Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Western Kentucky -2.5 vs South Florida @ 2:30 PM ET - The key here is that the Bulls offense is not going to be able to keep up with the Hilltoppers. I am well aware of the fact that South Florida scored a bunch of points in their last few games of the season. However, a lot of that scoring was helped by the fact that the Bulls benefited from 9 turnovers in the last 3 games. The South Florida offense did run the ball very well but their passing attack is not "dangerous" enough and I look for Western Kentucky to work hard to stop the running game and this will challenge the Bulls offense to try and beat them through the air. The Hilltoppers defense gets a bad rap but they actually held their last 5 opponents to just 22.4 points per game. Also, Western Kentucky held their last five foes to an average of only 296.4 yards per game. These guys can play some defense and they are highly motivated about playing their former coach who ditched them to take the South Florida coaching game and that was right before a bowl game in 2012. The program hasn't forgotten that he bolted before the bowl game (one in which they lost) and that adds some extra incentive here. The Hilltoppers are averaging 520 yards and 44 points per game and this potent offense led by the fantastic talent of QB Brandon Doughty will prove to be too much for the Bulls to keep up with here. Play Western Kentucky minus the short number as an *8* selection Monday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Ohio University Bobcats +7.5 vs Appalachian State @ 5:30 PM ET - Though Ohio University has been dealing with injuries this season, the Bobcats have truly 'scratched and clawed' their way to a solid finish. Ohio U. ended up with an 8-4 record on the season thanks to three straight wins to end the season. This was a very impressive finish for a Bobcats team that was certainly impacted by injuries. Ohio University is highly motivated for this game as they feel disrespected by the line on this game. Appalachian State is a SunBelt Conference foe and, even with a 10-2 record on the season, the line on the Mountaineers here is truly over-inflated. The MAC may not be a power conference but it's stronger than the SunBelt. Additionally, the Bobcats beat a solid Northern Illinois team to wrap up the season. In addition to the motivation and 'strength of schedule' edges, Ohio U. also has the significantly better special teams units and a big coaching edge here with Solich having coached 6 bowl games with the Bobcats and 6 bowl games when he was with Nebraska. Mountaineers head coach Satterfield will be coaching his first ever bowl game. Appalachian State has a long-term 4-9 ATS record in non-conference games. Ohio U. is 3-1 SU and 4-0 ATS in non-conference games this season. The motivated big dog is going to give Appalachian State all they can handle here and might even spring the outright upset. Play Ohio University +7.5 as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Michigan State -3.5 vs Iowa @ 8:15 ET Saturday - The line may look 'off' to many but that's precisely why this is such a big play for me. Why is an undefeated and higher-ranked Iowa team the underdog in this match-up with an 11-1 Michigan State team? Precisely! It's exactly why I love the Spartans here and it doesn't take much investigation to uncover the key reasons for the 'head-scratching' line that was set on this game. The biggest key is strength of schedule. The Spartans played a much tougher schedule this season than did the Hawkeyes. The schedule worked out very favorably for Iowa this season as they were able to avoid all the power in the Big Ten East. The Hawkeyes did not play Michigan State, Ohio State, or Michigan this season. Note that the Spartans did play both the Buckeyes and the Wolverines and won both games. Though the Michigan win was certainly a fortunate win the fact is that just having played huge games against top tier teams in the conference like Michigan and Ohio State is giving a huge edge to Michigan State in this game in my opinion. The Hawkeyes are extremely fortunate they remained undefeated on the season as last week's game at Nebraska saw Iowa outgained by nearly 200 yards and the Cornhuskers doubled up the Hawkeyes in first downs! This is a huge game because, of course, the winner is heading for one of the top 4 playoff spots and Michigan State comes into this game with a full head of steam after following up their key win over Ohio State by steam-rolling Penn State last week! The Spartans late loss to Nebraska on November 7th actually helps them here as they no longer have the unbeaten pressure that still remains on Iowa. As shown recently, Michigan State is rolling ever since that defeat and the Hawkeyes are starting to show the effects of the unbeaten pressure as they were truly outplayed by Nebraska last week. This week it catches up with the Hawkeyes as they face their toughest test of the year and I don't see them having success against this fierce Spartans defense. Play Michigan State minus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* San Diego State -6.5 vs Air Force @ 7:30 ET Saturday - The big news for the Aztecs is the injury to their QB but with their powerful ground game and the size edge they have with their offensive line, I just don't see the undersized Falcons stopping the powerful rushing attack of San Diego State. The Aztecs have absolutely dominated in Mountain West Conference action with an 8-0 SU mark and a 7-1 ATS mark and the Falcons are off of a game where they allowed 377 rushing yards at New Mexico! Air Force now has to try and stop a San Diego State team that put up 320 rushing yards on Nevada last week. Also concerning for the Falcons is the fact they are facing one of the top defensive units in the nation. The Aztecs are allowing an average of 11.3 points per game in their last 8 games. San Diego State has not allowed more than 17 points in any of those 8 games. They also are the host of this Mountain West Championship game and the Aztecs have averaged nearly 34 points per game in their home games this season. This game has blowout written all over it as the Falcons triple option attack is something the Aztecs defense is built to stop. Play San Diego State minus the points an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Bowling Green Falcons -12 vs Northern Illinois @ 8 ET Friday - As much as I do respect Northern Illinois their QB situation is simply so bad here that it is just too much to ask QB Tommy Fiedler to come in and be their savior in the MAC Championship Game. First off, the Huskies are lucky to even be here. Northern Illinois lost starting QB Ryan Graham to injury in the game against Ohio University last week and this helped pave the way for a loss to the Bobcats. The only reason the Huskies made it to the MAC Championship Game is because Western Michigan beat Toledo last week and that created a tie at the top of the standings that allowed Northern Illinois to sneak into this game. The Huskies can say all they want about how they're ready for this game and how they have full confidence in their freshman QB, etc. but the fact is this guy is going from no college action (prior to the Ohio game) to now starting in a MAC Championship Game and trying to help his team match scores with a Bowling Green aerial attack that has simply been phenomenal this season. I just don't see this happening. I don't see the Huskies being able to keep pace with the Falcons on the fast track at Ford Field. The Falcons also have revenge on their minds after losing to the Huskies by 34 in this game last year. The year before it was Bowling Green on the right side of a 20 point blowout. I look for this year's game to land somewhere in that range as well with BG on the right side of a win by a margin of 3 to 5 TD's. The Huskies offense will struggle with Fiedler at the helm while Bowling Green's offense comes in averaging a ridiculous 566 yards per game on the season. Additionally, the Falcons confidence on the defensive side of the ball has grown as they've allowed just 14.2 points per game in their lsat 5 wins so it hasn't just been the offense getting the job done for Bowling Green. The Falcons are 4-0 ATS this season as a fave of 10.5 to 21 points. The Huskies are on a 2-7 ATS run in dome games. Play Bowling Green minus the points as an *8* Play Friday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Oklahoma Sooners -7 @ Oklahoma State @ 8 ET - The Sooners have won 10 of the last 12 meetings with Oklahoma State. Though it may seem surprising that Oklahoma is favored in the range of a TD here even though the game is in Stillwater, don't be fooled. The Sooners have played a tougher schedule than the Cowboys have and OU also has the much stronger defense when you compare these teams. It has been nearly 15 years since OSU has won back to back games in this series and they did get the HUGE upset win at OU last year in overtime even though they were down by two TD's at half-time. That big win for the Cowboys last year means there is no doubt that Oklahoma is fully focused on payback in this match-up Saturday. The Sooners barely got by TCU last week but OU lost QB Mayfield in the 2nd quarter with a concussion. He is back this week and will be ready to lead his team to a huge road win that OU must have if they want to win the Big 12. The Cowboys just don't have the defense to get enough stops to win this. OSU gave up 700 yards of offense in their loss to Baylor last week. Keep in mind the Bears were down to their third straight QB in that game so that says even more about just how weak this Cowboys defense is. Oklahoma is 8-3 ATS on the season and the Sooners are on a long-term 13-6 ATS run away from home! They can win this one in road rout fashion. Play Oklahoma -7 as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Illinois Illini +3.5 vs Northwestern @ 3:30 ET - This game is being played at Soldier Field in Chicago and Illinois looks to replicate their effort from last year when they got the upset win over Northwestern. Truly there is no reason to expect anything different this year. The Illini are off of a loss at Minnesota last week but Illinois outgained the Golden Gophers by nearly a full football field and it was a bit of a deceiving final score as a result. That is helping to offer some line value this week as we get the hungry Illini plus points even though they are in a 'must win' situation as they need this victory for bowl eligibility. Illinois is catching Northwestern at a good time to spring the upset as the Wildcats are off of an upset win of their own (over Wisconsin) last week. The Cats were fortunate to get that win as they certainly benefited from 5 Badgers turnovers in that game. Note that Northwestern has covered just 17 of their last 50 games as a favorite. Underdog Illinois has the better offense in this match-up and I look for the Illini (with the situational advantages as well) to ride that offense to the mild upset victory. Play Illinois plus the points as an *8* selection.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play TCU Horned Frogs -1 vs Baylor @ 7:30 ET - This is another one of those games where the line looks a little funny. Baylor is the significantly higher ranked team in this match-up and yet the Horned Frogs opened up as a small favorite. To me, this looks like another "trap game" situation on a rather highly ranked team. I'll gladly take the hometown Horned Frogs as they are hungry to avenge last season's loss to the Bears. TCU blew a huge lead in that game and ended up losing by a field goal. This is the second year in a row that the Horned Frogs have lost to the Bears by just a field goal and now it's time for a little payback. The Bears are off of a huge performance against Oklahoma State last week and now could fall a little flat here in a match-up that is expected to be a tighter, lower-scoring game. I like having a strong team like TCU here off of a loss. The Horned Frogs lost by a single point to Oklahoma last week. The Horned Frogs may have got caught looking ahead to this game as they certainly haven't forgotten last season's tight loss to Baylor and how that changed the playoff picture last season. The Horned Frogs have won 8 of their last 10 home finales and they've produced a 7-3 ATS mark in those 10 games. Overall, TCU is on a 15-8 ATS run and they get their revenge here on a chilly evening in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Once again, don't fall for the trap line here, take the lower ranked team (with added motivation) in a game where the line is basically a pick'em. Home team payback.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Nebraska Cornhuskers +2.5 vs Iowa @ 3:30 ET - Long-time followers know I like to be anti-public when a line doesn't look right. In this case, one would have to wonder how in the world the undefeated Hawkeyes have been installed as such a small favorite against a Nebraska team that has a losing record on the season. I have said it before and I'll say it again, anything that looks too good to be true usually is too good to be true. In this particular case, this looks like a trap game for Iowa. The Hawkeyes are off of a win over Purdue but they were actually outgained in the game. Also, Nebraska is off of a bye week. Huskers coach Mike Riley had a solid 10-3 ATS mark at Oregon State in when off of a bye week. The Cornhuskers have some extra confidence heading into this match-up as they already up set Michigan State three weeks ago at home and the Huskers then went on the road and dominated Rutgers two weeks ago. With last week's bye, it's undoubtedly true that Nebraska comes into this game in good shape both physically and mentally. The Huskers also have added confidence from knocking off the Hawkeyes in Iowa last year. Don't fall for the trap line here, look for Nebraska to get this much needed sixth win to clinch bowl eligibility as they knock off the 11-0 Hawkeyes. 

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Texas Tech Red Raiders +1 @ Texas @ 7:30 ET - This is a big rivalry game and is now known as the battle for the "Chancellor's Spurs". There is certainly no love lost between these teams and I look for a huge effort from the Red Raiders to atone for bad losses each of the last two years. Certainly the recent history of this series has favored Texas but the Red Raiders have absolutely closed the gap between the two teams. The Longhorns are off of a loss by 18 points in their most recent game and they've been run all over by their opponents in two of their last three games. The Red Raiders have the much more potent offense as they are averaging more than 200 yards more per game than the Horns are this season. Texas Tech's defense has been their weakness as usual but their coming off of a decent effort in their most recent game (against Kansas State) as they held the potent Wildcats to just 123 yards on the ground. The Red Raiders got the win in that game and their momentum roll continues here while the Longhorns are already pondering what "might have been" this season as they need two wins for bowl eligibility but also have Baylor on deck. With that said, the Horns have already 'faced the music' and I expect them to struggle with their motivational level for this game while the Red Raiders are very motivated by recent ugly losses to UT. 

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Northern Illinois Huskies -13 vs Ohio University @ 7:30 ET Tuesday - The Huskies can clinch yet another MAC Conference West Division title by getting this victory tonight. Certainly the Bobcats will be gunning for the upset but Ohio University is simply loaded with injuries right now. The Ohio U injury list looks like a MASH unit report. That is going to make it difficult for the Bobcats to hang around in this game because they are 'talking the talk' coming into this game but basically are going to be physically unable to 'walk the walk' in this one. Ohio U, after a very rough stretch, has responded by getting back to back wins in their last two games but those came at home against weak and struggling foes. Now the Bobcats are back on the road where they have lost their last two games by a combined score of 103 to 41. The average margin of defeat in those Ohio U road losses was 31 points per game. Northern Illinois is certainly capable of putting a whipping on the Bobcats in De Kalb, IL Tuesday. The Huskies are a perfect 5-0 at home this season and the average margin of victory has been 19 points per game. After losing their MAC opener this season, Northern Illinois has responded by winning six straight MAC games by an average margin of victory of 17 points per win. The Huskies punishing ground attack will open up the ability to attack the injury-depleted Bobcats secondary down the field with an aerial attack. This one has home rout written all over it. Play Northern Illinois -13 as a *10* Top Play Tuesday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Washington State -14 vs Colorado @ 10:45 PM ET - Normally one might look to fade a team like the Cougars in this situation. They are off of a big upset win over UCLA last week and the game winning touchdown came very late in the 4th quarter. However, the key here is that the Cougars offense is simply too potent for a weak Buffaloes defense and Colorado just lost their starting QB (Liufau) to injury during last week's game so the Buffs just are not going to be able to keep up in this game. Colorado is going to be starting a redshirt freshman (Apsay) and he'll be making his first start on the road in a big Pac-12 game and facing a Washington team that is a perfect 7-0 ATS in conference games this season. The Buffaloes are dealing with more than just the QB situation here too. Colorado blew a 17-3 lead last week against USC and that guarantees a losing season for the Buffaloes as they dropped to a disappointing 4-7 on the season. It's hard to get up for a game after a disappointing result like that in the prior week. Making things even more difficult for the Buffaloes here is the fact that Washington State will be riding sky high after last week's win. Colorado is not known for traveling well and they have failed to cover 10 of their last 15 away from Boulder. Play Washington State -14 as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Arizona State Sun Devils -7 vs Arizona @ 3:30 ET - Perfect set up here as Arizona is off of their upset win over Utah which came in double overtime and now the Wildcats are ripe to be faded. Arizona State plays this game with revenge from last season's road loss at Arizona. The Sun Devils did knock off the Wildcats by a 58-21 final score the last time Arizona State hosted. This was two seasons ago and I look for another big dominating win here. The Sun Devils catch the Cats off of an upset win and, at the same time, this is the home finale for Arizona State. The Sun Devils have a road game at Cal on deck and ASU still needs one win for bowl eligibility. That said, notching the victory at home this week is of paramount importance. The Sun Devils will ride the momentum of outscoring Washington 27 to 0 to finish last week's game and forcing four turnovers in the Huskies last four possessions. That's the kind of late-season win that can trigger a teams run toward bowl season. The Sun Devils will carry that momentum into this week. Arizona QB Solomon is dealing with an injury issue here and the Wildcats are 9-14 ATS in their last 23 as a road dog. ASU is 4-1 SU and ATS in their last five home finales. They win bak the Territorial Cup in this big rivalry game Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Northern Illinois -2.5 vs Western Michigan @ 8 ET - Northern Illinois has won six straight meetings with Western Michigan. Certainly that makes this a big time revenge game for the Broncos but the Huskies have 'had the Broncos number' as they have covered 14 of the last 18 meetings. Northern Illinois is off a win at Buffalo last Tuesday and they've now won five straight games after a tough 2-3 start to the season. These two teams are battling with Toledo for the top spot in the MAC West and it's going to be tough for the Broncos porous defense to come in and stop the Huskies in DeKalb. Northern Illinois is averaging an incredible 45.2 points per game in their last 5 games. Even though they lost their starting QB to a season-ending injury, the back-up has come in and done a great job. Also, the key tonight could be the running attack as gusty winds are expected throughout the game in DeKalb tonight. The windy conditions are enough to have some impact on the passing attack and this could hurt the Broncos because a ground-based or short-yardage passing game favors the Huskies. So home field and weather is on the side of Northern Illinois in this one. Other than a big win at Ohio U. earlier this season, the Broncos have struggled on the road with 36 points allowed per game in their other three road contests. The Huskies are a perfect 4-0 at home this season and have averaged 51 points per game in their four home games! The Broncos are 1-3 this season and 6-15 the last three seasons (straight up records) when they are an underdog. This bodes well for the Huskies laying the short number here. The Huskies are known for coming up big at this time of year and they have a 7-1 ATS mark in games in weeks 10 through 13 the last 3 seasons combined. Play Northern Illinois -2.5 as an *8* selection Wednesday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play Utah Utes -5.5 @ Arizona @ 10:00 ET - The Wildcats certainly have an impressive offense but their defense is one of the worst in the PAC-12, if not the entire country! Arizona's porous defense is going to have trouble stopping the balanced offensive attack of the Utes. Utah has averaged 37 points per game in their last 7 games and the Utes have given up 24 points or less in 8 of their 9 games this season. Conversely, the Wildcats defense has proven incapable of stopping anyone. Arizona has allowed an average of 40 points per game in their last 7 games. The Cats loss at USC last week marked the 5th time in their last 7 games that Arizona has allowed at least 38 points. This week, I'll trust the much better defense laying the short number on the road in this one. Adding even more value to the road team here is the extra added edge of motivation. The Utes were ranked in the top 20 teams in the country last season when they got thoroughly embarrassed by the Wildcats 42-10 last season. That embarrassing defeat was in Utah and you can bet (literally!) that the Utes have not forgotten it. Now it's payback time and Arizona is on a 3-8 ATS run while Utah is on a sparkling 8-2 ATS run in road games. 

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Temple Owls -2.5 @ South Florida @ 7 ET - The Owls are a very small road favorite here. Certainly Temple is off of a miracle cover last week at SMU but that's really not a reason to fade them in this spot. The Owls were expected to be flat last week when they faced the Mustangs as Temple was off of their huge game against Notre Dame. However, the Owls still managed to get the job done last week and now they are even a better spot to get another road win. The Owls are now 3 weeks away from the big game with Notre Dame. Also, Temple is catching South Florida off of a big upset win. The Bulls knocked off East Carolina last week even though they were a road underdog. Now look for USF to be a little flat after that big win. The Bulls are 2-7 ATS in home games with a posted total between 42.5 and 49 points. Temple is 12-5 ATS on the road the last three seasons combined including 4-1 ATS this season. The Owls stifling defense, after relaxing a bit against SMU (because of being off of the ND game), will be back in top form today and will be the difference maker here as they are far superior to the defensive unit of South Florida.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* South Alabama Jaguars -2.5 vs UL-Lafayette @ 7:30 ET Thursday - This is a big revenge game for the Jaguars. Last season these teams met at UL-Lafayette in November and the Jags were embarrassed as they were held to just 9 points in an ugly game for the South Alabama offense. Now it's payback time and what better place to do that than a weeknight game with the ESPN cameras rolling. The Jaguars are fired up and ready here and they come into this game off of a home win that got their confidence going again on offense as they rolled up over 270 yards on the ground again for the 2nd straight game. The Jags will take advantage of a UL-Lafayette team that has struggled to move the ball well quite frequently this season. The Ragin Cajuns have been held to 331 yards or less in 4 of their last 6 games. South Alabama has faced the tougher schedule so far this season as well. This is another key factor that I feel is being overlooked in this match-up. All in all, though UL-Lafayette has the better conference record so far this season and did open up as the favorite in this match-up when the lines first came out, this game did get steamed for all the right reasons and the short fave at home is the play in this one. Note that the Jaguars straight-up record in games where they are favored is 14-6. The long-term straight-up record for UL-Lafayette in games where they are a dog is 28-87. Look for the Jags to tie up the Ragin Cajuns in the Sun Belt Conference standings by getting the home win tonight. Play South Alabama -2.5 as an *8* selection Thursday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Bowling Green Falcons -3 @ Western Michigan @ 8 ET Wednesday - The West is known for domination against the East in recent seasons in the MAC. That said, do you think the odds makers have made a mistake here by making the Falcons (from the East) a 3 point favorite over the Broncos (from the West)? You may especially think so because Western Michigan has defeated Bowling Green four straight times and all four victories have come by a margin of double digits. As I have stated many times in the past and will make the statement again right now...the odds makers don't make many mistakes. Do not fall for the "trap" here. The Falcons are favored with good reason despite the series dominance of the Broncos and the overall West dominance in the MAC. Bowling Green is so hungry and so confident and simply a much different team from last season. The locker room chemistry of this team is just different. You can feel it. The Falcons also are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 as an away favorite while Western Michigan is on a 4-8-1 ATS run as a home dog. Both teams have fantastic offenses but, in the end, the hunger and motivation of the Falcons (as well as the continued stellar play of QB Johnson) will be the difference maker in this one. Play Bowling Green minus the points as an *8* selection Wednesday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Ohio University Bobcats -6.5 vs Kent State @ 8 ET Tuesday - Very nice spot for Ohio University and the fact this line dropped down below a -7 adds even more value. The Bobcats come into this game with plenty of motivation as they are off of three straight losses and they need a win for bowl eligibility and to get their season back on track. Even though the Bobcats have averaged scoring just 18.3 points per game in their last three games, their offensive production has been better than what the points on the scoreboard would lead you to believe. Ohio University has gained at least 354 yards in each of their last four games. They eclipsed the 400 yard mark in 3 of those games with one of the totals (in their most recent loss) eclipsing the 500 yard mark! The fact is that the Bobcats can move the ball and they have a solid offense. The same can not be said for the Golden Flashes. Kent State is averaging less than 300 yards per game this season and their anemic offense will simply be unable to keep up with the Bobcats in this tough road game for the Golden Flashes. Kent State is averaging less than 14 points per game in their last 7 games! Play Ohio University -6.5 as an *8* selection Tuesday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Top Play LSU Tigers +7 @ Alabama @ 8 ET - I love the "me against the world" attitude that the Tigers have coming into this game. Even though LSU is the higher ranked and undefeated team coming into this match-up, Alabama is still "the team to beat" if you're one of Louisiana's top recruits and passed up on the chance to play for The Crimson Tide. With that said, for LSU, this game is all about earning that respect and getting the big signature win that has eluded them in recent match-ups with Nick Saban and Company. The fact the Tigers got fullback John David Moore back healthier for this game is a key. He will help open up even bigger holes for the fantastic running of LSU's Leonard Fournette. The Tigers running attack this season has been insanely strong all year and this will allow them to have an edge in time of possession and control the clock a bit against a dangerous Alabama team. LSU, of course, would like to wear down the defensive line of The Crimson Tide as well as keep the dangerous Alabama offense off of the field. I expect that they will do just that. The Tigers do have the more explosive offense of these two teams and the LSU defense ranks very close to the lofty level achieved by the Alabama defense. In a smash-mouth game with such huge implications, I love having a big dog that runs the ball extremely well plus plays solid defense. The Crimson Tide have benefited greatly from turnovers in couple of their games and that is unlikely to be a huge help for Alabama in this game. The Tigers have only turned the ball over TWICE this entire seasons. By comparison, The Crimson Tide have been averaging two turnovers per game! Play LSU plus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Nebraska +6.5 vs Michigan State @ 7 ET - The whole world, of course, seems to be lining up on undefeated Michigan State here. Of course that has driven the line all the way from a 4.5 up to as high as a 6.5 in some spots. The line is likely to start coming back down as some sharp money starts to come back in on the Nebraska side. For the Cornhuskers, this is truly their best shot at making some noise this season. They've had a tough year, they are down in the standings but they can certainly gain some notoriety by knocking off the undefeated Spartans this week. While that may seem far-fetched based on their poor straight-up record, do note just how close Nebraska has been in so many of their games this season. The Huskers SU record is 3-6 but 4 of the 6 losses have come by a field goal or less and a fifth loss came by just 5 points. Their only ugly loss this season came last week against Purdue but turnovers sure had a lot to do with that. With QB Tommy Armstrong expected back this week I expect the turnovers to be greatly reduced and I expect Lincoln Nebraska to be rocking for this huge opportunity Saturday that is allowing them to make some noise in the Big Ten. The Huskers, arguably, have the better offense in this match-up and their defense (last week notwithstanding) is certainly not that far off of the pace set by the Spartans. Michigan State is just 1-6 ATS as a favorite this season and those struggles continue here with an outright upset a distinct possibility as the Spartans come out a little sluggish after their bye week. Play Nebraska plus the points as an *8* selection.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Duke Blue Devils +8 @ North Carolina @ Noon ET - The Tar Heels can always expect a fight from the Blue Devils when they meet as the rivals have plenty of emotion for this big game. However, this year's version of the battle for the Victory Bell is likely to have even higher emotions than usual for Duke. That's because after rallying for what looked like a sure win over Miami last week, the Blue Devils gave up a last second kickoff return for a TD. The deciding touchdown was truly questionable and Duke feels a bit jaded, to say the least, about the loss. Look for the Blue Devils to be playing with a little extra 'edge' in their game Saturday. This rivalry used to be confined to basketball due to the large talent gap between these schools in football. However, in recent years, the Blue Devils have closed that gap substantially and I would not be surprised if they spring the upset here. In comparing the two teams Duke has the better defense. The Blue Devils are on an incredible 12-1 SU (and 11-2 ATS) run in road games. North Carolina is on an ugly 2-6 ATS run in home games with a posted total between 56.5 and 63 points. Play on Duke plus the points as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Missouri Tigers +8.5 vs Mississippi State @ 9:00 ET - The Tigers are a classic "ugly dog" in this spot. As bad as Missouri's offense has been this season, their defense certainly has been stellar and I look for that strong D to be the key to them staying inside this big number Thursday. The Tigers have had only one loss by more than 8 points this entire season. While the Bulldogs are allowing 375 yards per game this season, the Tigers are allowing nearly 100 yards less per game this season. Mississippi State certainly has the much more potent offense in this match-up but it's projected to be a low-scoring game and that type of grudge match does not bode well for the Bulldogs. They have gone 2-10 ATS in road games with a posted total between 42.5 and 45 points. The Tigers have gone 5-1 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points the last 3 seasons. Missouri also is 8-0 ATS in games in the month of November the past two seasons. The Tigers are also 5-1 ATS when off of a bye week. Play Missouri plus the points as an *8* selection.

Rickenbach NCAAF *10* Kansas State Wildcats +17.5 vs Baylor @ 7:30 ET - The powerhouse Baylor Bears are in trouble. The loss of quarterback Seth Russell is a huge blow. In steps Jarrett Stidham and as talented as the young man is he certainly can't step in and be a Seth Russell right off of the bat. His experience so far this season has come in blowout games that were already decided and this will be a lot of pressure for him to have on his shoulders tonight. Stidham is a true frosh and he's being asked to go on the road against a well-coached (Bill Snyder) Wildcats team that, like the Bears, is also off of a bye week and Kansas State will be fully prepared for the only game left on their schedule where they can truly make a statement on the national scene. Every one of the rest of the Wildcats games comes against teams with at least 4 losses on the season. Kansas State themselves also has four losses so this game is truly their "national championship" for the season. The Wildcats are 7-1 ATS when off of a bye week and Snyder will have his troops ready. You can bet on that...literally. Play Kansas State plus the points as a *10* Top Play Thursday.

Rickenbach NCF *10* Top Play Miami Hurricanes +13 @ Duke @ 7 ET - I look for the Hurricanes to be sparked by both the coaching situation as well as the QB situation. The Canes are certainly fired up to perform better under their interim head coach after they suffered the worst defeat in school history last week with their 58-0 loss! After being thoroughly embarrassed, look for the Canes to respond in a huge way this week as nothing would be better for the university to forget about an ugly loss then to go and knock off an upstart Duke team. The Blue Devils, long known for their basketball prowess, have certainly improved greatly on the football field but you'd better believe this gets under the skin of the Hurricanes! Miami wants to resume their supremacy on the football field. The Canes did win by 12 last season at home against the Blue Devils but they lost by 18 the prior season at Duke. It's time for a little payback and note that the QB change now has them with a more mobile and athletic QB under center. This is a key because of the way the offensive line has struggled this season but I do look for a very physical game in the trenches on both sides of the ball for Miami. The Canes are fired up and can't wait to take the field after getting drilled 58 to 0 last week. An outright win would not surprise and certainly the Canes should stay inside this inflated number this week. Play Miami plus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* Georgia Bulldogs +3 @ Florida @ 3:30 ET - After winning 3 in a row in this series the Bulldogs lost ugly to the Gators last year and they certainly haven't forgotten. Even though Georgia is now without running back Nick Chubb, do not forget they lost him early in the Tennessee game three weeks ago and yet they still moved the ball well in that game and put up 31 points on the Volunteers. The bye week has done wonders for the Bulldogs to adjust to a Chubb-less offense and they also carry momentum into this week from winning a tightly contested defensive struggle against Missouri two weeks ago. I feel that Georgia is largely undervalued here and that Florida has lived a charmed life so far this season. Look for the Gators to now suffer "unbeaten letdown" after having their undefeated season come to an end against LSU before the bye week. Play Georgia plus the points as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* Oklahoma State Cowboys -1.5 @ Texas Tech @ 3:30 ET - I certainly have a ton of respect for the Texas Tech offense and what they've been doing this season. However, their defense is simply dreadful and in what is projected to be a back and forth high-scoring affair I will gladly take a team at roughly a pick'em price that is certainly more likely than their opponent to get more defensive stops. The Red Raiders have allowed between 45 and 63 points in 4 of their 8 games this season! The most points the Cowboys have allowed this season is 34 and Oklahoma State has given up 13 points or less in 4 of their 7 games. The Cowboys have won 6 straight in this series and only failed to cover 1 of those 6 games. Here any win virtually guarantees the cash and I see the Cowboys better defense to absolutely be the difference maker in this contest. Oklahoma State has gone 17-11 ATS as a road favorite and I look for Texas Tech to be reeling here after getting thoroughly dominated by Oklahoma last week. Play Oklahoma State as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* West Virginia Mountaineers +14.5 @ TCU @ 7:30 ET - TCU is 7-0 on the season but certainly may be over-rated. The only teams that they've played this season that currently have a winning record on the year are Minnesota (4-3) and Texas Tech (5-3). By the way the Horned Frogs won those two games by a COMBINED 9 points! In other words, don't be surprised if this battle with West Virginia ends up being much closer than what the point spread would lead you to believe. The Mountaineers are only 3-3 on the season but they have played a much tougher schedule than TCU has. West Virginia's 3 losses have come against Oklahoma, Baylor, and Oklahoma State. The combined record of those 3 teams is 20-1 so far this season. By the way, the Horned Frogs do have undefeated Oklahoma State on deck so Thursday's game against the Mountaineers is definitely a lookahead spot for Texas Christian University! West Virginia and TCU have played very tight games against each other in recent seasons and I look for another one here. The Mountaineers really needed the bye week after the recent tough stretch they went through. TCU could have done without a bye week as they were rolling and had momentum. This situation, all the way around, definitely favors the big dog Mountaineers. Play West Virginia plus the points as an *8* selection Thursday. 

Rickenbach NCF Game #354 - *10* Top Play Mississippi Rebels -5 vs Texas A & M @ 7 PM ET - The Aggies haven't even been out of the state of Texas yet this entire season...until today. This is the first true road game for Texas A & M this season. That said...it's likely to be a tough one too because they're facing the wrong team at the wrong time. The Rebels are not in a good mood after they blew an early 14-0 lead at Memphis last week and lost to the Tigers by double digits. l think Ole Miss got that early lead and then made the mistake of starting to look ahead to their next big game (this one) in SEC action and the Rebels paid the ultimate price for that with a loss. Now Ole Miss takes out their frustration against the Aggies. The Rebels stellar offense is averaging 521 yards per game this season. Also, though Mississippi beat the Aggies last season, they haven't forgotten the most recent time they hosted Texas A & M. In that game the Rebels were dealt a home loss and they are still looking for some home payback here and they should certainly get it. The Rebels still remember the Aggies scoring the final 10 points of that 41-38 defeat. The Ole Miss defense has been stellar at home this season. The Aggies, like the Rebels, do have a strong offense as well but their defense has struggled against both the run and pass this season in SEC games. The Rebels head coach Freeze has led his teams to a 38-19 ATS run while the Aggies are just 1-6 when off of a SU loss. I don't seem them bouncing back this week and I look for the Rebels to roll huge at home. Lay the short number with Mississippi as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF Game #381 - *8* Connecticut Huskies +13 @ Cincinnati @ 4:30 PM ET - I like taking defensive-minded dogs in the right situation and that's exactly what we have here. The Huskies possess a very solid defense and are giving up just 20 points per game this season and yet they are a double digit dog here. Adding even more value is that there is no shortage of motivation for Connecticut here as the Huskies are off of a loss to South Florida even though UConn put up over 500 yards of offense in that game. The Bearcats have allowed an average of nearly 300 passing yards per game in their last four games as their defense continues to be a question mark as the season has gone on. Cincinnati has also allowed nearly 200 rushing yards per game in their last five games. The "cherry on top" here is that Cincy embarrassed the Huskies 41-0 last year in Storrs. Payback time here and even if the Huskies do fall short they should certainly stay inside this inflated number. Play Connecticut plus the points as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF Game #410 - *8* Nevada Wolf Pack -7 vs Hawaii @ 4 PM ET - Hawaii is 0-4 SU this season in road games. They didn't even score a single point in the first three of those four road games. The Warriors have lost 15 of their last 16 games and, with all of that said, I like my chances with a Nevada team to win this game by at least 7. The Wolf Pack are fired up after their road loss at Wyoming as a TD favorite. Look for Nevada to now get the job done at home as TD favorite. In home games with a posted total between 49.5 and 52 points, the Wolf Pack are a perfect 6-0 SU and ATS! When Nevada is a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points they have gone 11-5 SU and 11-5 ATS. So, as you can see, when they win in this price range, they certainly have a good history (100%) of covering and I just don't see Hawaii, the poor travelers that they are, as having what it takes to get the upset on the road here. This is especially true when you know that the Wolf Pack will "bring it" in this game after last week's disappointing loss. Play Nevada -7 as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* Arkansas State -8 vs UL-Lafayette @ 8 ET - Big revenge spot for the Red Wolves and they have the edges to get the job done in a big way on Tuesday night. Arkansas State lost to the Ragin' Cajuns last year by 15 points at Louisiana. The prior year, the Red Wolves hosted UL Lafayette but also lost that game by 17 points. So why are they such a big favorite here? Because the tables have turned folks. The odds makers don't make many big mistakes guys. That said, even though Louisiana has had the upper hand in this series for a number of years now, the fact is that they don't have the offense to keep up with Arkansas State here. Yes, the Ragin' Cajuns did score 49 points last week but that was against the putrid defense of Texas State. The prior two weeks Louisiana was held to just 14 points each week and I expect a similar result tonight. As for the Red Wolves, they have averaged 44 points per game the last 4 weeks and their offense is ready to roll again here. A big problem for Arkansas State in recent match-ups with Louisiana has been their run defense but last week, against South Alabama, the Red Wolves allowed just 29 yards on 32 carries. Tough early season match-ups with teams like USC, Missouri, and Toledo (still undefeated on season at 6-0). The Red Wolves are ready to dominate here. Don't be fooled by this line! Play Arkansas State minus the points as an *8* selection Tuesday.

Rickenbach NCF *10* Top Play Alabama -3.5 @ Texas A & M @ 3:30 ET - These teams are next to each other in the rankings and the Aggies are at home here...yet it's Alabama that's favored by more than a field goal even though they are on the road. Looks like a trap, doesn't it? Don't fall for it. Lay the points with the Crimson Tide. Alabama has played the tougher schedule and they already have blemish on their record while Texas A & M comes into this game with an undefeated record. The Crimson Tide wants nothing more than to make sure the Aggies get their first blemish today and I expect them to do just that as they deliver a big road win. Alabama crushed Texas A & M 59-0 last year and they also knocked of the Aggies by a full TD in their last visit to College Station. The difference in today's match-up will be the Bama defense as they have continued to dominate on that side of the ball. The Aggies are allowing 110 points more per game than Alabama is this season. The Crimson Tide are 23-15 their last 38 times as an SEC favorite. The Aggies have covered just five times in their last eighteen games against SEC opponents. EVen though the Aggies are off of a bye, head coach Sumlin has led his team to a cover just once in this last seven times off of a bye. The Aggies and their porous defense finally get exposed here while the Crimson Tide defense dominates again. Play Alabama minus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* BYU Cougars -6.5 vs Cincinnati @ 8 ET Friday - Look for turnovers to be a key factor in this one. The Cougars have forced a total of 13 turnovers this season while the Bearcats have only forced 4 turnovers this year! Though Cincinnati is coming in off of a bye week, they are actually only 2-4 SU and 2-4 ATS when coming off of a bye week the past two seasons. Also, the Bearcats were fortunate in their win over Miami before the bye week as they did allow 427 yards in that game. The Cincy D is a concern as they've allowed at least 427 yards in each of their last 3 games and that included match-ups with Miami of Ohio and Memphis. In my opinion, this Bearcats teams is really stepping up in class here and they will struggle to stay in this one. The Cougars, although off of a win, are fired up after almost letting one get away from them last week as they blew a late lead against East Carolina. Look for BYU to learn from that lesson and "keep the pedal to the metal" all the way through this game. The Cougars were 4-1 ATS on the season before the "blown cover" against the Pirates and I look for them to get right back on track here. It certainly helps Brigham Young that this is their third straight home game. Also, the Cougars are hosting an over-matched Cincinnati team that is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games against non-conference opposition. Play BYU as an *8* selection Friday.

Rickenbach NCF *10* Top Play Utah Utes -7.5 vs California @ 10 PM ET - While both teams are undefeated on the season, I see huge edges for Utah in this match-up. Of course the home field edge is a big one. Another big one here is the fact that the Utes are off of a bye week. Last, but not least, Utah has played a much tougher schedule than the Golden Bears. Normally you might look at fading a team when off of a big win such as the Utes huge win over Oregon two weeks ago. However, the "two weeks ago" part is the key. Utah has had plenty of time to get over the emotional high of knocking off the Ducks by a 62-20 count. Additionally, the Utes have had the extra time necessary to prep for California's potent offensive attack. A big edge here is that the Golden Bears defense is very questionable at best. Remember they have played a lot of easy opponents this season. When Cal did step up in class they allowed 389 yards through the air against Washington State and the Bears did allow over 600 yards of offense to Texas! Now they face a rested and fired up Utes defense. Utah is 3-0 ATS the past two years (and 30-12 ATS long-term) when they enter a game off of two or more weeks of rest. Rested and fully prepped off of the bye week, look for the Utes (and their much better defense in comparison with Cal) to be the story line in this one. Cal is on a 17-31 ATS run as an underdog and the Utes having played a much more formidable schedule so far this season are being given some exceptional line value here. Play Utah minus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *10* Top Play Missouri Tigers +4.5 vs Florida @ 7:30 ET - Florida is undefeatedon the season and also only has 1 ATS loss. I expected the whole world to be jumping on the Gators here when the real line value lies with the Tigers who are very excited about the opportunity to knock off an undefeated SEC foe. There is extra line value here because Missouri is an ugly 1-4 ATS on the year. Despite that 1-4 ATS mark, the Tigers are built well to be a covering machine as an underdog. Missouri has been stellar on defense all season and is allowing just 264 yards per game this season. Look for the Tigers tough defense to put the Gators in a stranghold this week. Missouri is catching Florida at the perfect time to spring the upset. The Gators are off of their big upset win of Ole Miss and they have a huge game with LSU on deck. Look for Missouri to take advantage of the situational edges here. Since joining the SEC, the Tigers have gone 3-0 ATS against the Gators. Note that even though Florida won big over the Rebels last week, Mississippi actually had a 23-18 edge in first downs over the Gators. Needless to say turnovers played a big role in that win and this is also helping to drive line value here. Florida is only 2-4 straight-up in road games with a posted total of 42 or less and here the Gators aren't just being asked to win straight-up...they're laying more than 4 points! Missouri is 5-0 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points the last 3 years. Going further back with those parameters the ATS run is a solid 28-15. The fact is that the Tigers relish this role and they relish the opportunity that is before them today. They (and we!) will take full advantage with the hungry home dog here. Play Missouri plus the points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *10* Top Play Virginia Tech -1 vs NC State @ 8 ET - The Hokies are the much better defensive team in this match-up and they are off back to back losses. Note that Virginia Tech is 18-8 ATS when they enter a game off of two more consecutive straight-up losses. The Hokies are hosting an NC State team that could be suffering from "unbeaten letdown" as they lost last week after winning their first four games to start the season. The Wolf Pack had faced a very weak schedule to start the season (before running into Louisville last week) and I feel strength of schedule is another key factor here as to why we're getting such great line value wih the Hokies at home. Long-term trend guys will also like that fact that NC State has covered just 2 of the 10 prior meetings with Virginia Tech. This is the 3rd road game in 4 weeks for the Wolf Pack and I expect the home field and large crowd to play a factor in this Friday night match-up. Play Virginia Tech minus the points as a *10* Top Play Friday.

Game #141 - Rickenbach NCF Top Play *10* Mississippi State Bulldogs +6 @ Texas A & M @ 7:30 ET - Beautiful spot for the Bulldogs here. They already have a blemish on their record this season as they lost to LSU (just by duece) in week 2 of the season. This week Mississippi State gets a chance to make sure another SEC foe gets their first loss of the season. You can bet the hungry Bulldogs are fired up to knock off the unbeaten Aggies today. Texas A & M is lucky to still be undefeated this season. The Aggies had to rallly to force overtime last week against Arkansas and then managed to knock off the Razorbacks in overtime. Texas A & M was outgained in that game. On the ground the disadvantage was 232 to 65 as the Aggies were dominated by Arkansas on the ground. That's not a good sign for A & M here as they now face a Bulldogs team that already has eclipsed 200 yards on the ground in two of their games this season. Mississippi State has a very balanced offensive attack as they are averaging over 300 yards per game through the air this season. The Bulldogs are 9-3 ATS as an underdog the last 3 years combined. Texas A & M is off to a fortunate 3-1 ATS start this season but the past two seasons went a combined 5-12 ATS as a favorite and I look for those struggles to resume today. The upset looms here but of course I am grabbing the points in case the Bulldogs do come up just short. The Aggies are really stepping up in class here and let's not forget that they have gone just 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games against teams with a winning record. Play Mississippi State +6 as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Game #161 - Rickenbach NCF *8* Mississippi Rebels -6 @ Florida @ 7 ET - Mississippi's win last week over Vanderbilt was unimpressive but that was to be expected. The Rebels had defeated Alabama the week before so, as expected, they were flat against Vandy. Ole Miss will now certainly be ready for facing a fellow undefeated team this week as they take on the Gators. Mississippi has covered five straight in this series and it's a bargain to get them laying less than a TD in this match-up. The Gators are fortunate to be undefeated as they rallied for two TD's late in last week's game against Tennessee. Florida is now off of back to back tight SEC wins as they snuck by Kentucky in the week prior to their miracle win over the Volunteers. The Gators are just 1-3 ATS in their last four as a home dog. While Mississippi only has New Mexico State on deck, Florida does have another SEC foe on deck as a road trip to Missouri looms large. The Gators could get caught looking ahead as the Tigers have crushed them by double digits each of the last two years while the Gators haven't faced the Rebels since 2008. Play Mississippi -6 as an *8* selection Saturday.

Game #160 - Rickenbach NCF *8* Georgia Bulldogs (pick) vs Alabama @ 3:30 ET - It was 3 years ago but you can bet that Georgia still remembers it well: the Bulldogs lost to the Crimson Tide in the SEC Title game in 2012. Defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt will be looking to shut down his alma mater. Yes he played and coached at Alabama and the Bulldogs are fired up about getting that signature SEC win today that has eluded them. I love the line move here as the Bulldogs have gone from being nearly a field goal favorite to now being a dog in some books. Fade the masses who are flocking to Alabama here. The Bulldogs are ready to make their mark in one of the most highly anticipated SEC games of the year. Georgia is 3-0 at home this season and 14-2 in home games the last 3 seasons combined. Alabama continues to be overvalued on the road as they are 2-6 ATS in road games the last three years. We can see again here that everyone is flocking to Alabama here giving them more credit that is due them and I again see them being an ATS money burner on the road this one. Play Georgia as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCF *8* South Florida Bulls +9 vs Memphis @ 7:00 ET - The Bulls are coming off of a bye week plus playing their first home game in nearly a month. Both of these factors are big edges for the hungry home dog in this one. Memphis is off of a fortunate win last week as the Tigers were outgained by 182 yards plus first downs were 38-22 NOT in their favor last week. This is helping to give even more line value to South Florida as the Memphis 7 point win last week certainly hides some glaring weaknesses. The Tigers defense (if you can even call it that right now) has allowed 1,331 yards in thei last TWO games! That is simply ridiculous and with the extra practice time to prepare as well as the fact that emotions will be running high for an ESPN2 home game, I look for South Florida to have a great shot at the upset in this one. The Bulls are 5-2 ATS in October games the past two seasons. The Tigers are 1-5 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points the last 3 years combined. Play South Florida plus the points as an *8* selection Friday. 

Rickenbach NCF *8* Miami Hurricanes -6.5 @ Cincinnati @ 7:30 ET - The Hurricanes are coming off of a bye week. Some will look at the fact that they have a big game on deck with Florida State and will feel that the Canes could be short on emotion here. I don't see that all. Last week, in their game prior to facing the Seminoles, Miami absolutely crushed North Carolina. Additionally, with the added benefit of coming in on a bye week here, the Hurricanes should absolutely crush the Bearcats. Cincinnati is certainly hurt by the absence of Gunner Kiel here. Sure the back-up QB Moore had a huge game last week but that was against the ultra-porous defense of Memphis. Miami's defense is certainly quite different from the Tigers. In fact, Cincinnati has faced a very weak schedule so far and facing this tough ACC foe is going to be a major step up in "class" for the Bearcats. Though Miami won by just three points the week before their bye they did have a late 33-10 lead in that game and the deceiving 36-33 final score has led to some additional line value on the Canes this week. The Hurricanes are a solid 7-3 ATS as a road favorite while the Bearcats, overall, are on a 1-5 ATS run. Play Miami -6.5 as an *8* selection Thursday.

*10* Mississippi State Bulldogs - Auburn not only got manhandled by LSU last week, let's not forget the Tigers were fortunate to get by Jacksonville State the prior week! Additionally, in week 1 of this season, Auburn was outgained by nearly a full football field in their fortunate win over Louisville. This Tigers team has simply not even come close to impressing in any of their games this season. This has many calling for "the turnaround" to be this week but I just don't see it. The Bulldogs are the much better team, playing much better football, and the confidence of Auburn has absolutely been shaken. The Tigers are being outgained by a huge margin on the year and the Bulldogs, conversely, are outgaining their opponents by an average of over 150 yards per game this season. Mississippi State did defeat Auburn by double digits last season but they're still looking to avenge a tough 24-20 loss in their last visit to Auburn (two years ago). The Bulldogs aerial attack has been impressive this season and that includes a big performance against LSU as well. Mississippi State is 8-3 ATS as an underdog the last 3 seasons combined. While many might be looking for Auburn to bounce back off of their loss to LSU, the Tigers have gone 1-4 ATS the past two seasons when off of a conference loss. Look for them to again struggle against a conference foe in this one as that ATS trend adds another loss for Auburn.

*8* Nevada - With Nevada head coach Poulian having been a assistant at Buffalo for 5 years earlier in his career, this games carries some extra meaning for his team. It's a rare trip east for Nevada and it will be all business for them in a game against, in my opinion, what will prove to be an outclassed foe. Buffalo plays in one of the weakest conferences in football and that is why you're seeing this line where it is at even though the Bulls are at home. Nevada, already battle teasted with games against the likes of Arizona and Texas A & M will take advantage of a Buffalo team whose only truly tough test this season has been Penn State. The Nittany Lions won that game by double digits by the way. The Bulls did win huge over Florida Atlantic last week but it was a deceiving final score as the Owls outgained Buffalo by 200 yards. That is helping to give some extra line value this week with going against the Bulls and I'll gladly grab that value with Nevada.

Rickenbach NCF *8* Virginia Cavaliers +3 (or +2.5) vs Boise State @ 8 ET Friday - This is not the Boise State of the "glory years" for the Broncos and they've also taken another step back because of losing QB Ryan Finley to injury. That makes this a very tough spot for the Broncos to be a road favorite and I look for the Cavaliers to spring the "mild upset" in this one. Virginia has already been "battle tested" this season with tough games against UCLA and Notre Dame. Having lost those two match-ups the Cavaliers are looking at this game as a "statement game" and I expect a huge effort from the home dog Cavs in this one. Virginia is 7-3 ATS in non-conference action the last 3 seasons and 11-6 ATS as an underdog the last 3 years. Boise State is 1-3 ATS in games played on grass the last three seasons. The Broncos already lost at BYU this season and Boise State barely got by Washington in their season opener. Play Virginia plus the points as an *8* selection Friday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #167 - *10* Top Play Iowa State Cyclones +7.5 @ Toledo @ 8 ET - Iowa State lost to rival Iowa last week and will be hungry to respond this week. The final score was deceiving last week as the Cylcones were actually ahead at the half and, even late in the game, it was a very tight game until some late scoring came - including from a late turnover the Hawkeyes took advantage of. That deceiving helps give line value here in this match-up with a Toledo team that is off of a huge upset of Arkansas last week. Look for that to leave the Rockets flat here. Also, even though Toledo did get that huge win over the Razorbacks last week don't be fooled by the fact the Rockets only allowed 12 points in the game. Arkansas had an incredible 515 yards of offense in that game. It is truly insane that the Razorbacks only scored 12 points off of that but we take advantage by getting the extra value now offered in this week's match-up. Iowa State will not be flat off of the loss. The team chemsitry on this team is different from prior years and they are fired up about responding off of a loss and getting a road win in a game they see as a must-win for bowl purposes even though it's early in the season. The Cyclones know they have a tough schedule up ahead after their bye week next week. Of course their bye week being on deck is another reason to love Iowa State in this match-up. The full focus and energy of the Cyclones is going into this game while the Rockets get caught still celebrating their big win from last week. Play Iowa State +7.5 as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #146 - *8* Georgia Bulldogs -16 vs South Carolina @ 6 ET - Normally I don't lay big points. But this game has blowout written all over it. The Bulldogs are seeking revenge for a 38 to 35 loss at South Carolina last year. This is Georgia's biggest game in the month of September. They are off of match-ups with lesser foes UL Monroe and Vanderbilt and they only have Southern on deck. That means this THE GAME for the Bulldogs in the first month of the season. As for the Gamecocks it is a much different situation. South Carolina began the season with a in-state rival match-up with North Carolina and then had to battle a tough SEC foe last week (Kentucky) and they lost that game and also lost their starting QB in the process. Connor Mitch is out for this game and he had won the QB job in spring practice by playing with poise and solid command of the offense in the off-season work. Now the job is handed over to back-up QB Perry Orth, but not by choice of course. That means this could be ugly on both sides of the ball for South Carolina because the Bulldogs are absolutely stacked at the skill positions. Georgia won't take their foot off of the gas once the beating is underway because they still remember that loss at South Carolina last year. That makes me comfortable with laying the large points here. The Gamecocks are 6-11 ATS in SEC games the last 3 years combined. In the month of September South Carolina is 2-7 ATS the last 3 years. Play Georgia -16 as an *8* selection Saturday. 

Rickenbach NCAAF *8* Florida State Seminoles -7.5 @ Boston College @ 8 PM ET - Over the last 2+ seasons the Seminoles have been favored 29 times. They are 29-0 straight-up in those games. In other words, the odds are that they definitely get the straight win at Boston College Friday night. With that said, I certainly like having this line down right around near a single TD with the Seminoles. Boston College has great numbers so far this season but they have only played Maine and Howard. Florida State has also played a "soft" schedule thusfar but it certainly hasn't been as "cupcake easy" as the two teams the Eagles have faced. With that said, this is the game where BC gets exposed because they only returned 2 starters from offense and 5 staters from defense from last year's team. The Eagles are particularly week on the offensive line and, on the other side of the ball, in the secondary. Boston College lost at home to Pittsburgh, Clemson, and Louisville last year and those defeats came by an average margin of 11 points per loss. That said, this Eagles team is much weaker than last year's team. That said, even though Florida State certainly lost some key talent coming into this year, they are still a powerhouse and the Seminoles are loaded with talent at the WR spot, have tremendous depth at running back, and their defense is bolstered by one of the nation's best groups of corners and safeties. The Eagles will struggle to get the ball downfield on the Noles and their offensive line will be a proven weakness. On the other side of the ball, the Eagles defense will be broken down for big plays as the Noles athleticism at the skill positions keys a huge road win here. Look for the Noles to improve to 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games with another big win and cover on the road. Play Florida State -7.5 as an *8* selection Friday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #391 - *10* Top Play Oregon Ducks +4 @ Michigan State @ 8 ET - In their opening road game of the season the last 14 years the Ducks have gone 11-3. The line on this particular road opener for Oregon has been climbing all week and is now offering even more value with the underdog Ducks. Oregon has gone 7-1 straight up and ATS in their last 8 true road games against ranked opponents. Both teams are off rather easy wins last week and UO QB Vernon Adams was able to get in some "nice work" as the Ducks took adavntage of facing Eastern Washington, an FCS team, and piled up 731 yards of offense. Michigan State has revenge here because of their loss to the Ducks last season but I still think Oregon just has too much firepower all over the field for the Spartans to counter all their weapons. Michigan State's secondary is a concern because they lost so much talent from last year. As for the Ducks, they simply reloaded at the skill positions and they appear to be improved in the trenches too. That's bad news for a Spartans team that was up 27-18 on the Ducks last year but then allowed Oregon to score the final 28 points of the game. That comeback win gives Oregon plenty of confidence no matter how the early going plays out in this contest. Additionally, so many are looking at the revenge factor here for the Spartans but let's not forget that Oregon lost the National Championship to a Big Ten foe (Ohio State) in January. That is signficant for two reasons. 1) After coming so close to winning ti all last year Oregon knows this game today is one of those "big games" that will define their season chances in terms of getting back to the big one. 2) This is a revenge spot for the Ducks against another quality Big Ten foe. After what Ohio State did to them in January, the Ducks want some payback and they want it now. Play Oregon +4 as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #341 - *8* Massachusetts Minutemen +13 @ Colorado @ 2 PM ET - This one truly does have situational advantages that are off the charts. Colorado is off of a long road trip to Hawaiii in week one. The Minutemen, conversely, are completely rested and ready for this game because this is their first game of the season. UMass did not play in Week One. The Minutemen also have motivation here because they lost a tough one at home against the Buffaloes last season as they let a nice lead get away from them. UMass returns a ton of starters to this seasons team and they come into the new year with plenty of confidence that this can be "their year". Also, the Buffaloes scheduling situation (already poor due to the trip to Hawaii) is even worse because they have a huge rivalry game on deck with Colorado State up next. Colorado is just 3-6 in their last 9 home openers and I love having the big points here with a dangerous dog in an advantageous spot. Play Massachusetts +13 as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #201: *10* Top Play Wisconsin Badgers +14 (or as many points as you can get - it's been a line mover) @ Alabama @ 8:00 ET - Last year I lost a heart-breaker with the Badgers in their season opener. It was against LSU and Wisconsin actually led 24-7 in the 3rd quarter and they were dominating the ground game in that match-up with the Tigers. However, they then lost some defensive lineman to injuries and they didn't have RB Gordon in the fourth quarter. They ended up narrowly missing the cover in the 4 point loss to LSU. Not only do I remember that game but the Badgers do too! They certainly want to start off this season on a winning note but that's a tall order as a two TD underdog at mighty Alabama. The key here is that we have all those points to play with in terms of getting "our" win on this game! The Badgers can absolutely hang tough throughout this game. They beat Auburn in the Outback Bowl after last season and that's the same Tigers team that outgained Bama by nearly 100 yards in their match-up last season. The Badgers love to get physical in the trenches and, as proven with Auburn, it's that type of team that can give the Crimson Tide some fits. With that said, this game is likely to stay much closer throughout than what many are forecasting. This line has jumped all the way from Alabama -9.5 all the way to -14 as of the time of my selection and now it's crashing back down to -10.5 as of the time of this final posting of analysis. The Big Dog is the way to go in this one. The Crimson Tide are of course a stellar team once again but they will have an adjustment phase early this season considering they return just 11 starters and do have some question marks at QB as well. The Badgers are on a long-term 46-33 ATS run as an underdog and Alabama has gone 2-7 ATS in non-conference action the past two seasons. Play Wisconsin PLUS the big points as a *10* Top Play Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAAF Game #175: *8* Arizona State Sun Devils +3 @ Texas A & M @ 7:00 ET - Arizona State looks strong coming into this season as 9 returning starters on the defensive side of the ball means the Aggies are running into a solid defense to open up their season. Though this location Saturday certainly favors the Aggies it it still not their true home field as they are playing Houston instead of College Station. Texas A & M has a new DC with John Chavis now making the calls on defense and the Aggies could certainly have an adjustment phase to go through with Chavis early this season. As for the Sun Devils offense, I like what I am seeing from Todd Graham's team heading into this season and they won 4 of their 6 games against ranked teams last season and one of the two losses did come when they were without their starting QB (injury). Love having the hungry dog here as the two most powerful conferences in College Football square off Saturday evening. The Aggies are a money-burning 5-12 ATS as a favorite the past two seasons. The Sun Devils have won 17 of their last 21 Saturday games and get the job done to open the season. Play Arizona State +3 as an *8* selection Saturday.

Rickenbach NCAA-F *10* Top Play Michigan Wolverines +5 @ Utah @ 8:30 ET Thursday - One of the biggest stories heading into this season is, of course, the return of Jim Harbaugh to the Wolverines. You can bet this is going to return a lot of physicality to Michigan and that insures that they match-up perfectly with a Utes offense that loves to pound the ball on the ground. The Wolverines defense is still among the tops in the nation and the key here will be that the offense of Michigan should show immediate improvement under Harbaugh. That's thanks in part to the solid work he has put in with passing game coordinator Jedd Fisch and that will pay off immediately here as the Wolverines play with revenge in this one. They lost in Michigan to the Utes by a score of 26-10 last season. It's payback time tonight and I look for the Wolverines to take advantage of a Utes team breaking in two new coordinators. That's never easy to handle in the same season and Utah is trying to adjust to a new OC and a new DC as they head into this season. The Utes are without long-time coordinators Kalani Sitake (DC) and Dave Christensen (OC). I expect this to impact the Utes early in the season and there is big value with getting the handful of points with the revenging Wolverines who will be giving 110% effort for Harbaugh in his first game. There is no doubt about that. Love the cohesiveness and emotional energy that the Wolverines will bring to this game as Harbaugh has already rejuvenated this entire program and has these players believing in themselves and their teammates. This team is ready to produce right away in Week one! Play Michigan +5 as a *10* Top Play Thursday.

Rickenbach NCAA-F *8* North Carolina Tar Heels +3 vs South Carolina @ 6 ET Thursday - Steve Spurrier has been perfect (5-0) in his career against North Carolina. Of course, as the saying goes, that's why they play the games! In other words, I am calling for an upset here and I love the fact that this line has moved from around a pick'em to now having South Carolina favored by a full field goal. There is nice underdog value here with the Tar Heels as the Gamecocks are simply over-rated just because they play in the very tough SEC. The fact is South Carolina appears to be on a downward slide and there's no amount of coaching that Spurrier can provide that's going to change that anytime soon! The Gamecocks only return 4 starters on the offensive side of the ball this season and there is particular concern along the offensive line. Many games are won in the trenches and South Carolina has simply not had the continuity necessary for their offensive line to gel yet heading into this season. The Gamecocks saw some serious injuries in the spring carry over concern into the season in terms of production from this offensive line. As for the Tar Heels, they are certainly hungry to win this "Carolina Battle" and don't want to lose again to Spurrier. That insures the motivation factor here and while South Carolina has big games on deck with their SEC home opener next week and a visit to the Georgia Bulldogs the following week, the Tar Heels have a much lighter schedule in front of them. They don't open up ACC action until October and their next three games are against North Carolina AT & T, Illinois, and Delaware! Full focus from UNC in this one for sure! The Tar Heels have the better offense here (with 9 returning starters certainly helping the cause) and I look for swift improvement on the defensive side of the ball with the hiring of Gene Chizik. Play North Carolina +3 as an *8* selection Thursday.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 8* (Regular Play) on Kansas State vs. UCLA @ 6:45 p.m. ET
The UCLA Bruins face the Kansas State Wildcats in the Alamo Bowl Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Kansas State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Wildcats look to take advantage of a weaker UCLA stop unit that allowed 27.5 points per game this season. The Bruins especially had a tough time containing opposing passers, who threw for an average of 243.3 yards per game and completed 61.4 percent of their attempts. 2. The Wildcats finished 20th in the country, averaging 283.2 yards through the air per game. Kansas State features standout WR Tyler Lockett, who reeled in 1,351 yards and nine TD catches. 3. Kansas State won’t give UCLA any extra looks at the football. This team has turned the ball over just 11 times – second fewest in the country. Wildcats QB Jake Waters has only six interceptions on the year against 20 touchdown passes.
Play on Kansas State as an 8* Regular Selection Friday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 10* (Regular Play) on Alabama vs. Ohio State @ 8:30 p.m. ET
The Alabama Crimson Tide face the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Sugar Bowl Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Alabama with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Ohio State snuck into the Final Four of the College Football Playoff with a stunning win over Wisconsin in the Big Ten title game. The Buckeyes caught the Badgers on a bad day and are way in over their heads in this matchup with the No. 1 Crimson Tide. Ohio State comes back to reality on New Year’s Day. 2. The Buckeyes are leaning on third-string QB Cardale Jones to carry the offense after a shocking performance in the Big Ten title game. Wisconsin was caught off guard but Alabama has had almost a month to study the game film and will be well prepared for the Buckeyes fill-in QB and the OSU offense. 3. Anything the Buckeyes can do, the Crimson Tide can do better. Alabama’s ground game has fresh legs on every down, with RBs T.J. Yeldon and Derrick Henry pacing an offense that put up 488.4 yards an outing. On defense, the Tide don’t budge against the run with the top-ranked run stop in the country, allowing only 88.4 yards on the ground per game. Shutting down OSU’s rushing attack will force Ohio State to put the offense on the shoulders of their untested quarterback.
Play on Alabama as a 10* Top Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 8* (Regular Play) on Michigan State vs. Baylor @ 12:30 p.m. ET
The Baylor Bears face the Michigan State Spartans in the Cotton Bowl Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Michigan State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Spartans have one of the most balanced teams in college football, boasting an explosive offense – averaging 43.1 points per game – and a dominating defense – giving up only 293.5 yards a contest. Baylor relies heavily on its offense to put away teams and if they can’t score against MSU, the defense certainly won’t be able to shoulder the burden. 2. Michigan State has a ball-hawking secondary that has helped record 147 interceptions – second most in the Big Ten. The Spartans also have 37 sacks on the year – again second in the conference – and that pass pressure will force BU quarterback Bryce Petty into some bad decisions. 3. Should MSU decide to slow the tempo and ground and pound the Bears, they have the horses to do so. The Spartans ranked 24th in the country is rushing with 234.9 yards per game. Running back Jeremy Langford was fifth in the Big Ten is rushing yards and found paydirt 19 times. He helped MSU top the nation in time of possession – at 35:14.42 per game – which can ice the BU offense on the sidelines.
Play on Michigan State as an 8* Regular Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Wednesday 10* (Top Play) on Mississippi State vs. Georgia Tech @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets face the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the Orange Bowl Wednesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Mississippi State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Mississippi State has plenty of offensive wallop, averaging 37.2 points per game. The Bulldogs were ninth in the country with 506.2 yards an outing, and that ability to move the chains at will could be an issues for the Yellow Jackets, who posted unimpressive defensive numbers in a lackluster ACC. 2. The Yellow Jackets depended heavily on the run – a dangerous game plan against an offense as efficient as MSU. If the Bulldogs get up on the scoreboard early, GT may be forced to abandon that spread-option attack a play outside their comfort zone, having to pass the football in order to catch up. 3. Miss State has the horses on defense to slow up the Jackets’ powerful run game. The Bulldogs limited opponents to 126.5 rushing yards an outing and just 3.7 yards per carry. Mississippi State has had plenty of time to study game film of the Jackets option attack and will be ready on New Year’s Day.
Play on Mississippi State as a 10* Top Selection Wednesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Wednesday 8* (Regular Play) on Mississippi vs. TCU @ 12:30 p.m. ET
The TCU Horned Frogs face the Mississippi Rebels in the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Wednesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Mississippi with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Texas Christian comes into the Peach Bowl with its head held low, after getting snubbed for the spot in the College Football Playoff. The Horned Frogs not only didn’t make the Final Four but didn’t even get a Jan. 1 bowl game after having such high expectations all year. 2. Ole Miss stumbled toward the end of the season but capped the year with a huge win over rival Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl, which lined up this notable bowl matchup. The Rebels showed their defensive dominance in that game, limiting MSU to only 17 points. Ole Miss gives up less than two touchdowns per game on the year. 3. Texas Christian was able to average 46.8 points per game against a soft non-conference slate and a defensively-challenged Big 12 this season. The Horned Frogs get their first true challenge on that side of the ball in Ole Miss. The Rebels defensive coordinator Dave Wommack told the media TCU is the most like SEC-rival Texas A&M, with their spread formations, big receivers and the way they spread the field with an empty backfield. Ole Miss trumped the Aggies 35-20 back in Week 7.
Play on Mississippi as an 8* Regular Selection Wednesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Tuesday 8* (Regular Play) on Louisville vs. Georgia @ 6:30 p.m. ET
The Georgia Bulldogs face the Louisville Cardinals in the Belk Bowl Tuesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Louisville with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Louisville rolled into bowl season with three straight wins, including two big road victories in Boston College and Notre Dame. The Cardinals were a solid 5-1 ATS away from home and have also covered in four of their last five bowl appearances. 2. Georgia had hopes of a New Year’s Day bowl this season but instead settles for a trip to North Carolina. The Bulldogs blew their chances at a large bowl bid with a loss to Georgia Tech in the final and could come out flat in this game after a disappointing season by their standards. 3. The Cardinals have the inside scoop on the Bulldogs defense and tendencies, with defensive coordinator Todd Grantham serving under Mark Richt at UGA from 2010-13. Louisville brings a dominating defense of its own into the postseason, giving up just 294.1 yards per game – sixth best nationally. The Cardinals grabbed the second most interceptions in the country, with 25 total.
Play on Louisville as an 8* Regular Selection Tuesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Tuesday 8* (Regular Play) on LSU vs. Notre Dame @ 3:00 p.m. ET
The LSU Tigers face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the Music City Bowl Tuesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on LSU with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Notre Dame backed into bowl season on four straight loss and had just one win since mid-October. The Fighting Irish have allowed an average of 44.5 points per game during that four-game slide. 2. The Tigers have one of the best defensive units in the country, allowing only 305.8 yards per game. Louisiana State is especially stingy against the pass, giving up just 162.3 yards through the air per game. The Tigers allowed only nine passing touchdowns all season and picked off 10 passes. 3. The Irish offense has a QB controversy brewing this bowl season. Everett Golson was terrible down the stretch with 10 interceptions in the final six games as well as countless fumbles and miscues. Notre Dame replaced him with Malik Zaire in the final game of the season. Zaire is reportedly getting the start in the Music City Bowl despite attempting just 20 career passes and facing one of the best defenses in the country.
Play on LSU as an 8* Regular Selection Tuesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Monday 8* (Regular Play) on Clemson vs. Oklahoma @ 5:30 p.m. ET
The Oklahoma Sooners face the Clemson Tigers in the Russell Athletic Bowl Monday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Clemson with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Oklahoma is returning QB Trevor Knight under center after he injured his neck back on Nov. 8. Clemson will try to capitalize on a rusty passer, throwing a lot of pressure at the Sooners QB. The Tigers ranked second in the ACC with 44 sacks and were tops in the conference with 122 tackles for a loss. 2. Clemson has the top defense in the country, giving up only 259.6 yards per game. The Tigers have given up just 97.7 rushing yards per game and set their sights on OU’s powerful rushing attack. The last time the Sooners faced a stout run defense they were locked down 48-14 by the Baylor Bears – getting shutout in the three final quarters. 3. Clemson will be without standout freshman QB Deshaun Watson, who tore his ACL, but luckily have a solid backup in senior passer Cole Stoudt, who started seven games this season. The Tigers offense won’t see a decline in production thanks to that depth at QB.
Play on Clemson as an 8* Regular Selection Monday.
Good luck, Scott

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Monday 8* (Regular Play) on West Virginia vs. Texas A&M @ 2:00 p.m. ET
The West Virginia Mountaineers face the Texas A&M Aggies in the Liberty Bowl Monday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on West Virginia with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Texas A&M backed into the postseason with two straight losses and just two wins in its last seven games. The Aggies opened the season strong but were exposed in a very competitive SEC. 2. West Virginia can put up points in a hurry, averaging 33.2 points per game behind an explosive passing attack that ranks third overall in the FBS. Texas A&M has had trouble finding the end zone ever since Alabama wrote the blueprint for shutting down the Aggies with a 59-0 slamming in mid-October. Since that game, Texas A&M is averaging just over 21 points per game. 3. WVU head coach Dana Holgorsen has the inside scoop on the Aggies, having worked under Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin at Houston. Sumlin is already on the hot seat after a disappointing 2014, and Holgorsen is trying to get his program to the top of the Big 12 after showing its ability to win some big games this season. Expect WVU to be one step ahead of the Aggies Monday.
Play on West Virginia as an 8* Regular Selection Monday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Nebraska vs. USC @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The USC Trojans face the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Holiday Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Nebraska with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. With the firing of Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini, the public has puffed up this spread to the point where value is undeniable on the Huskers. Bettors are getting a steal on this team as the public overvalues the coaching impact. 2. Nebraska RB Ameer Abdullah is one of the most dominant rushers in the country and can single-handedly control the pace and tempo of this game. He rushed for 126.92 yards per game and 18 touchdowns on the ground. He’s also a threat to reel in the short pass for big gains after the catch. 3. Nebraska will bring a ton of pressure to fold the USC offensive line, which has struggled to keep QB Cody Kessler clean all season. Kessler was sacked 30 times and doesn’t have much of a running game behind him to relieve some of that pressure. The Trojans rush for only 3.9 yards a carry and have only scored 16 touchdowns on the ground. With the fear of a run game, Nebraska can confidently bring multiple pass rushers on almost every snap.
Play on Nebraska as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Penn State vs. Boston College @ 4:30 p.m. ET
The Penn State Nittany Lions face the Boston College Eagles in the Pinstripe Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Penn State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Penn State won’t budge to Boston College’s run-heavy playbook Saturday. The Nittany Lions are ranked No. 2 in the country in yards allowed and have locked down opposing run games to just 84.8 yards per game – tops in the FBS. 2. Penn State has the linebackers to contain BC’s dual-threat QB Tyler Murphy. The Nittany Lions have plenty of speed on defense and will contain Murphy to the pocket and force him to throw the ball under pressure. Murphy has just 10 touchdown passes to 11 interceptions on the season. 3. This is a big turning point for Penn State’s football program following the Sandusky scandal. The Military Bowl is the Nittany Lions first game back from a postseason ban and head coach James Franklin is looking to make a statement with a big bowl win that can start this program heading back toward the top.
Play on Penn State as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati @ 1:00 p.m. ET
The Cincinnati Bearcats face the Virginia Tech Hokies in the Military Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Virginia Tech with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. As always Virginia Tech has one of the better defenses during bowl season. The Hokies ranked 16th in the country in yards against and limited their last three opponents to 42 total points – an average of only 14 points a game. 2. The Bearcats coasted into bowl season on an extended winning streak, however, those victories came against bottom feeders in the AAC. Cincinnati’s only notable win during its seven-game run was a 54-46 shootout over East Carolina. This team is not as strong as its record would advertise. 3. The Hokies have a tremendous front seven that can put pressure on opposing passers and snuff out the run. Virginia Tech ranked in sacks per game - 3.83 – and tackles for a loss per game - 8.75 – in the country. The Bearcats aren’t used to playing under such pressure and will crumble with VT dominating the line of scrimmage.
Play on Virginia Tech as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 10* (Top Play) on North Carolina State vs. Central Florida @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The Central Florida Knights face the North Carolina State Wolfpack in the St. Petersburg Bowl Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on NC State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. North Carolina showed character toward the end of the season and turned a mid-season slide into a strong finish with wins over North Carolina and Wake Forest to finish off the regular season. The Wolfpack covered the spread in four of their five final games and have gone 4-1-1 ATS in their last six bowl appearances. 2. Central Florida has puffed up its record thanks to an incredibly weak schedule. Outside of a last-second win over East Carolina in the season finale, the Knights handled bottom feeders like SMU, South Florida, Tulsa and UConn in the second half of the season. Central Florida will be exposed by a tougher NC State programs Friday. 3. NC State will look to ground and pound the UCF defense, coming off a 388-yard performance with the run against UNC. The Knights defense isn’t as good as its numbers would indicate, taking on much weaker offensive programs down the stretch. That stop unit was exposed in the fourth quarter versus ECU, which put up 21 points in the final frame and would have knocked off UCF if not for a 51-yard prayer that was answered in the end zone with no time remaining.
Play on North Carolina State as a 10* Top Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 8* (Regular Play) on Illinois vs. Louisiana Tech @ 1:00 p.m. ET
The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs face the Illinois Fighting Illini in the Heart of Dallas Bowl Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Illinois with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Illinois finished strong with two wins in its final two games to make the bowl cut. The Fighting Illini ride that momentum into this matchup and are a Big Ten tested programs. 2. The Bulldogs stumbled to end the season with two losses in their last three games. Louisiana Tech allowed an average of 29 points in that span and face an Illinois offense that can explode in the passing game. 3. This Bulldogs defense relies on turnovers to keep their heads above water. Louisiana Tech was tops in the country in takeaways but faces a Fighting Illini team that has relied on its stop unit in big games, getting their share of takeaways in its three conference victories. La Tech coughed the ball up 25 times this season, so the tables could easily turn on the Bulldogs.
Play on Illinois as an 8* Regular Selection Friday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Wednesday 10* (Top Play) on Fresno State vs. Rice @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The Rice Owls face the Fresno State Bulldogs in the Hawaii Bowl Wednesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Fresno State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Bulldogs defense played well down the stretch, giving up an average of just over 23 points in its last four games – a big uptick from their season average of 32.6 points against. 2. Fresno State’s time between the bowl game has allowed RB Marteze Waller time to heal up from a shoulder injury suffered in the third quarter versus Boise State in the season finale. Waller rushed for 1,292 yards and scored 11 touchdowns this season. 3. Rice has been poor defensively in its last two games away from home, allowing 76 points to Louisiana Tech and 41 points to Marshall in its final two road games. The Owls allowed an average of 30.3 points per game on the season – 91st in the nation.
Play on Fresno State as a 10* Top Selection Wednesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Wednesday 8* (Regular Play) on Central Michigan vs. Western Kentucky @ 12:00 p.m. ET
The Central Michigan Chippewas face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in the Bahamas Bowl Wednesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Central Michigan with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Chippewas had one of the most overlooked defenses in the country, giving up only 331.2 yards against per game – 16th in the country. Central Michigan is especially stingy against the run, allowing an average of only 119.8 yards on the ground per game. 2. The Hilltoppers are ripe for a letdown heading into the Bahamas Bowl. Not only is WKU traveling to paradise for bowl season – it’s first bowl game outside the US since the 30’s – but the Hilltoppers are still fat and happy with a season-ending overtime win against Marshall, which ended the Thundering Herd’s undefeated season. 3. Western Kentucky isn’t much on defense and if the offense isn’t firing, the Hilltoppers don’t have a way to slow down opponents. WKU allowed more than 39 points on 502 yards against per game – 123rd in the nation. Central Michigan has shown it can put up points with 38 and 34-point efforts in Weeks 10 and 12.
Play on Central Michigan as an 8* Regular Selection Wednesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Tuesday 8* (Regular Play) on Marshall vs. Northern Illinois @ 6:00 p.m. ET
The Northern Illinois Huskies face the Marshall Thundering Herd in the Boca Raton Bowl Tuesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Marshall with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Marshall wobbled a bit at the end of the season, failing to cover in its final three games while losing to Western Kentucky in a wild overtime shootout. The Herd have had time to put those problems behind them and prepare for NIU. Marshall didn’t taste defeat until Nov. 28 and are a deserving big favorite Tuesday. 2. The Thundering Herd have had time to heal up, most importantly RB Devon Johnson, who was limiting down the stretch of the season with a shoulder injury. Johnson is backed up by Steward Butler, who exploded for 233 yards when Johnson was out against WKU. That two-pronged attack is overwhelming and will wear through the Huskies defense. 3. Northern Illinois won a weak group in the MAC this season and haven’t faced a true test since non-conference play. The Huskies are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine bowl appearances and face a balanced Marshall squad that has covered in five of its last six contests with non-conference opponents.
Play on Marshall as an 8* Regular Selection Tuesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Monday 8* (Regular Play) on Brigham Young vs. Memphis @ 2:00 p.m. ET
The BYU Cougars face the Memphis Tigers in the Miami Beach Bowl Monday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on BYU with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Cougars are a seasoned bowl program going up against a Memphis team that hasn’t been bowling since 2008. Expect the lights to be a little bright for the Tigers Monday. 2. Brigham Young is playing its best football to end the year and won’t lose too much momentum with this bowl game early into the month The Cougars have won four in a row, going 3-1 ATS in that span. Brigham Young was 4-2 SU and ATS away from Provo this season and covered in four of its last five bowl games. 3. Memphis struggled when stepping up in competition this season. The Tigers fell to UCLA and Ole Miss and puffed up their record with wins against weak AAC opponents. They take on a powerful BYU offense that averaged 36.2 points per game despite losing its top QB and RB midway through the schedule.
Play on Brigham Young as an 8* Regular Selection Monday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Air Force vs. Western Michigan @ 5:45 p.m. ET
The Air Force Falcons face the Western Michigan Broncos in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Air Force with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Air Force picked up a big win before bowl season, knocking off the Colorado State Rams in the finale game of the schedule. The Falcons finished the year on a 6-1 SU run and covered in five of those seven games. 2. Western Michigan backed into bowl season with a loss to Northern Illinois in the regular season finale. The Broncos didn’t knock off anyone of note this season and failed whenever they did step up in competition. Air Force on the other hand scored big-name victories over CSU and Boise State this year. 3. Much is made of the Falcons’ triple-option offense but the Air Force defense has been the big reason this program has done so well. The Falcons are giving up only 24.2 points per game and played with a similar speed on that side of the ball, leading to 33 sacks this season. The 3-4 defense is undersized by makes up for it in speed and smarts. They were able to slow up Boise State and Colorado State – two of the most explosive offensive teams in the country.
Play on Air Force as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Utah vs. Colorado State @ 3:30 p.m. ET
The Colorado State Rams face the Utah Utes in the Las Vegas Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Utah with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Utes were one of the most underrated teams in the country this season. Utah stumbled toward the end of the schedule but was a solid bet away from home with a 5-1 ATS record on the road. 2. Colorado State could have found itself in a much bigger bowl if not for a loss to Air Force in the final game of the regular season. It was only the Rams’ second loss of the season but dropped them enough to play on the opening weekend of bowl season, leaving them deflated for the Las Vegas Bowl and wondering what could have been. 3. Colorado State is reeling after head coach Jim McElwain took the job in Florida. The Rams are left with interim coach and offensive coordinator Dave Baldwin for Saturday. After such a great year, CSU has suffered some rough times heading into bowl season.
Play on Utah as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Nevada vs. UL Lafayette @ 11:00 a.m. ET
The Nevada Wolf Pack face the UL Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns in the New Orleans Bowl Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Nevada with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. UL Lafayette looks like the better team when measuring the records of these two teams, but the Ragin’ Cajuns didn’t earn a win over any noteworthy opponents and lost to FCS Appalachian State in the second last game of the year. 2. Nevada has a potent offense that averaged 31.3 points per game. The most impressive part of the Wolf Pack attack is that it gets stronger as the game goes on. Nevada averages 19.4 points per second half, including a FBS-best 12.9 points per fourth quarter. UL Lafayette allows an average of 8.5 points per fourth quarter – 102nd in the country. 3. Oddsmakers are trimming this spread with the Ragin’ Cajuns holding a home-field edge in New Orleans but Nevada travels well and boasted a 5-1 ATS away from home this season. There is great value with the Wolf Pack Saturday.
Play on Nevada as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Wisconsin vs. Ohio State @ 8:17 p.m. ET
The Ohio State Buckeyes face the Wisconsin Badgers in Lucas Oil Stadium Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Wisconsin with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Buckeyes march out unproven third-string QB Cardale Jones for the Big Ten title game, after losing J.T. Barrett to a broken ankle last week. Jones not only faces the pressure of the programs biggest game of the season but also a stingy Wisconsin defense. 2. The Badgers have a dominant offensive line that has plowed the road for the third-ranked rushing attack in the country, picking up 334.2 yards on the ground per game. Running back Melvin Gordon is gained 2,260 yards rushing and will control the pace of the game and wear down the Buckeyes stop unit over four quarters. 3. As mentioned, Wisconsin’s defense doesn’t give much to its opponents. The Badgers are limiting foes to only 260.3 yards a contest – second lowest in the FBS. They’ve locked down opposing passers for an average of only 156.6 yards and have 35 sacks on the year.
Play on Wisconsin as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Kansas State vs. Baylor @ 7:45 p.m. ET
The Baylor Bears host the Kansas State Wildcats Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Kansas State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Kansas State’s defense is tuning up just in time for this showdown with the Bears explosive offense. Outside of a loss to TCU, the Wildcats have limited their last four opponents to an average of just under 12 points in that span – including high-powered West Virginia, which bested Baylor 41-27 in Week 8. 2. Baylor has puffed up its record and stats with a soft schedule. It’s why the Bears are currently on the outside of the College Football Playoff picture entering this high-pressure game. Baylor just avoided an upset to Texas Tech last week, showing just how fragile this program is right now. 3. The Wildcats have dominated Baylor at the window in recent meetings, covering the spread in four of their last five encounters. Kansas State was once again among the top money makers in the college ranks, with an 8-3 ATS record heading into Saturday. It’s also covered in 13 of its last 15 road games, with a push in that span.
Play on Kansas State as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Missouri vs. Alabama @ 4:00 p.m. ET
The Alabama Crimson Tide faces the Missouri Tigers in the Georgia Dome Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Missouri with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Missouri has an underrated defense which ranks 16th nationally - 330.9 yards allowed per game – and has allowed just under two touchdowns an outing. The Tigers have an aggressive pass rush that has totaled 38 sacks this year – most in the SEC. 2. Alabama must be careful of a letdown following a very emotional win over Auburn in the Iron Bowl. The Tide were jacked up to exact revenge on the Tigers for last year’s shocking upset and may find themselves flat in this game. Alabama allowed 44 points to Auburn last weekend – definitely causing red flags to fly for a defense that allows an average of only 16.9 points per game. 3. The Tigers are accustomed to life away from home. They’ve covered in all five road games this season and have an 11-0 SU and ATS road streak going back to last season.
Play on Missouri as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Marshall vs. Louisiana Tech @ 12:00 p.m. ET
The Marshall Thunder Herd host the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Marshall with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Marshall takes the field with vengeance Saturday, coming off its first loss of the season. While the Thundering Herd are likely out of the big bowl game conversation, they don’t want to let a C-USA title slip through their hands. Expect an extra effort from the Herd. 2. Louisiana Tech comes out of the C-USA West, a much weaker side of the conference. The Bulldogs were able to punch their ticket to the title game with an 8-4 record and have been bowled over by tougher competition this season, not to mention a bad loss to Old Dominion in the second last game of the season. 3. Marshall has too much punch on offense. Quarterback Rakeem Cato is one of the better unknown talents in college football, passing for 3,314 yards and 35 touchdowns. He’s backed by a dominating rushing attack, which ranked seventh in the country with an average of 288.5 yards per game. Running back Devon Johnson is questionable with a shoulder injury Saturday but behind him is Steward Butler, who rumbled for 233 yards in the loss to Western Kentucky last week.
Play on Marshall as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 10* (Top Play) on Oregon vs. Arizona @ 9:00 p.m. ET
The Oregon Ducks face the Arizona Wildcats at Levi's Stadium Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Oregon with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Oregon’s lone loss came at the hands of the Wildcats, so Friday’s Pac-12 title game is loaded with revenge for the Ducks. Oregon not only needs to win the conference crown to stay in the College Football Playoff picture but winning in blowout fashion over their one defeat would definitely boost their sitting with the CFP committee and earn a possible No. 1 seed. 2. Arizona QB Anu Solomon is showing his inexperience as the pressure mounts. The freshman is averaging just under 199 yards passing over his last five games, and failed to throw a TD pass in two of those games. The Wildcats top receiver Samajie Grant won’t start Friday night after being cited for a DUI. 3. While Oregon’s offense gets all the attention, the Ducks stop unit has tightened up in recent weeks. Oregon allowed an average of just 18 points per game in its last four contests. The Ducks are putting an emphasis on shutting down the big plays Arizona’s offense is known for and is taking Friday’s game very personal after losing the last two meetings with the Wildcats – allowing a combined 73 points in those defeats.
Play on Oregon as a 10* Top Selection Friday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 8* (Regular Play) on UCF at East Carolina @ 7:30 p.m. ET
The East Carolina Pirates host the UCF Knights Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on UCF with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Knights can capture a share of the AAC regular season title with a win in East Carolina Thursday night. Central Florida rides a three-game winning streak into this season finale, including a tough road win in South Florida last week. 2. East Carolina was looking like a Cinderella out of the AAC early in the season but the wheels fell off the bus with losses at Temple and Cincinnati. The Pirates righted the ship with wins over AAC basement dwellers Tulane and Tulsa and are getting too much credit for those victories from oddsmakers in this game. 3. UCF has a smothering defense that ranks tops in the AAC and fourth in the nation, allowing only 271.2 yards per outing this season. East Carolina has avoided the AAC’s top defenses until now but was upended by Temple, which has the fourth-best defense in the conference, holding the Pirates to only 10 points.
Play on UCF as an 8* Regular Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Washington State vs. Washington @ 10:30 p.m. ET
The Washington State Cougars host the Washington Huskies Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Washington State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Washington State is putting in a good fight to end the season. The Cougars knocked off Oregon State in Corvallis two weeks ago and challenged Arizona State last weekend, scoring a combined 70 points in those games. Washington State is the No. 1 passing team in the country with 488.8 yards per game. That explosive attack always makes Wazzu a threat to cover. 2. The Huskies have watched the wheels come off a promising season with just two wins in their last four games. Washington gives up a ton of yards through the air – 278 yards per game – and have failed to cover versus WSU in the last two Apple Cups. The Huskies are a dangerous team to bet on, leading the land with 31 fumbles – 10 of those going the other way. 3. As mentioned above, Washington State has covered in the past two meeting with Washington – both as an underdog. The Cougars are a valuable home pup Saturday, with the underdog covering in 14 of the last 19 clashes between these state rivals. These Week 14 games are one of the few times bettors can throw the matchups out the window and wager on pure motivation.
Play on Washington State as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Pittsburgh at Miami @ 7:00 p.m. ET
The Miami Hurricanes host the Pittsburgh Panthers Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Pittsburgh with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Panthers’ offense is peaking down the home stretch of the season, averaging almost 38 points per game over Pitt’s last three contests. The Panthers are a ground-and-pound team with the 14th best rushing attack in the country picking up 253.6 yards per game. 2. The Hurricanes are spinning out of control in the final games of the schedule. After stringing together three straight wins, the Canes have dropped back-to-back contests, including a bad 30-13 loss to Virginia last week. Miami allowed 195 yards on the ground versus the Cavaliers and take on a more potent running attack in Pitt Saturday. 3. The Panthers still need one more win to become bowl eligible, aiming for magic win No. 6 Saturday in Coral Gables. The road team has been the wise play in recent meetings between these programs, covering in each of their last four clashes.
Play on Pittsburgh as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Mississippi vs. Mississippi State @ 3:30 p.m. ET
The Mississippi Rebels host the Mississippi State Bulldogs Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Mississippi with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Ole Miss has fallen out of the College Football Playoff picture but that has diminished the Rebels’ fight heading into the Egg Bowl. Mississippi would love nothing more than to spoil the Bulldogs playoff hopes with an upset Saturday. The home team has covered in five of the last six meetings between these rivals. 2. Ole Miss is out for revenge after losing to MSU last season. The Rebels will turn to their stingy defense to get the job done. Ole Miss is giving up only 310.4 yards and a FBS-best 13.5 points per game this season. The Rebels have limited opposing passers to an average of just 179 yards through the air and have picked off an SEC-leading 19 passes. Bulldogs QB Dak Prescott has 10 interceptions on the year, including three in the loss to Alabama. 3. Mississippi State’s defense has been beaten up by the pass all season, getting burned for 281.4 yards through the air per game – 120th in the country. Ole Miss may be done its top WR but there is plenty of firepower on this offense, despite what last week’s embarrassing shutout loss to Arkansas says.
Play on Mississippi as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Michigan at Ohio State @ 12:00 p.m. ET
The Ohio State Buckeyes host the Michigan Wolverines Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Michigan with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Wolverines season has been a bust and head coach Brady Hoke will likely be shown the door – if Michigan fails to put up a good showing against rival Ohio State. The Wolverines are playing with house money in “The Game”, which should take the pressure off for this high-stakes showdown. 2. Ohio State isn’t playing its best football right now. The Buckeyes have won but failed to cover in their last two contests, getting a scare at Minnesota then allowing Indiana to put up 27 points. Ohio State has allowed more than 29 points per game in its last three and this spread is awful lofty for a stop unit losing its focus. 3. It’s “The Game”. Like most heated college rivalries, all stats go out the window. The Wolverines know they can stun the Buckeyes, nearly knocking them down last season in a 42-41 loss as 17-point home underdogs. Michigan QB Devin Gardner was a monster in that game, passing for 451 yards and four touchdowns and adding another score on the ground. Gardner isn’t intimidated by big bad OSU and is getting a ton of points to play with Saturday in Columbus.
Play on Michigan as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 10* (Top Play) on Tulsa vs. East Carolina @ 8:30 p.m. ET
The Tulsa Golden Hurricane host the East Carolina Pirates Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Tulsa with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. East Carolina is still in the hunt for the AAC title and needs win in its last two games, as well as losses from Memphis and Cincinnati, to do so. However, the Pirates could get caught looking past the 2-9 Golden Hurricane and to next week’s important finale with Central Florida. 2. Tulsa has an underrated passing attack, headlined by WRs Keyarris Garrett and Keevan Lucas. The Golden Hurricane are averaging 270.6 passing yards per game and take on an ECU secondary that has allowed an average of 267.8 yards through the air. The Pirates roll the dice on defense, looking for big plays. If Tulsa can make them miss on those INT tries, there is big yardage to be had. 3. The Golden Hurricane will have a packed house on Friday night. Not only is this a holiday but also senior night for Tulsa. East Carolina has lost its last two road games and is just 2-3 ATS away from home on the season.
Play on Tulsa as a 10* Top Selection Friday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 8* (Regular Play) on Texas Christian at Texas @ 7:30 p.m. ET
The Texas Longhorns host the TCU Horned Frogs Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on TCU with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Texas Christian needs to score style points in order to boost their place in the College Football Playoff standings. The Horned Frogs are trying to put a bad loss to Baylor behind it and will pile on the points against this Lone Star State rival. 2. Texas has won three straight games but that win streak is only skewing the odds and creating extra value on TCU. The Horns knocked off Texas Tech and Oklahoma State – two programs counting the days until the season ends – and caught West Virginia in a sandwich spot, off a loss to TCU and before facing Kansas State. Texas is not as good as advertised right now. 3. The Horned Frogs have a dominating defense that can cause chaos with turnovers. Texas Christian has grabbed 11 fumbles and intercepted 17 passes, going up against a Longhorns offense that has put the ball on the ground 11 times this season – second most in the Big 12.
Play on TCU as an 8* Regular Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Tuesday 8* (Regular Play) on Miami (Ohio) vs. Ohio @ 7:00 p.m. ET
The Miami (Ohio) RedHawks host the Ohio Bobcats Tuesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Miami (Ohio) with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Despite a losing record on the season, Miami (Ohio) is one of the better plays in college football. The RedHawks have covered in seven of their 11 contests this year, playing above the oddsmakers’ expectations. 2. Ohio has been terrible on the road, losing four of its five games away from home. The Bobcats average just 13 points per road game this season – compared to more than 24 points averaged at home. 3. The RedHawks have an explosive air attack that averages 283.2 yards passing per game. The Bobcats so happen to be allowed 265.4 yards passing per game. RedHawks QB Andrew Hendrick can also so damage with his legs, giving Miami (Ohio) a dangerous weapons to keep the chains moving.
Play on Miami (Ohio) as an 8* Regular Selection Tuesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Nevada vs. Fresno State@ 10:30 p.m. ET
The Nevada Wolf Pack host the Fresno State Bulldogs Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Nevada with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Fresno State is terrible on the road. The Bulldogs have only one win away from home this season, giving up an average of 40.4 points in those road tilts. They’ve manage to cover just twice in their last seven games as the visitor. 2. Nevada needs this win to stay in the picture for the MWC Championship Game. If that doesn’t serve as motivation enough, it’s Senior Night Saturday and Fresno State has been talking smack all week, stating that they’re going to “paint Reno red”. That message made it all the way to head coach Brian Polian, who won’t call off his dogs if the Wolf Pack get up big. He would like to get all his seniors into the game and to do so, must have a healthy cushion on the scoreboard. 3. The Wolf Pack have the firepower to blow away the Bulldogs. Nevada has averaged 34 points in its last four games and faces a FSU defense that ranks among the bottom of the nation. The Bulldogs allow 491.6 yards against per game – which puts them 116th in the FBS. On offense, Fresno State’s biggest weapon, RB Marteze Waller, is nursing a shoulder injury and will be less than 100 percent if he actually plays.
Play on Nevada as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Boston College at Florida State @ 3:30 p.m. ET
The Florida State Seminoles host the Boston College Eagles Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Boston College with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Boston College has a taste for upsets, having already stunned Southern Cal this season. The Eagles love the underdog roles and have covered in four of their last five games when getting the points. This team already has six wins to make the bowl cut and is playing with house money, looking to boost their postseason resume with an upset against the defending national champs. 2. Florida State isn’t focusing on the lowly Eagles Saturday. The Noles are looking ahead to a season-ending rivalry with Florida and the upcoming College Football Playoffs. The Seminoles have a bad habit of not going all out and with so much still to come, you can expect a flat effort from FSU Saturday. 3. This Boston College defense is no joke and has had two weeks to prep for Florida State. The Eagles are giving up only 21.9 points per game and actually rank ahead of FSU in terms of yards allowed, with just 323.5 per game. On offense, BC has a dangerous playmaker in QB Tyler Murphy, who has passed for 1,293 yards but is doing most of the damage with his feet. He’s rushed for 1,006 yards on the ground and will keep the chains moving for the Eagles.
Play on Boston College as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Texas-San Antonio at Western Kentucky @ 12:00 p.m. ET
The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers host the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Texas-San Antonio with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Western Kentucky has put up big numbers against inferior opponents and now face a true test with this Roadrunners defense. Texas-San Antonio is ranked 34th in yards allowed and has given up just 23.9 points per game. This senior-rich defense will stymy the WKU attack Saturday. 2. Western Kentucky could come out flat in this matchup. The Hilltoppers are off a big win over Army and have a road date with undefeated Marshall in the season finale. This is setting up as a lookahead spot for Western Kentucky. 3. The Roadrunners snapped a three-game slide with a win over Southern Mississippi last week. Texas San-Antonio isn’t the most power offense but doesn’t face much resistance from a WKU stop unit allowing 508.3 yards an outing and almost 40 points per game. Texas-San Antonio has actually produced better away from home, averaging 20.8 points per road game – compared to an average of just 12 points at home.
Play on Texas-San Antonio as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Friday 8* (Regular Play) on San Diego State vs. Air Force @ 9:30 p.m. ET
The San Diego State Aztecs host the Air Force Falcons Friday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Aztecs have a big game under the Friday night lights, sitting at 5-5 on the season and needing one win to become bowl eligible. San Diego State only has two chances left to get win No. 6. 2. San Diego State is undefeated at home this season, taking a perfect 4-0 mark into Qualcomm Stadium Friday night. The Aztecs average 31.8 points per home game – compared to an average of just 19 points on the road. 3. SDSU has been great at stunting the spread offense, which Air Force runs exclusively. The Aztecs can credit their 3-3-5 defensive look which allows the secondary to react and make tackles. San Diego State ranked 32nd overall in defense, giving up just 349.1 yards per game, and has covered in five straight meetings with the Falcons, including a 27-20 win at the Academy last season.
Play on San Diego State as an 8* Regular Selection Friday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 8* (Regular Play) on North Carolina at Duke @ 7:30 p.m. ET
The Duke Blue Devils host the North Carolina Tar Heels Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on North Carolina with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. After stumbling for the first half of the season, UNC has pulled up its socks and has won three of its last four contests heading into this ACC rivalry. The Tar Heels have averaged almost 37 points per game in those three victories. 2. Duke is ripe for a massive letdown after losing to Virginia Tech last week. The Blue Devils fell 17-16 as 3.5-point favorites, snapping a four-game win streak and suffering just their second loss of the season. That hiccup could very well cost Duke a shot at a big-name bowl game and it could have a tough time putting that mistake behind them on a short week. 3. North Carolina is looking for a taste of revenge against Duke Thursday. The Blue Devils have managed to come away with close victories in the last two meetings between these rivals and another tight contest is in store Thursday.
Play on North Carolina as an 8* Regular Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Tuesday 8* (Regular Play) on Ohio vs. Northern Illinois @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The Ohio Bobcats host the Northern Illinois Huskies Tuesday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Ohio with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Ohio is sitting outside the bowl picture with a 5-5 record and only two games to pick up that decisive sixth win. The Bobcats will be extra motivated at home in what the program is calling their “Bobcat Blackout” inside Peden Stadium Tuesday. 2. Ohio is a tough team in Athens. The Bobcats are 4-1 SU and ATS inside Peden Stadium, averaging 27.2 points per home game compared to just 13 points per road game. 3. The Bobcats have revenge on their minds facing NIU Tuesday. The last time these MAC rivals clashed, Ohio gave up a 20-0 halftime lead to the Huskies to lose 23-20 in the 2011 MAC Championship Game. That crushing loss isn’t forgotten by some of the Bobcats’ senior players, who celebrate Senior Night Tuesday. Expect a strong motivated effort from Ohio at home.
Play on Ohio as an 8* Regular Selection Tuesday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Oregon State vs. Arizona State @ 10:45 p.m. ET
The Oregon State Beavers host the Arizona State Sun Devils Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Oregon State with this Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Arizona State is ripe for a letdown Saturday after taking a huge win against Notre Dame last weekend. The Sun Devils could get caught coming out flat, which is all Oregon State needs to cover this spread. 2. Despite a four-game losing slide, with three of those losses coming at home, Corvallis is still one of the toughest venues in college football. Arizona State has covered only twice in their last eight trips to Reser Stadium. 3. Oregon State can explode for big points – something that always makes the Beavers a live underdog. Quarterback Sean Mannion has thrown for 230 and 419 yards the last two games. Arizona State showed some soft spots in their defense, nearly letting Notre Dame back into the game last week.
Play on Oregon State as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Michigan State at Maryland @ 8:00 p.m. ET
The Maryland Terrapins host the Michigan State Spartans Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Michigan State with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Maryland catches Michigan State in a bad mood Saturday. The Spartans dropped out of the playoff picture with a loss to Ohio State at home last weekend. This MSU program doesn’t fall into many funks, having covered in five of its last six games off a loss. 2. Maryland lost top WR Stefon Diggs to a lacerated kidney in the win over Penn State last week. The Terrapins have the 69th ranked pass game in the nation but will take a major blow with Diggs out, especially against a stingy MSU stop unit that allowed only 311.4 total yards a game. 3. The Terrapins defense has been roughed up for big scores in recent weeks. Prior to the victory over Penn State, Maryland allowed 52 points to Wisconsin, 32 points to Iowa and 52 to Ohio State. The Spartans have the fire power to lay it on thick and try to earn some style points before bowl selection rolls around.
Play on Michigan State as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Kansas vs. TCU @ 3:00 p.m. ET
The Kansas Jayhawks host the TCU Horned Frogs Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Kansas with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Jayhawks actually have momentum on their side heading into this Big 12 matchup. Kansas took its first conference win of the year over Iowa State last weekend and stay in Lawrence for this Week 12 game. 2. Texas Christian is still trying to stay in the playoff mix. The Horned Frogs won’t gain much from beating KU, and will be instead looking ahead to a high-profile contests with Texas next week. A lookahead spot could leave TCU unfocused, making this mountain of points a tough cover. 3. TCU hasn’t played well away from Fort Worth, in fact it hasn’t played away from home much at all. Throwing out a cakewalk in SMU, the Horned Frogs lost at Baylor then squeaked out a 1-point win at West Virginia, their lone ATS blemish. The defense allowed a total of 91 points in those two games – very uncharacteristic for TCU.
Play on Kansas as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 8* (Regular Play) on Clemson Tigers at Georgia Tech @ 12:00 p.m. ET
The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets host the Clemson Tigers Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Clemson with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. The Tigers welcome back QB Deshaun Watson back from an injured finger. The freshman star hasn’t played since Oct 11. He’s thrown for 1,176 yards, 12 touchdowns and only two interceptions while adding 147 yards and three scores on the ground. 2. Georgia Tech has been rolling over weaker ACC opponents but now face the No. 2 defense in college football. The Tigers give up just 252 yards per game, most importantly have locked down opposing rushing attack to just 90.9 yards an outing. 3. With Clemson’s offense on track and the defense shutting down the ground game, the Yellow Jackets will fall behind fast and be forced to throw the football – something they really don’t like to do. Georgia Tech averages just 145.7 yards passing per game and throw the ball on just 21.76 percent of their snaps – fifth fewest in the FBS.
Play on Clemson as an 8* Regular Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Thursday 8* (Regular Play) on East Carolina at Cincinnati @ 7:00 p.m. ET
The Cincinnati Bearcats host the East Carolina Pirates Thursday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on East Carolina with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. East Carolina got an eye opener in a loss to Temple two weeks ago. The Pirates have had a bye week to iron out any wrinkles and head coach Ruffin McNeill has shown he’s prepared his teams to rebound well, with McNeil posting a perfect 9-0 ATS record off his last nine losses. 2. Cincinnati has won three in a row, but all have come against basement programs in the AAC – SMU, UCF and Tulane. Oddsmakers are giving the Bearcats too much credit against a very talented ECU squad. 3. Cincinnati will likely have QB Gunner Kiel under center Thursday, despite a nagging injury to his ribs. East Carolina has one of the best defenses in the AAC and will put Kiel’s toughness and mobility to the test Thursday. The Pirates only allow 339.4 yards per game for an average of only 23 points.
Play on East Carolina as an 8* Regular Selection Thursday.
Good luck, Scott.

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NCAAF Saturday 10* (Top Play) on Oregon at Utah @ 10:00 p.m. ET
The Utah Utes host the Oregon Ducks Saturday. “The Bulldog” breaks down his selection on Oregon with his Three-Factor Analysis: 1. Utah is coming off a crushing overtime loss versus Arizona State last week and is ripe for a letdown against the powerful Ducks Saturday night. Utah was holding out hope for chance to win the Pac-12 and perhaps sneak into the College Football Playoff picture. But with those dreams dashed, the Utes will have a tough time getting up for Week 11. 2. The Utes are in the midst of a QB controversy between Travis Wilson and Kendal Thompson heading into this big matchup. Not having your QB position ironed out by this time in the season is a major issue, especially when trying to match the production of the Ducks offense. Alternating passers will disrupt the timing and chemistry in the Utah offense. 3. Utah has been the best in the country at pressuring the passer but will have a tough time keeping pace with Oregon’s up-tempo attack, which will wear down the Utes stop unit and slow those rushers. The Ducks have been just as dangerous on defense, with 25 sacks of their own. Oregon also does a great job forcing turnovers, with 18 takeaways on the year. Those can quickly turn into points with this team.
Play on Oregon as a 10* Top Selection Saturday.
Good luck, Scott.