. Both are great teams, both have great offenses and top defenses. Though I do give a slight edge on defense to the Clemson Tigers and an edge in QB to Alabama. Still, this should be a great contest to watch. These teams have met each of the last three seasons with Alabama taking two of the games and Clemson one game. Before that you have to go back to 2008 and before that you have to go all the way back to 1975 for the previous meeting. The Tigers have played great on neutral fields,d going 13-3 ATS their last 16 games. The Tide are 7-2 in their last nine vs the ACC, but just 1-5 ATS their last six times playing in January. I like the points here with this great Clemson defense. I look for a close, defensive game and when I can take 6 to 7 points with this kind of defense, I will. Play Clemson and enjoy the show.

What we find a lot in these bowl games is motivation to play. Some teams have key players sitting out as not to jeopardize their potential pro careers. Other teams have coaches moving on and some teams just are happy to be there. I have to wonder how much Georgia has their heart in this game today after finishing fifth in the playoff picture and watching Notre Dame get demolished by Clemson. After letting Alabama slip past them in the SEC Championship, Georgia can't be too happy with this spot in the Sugar Bowl against Texas. Georgia could very likely be the No 1 seed entering next season, but for today, I have to think the points here are the way to go. Georgia is a great team and could have been a National Champion this year, but as for this game. I just don't see their heart being in it. Take the big points with Texas.

Ohio State returns to their 15th Rose Bowl today as they take on Pac-12 Champion Washington. Ohio State hasn't been to the Rose Bowl since 2010 when they beat Oreg0on, 26-17. There will be extra incentive here today as Ohio State HC Urban Meyer will retire after this game. Have to believe the team will want him to go out a winner. Washington also makes its 15th appearance in the Rose Bowl, but the last being in 2001 when they defeated Purdue, 34-24. Both these teams boast great offenses and that should be on display here today. My difference in this game is the emotions that Ohio State will play with as Meyer's says goodbye. One last hurrah for the Buckeyes and Urban Meyer here on Tuesday. Play Ohio State.

Once again I am looking for motivation in these bowl games. We have a disinterested SEC team in LSU going against a Central Florida team looking to make it two undefeated seasons in a row. Last season the UFC Knights completed their perfect season with a win over another SEC team in the Peach Bowl, beating Auburn 34-27. Can they do it again this year? UFC will be without their star QB in McKenzie Milton. Milton got hurt in the season finale. That means Darriel Mack Jr will be starting and he has been a very good fill-in. The big question is whether or not UFC can stop LSU. LSU isn't known as an offensive powerhouse, however they do play a physical game and that could hurt UFC. They do have Greg McCrae running the ball still, ask McCrae rushed for 1101 yards and 9 TD's on the season. I don't know if UFC can win outright here today, but I do know they will have enough to stay with the Tigers and that 7 1/2 points they are getting looks like a lot to me. Play Central Florida.

Gator Bowl action in the late game today has 9-3 NC State playing against 19th ranked Texas A&M. NC State getting a TD here in this spot. The Wolfpack have been a very good bowl team, going 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 bowl visits. Texas A&M has an explosive offense, as we saw in their last game against LSU where they won 74-72. In fact, the Aggies have at least 38 points in each of their last three games. NC State can also put up the points, scoring 52, 34 and 58 in their last three games. The Wolfpack has the 28th ranked offense while A&M is ranked 20th. With both teams able to score in bunches here, I like taking the touchdown with the points. Take NC State.

Cincinnati has not been a good bowl team in recent seasons, evidenced by their 2-7 ATS mark in their last nine bowls. That includes an 0-4-1 ATS mark their last five December games. Can't say that about the Virginia Tech Hokies, who are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 December games. Cincinnati does have the 24th ranked offense while Va Tech is ranked 49th. Cincinnati also has the 10th ranked defense with the Hokies coming in at 95th. Tech did ramp up the scoring their last two games of the season with 34 points against Virginia and 41 against Marshall. I expect an offensive oriented contest here today. Still, can't disregard how bad Cincy is in bowl games. I'm going to take the points with Virginia Tech.

The Orange Bowl will have No 1 Alabama vs No 4 Oklahoma for a spot in the finals of the Bowl Championship. The Crimson Tide is 10-4 S/U and 8-5-1 ATS in Bowls under Nick Saban. The Tide have been installed as a 14-point favorite here. Alabama had little trouble this season, beating eight teams that made it to the bowls postseason. The Tide were chalks of 21-points or more 11 times this season and still were 8-5 ATS. These are the two best offenses in the country, however, the big difference is on defense where Alabama is ranked 6th in the country and Oklahoma is ranked 109th. This is going to be the difference here today. The Tide will roll with the points and while Oklahoma is one of the best offensively, I don't see them staying with the Tide. The Sooners are just 3-9 ATS their last 12 neutral site games. I expect the Tide to roll into the Championship game here today. Play Alabama.

The winner of this Cotton Bowl matchup between No2 Clemson and No 3 Notre Dame heads to the NCAA football championship game. This game comes down to the Irish offensive line against the great Clemson defensive line. Who controls this game will be key to a win here today. Clemson is only one of two teams who have a top five scoring offense and a top five scoring defense. While this is the fourth consecutive trip to the final four for Clemson, this will be the first for the Irish. Clemson has this stingy defense led by their line that allowed a nation's best 2.4 rushing yards per game. Clemson is led by RB Travis Etinne, who rushed for 1,464 yards this season and 21 TD's. I will be backing Clemson here today. I love their defense, have done so since day one of the season. I don't think the Irish will be able to establish the run and that means a Clemson win. Take Clemson.

Syracuse ended their regular season with a win at Boston College, 42-21 as 7-point dogs. The Orange got shutdown by Notre Dame the week prior, but other than that game, Syraucse has scored at least 37 points in six of the last seven games. This will not be the same West Virginia squad that finished the regular season. QB Will Grier and OT Yodny Cajuste both opted to not play in this game and keep from possible injury as they both look forward to the NFL draft. That means QB Jack Allison will take over the starting duties. A far cry from one of the best QB's in the country that Grier had become. Considering that Syracuse is scoring a lot of points, I'm not sure West Virginia will be able to keep up against one of the best passing offenses in Syracuse. I'm taking Syracuse here as I don't even expect the rest of the West Virginia team to show up. Take Syracuse.

Miami closed out their season with a pair of wins over Virginia Tech and Pitt. However, prior to those two wins, the Hurricanes had lost four straight both S/U and ATS. Wisconsin ended the season with a loss at home to Minnesota, 15-37. The Badgers were also a bit shaky the second half of the season losing three of their last five games. The Canes have not been a very good bowl play in recent years, evidenced by their 1-6 ATS mark in their last seven bowls. In addition, they are 1-8 ATS in their last nine neutral site games and 1-5 ATS in their last six vs the Big 10. Miami doesn't have a very good offense, ranked just 93rd in the country, while Wisconsin ranks 43rd. Miami does have a very good defense, ranked 2nd in total yards with Wisconsin coming in at 40th. It's often difficult to determine which team is motivated in these meaningless bowl games. However, with the Cans having such a dismal bowl spread record, it appears they are not usually motivated. I'm taking Wisconsin here today.

TCU has normally been known for their stellar defenses. While this year's edition might not be as good defensively, the offense has not been all that good - ranked just 94th in the country. The defense was a respectable 28th while Cal actually came in better at 16th. Though the Cal offense wasn't quite as good at 113th. The Cal defense held each of their last six opponents to 23 or less points. In fact, four of those were under 20. The offense is where they struggled, scoring more than 15 points just one time in their last five games. TCU also has some offensive problems, scoring 16 or less in three of their last four games and 17 or less in six of their last nine games. This game likely to be a low scoring affair and I'll take the better defensive team in this one. That's Cal.