At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Memphis Tigers (192) minus the points versus the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (191). THE SITUATION: Memphis (5-4) looks to build off their 59-41 win at East Carolina last week as an 11-point favorite. Tulsa (2-7) earned their second win of the season with their 49-19 win over UConn as an 18-point favorite over the hapless Huskies.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS MINUS THE POINTS: Memphis generated 639 yards of offense against the Pirates — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 29 games after gaining at least 450 yards of offense in their last game. The Tigers possess the 8th most prolific offense in the nation as they are averaging 44.3 PPG and generating 535.6 total YPG. They also rank 6th in the FBS by averaging 267.2 rushing YPG — and they should run all over this Golden Hurricanes defense that ranks 118th in the nation by allowing 227.8 rushing YPG. Memphis did allow 556 yards to East Carolina last week — but they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Now the Tigers return home where they allow only 348.2 total YPG. Memphis is outscoring their visitors by +29.2 PPG and outgaining them by +275.4 net YPG. The Tigers’ offense has been unstoppable at home where they are putting up 52.4 PPG while averaging 623.6 total YPG. Memphis has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against teams with a losing record on the road. Tulsa has been a major disappointment again this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread victory. The Golden Hurricanes have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Their redshirt freshman quarterback Seth Boomer completed 9 of his 14 passes for just 168 yards — and Tulsa has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after failing to pass for at least 170 yards. Now this team goes back on the road where they are 0-4 with an average losing margin of -14.7 net PPG.

FINAL TAKE: Too much offense from this Memphis team — expect a blowout. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Memphis Tigers (192) minus the points versus the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (191). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Maryland Terrapins (145) and the Indiana Hoosiers (146). THE SITUATION: Maryland (5-4) has lost two of their last three games with their 24-3 loss to Michigan State last week as a 3-point underdog. Indiana (4-5) has lost four games in a row with their 38-31 upset loss at Minnesota as a 2.5-point favorite two weeks ago.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: It has been feast or famine for the Terrapins on offense this season as they have scored 63 points against Illinois, 42 points against Minnesota and 34 points against Rutgers but managed only a field goal overall against Iowa and the Spartans. Perhaps the three touchdowns that Maryland scored against the mighty Michigan defense is the best line on their offensive resume. The Terrapins caught an angry Sparty last week that was embarrassed by the Wolverines in East Lansing the previous week. But Maryland has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a double-digit loss at home — and they have played 13 of their last 17 games Over the Total after a loss by at least 20 points. The Terrapins managed only 100 yards of offense against Michigan State — but they have then played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after failing to generate at least 275 yards in their last contest and they have played 4 straight games Over the Total after failing to score more than 20 points in their last contest. Now Maryland goes back on the road where they have played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total — and they have played 5 of their last 6 road games Over the Total against teams with a losing record at home. And in their last 10 road games as an underdog getting no more than a field goal, the Terrapins have played 8 of these games Over the Total. Indiana has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a bye week. The Hoosiers surrendered 308 passing yards in that game — and the Over is 9-3-1 in their last 13 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last game. Indiana has scored 59 points over their last two games after they put up 28 points against Penn State. The Hoosiers have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 5 straight home games Over the Total against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Both these teams are fighting to become bowl eligible — and this level of desperation between mid-level teams can create high-scoring contests. Maryland upset Indiana last year by a 42-39 score as a +6.5-point underdog last season with the Total set in the 53.5 range. Expect another high-scoring affair. 25* CFB Big Ten Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Maryland Terrapins (145) and the Indiana Hoosiers (146). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:15 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Fresno State Bulldogs (113) minus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (114). THE SITUATION: Fresno State (8-1) has won seven straight games with their 48-3 win at UNLV last Saturday as a 27-point favorite. Boise State (7-2) has won four in a row with their 21-16 win over BYU last Saturday in a game where they were laying -11.5 points.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Fresno State should build off the momentum of their big win last week as they are 13-2-1 ATS in their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a victory by at least 20 points. The Bulldogs generated 466 yards in that contest — and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 26 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. Head coach Jeff Tedford’s stint in the Canadian Football League (after a brief turn in the NFL as an offensive consultant to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers) seems to have been a boon for his appreciation of the nuances of college football. The long-time Cal coach was always considered an offensive guru but he has done wonders with quarterback Marcus Maryion. The Oregon State transfer thrived under Tedford’s guidance last season as he completed 62.1% of his passes for 2726 passing yards while throwing 14 touchdown passes to just 5 interceptions. Maryion has been even better this season as he is completing 70.9% of his passes for 2416 passing yards with 20 TD passes and just 3 interceptions. He leads an offense that is 11th in the nation by scoring 40.4 PPG. Maryion should have success against a suspect Broncos pass defense that ranks 74th in the nation by allowing 234.4 passing YPG. But what has made this Fresno State program different than Tedford’s Cal teams — and why this group made an immediate turnaround from a 1-11 record in 2016 — is the outstanding play on defense. The Bulldogs returned seven starters from last year’s group that allowed only 17.9 PPG and just 320.6 total YPG which ranked 10th and 15th best in the nation. The 2017 defense made startling improvements under defensive coordinator Orlando Steinauer who Tedford brought down from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the CFL while proving once again the impact of good coaching. While Steinauer returned to the CFL this season, the defense has not missed a beat under last year’s linebacker coach in Bert Watts who took over coordinating the defense while maintaining Steinauer's aggressive tendencies. Fresno State is allowing only 12.3 PPG which is tied for 2nd in the nation while ranking 14th in the FBS while limiting their opponents to just 307.0 total YPG. Defense travels — and the Bulldogs 13-2-1 ATS in their last 16 games on the road which includes them covering then point spread in six of their last seven road games against teams with a winning record at home. Fresno State is outscoring their home hosts by +22.2 PPG due to their defense that is allowing only 9.6 PPG. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 4 straight games in the month of November — and they have covered 4 straight games played on a Friday night. Boise State is just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. The Broncos are led by four-year senior starting quarterback Brett Rypien who leads an offense that is 10th in the nation by averaging 319.8 passing YPG. But Rypien will face his biggest challenge of the season facing this Bulldogs’ pass defense that is 16th in the nation by allowing only 178.2 passing YPG while limiting opposing quarterbacks to completing just 48.1% of their passes and only 8 TD passes. Boise State has won four in a row after a loss at home by a 19-13 score to a San Diego State defense that has a similarly strong defense as the Bulldogs but lacks their explosiveness on offense. The Broncos have the allure of their blue field but that has not translated into a home-field advantage — or perhaps bettors have overvalued this intangible. Boise State has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games at home. And in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record, the Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: This is the third meeting between these two teams in less than a twelve-month period after these two teams split their two meetings last year. Fresno State certainly had this date circled since this is their first opportunity to avenge their 17-14 loss to Boise State that the Broncos’ hosted in the Mountain West Conference championship game last December 2nd. Look for the Bulldogs to avenge that loss with what appears to be an even better team than last year’s group in Tedford’s first season with the program. 25* CFB Friday ESPN2 Game of the Year with the Fresno State Bulldogs (113) minus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (114). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the North Carolina State Wolfpack (110) minus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (109). THE SITUATION: NC State (6-2) snapped their two-game losing streak last Saturday with their 47-28 win over Florida State as a 9.5-point favorite. Wake Forest (4-5) has lost three of their last four games with their 41-24 loss to Syracuse last week as a +6-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WOLFPACK MINUS THE POINTS: NC State raced out to a 31-14 lead at halftime last week against the Seminoles. Not only have they covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a win at home but they have also covered the point spread in 8 of theories 12 games after owning a lead by at least 20 points at the half of their last contest. The Wolfpack have scored 88 points over their last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 37 points in their last game. Led by senior quarterback Ryan Finley who will relish this opportunity to boost his NFL resume on this nationally televised game, NC State is 9th in the nation by averaging 322.9 passing YPG. Finley should feast against the woeful Demon Deacons pass defense that ranks 118th in the nation by allowing 272.6 passing YPG. The Wolfpack stay at home where they are a perfect 5-0 with an average winning margin of +16.4 PPG while outgaining their opponents by +97.6 net YPG. NC State has only turned the ball over once in their last two games after not committing a turnover against Florida State. The Wolfpack have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not turning the ball over in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after not turning the ball over more than once in two straight games. They will be hosting a Wake Forest team that is 101st in the nation by averaging a -0.56 net turnover margin per game. NC State has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on a Thursday night. Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored. The team lost their starting quarterback for the rest of the season this week when it was announced that freshman QB Sam Hartman would miss the rest of the year due to a leg injury. That means that sophomore Jamie Newman will get the start after he was beat out in the fall for the starting job. Newman has completed only 7 of his 15 passes this season while averaging just 5.0 Yards-Per-Attempt. That is a bad turn of events for this Demon Deacons team that has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games against teams with a winning record as well as in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog. Additionally, Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games played on a Thursday night — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight trips to Raleigh to face the Wolfpack.

FINAL TAKE: NC State is looking reach ten wins this season to improve on their 9-4 record last year. One of their four losses last season was to this Wake Forest team that defeated them by a 30-24 score in Winston-Salem. Too much offensive firepower for the Wolfpack who should earn sweet revenge with a blowout win tonight. 10* CFB Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the North Carolina State Wolfpack (110) minus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (109). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Toledo Rockets (103) and the Northern Illinois Huskies (104). THE SITUATION: Toledo (5-4) has won two straight games with their 45-13 win over Ball State last Wednesday as a 19.5-point favorite. Northern Illinois (6-3) has won five straight games with their 36-26 win at Akron as a 6-point favorite last Thursday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Rockets scored one of their touchdowns by recovering a fumble in the end zone — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. And while they generated 531 yards of offense in that game, they have played 17 of their last 23 road games Under the Total after gaining at least 525 yards in their last game. Toledo rushed for 204 yards in that game against the Cardinals last week — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. The team will likely continue to commit to establishing their ground game with junior quarterback Mitchell Guadagni likely out for this game with a shoulder injury. Sophomore Eli Peters will get his third start tonight — but he is struggling in the passing game as he is completing only 53.7% of his passes. Protecting Peters will also be an issue tonight as the Rockets have allowed 21 sacks this season — and the Huskies have compiled 32 QB sacks this season. Toledo has steadily improved on defense as they are allowing only 22.7 PPG over their last three games. They have also held their last three opponents to just 118.7 rushing YPG which is more than 50 YPG below their season average rush defense. The Under is 25-12-1 in the Rockets’ last 38 games against teams with a winning record — and they have also played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total in the month of November. Northern Illinois generated 484 yards of offense in their win over the Zips — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Now the Huskies return home where they have played 9 of their last 13 home games Under the Total — and they have played 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Northern Illinois has also played 10 of their last 13 home games Under the Total as a favorite laying no more than 7 points. The Huskies are led by their defense that ranks 29th in the nation by allowing only 21.7 PPG. That number drops to just 18.0 PPG when they are playing at home — and they have allowed only 17.7 PPG over their last three games while holding those opponents to just 327.7 total YPG. Northern Illinois thrives in stopping the run as they rank 13th in the nation by allowing only 103.8 rushing YPG. The Huskies limited Akron to just 35 rushing yards last week — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 75 rushing yards in their last game. But this Northern Illinois team struggles to create offensive as they rank 123rd in the FBS by scoring 19.2 PPG while also ranking 125th in the nation by generating only 309.4 total YPG. Only 139.1 of those yards come from their passing game which ranks 121st in the nation — yet they are only averaging 3.8 Yards-Per-Carry from their rushing attack. Playing at home has not helped this offense either as they are scoring only 18.0 PPG along with just 304.0 total YPG. The Huskies have played 4 straight games Under the Total in the month of November — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against MAC opponents.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played their last 6 meetings Under the Total — and the Under is 5-1-1 in the last 7 encounters between these two teams when playing at Northern Illinois. Expect another low-scoring game between these two teams that face significant albeit different challenges on offense. 25* CFB Mid-American Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Toledo Rockets (103) and the Northern Illinois Huskies (104). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Miami (OH) RedHawks (104) plus the points versus the Ohio Bobcats (103). THE SITUATION: Miami (OH) (3-6) has lost two straight games with after their 51-42 loss at Buffalo last week as a +7-point underdog. Ohio (6-3) has won three straight — as well as five of their last six games — with their 59-14 win at Western Michigan as a 3-point favorite last Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE REDHAWKS PLUS THE POINTS: Miami (OH) generated 453 yards in their last to the Bulls. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last contest. And while they surrendered 453 yards to Buffalo, they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. This team returned sixteen starters from last year’s team that finished 5-7. Expectations were high for this team that lost four of those games last year by 5 points or less. This team has remained unable to close out games with another two of their losses being decided by one possession. They have covered the point spread in five of their last six contests as they have proved to be better to bettors than they have been in winning close contests. The Red Hawks have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Despite their losing record, Miami (OH) is outgaining their opponents by +8.9 net YPG. An unfavorable schedule has not helped Chuck Martin’s team as they have played six of their first nine games on the road. This is the RedHawks’ just fourth game at home this season where they are outscoring their guests by +5.7 net PPG. Miami (OH) has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 home games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as an underdog. Senior quarterback Gus Ragland completed 20 of 35 passes for 313 yards against the Bulls defense last week — and he should have success against this Bobcats’ defense that is vulnerable to dynamic passing attacks. Ohio ranks 117th in the FBS by allowing 276.8 passing YPG. The Bobcats have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win on the road by at least four touchdowns. Ohio has also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after scoring at least 50 points in their last game. The Bobcats have won three straight games by at least five touchdowns — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after winning their last two games by at least 10 points against conference rivals. This team stays on the road where they are 2-3 this season while being outgained by -37.4 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: While Ohio wants to win their annual Battle of the Bricks with their in-state rival Miami (OH), they know they have a date pending next week with Buffalo that will likely determine the winner of the MAC East Division. With things going so well for this team right now, they might be caught looking ahead. The RedHawks are better than their record suggests — and pulling an upset here would keep their hopes of becoming bowl eligible alive. 20* CFB Ohio-Miami (OH) ESPNU Special with the Miami (OH) RedHawks (104) plus the points versus the Ohio Bobcats (103). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Buffalo Bulls (102) minus the points versus the Kent State Golden Flashes (101). THE SITUATION: Buffalo (8-1) has won four straight games with their 51-42 win over Miami (OH) last Tuesday as a 7-point favorite. Kent State (2-7) snapped their six-game losing streak last Tuesday when they upset Bowling Green on the road as a small 1-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLS MINUS THE POINTS: Buffalo should build off the momentum of their big win last week. The Bulls have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory. Buffalo generated 507 yards against the Red Hawks defense — and they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Bulls will not have the services of their best defensive player in the first half of this game with linebacker Khalil Hodge suspended after being flagged for a targeting penalty in last week’s game. But look for the other Buffalo defensive players to step up in his absence as this team has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. The Bulls have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight home games against conference opponents. And in their last 4 games against teams with a losing record, Buffalo has covered the point spread in all 4 games. Kent State was able to upset a Bowling Green team that is going in the wrong direction — but a letdown tonight is likely. The Bulls have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a point spread victory. The Golden Flashes stay on the road this week where they are just 1-5 with an average losing margin of -29.7 PPG. They are being outgained by -168.2 total YPG. Kent State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, the Golden Flashes have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games in the month of November.

FINAL TAKE: Buffalo will likely overwhelm the Golden Flashes tonight. Too much offensive firepower behind quarterback Tyree Jackson — and the defense should be motivated to play better after allowing 42 points last week which tied for the most points they surrendered all season. 10* CFB Kent State-Buffalo ESPNU Special with the Buffalo Bulls (102) minus the points versus the Kent State Golden Flashes (101). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:45 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Washington State Cougars (374) minus the points versus the California Golden Bears (373). THE SITUATION: Washington State (7-1) has won four straight games with their 41-38 upset win at Stanford as a +2.5-point favorite last Saturday. California (5-3) has won two straight games with their 12-10 upset win over Washington last week as a +11.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS PLUS THE POINTS: Washington State usually builds off the momentum from victories as they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a straight-up win as well as 22 of their last 28 games after a point spread victory. A letdown from Mike Leach’s team is unlikely as they have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games after an upset victory over a Pac-12 rival. This team is tough to beat when the Leach’s Air Raid offense is cranking on all-cylinders as it is right now under the leadership of graduate transfer quarterback Gardner Minshew. The Cougars have scored at least 34 points in each of their last three games while averaging 475.7 total YPG in those three contests. Washington State has then covered the point spread in 7 straight games after scoring at least 31 points in two straight contests — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after averaging at least 475 YG in their last three games. Now the Cougars return home where they are 4-0 with an average winning margin of +21.0 PPG while outgaining their guests by +205.8 net YPG. While the offense is prolific, it is the play of the defense that makes this team different from past Leach teams. Washington State is holding their visitors to just 17.0 PPG along with only 282.7 total YPG this season. The Cougars have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 24 home games — and they have also covered the point spread in 5 straight home games against teams with a winning record on the road. California is the more likely team to suffer a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after an upset win over a Pac-12 rival. The Golden Bears ave also failed to cover the points spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a win by a field goal or less against a conference rival. Furthermore, Cal has failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after a game where no more than 29 combined points were scored. The Golden Bears did hold the the Huskies to just 250 yards of offense last week — but they have failed to over the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. And in their last 8 road games against teams with a winning record at home, Cal has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: It is a difficult challenge for the Golden Bears to stay competitive in two straight games where they are an underdog of at least a touchdown. Expect Cal to struggle to keep up with the powerful Cougars offense which should see Washington State eventually pull away. 20* CFB Saturday Late Show Bailout with the Washington State Cougars (374) minus the points versus the California Golden Bears (373). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the LSU Tigers (420) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (419). THE SITUATION: Alabama (8-0) remained undefeated this season with their 58-21 win at Tennessee as a -29.5-point favorite two weeks ago. LSU (7-1) looks to build off their 19-3 win over Mississippi State two weeks ago as a 5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: This LSU team should play hard for head coach Ed Orgeron who they love playing for — and this is the atmosphere this football team craves for with it being a nationally televised night game in Death Valley. The Tigers are confident — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after winning four or five of their last six games. The stout LSU defense should keep them in this game. The Tigers rank 7th in the nation by allowing only 15.1 PPG — and they also rank 22nd in the FBS by holding their opponents to only 330.3 total YPG. LSU held the Bulldogs to just 260 yards of offense in their last game — and they are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. The Tigers are also 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Grinding out low-scoring game is what this time wants to do as they have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 33 games after a game where no more than 29 combined points were scored. LSU has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home. They also have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games in SEC play — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight conference games at home. The Tigers have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. Alabama looks unbeatable right now — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 24 road games when laying 7.5 to 14 points. The Crimson Tide have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the month of November. Alabama passed for 327 yards in their victory over the Volunteers — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after passing for at least 325 yards in their last game. And while they held Tennessee to just 258 yards of offense in that blowout win, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: LSU is loaded with talent that can hang with the Crimson Tide blue-chippers. Perhaps most importantly, their secondary can slow down the Alabama passing attack under Tua Tagavailoa to make this something the defending national champions have not experienced in a long time: a close game. It is simply too much to ask any great college football team to defeat another elite team by more than two touchdowns on their home field. 10* CFB Alabama-LSU CBS-TV Special with the LSU Tigers (420) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (419). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (329) minus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (330). THE SITUATION: Kentucky (7-1) has won two straight games after their 15-14 upset victory in Missouri last Saturday as a +7.5-point underdog. Georgia (7-1) defeated Florida on the neutral traditional neutral field in Jacksonville last Saturday by a 36-17 score as a 7-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: It has been a magical year so far for head coach Mike Stoops in his sixth season in Lexington — but the Wildcats are likely to be exposed in this game. Kentucky upset Florida and Mississippi State in the first month of the season while those two programs adjusted to new head coaches. They needed a fourth-quarter special teams touchdown to force overtime in College Station before suffering their first loss of the season at Texas A&M. They returned home to only defeat Vanderbilt by a touchdown the next week before pulling the upset last week at Missouri. Even in that game, the Wildcats were trailing by a 14-3 score before they scored on a 67-yard punt return for a touchdown at the 5:18 mark of the 4th quarter. They then scored the winning touchdown on the last play of the game to steal that win to maintain their gaudy 7-1 record. But is the time when Stoops’ teams at Kentucky then take a step back. While the Wildcats have a 28-19 (60%) record before the month of November in Stoops’ tenure at Kentucky, that mark plummets to a 5-18 (.217) record from November to the end of the season for Stoops’ teams at Kentucky. The Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games in the month of November. Kentucky has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 home games after winning five or six of their last seven games. The Wildcats have also failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 29 games at home. With sophomore Terry Wilson at quarterback, the Kentucky offense is not diverse enough to challenge an elite defense like the Bulldogs. The Wildcats average just 148.1 passing YPG which is 118th in the FBS. Georgia’s defense ranks 12th in the nation by allowing only 16.4 PPG. A victory in this game clinches the Bulldogs’ spot in the SEC Championship Game which keeps alive their dreams of getting back to the College Football Playoffs. Georgia gas covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a victory of at least 17 points — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after winning five or six of their last seven contests. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And in their last 9 games against teams with a winning record, Georgia has covered the point spread in 7 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: Look for the Bulldogs to expose this overachieving Wildcats team. 10* CFB Georgia-Kentucky CBS-TV Special with the Georgia Bulldogs (329) minus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (330). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the North Carolina Tar Heels (336) plus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (335). THE SITUATION: North Carolina (1-6) has lost four straight games with their 31-21 loss at Virginia last Saturday as a +7.5-point underdog. Georgia Tech (4-4) has won three of their last four games with their 49-28 upset win at Virginia Tech back on October 25th as a +3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TAR HEELS PLUS THE POINTS: It has been a disappointing season for North Carolina — and head coach Larry Fedora is clearly on the hot seat in his seventh season with the program. But this group is still playing hard for their head coach — three of their losses have been by a touchdown or less. The Tar Heels should continue to play hard this afternoon. North Carolina has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after a point spread loss. Furthermore, the Tar Heels have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a loss to a conference rival — and they have also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after suffering four straight losses. Due to a quirk in the scheduling, North Carolina returns home to play in just their third home game all season — and playing five of their first seven games on the road is a good way to stumble into another disappointing season. The Tar Heels split their two games at home so far this season — upsetting Pittsburgh by a 38-35 score as a 3-point underdog while losing by a 22-19 score to Virginia Tech as a +6.5-point dog. North Carolina has outgained these two opponents by a decisive 504.0 to 388.5 total YPG margin. North Carolina has covered the point spread in 4 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 home games with the Total set at 63 or higher. The Tar Heels have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 7 points. Georgia Tech likely played their best game of the season in their win in Blacksburg against the Hokies behind freshman Tobias Oliver who was elevated to the starting quarterback in that game. Some letdown is likely — and this team is just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Yellow Jackets won that game despite their rookie attempting only one pass in that game. All 465 of their yards on offense were from their rushing attack — and they outrushed Virginia Tech by +353 yards. But Georgia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after outrushing their last opponent by at least +150 yards. The Yellow Jackets’ spread triple-option rushing attack does tend to travel — but this is not been a reliable road warrior. Not only has Georgia Tech failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games with the Total set at 63 or higher but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: North Carolina has been a disappointment this season — but they did enter the season with the hopes to get back to a bowl game after their 3-9 season last year that followed this football team winning nineteen games in their previous two seasons. Playing just their third game at home this year, the Tar Heels are a hidden gem this afternoon. 25* CBB ACC Underdog of the Year with the North Carolina Tar Heels (336) plus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (335). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Baylor Bears (396) plus the points versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (395). THE SITUATION: Baylor (4-4) takes the field again after their embarrassing 58-14 loss at West Virginia back on October 25th as a +14.5-point underdog. Oklahoma State (5-3) looks to build off their 38-35 upset win over Texas as a +2.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Baylor was burnt early and often from turnovers in that Thursday night loss to the Mountaineers with sophomore quarterback Charlie Brewer throwing three interceptions before being benched in the first-half. The Bears walked to the locker room with a 41-0 deficit and ended the game with a -4 net turnover margin. But Baylor has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after trailing by at least 24 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after enduring a -4 or worse turnover margin in their last game. The Bears are also 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a point spread loss. And in their last 4 games after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored, Baylor has covered the point spread 3 times. Brewer was in the concussion protocol all week from a head injury he suffered in that game but he has been cleared to play in this game. This Bears team has been much improved this season in the second-year in head coach Matt Rhule’s tenure. Baylor returns home where they are 3-1 while outscoring their opponents by +9.2 PPG and outgaining them by +101.5 YPG due to their powerful offense that averages 502.5 total YPG. Oklahoma State snapped their two-game losing streak last Saturday with their upset win at home over the Longhorns — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after an upset loss. The Cowboys have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a wild game at home where both teams scored at least 31 points. Now Oklahoma State goes on the road for just the third time this season after enjoying a front-loaded schedule that has seen them pay six of their first eight games at home in Stillwater. The Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games in the month of November — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when favored by 3.5 to 10 points

At 10:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Colorado Buffaloes (319) plus the points versus the Arizona Wildcats (320). THE SITUATION: Colorado (5-3) has lost three straight games after their devastating 41-34 loss in overtime at home to Oregon State as 24-point favorites last Saturday. Arizona (4-5) snapped their two-game winning streak with a 44-15 upset win over Oregon as a 7-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUFFALOES PLUS THE POINTS: Colorado was cruising right along last week as a big favorite against the Beavers as they went into halftime with a 24-3 lead which they maintained entering the 4th quarter with the score at 31-10. But the Buffaloes never put Oregon State away who eventually clawed back to score a potential game-winning touchdown with just 30 seconds left in the game — but they missed the extra point which gave Colorado one more chance to win that game in overtime. However, the Buffaloes failed to take advantage of that second-chance as the Beavers scored a touchdown in overtime to steal that game as a road underdog of more than three touchdowns. Colorado may have lost a realistic chance to win the Pac-12 North to play for the Pac-12 Championship but head coach Mike MacIntyre still has plenty of reasons to motivate his team after they missed reaching a bowl game last year with a 5-7 record. The Buffaloes are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after a point spread loss. They also have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after enjoying a halftime lead of at least 17 points in their last game. And while they generated 536 yards of offense last week while averaging 7.15 Yards-Per-Play, Colorado has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after averaging at least 6.25 YPP. MacIntyre typically gets the most out of his team in expected close games as the Buffaloes have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 road games as an underdog getting up to 3 points. Colorado has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on a Friday night. Arizona pulled off their biggest win of the season in the first-year under new head coach Kevin Sumlin — but this inconsistent team may be due for a letdown. The Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 40 games after an upset victory — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in eight of their last twelve games after an upset win as a home underdog to a Pac-12 rival. Additionally, Arizona has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a victory by at least 20 points. The Wildcats generated 465 yards in that game against the Ducks’ defense — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Arizona also held the Oregon offense to just 270 total yards which was more than 150 yards below their 421.7 total YPG defensive average which ranks just 90th in the FBS. The Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 2 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. Arizona stays at home where they are 3-2 this season — but they are being outgained by their visitors by -7.8 net YPG. The Wildcats are 3-3 in conference play while outgaining these opponents by +17.1 net YPG — but that is overwhelmed by the Buffaloes who are outgaining their opponents by +47.0 net YPG despite their 2-3 record in Pac-12 pay. Arizona typically underachieves in expected close games as they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: MacIntyre can also play the revenge card in this game after his team was upset by the Wildcats last year by a 45-42 score despite being a 6.5-point favorite at home. Arizona quarterback tore the Buffaloes defense apart by rushing for a whopping 327 yards in that game — but the junior has been slowed down by injuries this season which has limited his dual-threat capabilities. Expect Colorado to avenge that loss — but take the points for some insurance. 25* CFB Friday FS1-TV Game of the Year with the Colorado Buffaloes (319) plus the points versus the Arizona Wildcats (320). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Temple Owls (313) and the Central Florida Knights (314). THE SITUATION: Temple (5-3) has won three straight games with their 24-17 win in overtime versus an undefeated Cincinnati team back on October 20th by a 24-17 score as a -2.5-point favorite. Central Florida (7-0) looks to extend their 20-game winning streak coming off their 37-10 win at East Carolina back on October 20th as a -21.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Knights may receive most of their attention because they hold the nation’s longest winning streak in the nation. Their offense also gets plenty of attention since it ranks 5th in the nation in scoring (44.4 PPG) and 6th in the nation in total offense (537.1 total YPG). But the Central Florida defense is not getting enough credit as that unit also ranks 5th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 18.1. PPG. And back on their home field, the Knights see that number drop to just 17.5 PPG — and they are limiting their visitors to just 324.0 total YPG. Central Florida has played 8 of their last 12 home games Under the Total as a favorite laying 7.5 to 14 points. Additionally, the Knights have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. This team has also played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Furthermore, Central Florida has played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a bye week. Their starting quarterback McKenzie Milton is listed as questionable with head coach Josh Heupel indicating he will be a game-time decision after missing their last game with the Pirates with an ankle injury. Redshirt freshman Darriel Mack struggled to pass the ball in his absence as he only accounted for 69 passing yards — but it looks like Milton will be cleared to play in this game tonight. Regardless, look for the Knights to commit to running the football as they rank 7th in the FBS by averaging 261 rushing YPG. UCF generated 316 yards on the ground without Milton under center which helped them outrush East Carolina by +226 yards. The Knights have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after rushing for at least 200 yards — and they have also played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total after outrushing their last opponent by at least +200 yards. Temple rushed for only 80 yards while giving the Bearcats their first loss of the season. They were without their star rusher, Ryquell Armstead, in that game — and he is questionable for this contest still with his ankle injury. Second-year head coach Geoff Collins is getting outstanding play out of his defense that has steadily improved this season much like last year. The Owls rank 23rd in the nation by holding their opponents to just 330.5 total YPG — and that number actually drops to a 300.7 total YPG mark when they are playing on the road. Over their last three games, Temple is holding their opponents to just 13.3 PPG along with only 263.7 total YPG. This strong play should continue as they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after winning at least three straight games. That game with Cincinnati finished Under the 47 point total, the Owls have played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total following a game that finished Under the Total — and they have also played 14 of their last 18 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last contest. On offense, Temple is getting gritty but spotty play from their sophomore quarterback Anthony Russo who won the starting gig earlier this season but is completing only 56.5% of his passes while sporting a subpar 9:10 touchdown to interception ratio. The Owls will lean heavily on their outstanding pass defense that is 18th in the FBS with 24 sacks which has helped them rank 4th in the nation overall by allowing only 147.5 passing YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Because Milton has practiced this week, the Total has shot up to the 60 range after opening in the 56.6 range. Temple’s formula for defeating their second straight unbeaten opponent will be to slow down their offense and grind out a lower-scoring game. While the Owls may not have enough offensive firepower to pull out the upset, except their defense to keep them competitive while avoiding a shootout. 25* CFB American Athletic Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Temple Owls (313) and the Central Florida Knights (314). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Kent State Golden Flashes (303) plus the points versus the Bowling Green Falcons (304). THE SITUATION: Kent State (1-7) has lost six straight games after their 24-23 loss in overtime to Akron two Saturdays ago as a +4.5-point underdog. Bowling Green (1-7) has lost five in a row with their 49-14 loss at Ohio on October 20th in a game where they were +16.5-point underdogs.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN FLASHES PLUS THE POINTS: The Falcons are a complete mess right now having fired their third-year head coach Mike Jinks after a loss at home to Western Michigan on October 13th. The players did not rally around interim head coach Carl Pelini last week as they were crushed at Ohio last week. Bowling Green has then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by at least 20 points — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games at home after a loss by at least 17 points. The Falcons only victory this season was an FCS school in Eastern Kentucky — and they have lost three of their four games in conference play by at least 15 points. Bowling Green returns home where they lost all five of their games last year. They are 1-3 at home this year by are being outscored by -11.5 net PPG while being outgained by -149.7 net YPG. The Falcons have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 15 games at home — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games when favored by 3 points or less. And in their last 11 games with the Total set in the 63.5 to 70 point range, Bowling Green has failed to cover the point spread 10 times. Kent State has rebounded to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss. The Golden Flashes have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss where they covered the point spread as an underdog. While this team has the same record as Bowling Green, there is more optimism with this football team under first-year head coach Sean Lewis who took over a team that also finished 2-10 last year as the Falcons did. Two of their losses in conference play were by just one point (including last week’s defeat) — and they have accounted for themselves pretty well in a 31-24 loss to Illinois and a 38-17 loss at Ole Miss earlier this season. Three of this team’s losses were by one scoring possession.

FINAL TAKE: Lewis can use as a motivating factor that the Golden Flashes lost to the Falcons by a 44-16 score on October 31st of last year. These are two teams moving in the opposite directions. 10* CFB Kent State-Bowling Green ESPNU Special with the Kent State Golden Flashes (303) plus the points versus the Bowling Green Falcons (304). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the San Diego State Aztecs (159) minus the points versus the Nevada Wolf Pack (160). THE SITUATION: San Diego State (6-1) has won six games in a row with their 16-13 win over San Jose State last Saturday as a 25.5-point favorite. Nevada (4-4) returns home after their 40-22 upset win at Hawai’i last week as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AZTECS MINUS THE POINTS: The Wolf Pack is likely due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread victory. Nevada outgained the Warriors by +110 net yards in that win — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games are outgaining their last opponent by at least +125 net yards. And while that game finished below the 67 point Total, the Wolf Pack have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Nevada’s “Pack Attack” version of the Air Raid offense generated 481 yards in that game while averaging 7.18 Yards-Per-Play — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after averaging at least 6.25 YPP in their last game. The Wolf Pack are facing a significant increase in competition in level of play from a defense tonight as the Aztecs rank 14th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 306.9 total YPG. In Nevada’s previous two games at home hosting Fresno State and Boise State, they averaged only 15.0 PPG while generating just 356.5 total YPG which was over 75 yards below their season average. But defense is the bigger concern for this team as they are allowing 32.1 PPG which is 98th in the FBS due mainly to a leaky secondary that is allowing 261.9 passing YPG which is 107th in the nation. This Wolf Pack team has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. San Diego State has not covered the point spread in three of their last four games — but they have covered the point spread in 28 of their last 39 games after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four contests. They have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a point spread loss while they have also covered the point spread in 25 of their last 36 games on the road after failing to cover the point spread in two of their last three games. Head coach Rocky Long’s team has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after winning a game where they did not cover the point spread as the favorite. The Aztecs’ offense has dealt with two challenging injuries with senior quarterback Christian Chapman and junior running back Juwan Washington has been out since September with injuries. Junior quarterback Ryan Agnew completed only 7 passes of his 11 attempts for 86 yards last week while adding another 16 yards — but it is not like Chapman was a gunslinger before his injury. Agnew does offer the offense more of a rushing threat than Chapman does. The Aztecs offense has been successful using a committee of running backs that combined to accumulate 207 yards last week on 47 carries. Sophomore Chase Jasmin has rushed for 460 yards this season after gobbling up 79 yards on 19 carries last week while freshman Chance Bell added another 81 yards on the ground on 15 carries. This is San Diego State’s formula for success — and they are 18-8-1 ATS in their last 27 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. The Aztecs held the Spartans to only 62 rushing yards last week — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after outrushing their last opponent by at least +125 net yards. San Diego State has also turned the ball over once in each of the last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after not turning the ball over more than once in their last contest. This Rocky Long recipe has helped his team cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Aztecs have won twenty-five of their last twenty-nine games in Mountain West Conference play over the last four seasons because of their outstanding defense and a commitment to run the football and not risk turning the ball over. The San Diego State offense will be facing a 3-3-5 defensive formation that they practice against every day. Nevada was likely to bounce-back from their disappointing 3-9 season last year — but this is a football program that has steadily declined from the strong Chris Ault-coached era that concluded in 2012. 25* CFB Mountain West Conference Game of the Year with the San Diego State Aztecs (159) minus the points versus the Nevada Wolf Pack (160). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Mississippi State Bulldogs (174) plus the points versus the Texas A&M Aggies (173). THE SITUATION: Mississippi State (4-3) looks to bounce-back from their 19-3 loss at LSU last Saturday as a 5-point underdog. Texas A&M (5-2) has won three straight games after their 26-23 win at South Carolina two Saturdays ago as a -2.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS PLUS THE POINTS: The Bulldogs return home for this game where they are 3-1 this season with an average winning margin of +27.5 PPG. Mississippi State is scoring 37.0 PPG at home while averaging 461.2 total YPG. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 39 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Don’t blame the Mississippi State defense for their loss in Death Valley last week as they held LSU to just 239 yards of offense. The Bulldogs have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. This defense ranks 4th in the nation by allowing only 13.6 PPG — and they also rank 5th in the FBS by only surrendering 282.5 total YPG. This team usually exceeds expectations in expected low-scoring games as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. And in their last 10 games against teams with a winning record, Mississippi State has covered the point spread in 7 of these contests. Texas A&M may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after winning five or six of their last seven games. The Aggies have outgained their last two opponents by +181 net yards — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games after outgaining their last two opponents by at least +175 net yards per contest. Now this team stays on the road for just their third game this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 25 road games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Texas A&M is also just 22-47-1 ATS in their last 70 games on the road against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: While Mississippi State opened as the favorite, the betting action has installed them as small underdogs now — and that value is too good to pass up. 10* CFB Texas A&M-Mississippi State ESPN Special with the Mississippi State Bulldogs (174) plus the points versus the Texas A&M Aggies (173). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the North Carolina State Wolfpack (125) and the Syracuse Orange (126). THE SITUATION: NC State (5-1) suffered their first loss of the season last week with their 41-7 loss at Clemson as an +18.5-point underdog. Syracuse (5-2) enters this game coming off a 40-37 win in overtime over North Carolina as a -9.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Wolfpack have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread setback. Additionally, they have played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a loss by at least 20 points in their last game. NC State managed only 297 yards of offense against the Tigers in that game — and they have failed to cover in 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. The Wolfpack are scoring 28.7 PPG this season — but the number drops to just 22.0 PPG in their two games on the road so far this year. NC State has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing on the road. The Wolfpack did allow 471 yards to Clemson in that first loss of the season — but not only have they then played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game while also seeing the Under go 9-3-1 in their last 13 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last contest. NC State does have a good defense that ranks 31st in the nation by allowing 20.8 PPG. Syracuse has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have also seen the Under go 9-2-1 in their last 12 games after a point spread setback. The Orange did generate 546 yards of offense in that game that needed overtime to resolve — but they have then see the Under go 12-4-1 in their last 17 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. Syracuse allowed 500 yards to the Tar Heels in that contest as well — and they have played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total after allowing at least 450 yards in their last contest. The Orange stay at home where they are making it difficult for opponents to move the football. Syracuse is allowing only 18.7 PPG in four contests at home. The Under is 11-3-1 in the Orange’s last 15 games home — and this includes the Under go 4-0-1 in their last 5 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: This Total has risen to the high-60s in large part because of the fast pace that this Syracuse engages in under head coach Dino Babers’s up-tempo system. But the Wolfpack head coach Dave Doreen will be well aware of this dynamic and look to slow the game down when his team has the football. NC State won last year’s meeting with the Orange by a 33-25 score which fell well below the 62.5 total. That was the 5th game finish Under the Total in the last 6 meetings between these two teams. 25* CFB ACC Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the North Carolina State Wolfpack (125) and the Syracuse Orange (126). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas Tech Red Raiders (201) plus the points versus the Iowa State Cyclones (202). THE SITUATION: Iowa State (3-3) takes the field again after their 30-14 upset win at home over West Virginia as a +4.5-point favorite two Saturdays ago. Texas Tech (5-2) has five of their last six games with their 48-16 win over Kansas last Saturday as a -17.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RED RAIDERS PLUS THE POINTS: Iowa State is due for a big letdown after pulling off their second straight upset victory against a Big 12 rival. Before upsetting the Mountaineers two weeks ago, the Cyclones traveled to Stillwater to upset Oklahoma State by a 48-42 score as a 10-point underdog. Iowa State has then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after pulling off two straight upset victories. The Cyclones have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after an upset victory by at least two touchdowns as a home underdog. Iowa State has also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 after an upset win as a home underdog against a Big 12 rival. This Cyclones team does not boast a prolific offense as they rank 100th in the nation by scoring just 24.7 PPG and totaling 360.2 total YPG. Texas Tech can score — they rank 6th in the nation by scoring 43.9 PPG and they also rank 4th in the FBS by averaging 551.9 total YPG. The Red Raiders have covered the points spread in 12 of their last 14 games after playing a game at home — and this includes them covering the point spread in five of their last six games after a win on their home field. Additionally, Texas Tech generated 553 yards of offense in their win against the Jayhawks — and not only have they covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game but they have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after generating at least 525 yards in their last game. This Red Raiders team has covered the point spread in two straight games — and they have then covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after covering the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after covering the point spread in two of their last three contests. Now Texas Tech goes back on the road where they have a 2-1 record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games away from home. The offensive firepower of this Red Raiders team helps them be a dangerous underdog. Texas Tech has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 10 points.

FINAL TAKE: Iowa State is due for a letdown in this spot — and they are hosting a team they soundly defeated by a 31-13 score last October. The Red Raiders’ high-powered offense should keep them competitive in this game. 20* CFB Texas Tech-Iowa State ESPN2 Special with the Texas Tech Red Raiders (201) plus the points versus the Iowa State Cyclones (202). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Florida State Seminoles (206) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (205). THE SITUATION: Clemson (7-0) remained undefeated last week with their 41-7 blowout win over NC State as a -17.5-point favorite. Florida State (4-3) has won three of their last four games with their 38-17 win over Wake Forest as a -10.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SEMINOLES PLUS THE POINTS: The Tigers took care of business against the undefeated Wolfpack last week — but this team may be ripe for a letdown now. Clemson has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games after winning at least six straight games — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after winning at least seven straight games in a row. The Tigers did generate 471 yards in that win over NC State — but they are 2-5-1 ATS In their last 8 games are gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Clemson has also failed to cover the point spread in 29 of their last 43 games after winning at least three straight games in a row against fellow ACC opponents. Now this team goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 road games when they are laying more than two touchdowns. Florida State is steadily improving under first-year head coach Willie Taggart. The Seminoles typically build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after covering the point spread as a double-digit favorite. Florida State has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after winning three of their last four games. The Seminoles generated 471 yards of offense against the Demon Deacons with their quarterback Deondre Francois completing 28 of 40 passes for 341 yards with two TD passes. Florida State has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Seminoles defense is improving as well as they have not allowed more than 115 rushing yards in four straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 125 rushing yards in at least two straight games. They host this game where they are 3-1 at home this year — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Florida State will be looking to avenge a 31-14 loss to Clemson last year where they were getting 16 points as a road underdog. The Seminoles remain loaded with talent as they move in the new direction under Taggart. The Tigers have a freshman quarterback playing in a hostile environment with very high stakes at this point of the season with the College Playoff Rankings coming out on Tuesday. Expect a closer game than expected. 10* CFB Clemson-Florida State ABC-TV Special with the Florida State Seminoles (206) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (205). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Michigan State Spartans (188) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Purdue Boilermakers (187). THE SITUATION: Michigan State (4-3) has lost two of their last three games after losing their rivalry game at home against Michigan last Saturday by a 21-7 score as a 7.5-point underdog. Purdue (4-3) has won four straight games after their huge 49-20 upset over Ohio State last Saturday night as a 12-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SPARTANS MINUS (OR PLUS) THE POINT(S): That was the biggest wins in the first two years in head coach Jeff Brohm’s tenure at Purdue to upset the Buckeyes at home on national television. A letdown for this team is likely. As it is, the Boilermakers have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a win by at least 20 points. After losing their first three games of the season to Northwestern, Eastern Michigan and Missouri, Purdue has won their last four contests. This team has raced out to fast starts in their last three games with halftime leads of 20-7 at Nebraska followed by a 29-7 lead at Illinois before taking Ohio State to the locker room at halftime with a 14-3 lead last week. But it is difficult to sustain these opening leads — and this Boilermakers team has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after leading by double-digits at halftime in three straight games. Purdue is led by quarterback David Blough who is leading an offense that is 6th in the nation by averaging 337.6 passing YPG. The Boilermakers have averaged at least 328 passing yards in three straight games — and they have generated at least 516 total yards in those contests. But Purdue has then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games after passing for at least 300 yards in three straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after gaining at least 450 yards in three straight games. Blough passed for 378 yards last week against the Ohio State defense — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 road games after passing for at least 375 yards in their last game. This team goes on the road for just the third time this season after relatively easy trips to Nebraska and Illinois — and it will be challenging to maintain their high level of proficiency in the passing game in the cold Michigan air this afternoon. The Boilermakers have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 30 road games as an underdog getting 7 or fewer points. Michigan State has lost three times this season which is a disappointment to head coach Mark Dantonio after he returned nineteen starters from last year’s team that finished 10-3 with a 42-17 win over Washington State in the Holiday Bowl. The Spartans were completely stymied on offense last week against the stout Wolverines defense as they managed only 95 total yards. Junior quarterback Brian Lewerke is out for this game after suffering a shoulder injury — so redshirt freshman Rocky Lombardi will be under center for this game. The 6’3 signal caller has a similar profile as Lewerke with his strong arm and mobility — so I do not expect much of a downgrade in the Michigan State offense. Lombardi will be throwing against a vulnerable Boilermakers’ pass defense that ranks 127th in the nation by allowing 296.4 passing YPG. Purdue allowed 546 yards in their win over the Buckeyes last week — and they rank 103rd in the nation by allowing 433.1 total YPG. The Spartans need to win this game in the trenches by flexing their muscles on defense. After returning nine starters and 86% of the tackles from last year’s unit that finished 7th in the nation by allowing 297.6 total YPG, this year’s group has taken a step back by allowing 355.3 total YPG which is 44th in the FBS. The Michigan State run defense has been outstanding as they second in the nation by allowing only 79.6 rushing YPG — but they are getting torched in the passing game by allowing 275.7 passing YPG which is 116th in the nation. The Sparty pass defense has improved in the last two weeks as they have allowed only 404 combined passing yards in their last two games against Penn State and Michigan. While the secondary has seen an injury to returning starter Josiah Scott at cornerback, Michigan State returned all five starters from their secondary last season so these have been proven players. Expect the Spartans to respond with a strong effort this afternoon as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread setback. Michigan State has only covered the point spread twice in their seven games this season — but they have then covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games.

FINAL TAKE: Purdue has benefitted from both a light and favorable schedule away from home so far this season — and their reliance on their passing attack will be harder to execute as the weather changes. Michigan State has underachieved at home this year — but this remains a talented team that will be angry after last week’s loss to the Wolverines. 25* CFB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Michigan State Spartans (188) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Purdue Boilermakers (187). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the UCLA Bruins (120) plus the points versus the Utah Utes (119). THE SITUATION: UCLA (2-5) has won two straight games with their 31-30 win over Arizona last Saturday as a 10-point favorite. Utah (5-2) has won three straight games after their 41-28 win over USC as a 6.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BRUINS PLUS THE POINTS: Utah has registered double-digit victories in three straight games against Stanford, Arizona, and USC in a stretch where they have averaged at least 41 PPG. But head coach Kyle Whittingham’s team may be due for a letdown now as a double-digit road favorite — especially against a struggling UCLA team that they crushed by a 48-17 score last season. The Utes are 3-2 in Pac-12 play so far this season — but they are still an unimpressive 31-37 straight-up in their last sixty-eight games against Pac-12 competition over the last seven and a half seasons. Utah did hold the Trojans with their rookie quarterback J.T. Daniels to just 132 passing yards last week — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing no more than 170 passing yards in their last game. The Utes go back on the road where they may have a 2-1 record but they are only outgaining their opponents by +0.4 net YPG. Utah has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 23 road games when favored by 7.5 to 14 points. UCLA is playing better football in winning their last two games this season. First-year head coach Chip Kelly has cleaned house by removing many of the players he inherited from the bloated and underachieving Jim Mora era. This is now a very young team that Kelly and his staff are coaching up. The improvements are most pronounced on offense where they have scored 34.0 PPG in their last two games while averaging 405.5 total YPG. Kelly got a boost last week with the healthy return of quarterback Wilton Speight who completed 17 of 27 passes for 204 yards with two touchdown passes. The graduate transfer from Michigan may not be mobile but he can operate the Kelly up-tempo offense that emphasizes an efficient passing attack similar to the one that Nick Foles successfully executed for Kelly in his first year with the Philadelphia Eagles. Speight will likely get the start in this game after missing time since the opening game of the season after he took the practice snaps with the first team this week. Freshman Dorian Thompson-Robinson is dealing with an arm issue which makes his questionable tonight but Kelly has said he might be under center for parts of this game. The Bruins’ defense has been opportunistic in their last two games as they have forced eight turnovers. UCLA leads the Pac-12 with a +6 turnover margin — and the atmosphere of this nationally televised night game may help coax some mistakes by the Utes. The Bruins have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 home games as an underdog. UCLA has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 24 games after losing five or six of their last seven contests, the Bruins have covered the point spread in 16 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: Utah is primed for a letdown after three easy victories — especially after the highs of defeating Stanford and USC. Expectations are low for this young Bruins team right now — but there remains talent which makes them dangerous as they continue to develop under Kelly and his coaching staff that have not forgotten how to coach. Lastly, the ability for Kelly to call on their 31-point loss to the Utes last year will surely be a good motivator. 25* CFB Friday ESPN Game of the Month with the UCLA Bruins (120) plus the points versus the Utah Utes (119). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Colorado State Rams (122) plus the points versus the Wyoming Cowboys (121). THE SITUATION: Colorado State (3-5) saw their two-game winning streak snapped last Friday with their 56-28 loss at Boise State as a +23.5-point underdog. Wyoming (2-6) has lost four in a row with their 24-16 loss at home to Utah State as a +13.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS PLUS THE POINTS: Colorado State actually outgained the Broncos in that game by 489 to 472 yards. The Rams allowed a 74-yard punt return for a touchdown along with a 44-yard kickoff return for a touchdown while enduring a -3 net turnover margin to lose control of keeping that game close. Colorado State did not force a turnover in that game — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a game where they did not force a turnover. The Rams went into the locker room trailing by a 35-0 score — but they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 24 points in the first half of their last game. And while they allowed Boise State to pass for 322 yards in that loss, they have then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last contest. Colorado State had covered point spread expectations in their previous two games before last week — and they have covered the point spread in a decisive of 55 of their last 85 games after covering the point spread in two of their last three games. Head coach Mike Bobo is making a change at quarterback as he has tapped sophomore Collin Hill to be under center tonight after he completed 12 of 14 passes in relief last week for 135 passing yards. Hill won the starting job as a freshman last year but his career has been derailed by two torn ACLs over the last two seasons. He looks to be a big upgrade over K.J. Carta-Samuels who has been lackluster as the starter this year as a grad transfer from Washington. This is a team that defeated Arkansas and New Mexico on their home field — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games as an underdog getting 3 points or less. Wyoming has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to score at least 20 points. The Cowboys went into halftime with a 10-3 deficit against the Aggies — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to score more than a field goal in the first half of their last game. Now this team goes back on the road where they are just 1-3 with their lone winning being against an FCS school in Wofford. Wyoming has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 road games against teams with a losing record at home. The Cowboys are scoring only 14.5 PPG away from home while generating a mere 292.2 total YPG on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 34 road games when laying the points. They have only covered the point spread once this season — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six games.

FINAL TAKE: The Rams opened as a small favorite but the betting action has been on the Cowboys which makes this a very nice value situation in the Battle for the Bronze Boot. 10* CFB Friday Late Show Bailout with the Colorado State Rams (122) plus the points versus the Wyoming Cowboys (121). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Appalachian State Mountaineers (109) and the Georgia Southern (110). THE SITUATION: Appalachian State (5-1) has won five straight games with their 27-17 win over UL-Lafayette on Saturday by a 27-17 score as a -24.5-point favorite. Georgia Southern (6-1) has won four games in a row themselves after their 48-31 win at New Mexico State as a 9.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Mountaineers have played 8 of their last 9 road games Under the Total after a double-digit win over a conference rival from the Sun Belt. They generated 258 yards on the ground in that win over the Ragin’s Cajuns — and they have then played 12 of their last 17 games Under the Total when rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. Appalachian State churns time off the clock which helps their outstanding defense stay fresh. The Mountaineers rank 8th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 294.8 total YPG — and they also rank 11th in the FBS by limiting their opponents to just 15.7 PPG. Now this team goes back on the road where they have played 5 of their last 6 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. Appalachian State has also played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. And in their last 6 games played on a Thursday night, they have played 5 of these games Under the Total. Georgia Southern has played 11 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a straight-up win —an they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a point spread win. This team has also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last contest. The Eagles gained 389 rushing yards in that game — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last contest. This team will certainly look to run the ball again tonight to keep the Mountaineers’ offense the field. Georgia Southern is only allowing 19.3 PPG which ranks 24th in the nation. They return home where they have played 4 straight games Under the Total against teams with a losing record on the road. The Eagles have also played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing on a Thursday night.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 4 straight meetings Under the Total after Appalachian State won last year’s battle by a 27-6 score. Expect another lower-scoring game. 10* CFB Appalachian State-Georgia Southern ESPNU O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Appalachian State Mountaineers (109) and the Georgia Southern (110). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Virginia Tech Hokies (112) minus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (111). THE SITUATION: Virginia Tech (4-2) looks to build off their 22-19 win at North Carolina back on October 13th as a 6.5-point favorite. Georgia Tech (3-4) looks to bounce-back from their 28-14 upset loss at home to Duke two Saturdays ago as a -1.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOKIES MINUS THE POINTS: Virginia Tech survived that game in Chapel Hills against the Tar Heels despite allowing 287 passing yards. The Hokies have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last game. After playing three of their last four games on the road, Virginia Tech returns home where they will be playing just their third game this season. The Hokies have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games on their home field. This team will certainly benefit from the extra week to prepare for the unique Yellow Jackets spread triple option. The last time that Virginia Tech faced Georgia Tech off a bye week was in 2015 where they upset them on the road by a 2-point underdog by a 23-21 score. Defensive coordinator Bud Foster’s defense limited the Jackets rushing attack to just 161 rushing yards with subpar a 3.43 Yards-Per-Carry. Foster’s defense this season ranks 27th in the nation by allowing ply 123.0 rushing YPG — along with just 3.7 YPC. Foster’s defense will certainly benefit from the extra week to prepare for this offense. As it is, the Hokies have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a bye week. Georgia Tech (3-4) has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a double-digit loss at home — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. Furthermore, the Yellow Jackets are just 0-6-1 ATS in their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. Now this team goes back on the road where they are just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games away from home. Georgia Tech has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Virginia Tech will be motivated to avenge a 28-22 upset loss to this Georgia Tech team last year. This is an undervalued team as it not many upper echelon Power Conference teams that have only played at home twice this late into the season. The bye week should once again help Foster work his magic with his perennial outstanding defense. 10* CFB Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the Virginia Tech Hokies (112) minus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (111). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Baylor Bears (113) plus the points versus the West Virginia Mountaineers (114). THE SITUATION: Baylor (4-3) looks to bounce-back from a 23-17 loss at Texas back on October 13th as a 14-point underdog. West Virginia (5-1) also looks to rebound from a 30-14 upset loss at Iowa State as a -4.5-point favorite two Saturdays.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Baylor should play well tonight as they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. While the Bears have lost two of their last three games, they should gain confidence from playing the Longhorns close in Austin in their last game. Matt Ruhle’s team was just 1-11 last year in his first-year as the head coach in Waco. That team has ravaged with injuries — but yet they played much better than their final record indicated as they were only outgained by -40 net YPG despite losing eight of their nine games in Big 12 play. Baylor has a promising quarterback in sophomore Charlie Brewer who is leading an offense that is 11th in the nation by averaging 313.3 passing YPG — and the Bears are 18th in FBS in total offense by averaging 475.0 total YPG. Ruhle’s team is outgaining their opponents by +67.1 net YPG — and they are also outgaining their opponents when playing on the road by +21.3 net YPG. Baylor is 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 road games as an underdog getting 10.5 to 14 points. West Virginia saw their undefeated season go by the wayside in that loss in Ames against the Cyclones which may have ruined their realistic chances of making the College Football Playoffs. The Mountaineers may be angry over that loss while still being galvanized with the fact that they still control their fate to win the Big 12 Conference Championship. But this team has not responded well to setbacks well under eighth-year head coach Dana Holgorsen. West Virginia has failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 40 games after an upset loss — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in eleven of their last thirteen home games coming off an upset loss to a conference rival. The Mountaineers have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a double-digit upset loss as a road favorite. West Virginia was overwhelmed in that loss to Iowa State as they allowed 498 yards of offense while managing just 152 yards themselves. That is not a good sign for this game as they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 475 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after being outgained by at least 225 yards. West Virginia’s struggles on offense are likely to continue as they are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games after failing to score more than 20 points. The extra week of rest and preparation in the Holgorsen regime has not served the Mountaineers well either as they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a bye week. West Virginia has also failed to cover the points spread in their last 4 games in the month of October.

FINAL TAKE: Despite everything that went wrong with the Bears last season, Baylor played the Mountaineers tough last year by losing by just a 38-36 score. They were trailing by a 38-13 sore before Ruhle put in Brewer in an attempt to spark the offense — and the freshman QB did by almost leading his team to the comeback victory. That experience should give this entire team confidence tonight — and the extra week Ruhle has had to help his defense scheme against the Holgorsen spread offense. 25* CFB Thursday FS1-TV Game of the Year with the Baylor Bears (113) plus the points versus the West Virginia Mountaineers (114). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Troy Trojans (101) and the South Alabama Jaguars (102). THE SITUATION: Troy (5-2) enters this game coming off their 22-16 upset loss at Liberty back on October 13th as a 12-point favorite. South Alabama (2-5) looks to build off their 45-7 win over Alabama State as a 27.5-point favorite two Saturdays ago.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Trojans have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a point spread loss — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. This team had a hole to fill at quarterback in the offseason with the graduation of a four-year starter in Brandon Silvers. Junior Kaleb Barker was the top quarterback on the depth chart — but he has suffered a season-ending ACL injury. That leaves head coach Neal Brown to should between sophomore Sawyer Smith and freshman Gunner Watson who have played against the Flames but combined to pass for just 160 yards. Troy has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after failing to pass for at least 170 yards in their last game. This team had to replace their top two running backs from last year in Jordan Chunn and Josh Anderson — top in line was junior Jamarius Henderson who averaged 7.9 Yards-Per-Carry last year but he has suspended indefinitely this season. That is a lot of attrition of offensive talent — and while the Trojans are scoring 33.7 PPG while averaging 413.6 total YPG, those numbers drop to 25.0 PPG along with just 338.3 total YPG in their three games on the road. Troy does hold their home hosts to just 22.7 PPG. The Under is 10-3-1 in their last 14 games on the road — and this includes them playing four of their last five road games Under the Total against teams with a losing record at home. Additionally, the Trojans have played 17 of their last 23 road games Under the Total in the month of October — and the Under is also 5-2-1 in their last 8 games in October overall. South Alabama has also experienced attrition at the quarterback position this season. The losses started in the spring when Dallas Davis left the program two days before the Spring Game. The senior had been the team’s starter in the previous two seasons. Fellow senior Cole Garvin was indefinitely suspended in mid-September leaving the team in the hands of senior Evan Orth who is leading an offense that is 113th in the nation by averaging just 343.0 total YPG. The Jaguars have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a bye week. South Alabama has held their three visiting teams to just 22.7 PPG along with only 343.7 total YPG. The Jaguars defense has not forced a turnover in their last two games — but they have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a game where they did not force a turnover while also playing 17 of their last 23 games Under the Total after not forcing at least one turnover in each of their last two games. Additionally, the Under is 5-2-1 in South Alabama’s last 8 games in the month of October.

FINAL TAKE: The Under is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings between these two teams. With both teams dealing with less than ideal quarterback situations and both coaching staffs having extra time to scheme and prepare for these respective offenses, expect a lower-scoring game. 25* CFB Sun Belt Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Troy Trojans (101) and the South Alabama Jaguars (102). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the North Texas Mean Green (385) and the UAB Blazers (386). THE SITUATION: North Texas (6-1) has won two straight games coming off their 30-7 win over Southern Mississippi last Saturday as 7-point favorites. UAB (5-1) has won four in a row with their 42-0 shutout win at Rice last week as 17-point favorites.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Blazers are playing outstanding defense — they have allowed only 14 combined points over their last three games. They held the Owls to just 186 yards last week — and they should continue their strong play on the defensive side of the football. UAB has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total after a win of at least three touchdowns against a Conference USA rival. Now this team returns home where they are holding their guests to just 10.3 PPG along with only 265.3 total YPG. The Blazers have played 4 straight games Under the Total on their home field. Additionally, UAB has played 5 straight games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total in the month of October. And while the Blazers put up 42 points last week, they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. North Texas has played 7 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have 5 straight games Under the Total after a point spread victory. The Mean Green also play stout defense as they rank 19th in the FBS by allowing only 17.6 PPG — and that number drops to just 16.0 PPG when they are playing on the road. UNT thrives in stopping the run as they rank 7th in the nation by allowing just 97.0 rushing YPG. They have allowed only 104 and 50 rushing yards respectively in each of their last two games — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 125 rushing yards in their last game. Additionally, the Mean Green have played 17 of their last 21 games Under the Toal after winning two straight games — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Lastly, UNT has played 4 of their last 5 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: The number is posted in the low-50s for this game given the strong offenses both these teams have along with the memory of the 46-43 barn-burner between these two teams last season with the Mean Green pulled out. Both of these defenses are much improved this season — expect a lower scoring game. 25* CFB Conference USA Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the North Texas Mean Green (385) and the UAB Blazers (386). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Washington State Cougars (368) minus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (367). THE SITUATION: Washington State (5-1) returns to the field off a bye week after they crushed Oregon State on the road two Saturdays ago by a 56-37 sore as an 18.5-point favorite. Oregon (5-1) comes off a big 30-27 upset win at Washington in overtime last week as a 3.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS MINUS THE POINTS: That was the biggest win so far in the first-year of new head coach Mario Cristobal at Oregon — but they may be due for a letdown now. The Ducks are just 3-13-1 ATS In their last 17 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a win on their home field. Oregon has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a point spread victory. The Ducks have benefited from only committing one turnover in each of their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after not committing more than one turnover in two straight games. Now this team goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games on the road with the number set in the 63.5 to 70 point range. Washington State (5-1) should build off the momentum of their win two weeks ago. The Cougars have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games after a point spread victory. Washington State has also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Led by East Carolina transfer Gardner Minshew at quarterback, the Cougars are leading the nation by averaging 413.7 passing YPG. Minshew operating the Mike Leach Air Raid offense should have their way against this Ducks pass defense that is tied for 88th in the nation by allowing 239.0 passing YPG. Oregon allowed Stanford to pass for 327 yards against them — and that is not nearly as potent a passing offense as what they will have to deal with tonight. Experience and depth were concerns for the Ducks a cornerback entering the season — and this is, by far, their biggest test of the season. But what has helped push this football program to the next level has been a significant improvement of play on the defensive side of the football After ranking 16th in the nation last season by holding their opponents to just 323.3 total YPG, the Cougars have improved that number this year as they are holding their opponents to only 313.7 total YPG which ranks 15th in the FBS. Washington State has covered the point spread in 8 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Oregon has started strong with five wins in their first six games — but they have benefited from a sweetheart early schedule that saw five of those games at home. This is the Ducks just second game away from home. Washington State has won nineteen of their last twenty-three games at home over the last four seasons — and they are also a dominant 21-9 straight-up in Pac-12 play in the Leach era going back the last four seasons. Expect their offense to be too for this Oregon team. 25* CFB Saturday Night Fox-TV Game of the Month with the Washington State Cougars (368) minus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (367). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Washington Huskies (370) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (369). THE SITUATION: Washington (5-2) looks to rebound from their 30-27 loss in overtime at Oregon in overtime last week as a 3.5-point favorite last Saturday. Colorado (5-1) suffered their first loss of the season last week in their 31-20 loss at USC as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HUSKIES MINUS THE POINTS: Washington should rebound with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. This Huskies team entered the season with legitimate national championship aspirations — but injuries and a very difficult schedule have likely derailed those plans. Their two losses to the Ducks and Auburn were by a combined 8 points. Both of those setbacks were away from home — now Washington returns home where they are undefeated while outscoring their opponents by +25.7 PPG while outgaining them by +247.9 net YPG. They are scoring 35.7 PPG while generating 489.2 total YPG on their home field this season. I was concerned about the status of running back Myles Gaskin with his shoulder injury but he has been upgraded to probable for this contest. The Huskies have covered the point spread in 4 straight home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Colorado suffered their first loss of the season against the Trojans — but they are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Buffaloes were expected to be better this season after suffering a 5-7 campaign last year — but this is not an elite football program at the same level as what Chris Petersen has built in Spokane. Colorado is just 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And in their last 8 meetings with Washington, they have failed to cover the point spread in all 8 contests — and this includes four of these games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Look for the Huskies to take out their frustrations from last week on this Colorado team that surrendered 565 yards of offense on the road to a still winless Nebraska team. 10* CFB Colorado-Washington Fox-TV Special with the Washington Huskies (370) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (369). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Michigan State Spartans (332) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (331). THE SITUATION: Michigan State (4-2) looks to build off the momentum of their 21-17 upset win at Penn State last Saturday as a +13.5-point underdog. Michigan (6-1) enters this rivalry game coming off a 38-13 blowout win at home over Wisconsin as a 10-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SPARTANS PLUS THE POINTS: This contest is always the Super Bowl to this Michigan State team under head coach Mark Dantonio. The Spartans have covered the point spread in 10 of the last 11 meetings between these two teams — and this includes them covering the point spread in the last 5 meetings in East Lansing. Michigan State has won four of these last five in-state battles as well as eight of their last ten encounters. They are likely to be more confident off their upset on the road in Happy Valley against the Nittany Lions — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after pulling off an upset win against a Big Ten opponent. The Spartans have also covered the point spread in 14 of the last 20 games after pulling off an upset win on the road. Dantonio had to be pleased with the performance of his team as they won the first down battle by a 25-14 margin while controlling the Time of Possession for 34:12 minutes. That is the formula for success for this Michigan State team — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a game where they gained at least 24 first downs while controlling the clock for at least 34 minutes. Junior quarterback Brian Lewerke passed for 259 yards in that contest — and the Spartans have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. They return home where they are scoring 29.3 PPG while outgaining their visitors by +84.0 net YPG. Dantonio loves his team in the underdog role — they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when getting the points. Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a victory by at least 20 points — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after a point spread victory. The Wolverines enjoyed a +2 net turnover margin last week in their win over the Badgers — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a game where they had a +2 or better net turnover margin. And while Michigan has scored 80 points in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after scoring at least 37 points in two straight games. Now this team goes back on the road where they are scoring just 18.5 PPG. Their offensive line has played better after being exposed by the Fighting Irish — but this remains the fundamental problem for this team under head coach Jim Harbaugh. That group will be challenged by a tough Spartans defensive line. The Wolverines have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games on the road — and they are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Harbaugh will be overjoyed with just escaping East Lansing with a win given the struggles his teams have had in rivalry games in his tenure as the head coach in Ann Arbor. Expect a close game from a very good Sparty team that returned nineteen starters from their group that won ten games last year — including a 14-10 win in the Big House. 10* CFB Michigan-Michigan State Fox-TV Special with the Michigan State Spartans (332) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (331). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the TCU Horned Frogs (384) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (383). THE SITUATION: TCU (3-3) looks to bounce-back from their 17-14 upset loss to Texas Tech as a 7.5-point favorite two Thursdays ago. Oklahoma (5-1) takes the field again after their 48-45 upset loss two Saturdays ago to Texas as a 7-point favorite in the Red River Rivalry.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HORNED FROGS PLUS THE POINTS: TCU began the season with College Playoff aspirations after returning perhaps the most talent ever on offense in head coach Gary Patterson’s eighteen seasons with the program. But a difficult schedule and a failure to protect the football has led to three losses so far this season. The Horned Frogs other two losses besides to the Red Raiders were to Ohio State and Texas who have combined to only lose one game this season. In fact, the combined record of those three teams that TCU has lost to is 17-3 this season — yet Patterson’s team entered halftime in leads in all three of those games. Turnovers are killing this team. They have suffered a -9 net turnover margin — they rank 125th in the nation with a -1.5 net turnover margin per game. Facing this Sooners’ team may be just what the doctor ordered as they have only forced five turnovers so far this season. This remains a good Horned Frogs team that is outscoring their opponents by +8.5 PPG while outgaining them by +102.4 net YPG. They have not scored more than 17 points in three straight games but playing at home will help in this game as they are scoring 28.5 PPG while averaging 430 net YPG on their home field. They should play better in this game as they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 20 games when playing with extra rest and preparation after a game on a Thursday. This extra time will help quarterback Shawn Robinson who has been dealing with a shoulder issue despite completing 26 of 45 passes for 290 yards against Texas Tech in his last game. Additionally, TCU has not covered the point spread in their last three games — but they have then covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games after failing to cover the point spread in three straight games. The Horned Frogs have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a winning record — and they have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games as an underdog getting 7.5 to 14 points. Oklahoma saw their perfect season two weeks ago which might serve as a deflating loss. The Sooners defense surrendered 501 yards to the Longhorns in that loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. That loss compelled head coach Lincoln Riley to dismiss defensive coordinator Mike Stoops and elevate defensive line coach Ruffin McNeill to the position. The former Texas Tech defensive coordinator has a large task in front of him with a defensive unit that has finished outside the top-50 four times in the previous six seasons since Stoops returned to the program. Oklahoma ranks 97th in the nation by allowing 421.2 total YPG — and their porous pass defense is giving up 264.3 passing YPG. Until McNeill can improve the fundamentals of his players (like tackling), the Sooners are going to have to outscore their opponents — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. And while they have averaged at least 9.17 and 11.24 Yards-Per-Play in their last two games, Oklahoma has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP in two straight games. The Sooners have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games in expected high scoring games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range. Don’t be surprised if the TCU defense slows down the Oklahoma offense as that unit ranks 14th in the nation by allowing only 311.8 total YPG. The Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in the month of October.

FINAL TAKE: After reaching the College Playoffs last year, this Oklahoma team looks fragile with their shaky defense and turmoil regarding the coaching change. While the Horned Frogs have suffered three disappointing losses, the pain of those setbacks would be erased if this team could avenge their two losses to Oklahoma last year including their 41-17 loss to the Sooners last December in the Big 12 Championship Game. Expect a close contest with TCU having a good chance to pull the upset. 25* CFB Big 12 Game of the Month with the TCU Horned Frogs (384) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (383). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the UNLV Rebels (310) plus the points versus the Air Force Falcons (309). THE SITUATION: UNLV (2-4) looks to rebound from a 59-28 loss at Utah State last Saturday as a 27-point underdog. Air Force (2-4) also looks to bounce-back from a 21-17 loss last Friday at San Diego State as an 11-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE REBELS PLUS THE POINTS: This is a crucial game for UNLV in the fourth year under head coach Tony Sanchez. The former Bishop Gorman High School head coach entered this season on the hot seat with a 12-24 record in his first three seasons at UNLV. Fourteen starters returned from last year’s 5-7 team with some junior college transfers added to the mix — but so far the rebels only have wins over UTEP and Prairie Valley A&M on their resume. But there are reasons for optimism for the Rebels tonight. They return home where they are 2-1 with an average winning margin of +7.0 PPG. Sanchez usually is able to get his team to play better after an underwhelming performance as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. The defense has been an issue as UNLV allowed the Aggies to generate 598 yards of offense a week after allowing 502 yards of offense at home to New Mexico. But the Rebels have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after allowing at least 450 yards in two straight contests. UNLV will benefit from having already played the Lobos who run a similar offense as the Falcons spread rushing attack. The Rebels did a solid job slowing down the run in that game as New Mexico averaged only 4.2 Yards-Per-Carry — but it was the passing game of the Lobos that did UNLV as they passed for 250 yards. Air Force is not as potent with their passing attack as I will detail below. Getting off to a better start will be important for the Rebels after Utah State raced out to a 42-0 lead at halftime last week. UNLV has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games after trailing by at least two touchdowns in their last game. The Rebels will be without their incumbent starting quarterback Amani Rogers who is still dealing with a foot injury — but sophomore Max Gilliam has been capable in his absence. Gilliam completed 18 of 36 passes for 250 yards with three touchdown passes last week —and his ability to throw downfield may be just what his teams for this match-up against an Air Force team that ranks 76th in the nation by allowing their opponents to average 232.2 passing YPG. UNLV did get good injury news this week with their top running back Lexington Thomas was upgraded to probable after he suffered a concussion. Thomas has rushed 552 yards so far this season with six touchdowns. The Rebels are typically dangerous underdogs as they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games when getting 3.5 to 10 points — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 home games getting 7.5 to 10 points. And in their last 11 games played on a Friday night, UNLV is 7-3-1 ATS. Air Force may suffer a hangover after blowing their opportunity to pull off a big upset against the Aztecs as they held a 17-14 lead midway through the 4th quarter. As it is, the Falcons have failed to cover the point spread in 26 of their last 33 games after a straight-up loss — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in ten of their last thirteen games after a defeat. Their top quarterback Donald Hammond III is likely out for this game with a serious injury he suffered last week which means that junior Isaiah Sanders will get the start for this game. Sanders is the least effective rushing quarterback on the Falcons’ depth chart but he is the best pure passer of the quarterbacking group. But this Air Force offense is not equipped to put up big yards in their passing game. Sanders is completing only 53.3% of his passes and the 7.6 Yards-Per-Attempt average is below Hammond’s 8.6 YPA this season. Sanders has thrown 45 of the Falcons’ 88 passes this season but he is responsible for both interceptions this team has seen on offense. Air Force stays on the road for the second straight week where they are 0-3 with an average losing margin of -6.7 net PPG — and they are being outgained by -53.7 net YPG. Air Force have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight road games against teams with a losing record at home. The Falcons have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 21 road games when laying 7.5 to 14 points. Air Force has only committed one turnover in their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not committing more than one turnover in two straight games. Lastly, the Falcons have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games in Mountain West Conference play.

FINAL TAKE: Air Force may be flat in this game given their slow start and the disappointing loss last week while UNLV is playing a crucial game to salvage their season. Expect a close game. 25* CFB Friday CBS Sports Network Game of the Year with the UNLV Rebels (310) plus the points versus the Air Force Falcons (309). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Arkansas State Red Wolves (304) minus the points versus the Georgia State Panthers (303). THE SITUATION: Arkansas State (3-3) looks to bounce-back from their 35-9 loss at home to Appalachian State last Tuesday as a +10.5-point favorite. Georgia State (2-4) looks to rebound as well from a 37-20 loss at Troy back on October 4th as a 17-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RED WOLVES MINUS THE POINTS: Arkansas State has lost two straight games after their benchmark loss to the Mountaineers last week which will likely cost them a shot at winning the Sun Belt Conference title. But don’t expect this Red Wolves team to close up shop on this season under fifth-year head coach Blake Anderson. His teams have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 home games after a loss. This team is playing better than record suggests — they are outgaining their opponents by +58.5 net YPG. Turnovers have been holding back this team as they are tied for 90th in the FBS by averaging -0.33 turnovers-per-game. It was a -3 net turnover margin that played a big role in their loss to Appalachian State last week. This remains a talented team led by senior quarterback Justice Hansen who leads an offense that is 23rd in the FBS by averaging 283.3 passing YPG. Hansen should have a big game against the inexperienced cornerbacks of the Panthers that are allowing opponents to average 247.3 passing YPG which is 98th in the FBS. The Red Wolves stay at home for this game where they are outgaining their visitors by +136.3 net YPG. Arkansas State has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. This team has also covered the point spread in 4 straight games played on a Thursday night — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games in the month of October. Furthermore, the Red Wolves are 37-18-1 ATS in their last 56 games in conference play. Georgia State is struggling on defense are they allowed 554 yards to the Trojans in their last game. The Panthers are 119th in the nation by allowing 491.5 total YPG. They are 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Georgia State is also just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games against conference opponents. This was a team that was 7-5 last season but all seven of their wins were against teams with a losing record — and those opponents had a combined record of 16-56. The Panthers returned only eleven starters from that team. This situation has the makings of a blowout when considering that Georgia State is being outscored by -11.9 PPG while being outgained by -125.8 net YPG. The Panthers stay on the road for their second straight game where they are winless in their three games while being outscored by -29.4 PPG. Georgia State is also being outgained by -241.6 total YPG away from home — and they are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: This Arkansas State still has bowl game aspirations — and they remain one of the better teams in the Sun Belt despite their bad loss to Appalachian State last week. Expect them to expose this Georgia State team. 25* CFB Thursday Night ESPNU Game of the Month with the Arkansas State Red Wolves (304) minus the points versus the Georgia State Panthers (303). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Wyoming Cowboys (207) and the Fresno State Bulldogs (208). THE SITUATION: Wyoming (2-4) has lost two straight games after their 17-13 loss at Hawai’i last Saturday as a 1-point underdog. Fresno State (4-1) looks to build off their 21-3 victory in Nevada against the Wolf Pack last Saturday as a 16.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Under is 8-1-1 in the Cowboys’ last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and the Under is 7-2-1 in their last 10 games after a point spread setback. Wyoming managed only 244 yards of offense against a suspect Hawai’i defense — and the Under is 3-0-1 in their last 4 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game. Despite having Josh Allen last year, the Cowboys averaged only 23.5 PPG (104th in the FBS) with just 286.0 total YPG (125th in the FBS) — and they are about the same this year under redshirt freshman QB Tyler Vander Waal as they are scoring 17.5 PPG (126th in the FBS) and averaging 292.5 total YPG (126th in the FBS) which is not an endorsement for the offensive line or skill position players with this program. The Under is 8-2-1 in their last 11 games after failing to score at least 20 points in their last game. This Wyoming team does play stout defense when away from Laramie as they are holding their home hosts to just 21.3 PPG along wit 346.7 total YPG. The Under is 5-0-1 in their last 6 games on the road — and they have played 10 of their last 12 road games Under the Total with the number set in the 42.5 to 45 point range. Fresno State is playing outstanding defense this season as they rank 10th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 16.6 PPG. The Bulldogs have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total after a double-digit win over a conference rival. The Under is also 21-7-1 in Fresno State’s last 29 games after a straight-up victory — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a point spread win. The Bulldogs are scoring 40.2 PPG this season but only managed 271 yards of offense last week in Reno with that game finishing far below the 58.5 point total. Fresno State has played 11 of their last 15 games Under the Total after a game that finished Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Wyoming will struggle to score points against this stour Bulldogs defense. Fresno State should win this game comfortably in what should be a low scoring game. 10* CFB Saturday Late Show O/u Bailout with Under the Total in the game between the Wyoming Cowboys (207) and the Fresno State Bulldogs (208). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the USC Trojans (156) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (155). THE SITUATION: USC (3-2) returns to the field after a bye week that followed their 24-20 win at Arizona back on September 29th as a 3.5-point favorite. Colorado (5-0) remained undefeated last week after their 28-21 win over Arizona State as a 2.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TROJANS MINUS THE POINTS: The Buffaloes have covered the point spread in their last two games as the favorite — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after covering the point spread in their previous two games as the favorite. Colorado has benefited from an easy schedule as Colorado State, Nebraska, New Hampshire, UCLA and then the Sun Devils last week do not have records better than .500 with the Cornhuskers and Bruins still yet to win a game this year. The Buffaloes are just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games against teams with a winning record. Colorado has helped themselves by not committing a turnover in two straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 52 games after not committing a turnover in their last game while also failing to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after not committing a turnover in two straight game. But the Buffaloes did not force a turnover last week either — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 27 games after failing to earn at least one takeaway in their last game. Now after playing their last three games at home, Colorado goes on the road for just the second time this season. The Buffaloes have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after winning their last two games at home. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 road games when getting 3.5 to 7 points. USC responded to two losses at Stanford and Texas by winning two straight games against Pac-12 opponents — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after winning two straight games against conference foes. The Trojans are also 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a point spread win. USC has played one of the most difficult sets of games this season — but this team is steadily improving. This team is beginning to enforce their will at the line of scrimmage after rushing for 253 yards against the Wildcats while limiting them to just 98 rushing yards. The Trojans have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 100 rushing yards in their last game — and they are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last contest. USC has also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after out-rushing their last opponent by at least +150 net yards. This commitment to rushing the football is making things easier for freshman quarterback J.T. Daniels who was an efficient 16 of 24 against Arizona for 197 passing yards. The Trojans have only forced three turnovers this year while never generating more than one turnover in a game. But USC has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after not generating more than one takeaway in at least three straight games.

FINAL TAKE: USC may have two losses — but they are the more battle-tested team. Colorado has benefited from a sweetheart early schedule which has featured only one game away from home. Look for this improving Trojans team to expose the Buffaloes. 25* CFB Pac-12 Game of the Month with the USC Trojans (156) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (155). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Florida International Golden Panthers (144) minus the points versus the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (143). THE SITUATION: Florida International (3-2) takes the field again after their 55-9 blowout win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff two Saturdays ago. Middle Tennessee (3-2) pulled off their second straight upset victory last Friday with their 34-24 win at Marshall as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN PANTHERS MINUS THE POINTS: FIU should be prepared for this game with rest and momentum from their big week. Not only have the Golden Panthers covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after a win by at least 20 points. Additionally, FIU has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games at home after a win by at least four touchdowns. The Golden Panthers have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a bye week. FIU stays at home where they are scoring 48.7 PPG while averaging 492.0 total YPG. They are outscoring their visitors by +25.0 PPG while outgaining them by +102.0 net YPG. The Golden Panthers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. FIU has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Middle Tennessee has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win on the road. The Blue Raiders have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread victory. They stay on the road where they are just 1-2 while scoring only 16.0 PPG and averaging just 334.0 total YPG. They are being outscored by -20.0 PPG away from home while being outgained by -70.0 net YPG. Middle Tennessee has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record. The Blue Raiders have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range.

FINAL TAKE: FIU will be motivated to avenge a 37-17 loss to the Blue Raiders last October 7th. They are in a great position to knock off this Blue Raiders team that is looking to pull an upset for the third straight week after accomplishing this feat against FAU and Middle Tennessee as a 3-point underdog in both contests. The third time will likely not be the charm for Middle Tennessee. 20* CFB Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Florida International Golden Panthers (144) minus the points versus the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (143). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (163) minus the points versus the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners (164). THE SITUATION: Louisiana Tech (3-2) looks to bounce-back from a 28-7 loss at home to UAB as a 7-point favorite last week. UTSA (3-3) has won three straight games after their 20-3 upset win over Rice as a 1-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Skip Holtz’s team has been very reliable coming off disappointing losses. Louisiana Tech has rebounded to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 16 games after a double-digit loss at home. Additionally, the Bulldogs have rebounded to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after a loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games after a loss at home to a conference rival. Furthermore, Louisiana Tech has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after an upset loss as a home favorite. This is a good Bulldogs team whose fifteen returning starters last year is the most that Holtz has retained in his tenure in his six years with this program. The offense generated only 258 yards last week against the Blazers — but they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not gaining at least 275 yards in their last game while also covering the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last contest. The offense is led by junior quarterback J’mar Smith who is the returning starting quarterback in Holtz’s tenure at Louisiana Tech. He is leading an offense that is averaging 260 passing YPG (40th in the FBS) — and he should find success against this Roadrunners defense that is 95th in the nation by allowing opponents to average 244.2 passing YPG. The Bulldogs churned out 417 yards in Death Valley against LSU which was the most any team has gained against the Tigers all season — so this offense should be able to play better tonight. The Louisiana Tech defense is also solid as they are holding their opponents to average -39 YPG below their season average. Overall, the Bulldogs are outgaining their opponents by +58.4 net YPG. They have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games on the road. UTSA has won three straight games against Texas State, UTEP and then Rice last week — but these three opponents are a combined 0-14 in their other games against FBS opponents. The Roadrunners are doing little to move the football even against this weak opponents. They rank 122nd in the nation by scoring only 19.8 PPG — and they also rank 129th in the FBS by averaging just 250.5 total YPG. UTSA has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after winning two straight games against conference rivals — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread win. Furthermore, the Roadrunners have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a game where no more than 24 combined points were scored. They only generated 178 yards of offense against the Owls but benefitted from a +4 net turnover margin to help them eke out that game. But UTSA is just 0-4-2 ATS in their last 6 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game. The Roadrunners defense played well in that upset win as they held the Owls to just 222 yards of offense — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after not allowing more than 250 yards while also failing to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after not allowing more than 14 points. UTSA returns home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 straight home games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range.

FINAL TAKE: The biggest question for QB Smith entering the season was whether he could improve his passing proficiency to be more in line with past Bulldogs teams under Holtz. Smith has met this challenge this year — the Louisiana Tech offense should be able to generate plenty of points against this Roadrunners defense. Expect the Bulldogs to bounce-back with a decisive win on the road against an overrated UTSA team. 25* CFB Conference USA Game of the Year with the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (163) minus the points versus the Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners (164). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the LSU Tigers (198) plus the points versus the Georgia At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the LSU Tigers (198) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (197). THE SITUATION: LSU (5-1) looks to bounce-back from their 27-19 upset loss at Florida last Saturday as a 1-point underdog. Georgia (6-0) remained unbeaten this season with their 41-13 win over Vanderbilt as a 26-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: LSU was embarking on a potential game winning drive until quarterback Joe Burrow threw an interception that was returned for a 25-yard touchdown with just 1:45 minutes left in the fourth quarter. The Tigers went from needing just a field goal to win that game to suffering their first loss of the season. But the good news for head coach Ed Ogeron’s team is that they can still likely reach the College Football Playoffs if they win out the rest of their games — but they have no margin for error in this contest. LSU should be fired up to redeem themselves from their upset loss last week. The Tigers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not scoring more than 20 points in their last game. Burrow has improved the LSU offense after transferring from Ohio State — the Tigers are scoring 38.0 PPG at home while generating 439.0 total YPG. LSU is 3-0 at home with an average winning margin of +25.7 net PPG while outgaining these opponents by +106.0 net YPG. The Tigers have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after playing their last two games against conference opponents — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games against SEC foes. LSU has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games in the month of October. Georgia passed for 341 yards last week in their victory over the Commodores — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to pass for at least 280 yards. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a win by at least five touchdowns against a conference rival. Furthermore, Georgia has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after winning their last three games against SEC opponents — including to fail to cover the point spread in three of these last four occasions. And while the Bulldogs have scored at least 38 points in all their games this season, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 37 points in four straight games.

FINAL TAKE: Things have gone pretty easy for Georgia this season — but this is a tough assignment to remain undefeated by playing in Death Valley against an angry Tigers team. Expect a close game. 10* CFB Georgia-LSU CBS-TV Special with the LSU Tigers (198) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (197). Best of luck for us — Frank.Bulldogs (197). THE SITUATION: LSU (5-1) looks to bounce-back from their 27-19 upset loss at Florida last Saturday as a 1-point underdog. Georgia (6-0) remained unbeaten this season with their 41-13 win over Vanderbilt as a 26-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: LSU was embarking on a potential game winning drive until quarterback Joe Burrow threw an interception that was returned for a 25-yard touchdown with just 1:45 minutes left in the fourth quarter. The Tigers went from needing just a field goal to win that game to suffering their first loss of the season. But the good news for head coach Ed Ogeron’s team is that they can still likely reach the College Football Playoffs if they win out the rest of their games — but they have no margin for error in this contest. LSU should be fired up to redeem themselves from their upset loss last week. The Tigers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not scoring more than 20 points in their last game. Burrow has improved the LSU offense after transferring from Ohio State — the Tigers are scoring 38.0 PPG at home while generating 439.0 total YPG. LSU is 3-0 at home with an average winning margin of +25.7 net PPG while outgaining these opponents by +106.0 net YPG. The Tigers have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after playing their last two games against conference opponents — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games against SEC foes. LSU has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games in the month of October. Georgia passed for 341 yards last week in their victory over the Commodores — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to pass for at least 280 yards. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a win by at least five touchdowns against a conference rival. Furthermore, Georgia has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after winning their last three games against SEC opponents — including to fail to cover the point spread in three of these last four occasions. And while the Bulldogs have scored at least 38 points in all their games this season, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 37 points in four straight games.

FINAL TAKE: Things have gone pretty easy for Georgia this season — but this is a tough assignment to remain undefeated by playing in Death Valley against an angry Tigers team. Expect a close game. 10* CFB Georgia-LSU CBS-TV Special with the LSU Tigers (198) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (197). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Rice Owls (196) plus the points versus the UAB Blazers (195). THE SITUATION: Rice (1-5) looks to bounce-back from a 20-3 upset loss to UTSA as a 1-point favorite. UAB (4-1) has won three in a row with their 28-7 upset win at Louisiana Tech as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE OWLS PLUS THE POINTS: Rice has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after an upset loss to a conference opponent as a home favorite. And while the Owls have not covered the point spread in three straight games, they have then covered the point spread in 17 of their last 23 home games after only covering the point spread once in their last four games. Rice has also covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 home games for losing four or five of their last six games. Don’t blame the Owls defense for that loss to the Roadrunners as they held them to just 178 yards of offense. Rice has then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. It was a -4 net turnover margin the did in the Owls in that contest — and that came after they committed three turnovers and the lost the turnover battle in their previous game at Wake Forest. The Owls have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after enduring a -4 or worse net turnover margin — and they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 36 games after losing the turnover battle in two straight games. This team will keep fighting in the first season of new head coach Mike Bloomgren who is looking to establish a similar physical program like the one where he served as the offensive coordinator at Stanford. Rice has covered the point spread in 44 of their last 67 home games as the underdog. UAB has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning four of their last five games. The Blazers are due for a letdown playing their second game on the road after pulling that upset. UAB has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games after a win on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 20 road games after a victory over a conference opponent. And in their last 7 road games after an upset victory over a conference rival as an underdog of at least 6 points, the Blazers have failed to cover the point spread in all 7 games. This team played great on the defensive side of the football — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Moving forward, UAB has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a losing record at home. And in their last 24 road games as the favorite, the Blazers have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of these contests. 

FINAL TAKE: Rice are big home underdogs of at least two touchdowns in this game. UAB does not have the cache to reliably cover point spreads like this on the road — and the Owls should respond with a strong effort after their disappointing result last week. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Kickoff with the Rice Owls (196) plus the points versus the UAB Blazers (195). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the South Florida Bulls (109) and the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (110). THE SITUATION: South Florida (5-0) remained undefeated last Saturday with their 58-42 win at UMass as a 14-point favorite. Tulsa (1-4) has lost four straight games after their 41-26 loss at Houston last Thursday as a +17.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Bulls have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a game where both teams scored at least 31 points — and they have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. South Florida got 302 rushing yards from Jordan Cronkite on just 23 carries in that game — and he will get the ball plenty in this game against a Golden Hurricanes run defense that is 110th in the FBS by allowing 207.4 rushing YPG. This should ensure a running clock for much of this game — the Bulls have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last contest. South Florida surrendered 401 passing yards last week to the Minutemen — but they have then played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after allowing at least 350 passing yards in their last contest. Second-year head coach Charlie Strong will want a better effort from his defense. South Florida has played 16 of their last 23 games Under the Total after allowing at least 37 points in their last game — and they have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after allowing at least 42 points in their last contest. The Bulls stay on the road this week where the Under is 5-2-1 in their last 8 road games against teams with a losing record at home. Tulsa has played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after two straight losses. The Golden Hurricanes are playing better than their record indicates — they are outgaining their opponents by +16.8 net YPG. But turnovers are doing this team in as they rank 124th in the FBS by averaging -1.4 net turnovers per game. Tulsa turned the ball over three times in their last to the Cougars — but they have then played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after committing at least three turnovers in their last game. Fourth-year head coach Philip Montgomery is sitting on a scalding hot seat after this poor start — so he has decided to go young at quarterback by naming Seth Boomer his starter tonight in lieu of an injured Luke Skipper who has been dealing with back issues. The redshirt freshman played against Houston last week — but he lacks the mobility of Skipper and is completing only 41.9% of his passes. The Golden Hurricanes will likely lean heavily on their ground game tonight — especially with Shamari Brooks healthy again and able to join Corey Taylor at running back after he missed last week’s game. Running the football will also protect the Tulsa defense that surrendered 312 rushing yards last week. The Golden Hurricanes have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after allowing at least 300 rushing yards in their last game. They allowed Houston to average 7.04 Yards-Per-Play in that game — but they have then played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after allowing their last opponent to average at least 6.25 YPP.  Despite these recent numbers, this is an improved Golden Hurricanes defense. They are allowing 380.0 total YPG which ranks 68th in the nation — but this is significantly better than the 528.9 total YPG they allowed last season which was 127th in the FBS. Moving forward, Tulsa has played 6 straight games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total against fellow American Athletic Conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: I considered Tulsa closely in this situation as I expect South Florida to underperform— but with the new QB under center for the Golden Hurricanes, the Under is a stronger play. Both teams will commit to running the football which will help our Under play. 25* CFB Friday Night ESPN Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the South Florida Bulls (109) and the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (110). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the TCU Horned Frogs (106) minus the points versus the Texas Tech Red Raiders (105). THE SITUATION: TCU (3-2) looks to build off their 17-14 win over Iowa State back on September 29th as an 11-point favorite. Texas Tech (3-2) looks to rebound from their 42-34 loss to West Virginia as a 3.5-point favorite back on September 29th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HORNED FROGS MINUS THE POINTS: TCU has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. Head coach Gary Patterson’s team needs to do a better job protecting the football as they have lost the turnover battle in four straight contests. They have endured a -2 net turnover or worse turnover in three straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after suffering a -2 net turnover margin in at least two straight games. Patterson’s teams at TCU have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a bye week. They stay at home where they scoring 33.3 PPG while outscoring their visitors by +13.0 PPG and outgaining them by +133.3 net YPG. The Horned Frogs have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. This is a team that entered the year with high expectations but turnovers derailed them in their loss to Ohio State and then Texas in back-to-back games. But now they host a Red Raiders team that has forced only seven turnovers — with seven of those takeaways occurring against an FCS team in Lamar. The Red Raiders had a -3 net turnover margin in their loss to the Mountaineers which ruined their 463 yards of offense that they accumulated against their defense. Texas Tech has gained at least 486 yards in all five of their games — but not only have they failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after gaining at least 405 yards in each of their last five contests. The Red Raiders have the best statistical offense in the nation as they average 591.4 total YPG based off a passing attack that averages 407.6 passing YPG. But they will be facing a stout Patterson Horned Frogs defense that is 12th in the nation in total defense (303.6 total YPG) while also ranking 22nd in the FBS by allowing only 178.0 passing YPG. But the Texas Tech defense remains a big weakness for Cliff Kingsbury’s team as they are allowing 447.6 total YPG (108th in the FBS) due to a porous pass defense that is surrendering 301.2 passing YPG (121st in the FBS). TCU held the Cyclones to just 3.53 Yards-Per-Play last week — and they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 3.75 YPP in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: Both of these teams are dealing with quarterback injuries. The latest news for TCU is that their sophomore QB Shawn Robinson has been upgraded to probable with a shoulder injury but he still might not start the game in lieu of Pennsylvania transfer Michael Collins being under center for the Horned Frogs. The Red Raiders’ starting freshman quarterback Alan Bowman has been downgraded to doubtful with the lung injury he suffered last week which means sophomore Jeff Duffey will get the start. Duffey threw two of the offenses’ three interceptions last week. It is Texas Tech that is more dependent on their QB play so these collective issues help the Horned Frogs. 10* CFB Texas Tech-TCU ESPN Special with the TCU Horned Frogs (106) minus the points versus the Texas Tech Red Raiders (105). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Arkansas State Red Wolves (102) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (101). THE SITUATION: Appalachian State (3-1) has won three straight games with their 52-7 win over South Alabama back on September 25th. Arkansas State (3-2) looks to rebound from their 28-21 upset loss at Georgia Southern back on September 29th as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RED WOLVES PLUS THE POINTS: Arkansas State lost the turnover battle against the Eagles in their last game while seeing three of their drives stall after failed 4th down conversion attempts. The Red Wolves outgained Georgia Southern by +82 net yards. Arkansas State has not covered the point spread in their last two games — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to cover the point spread in two straight games. The Red Wolves have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games coming off a bye week. This is a team returned twelve starters from last year’s group that finished 6-2 in Sun Belt play before losing to Middle Tennessee by just a 35-30 score in the Camellia Bowl. They are led by senior quarterback Justice Hansen who completed 38 of 50 passes for 376 yards against a talented Georgia Southern secondary. Arkansas State is tough at home where they have only lost once in conference play since 2015. The Red Wolves have won seven of their last eight opening games in Sun Belt Conference play on their home field. So far this season, Arkansas State is 2-0 with a +17.0 net PPG scoring margin while outgaining their opponents by +231.5 net YPG. This team has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as an underdog getting 7.5 to 14 points. Appalachian State has won three straight games after beginning their season with that heartbreaking loss in overtime at Penn State. That high profile game may have the Mountaineers a bit overvalued in this situation — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after winning three straight games. Appalachian State went into halftime with a convincing 42-7 lead over the Jaguars in their last game but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after owning a halftime lead of at least 17 points in their last game. The Mountaineers’ spread rushing attack has helped them out-rush their last three opponents by +235.7 rushing YPG — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after outrushing their last three games by at least +125 rushing YPG. Arkansas State will benefit from the extra days of preparation for this unique offense. The Red Wolves did allow
348 rushing yards to Georgia Southern which may be scaring some bettors off. But Arkansas State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 200 rushing yards in their last game — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games after allowing at least 300 rushing yards.

FINAL TAKE: Arkansas State’s other loss this season was at Alabama — so we can give them a pass on that one. This is a must-win game for them after losing to Georgia Southern in their last game — but head coach Blake Anderson has a team that can very much win the Sun Belt Conference title. They should play very well in this contest against an Appalachian State team that has not been challenged in games against Charlotte, Gardner Webb, and South Alabama after that game with the Nittany Lions. 25* CFB Sun Belt Conference Game of the Year with the Arkansas State Red Wolves (102) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (101). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Fresno State Bulldogs (365) and the Nevada Wolf Pack (366). THE SITUATION: Fresno State (3-1) enters this game coming off a 49-29 win over Toledo last Saturday as a 10.5-point favorite. Nevada (3-2) looks to build off their 28-25 upset win at the Air Force as a 3.5-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Bulldogs have seen the Under go 20-7-1 in their last 28 games after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Furthermore, Fresno State has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a win by at least 20 points. The Bulldogs generated 554 yards of offense in that victory over the Rockets — but they have then played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Fresno State has also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after gaining at least 40 points in their last game. The Bulldogs are scoring 45.0 PPG while averaging 439.7 total YPG this season — but those numbers drop to just a 26.0 PPG scoring average along with 359.5 total YPG in their two games on the road this year. This will be the third game on the road over their last four games for this Fresno State team — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total away from home. The Bulldogs play outstanding defense as they are holding their opponents to just 18.7 PPG along with only 314.7 total YPG — and that latter number drops to just 288.5 total YPG when on the road. Additionally, Fresno State has played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total against fellow Mountain West Conference opponents. Nevada has played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a point spread win — and they have played 10 of their last 16 games Under the Total after an upset win as a road underdog. Now this team returns home after playing their last two games on the road — and they have played 21 of their last 29 games Under the Total after playing their last two games on the road. The Wolf Pack have also played 8 of their last 9 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. Nevada held the Falcons to just 250 yards of offense in that win — and they limited them to only 3.57 Yards-Per-Play. The Wolfpack have then played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 3.75 YPP in their last game. And in their last 12 games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range, the game has finished Under the Total 9 times for Nevada.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams have played 4 of their last 5 meetings Under the Total. Expect a lower scoring game than expected between these two Mountain West Conference rivals. 25* CFB ESPN-U Television Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Fresno State Bulldogs (365) and the Nevada Wolf Pack (366). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Virginia Tech Hokies (349) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (350). THE SITUATION: Notre Dame (5-0) remained unbeaten this season when they soundly defeated Stanford at home last week by a 38-17 score as a 4.5-point favorite over the Cardinal. Virginia Tech (3-1) looks to build off their 31-14 upset win at Duke last Saturday as a 6.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOKIES PLUS THE POINTS: The Irish might not have been able to avoid the talk this week that Stanford was most difficult opponent remaining on their schedule — so they may suffer an emotional letdown after registering their second victory over a team ranked in the Top Ten at the time (along with Michigan whom they defeated to begin the season). As it is, the Fighting Irish have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a win at home. Notre Dame outgained Stanford by +320 net yards after outgaining the Demon Deacons by +168 net yards in Wake Forest in their previous contest. But the Fighting Irish have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after outgaining their last two opponents by an average of at least +175 net YPG. Notre Dame held the Cardinal to just 229 yards in their last win last week —and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 275 yards. The Irish did not commit a turnover in that game either — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 road games after not committing a turnover in their last contest. Now Notre Dame goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Virginia Tech will be playing “Enter Sandman” for this nationally televised night game in Blacksburg where they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Hokies have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 home games as the underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games when getting 3.5 to 7 points. This Virginia Tech should enter this game with renewed confidence after redeeming themselves from that upset loss two weeks ago against Old Dominion by shocking the Blue Devils on the road last week. The Hokies have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after an upset victory as a road underdog. The team lost their incumbent starting quarterback Josh Jackson to a season-ending knee injury in that loss to the Monarchs but head coach Justin Fuente brought in a capable backup in the offseason in Ryan Willis. The transfer from Kansas completed 17 of 27 passes for 332 yards with three TD passes and no interceptions against the Duke defense last week. Virginia Tech has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. The Hokies have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams outside the ACC.

FINAL TAKE: While the pundits may think the Irish’s path to the College Playoff will is a cinch, that is likely much easier said than done. Expect a close game. 20* CFB Notre Dame-Virginia Tech ABC-TV Special with the Virginia Tech Hokies (349) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (350). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas A&M Aggies (382) minus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (381). THE SITUATION: Kentucky (5-0) remained unbeaten this season with their 24-10 win over South Carolina last Saturday as a pick ‘em. Texas A&M (3-2) has won two of their last three games with their 24-17 win over Arkansas last Saturday as a 20-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AGGIES MINUS THE POINTS: The Wildcats look for their best start since 1950 in their football program’s history. But this is just their second game away from home this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 road games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 7 points. Texas A&M has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games played on grass. Kentucky benefited from a +3 net turnover margin against the Gamecocks last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after enjoying at least a +3 net turnover margin in their last game. The Wildcats have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread win. Kentucky is led by junior running back Benny Snell, Jr. who leads the FBS by averaging 127.8 rushing YPG — but he is now facing a defense that is limiting their opponents to just 85 rushing YPG. Texas A&M has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win at home — and they are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a straight-up win. Additionally, the Aggies have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. First-year head coach has immediately changed the culture in College Station with the sixteen returning starters he inherited from last year’s 7-6 team. The two Texas A&M losses were against perhaps the best two teams in the nation in Alabama and Clemson — and they only lost to the Tigers by 2 points. The Aggies have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: It might be surprising to some that an undefeated team finds themselves as an underdog getting more than 4 points. Trust the signals that the oddsmakers are sending us. 20* CFB Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Texas A&M Aggies (382) minus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (381). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the San Diego State Aztecs (353) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (354). THE SITUATION: San Diego State (3-1) takes the field again after their 23-20 win in overtime over Eastern Michigan two Saturdays ago as a 10-point favorite. Boise State (3-1) enters this game coming off a 34-14 win at Wyoming as a 15.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AZTECS PLUS THE POINTS: San Diego State has covered the point spread in 13 of 18 games after a straight-up win. The Aztecs have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight victories where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. This team is ravaged with injuries on offense with both starting quarterback Christian Chapman and starting running back Juwan Washington out indefinitely with injuries. But in head coach Rocky Long, we trust — especially when has had an extra week to prepare. Junior Ryan Agnew has been serviceable at quarterback since that Chapman injury about a month ago and the Aztecs always have talent at running back. The defense is the straw that stirs the drink for San Diego State under Long — and they are allowing only 21.5 PPG along with just 337.0 total YPG this season. The Aztecs are 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games in the month of October — and they are 35-15-2 ATS in their last 52 games in conference play. Additionally, San Diego State has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, the Aztecs have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog. And while they have only covered the point spread once this season, they have covered the point spread in 27 of their last 38 games after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. Boise State seized a 24-0 lead at halftime last week against the Cowboys — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than a field goal in the first half of their last game. And while they outgained Wyoming by +211 net yards, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +125 net yards. Despite the aura of their blue turf at their home stadium, the Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 52 range. Furthermore, Boise State has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: The Aztecs may have injuries — but giving them around two touchdowns in points is simply too much to pass up. Boise State has failed to cover the point spread in four of their last five meetings with San Diego State despite upsetting them last year by a 31-14 score as a 4-point road dog. Expect a close game. 25* CFB ESPN-U Game of the Month with the San Diego State Aztecs (353) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (354). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:20 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (324) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (323). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (2-3) looks to bounce-back from a 45-14 loss at Central Florida last Saturday as a 13-point underdog. Syracuse (4-1) suffered their first loss of the season with their 27-23 loss at Clemson last week as a 24-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS PLUS THE POINTS: The Orange may have a hard time picking themselves up from the mat after that deflating loss to the Tigers considering they had a great opportunity to pull that upset (for the second straight season) with the injury to their new starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Syracuse blew a 16-7 halftime lead. The Orange are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a loss by 7 points or less to a conference rival. Syracuse was dominated in the yardage battle with Clemson outgaining them by a 469 to 311 yardage mark — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after being outgained by at least 125 yards in their last game. The Orange did benefit from a +2 net turnover margin in that game — it was the fifth straight game where they won the turnover battle. That is very difficult to maintain so don’t be surprised if the Regression Gods pay a visit to this Syracuse team. As it is, they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games after winning the turnover battle in at least three straight games. Moving forward, the Orange are 1-3-2 ATS in their last 6 games against teams with a losing record. And in their last 7 trips to Pittsburgh, Syracuse has failed to cover the point spread 5 times. Pittsburgh has lost two straight games with that 31-point defeat at the hands of UCF last week. But they have rebounded to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after failing to score at least 20 points. The Panthers have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. And while the Knights outgained them by a whopping 294 yards in that blowout win, they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after being outgained by at least -125 yards in their last game. Head coach Pat Narduzzi’s team has been on the road for their last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a two-game road trip. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 home games as the underdog. To connect the dots on the turnover angle for this contest, while the Panthers have only forced one turnover in their last two games, they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after failing to force more than one turnover in two straight contests. Pitt has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in ACC play.

FINAL TAKE: With Notre Dame on deck, the Panthers need to take care of business in this game. This team did upset a good Georgia Tech team at home earlier in this season — so this is a dangerous team at home. 25* CFB ACC Underdog of the Month with the Pittsburgh Panthers (324) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (323). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas Longhorns (398) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (397). THE SITUATION: Texas (4-1) has won four straight games with their 19-14 win at Kansas State last week as an 8.5-point favorite. Oklahoma (5-0) remained undefeated last week with their 66-33 win over Baylor as 21.5-point favorites.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LONGHORNS PLUS THE POINTS: Texas has defeated two ranked teams this season in USC and TCU by a combined 38 points — so this is a group that will be confident and capable against the Sooners. The Longhorns have covered the point spread in 5 straight meetings with Oklahoma. They are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games in the month of October — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing on a neutral field while also covering the points spread in 9 of their last 11 games on a neutral field with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range. Furthermore, Texas is 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. Head coach Tom Herman has proven himself a great coach when his team is the underdog as his teams have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games as the dog — while pulling the straight-up upset eight times. Furthermore, Texas has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Oklahoma has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Sooners have put up impressive numbers — but those gaudy stats should be taken with a grain of salt considering that their opponents have won only one time in their eleven combined games against teams from Power-Five conferences. The Oklahoma defense is a cause for concern as well after they allowed the Bears to generate 493 yards of offense. The Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Furthermore, Oklahoma has tended to underachieve when playing on neutral fields. The Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games on a neutral field with the Total set in the 56.5 to 62 point range — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games played on a neutral field as a favorite in the 7.5 to 14 point range.

FINAL TAKE: The Red River Rivalry is played on a neutral field in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The last four meetings between these two teams have been decided by 7 points or less. Expect another close game — which makes taking the points with the dangerous Longhorns very valuable. 10* CFB Texas-Oklahoma Fox-TV Special with the Texas Longhorns (398) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (397). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the BYU Cougars (312) minus the points versus the Utah State Aggies (311). THE SITUATION: BYU (3-2) looks to bounce-back from their 35-7 loss at Washington last Saturday as an +18.5-point underdog. Utah State (3-1) has won three straight games after their 42-32 win over Air Force as a 9.5-point favorite back on September 22nd.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS MINUS THE POINTS: BYU should bounce-back with a strong effort against their in-state rival. Not one have the Cougars rebounded to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss but they have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss by at least 20 points. BYU was stymied by the strong Huskies defense — but they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after scoring less than 20 points in their last game. The Cougars are likely to get two key members of their defense back with linebacker Zayne Anderson and safety Dayan Ghanwoloku returning the to the field. Without those two starters, BYU surrendered 464 yards to Washington — but they have then covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Utah State has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a straight-up win. The Aggies passed for 356 yards in that game while averaging 7.89 Yards-Per-Play — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP while they have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Utah State did give up 323 rushing yards to the Falcons spread triple option attack — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 200 rushing yards. Head coach Matt Wells team has failed to cover the point spread in a whopping 14 of their last 16 games against teams with a winning record. The Aggies have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 road games as an underdog of 3 points or less. And in their last 7 games in the month of October, Utah State has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: This is a critical game for BYU who need this win to keep them in good shape to become bowl eligible which is the primary goal for this independent that lacks a conference championship opportunity. The Cougars perhaps do not have as much passing for this rivalry as the Aggies — but they will be motivated with revenge from their upset 40-24 loss to Utah State as a small favorite last September. 25* CFB Friday Night ESPN2 Game of the Month with the BYU Cougars (312) minus the points versus the Utah State Aggies (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) plus the points versus the Houston Cougars (304). THE SITUATION: Tulsa (1-3) takes the field again after losing at Temple back two Thursdays ago in a 31-17 loss as a 6.5-point underdog. Houston (3-1) takes the field after blowing out FCS opponent Texas Southern by a 70-14 score two Saturdays ago as a 55-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN HURRICANES PLUS THE POINTS: Tulsa dominated the Owls at least on the stat sheet in that 14-point loss. The Golden Hurricanes won the first down battle by a 32-16 margin while also outgaining Temple by +103 net yards. Tulsa surrendered a 36-yard interception return for a touchdown along with a 50-yard interception return for a touchdown and those two defensive TDs were too much to overcome. Overall, the Golden Hurricanes suffered a -3 net turnover margin in that game — so protecting the football was certainly a point of emphasis in practice over the last two weeks for head coach Philip Montgomery. This Tulsa team suffered a 2-10 record last year — but that was a football team that had five net losses decided by one scoring possession which was the most in the nation. That Golden Hurricanes also was ravaged with injuries — so this roster is probably a lot closer to the talent of the group that finished 10-3 back in 2016 than the one that won only two games last season. Tulsa has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. The Golden Hurricanes have also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games on the road — and this includes them covering the point spread in seven of their last eight road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, Tulsa has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 7 games in the month of October, the Golden Hurricanes have covered the point spread 5 times. Houston (3-1) may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a win by at least 20 points. The Cougars passed for 386 yards in that game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Houston has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in the month of October. The Cougars have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games in American Athletic Conference play.

FINAL TAKE: Houston suffered five upset losses last season so Major Applewhite’s team is certainly vulnerable despite playing at home as a favorite approaching three touchdowns. Tulsa has now lost thirteen of their last sixteen games — but they are much better than what that trend suggests. The Golden Hurricanes were one of those five teams to stun the Cougars last year so they will not lack for confidence in this game. Expect this contest to be closer than expected. 10* CFB Tulsa-Houston ESPN Special with the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) plus the points versus the Houston Cougars (304). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Georgia State Panthers (305) and the Troy Trojans (306). THE SITUATION: Georgia State (2-3) snapped their three-game losing streak last week with their 46-14 win over UL-Monroe last Saturday as a 6-point underdog. Troy (4-1) has won four in a row after their 45-21 win over Coastal Carolina as a 13.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Panthers played their best defensive game of the season by holding the Redhawks to just 262 yards of offense. Georgia State held the ball for 38:12 minutes in the game which will they will likely try to use as a blueprint for this game. The Panthers score only 14.5 PPG on the road so far this season while averaging just 330.5 total YPG. Georgia State has played 12 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after winning their last game by at least 20 points. The Panthers have also played 9 of their last 13 games on the road Under the Total. And while Georgia State generated 487 yards of offense last week, they have played 20 of their last 28 games Under the Total after generating at least 450 yards in their last game. Furthermore, the Panthers have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have also played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total in the month of October. Troy has played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a win by at least 20 points. They stay at home where they are limiting their opponents to just 340.0 total YPG — and they have played 5 straight home games Under the Total as a favorite laying 14.5 to 21 points. The Trojans rushed for 282 yards in that win over the Chanticleers last week — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. Additionally, Troy has played 8 of their last 12 games Under the Total with the number set at 49.5 to 56 point range. The Trojans have also played 11 of their last 15 games Under the Total against teams with a losing record. And in their last 20 games in Sun Belt Conference play, the Under is 14-5-1.

FINAL TAKE: Expect this to be a lower scoring game in this conference showdown. 25* CFB Thursday ESPN-U Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Georgia State Panthers (305) and the Troy Trojans (306). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Ohio State Buckeyes (161) minus the points versus the Penn State Nittany Lions (162). THE SITUATION: Ohio State (4-0) enters this Big Ten showdown coming off a 49-6 win over Tulane last Saturday as a 37.5-point favorite. Penn State (4-0) comes off a 63-24 blowout win at Illinois as a 25.5-point favorite last Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKEYES MINUS THE POINTS: Ohio State should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. Buckeyes quarterback Dwayne Haskins completed 21 of 24 passes against the Green Wave (who just upset Memphis last night) which resulted in 304 yards with five touchdown passes. Haskins offers the Buckeyes a power passing attack which they did not have last year with quarterback J.T. Barrett. Ohio State has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after passing for at least 325 yards in their last game. Haskins offers the Buckeyes a more dynamic weapon than what the Buckeyes had last year when they defeated Penn State by a 39-38 score. Ohio State dominated the line of scrimmage in that game by winning the yardage battle by a 529 to 283 margin. But an opening 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown along with two turnovers helped the Nittany Lions race out to a 28-10 lead in the second quarter before the Buckeyes completed their successful rally. That game was at the Horseshoe in Columbus — but Ohio State is 30-16-1 ATS in their last 47 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The Buckeyes have also covered the point spread in 23 of their last 31 road games when favored by 7 points or less. Ohio State has not turned the ball over in their last three games which is a good sign for them for this rematch — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after not turning the ball over in at least two straight games. Penn State struggled last week against a subpar Fighting Illini team. They were trailing by a 24-21 score at the 10:36 mark of the third quarter and only had a 28-24 lead entering the fourth quarter before exploding for 35 points in those final fifteen minutes. The Nittany Lions allowed Illinois to generate 411 yards of offense in that game which is a scary number when now hosting the Buckeyes. Remember that Penn State needed overtime to defeat Appalachian State to open their season — and they surrendered 451 yards in that game. Penn State has won their last three games by at least 39 points while being favored by at least a touchdown in all three games. But the Nittany Lions have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning their last three games by at least three touchdowns. Penn State has also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in three straight games as at least a 7-point favorite in each of those contests. This is an inexperienced team that returned only ten starters from last year’s team that saw a number of their players move on to the NFL. I am not convinced that head coach James Franklin is recruiting to just reload to the same extent that Urban Meyer is with Ohio State. Lastly, the Nittany Lions have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 25 home games after covering the point spread in three of their last four games.

FINAL TAKE: Ohio State should have blown out Penn State last year — but a few flukey plays and some poor attention to detail by the Buckeyes kept them around in that game. I look for the Buckeyes to clean much of that up on the road in this challenging situation which should allow for their superior talent to overwhelm the Nittany Lions. 10* CFB Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Ohio State Buckeyes (161) minus the points versus the Penn State Nittany Lions (162). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Ohio State Buckeyes (161) and the Penn State Nittany Lions (162). THE SITUATION: Ohio State (4-0) enters this Big Ten showdown coming off a 49-6 win over Tulane last Saturday as a 37.5-point favorite. Penn State (4-0) comes off a 63-24 blowout win at Illinois as a 25.5-point favorite last Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Nittany Lions generated 591 yards of offense to eventually overwhelm the Fighting Illini in that contest last week. Penn State has then played 8 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 straight games Over the Total after a victory by at least 20 points. Furthermore, the Nittany Lions have played 6 straight games Over the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last game — and they have played 17 of their last 21 games Over the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The concern for the Nittany Lions is on the other side of the football as they allowed a weak Illinois offense produce 411 yards of offense. Penn State surrendered 451 yards of offense to begin the season in their narrow win over Appalachian State that was settled in overtime. The Nittany Lions have played 6 straight games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total in Big Ten play. Ohio State has played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a win by at least 20 points. The Buckeyes’ defense flexed their muscles in their win over the Green Wave as they held them to only 263 yards. Ohio State has then played 6 straight games Over the Total after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they have also played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last contest. On offense, sophomore quarterback Dwayne Haskins completed 20 of his 23 passes for 304 yards with five touchdown passes last week — and the Buckeyes have played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. And in their last 7 games on the road, Ohio State has played 6 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams played a shootout last year Expect another high-scoring game between these two teams with dynamic offenses. 25* CFB Big Ten Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Ohio State Buckeyes (161) and the Penn State Nittany Lions (162). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (208) minus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (207). THE SITUATION:  Notre Dame (4-0) remained undefeated this season with their 56-27 win at Wake Forest last Saturday as a 6-point favorite. Stanford (4-0) survived a wild one last week as they rallied from a 24-7 halftime deficit at Oregon to force overtime and shock the Ducks by a 38-31 final score as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FIGHTING IRISH MINUS THE POINTS: The Cardinal might be due for an emotional letdown after mustering the energy to come from behind to upset Oregon on the road. Stanford has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a point spread victory. This is the second straight game where the Cardinal will be on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games coming off a game away from home. Frankly, Stanford was getting dominated in that game — until they recovered a fumble that they returned for an 80-yard touchdown which completely changed the tone of that game. The Cardinal did average 7.96 Yards-Per-Play in that win — but they have failed cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after averaging at least 7.25 YPP in their last game. Stanford has also defeated USC and San Diego State this season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after winning at least four in a row. Notre Dame should build off the momentum of their big win on the road last week. The Fighting Irish have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win — and they have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win by at least four touchdowns. Notre Dame has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a game played on the road. Kelly has finally tapped redshirt sophomore Ian Book as his starting quarterback over senior Brandon Wimbush who has struggled with accuracy. Book offers this team a legitimate passing attack as he showed in the Citrus Bowl last year where he completed 14 of 19 passes for 164 yards in their 21-17 victory over LSU. Book completed 25 of 34 passes last week against the Demon Deacons for 325 yards while adding another 43 yards with three touchdowns on the ground. The Irish return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Notre Dame gets their top running back for this game in Dexter Williams who has finished his suspension from the team. Head coach Brian Kelly usually has his team playing well this time of the season. The Irish have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in the month of September — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in Weeks 5 through 9 of the regular season.

FINAL TAKE: Notre Dame will have revenge on their minds after getting upset in Palo Alto last November 25th against Stanford by a 38-20 score despite being a 3-point favorite. Remember that this loss to close out their regular season was after their deflating 41-8 loss at Miami (FL) in a game that ended both their undefeated season as well as any realistic chance they had to earn a spot in the College Football playoffs. Look for the Fighting Irish to avenge that loss with a decisive victory. 25* College Football Game of the Month is with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (208) minus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (207). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Northwestern Wildcats (210) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (209). THE SITUATION: Northwestern (1-2) takes the field again after a bye week following their 39-34 upset loss to Akron two Saturdays ago despite being a 21.5-point favorite. Michigan (3-1) enters this game coming off their 56-10 win over Nebraska as an 18-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WILDCATS PLUS THE POINTS: Northwestern was done-in by turnovers against the Zips. They allowed a 97-yard interception return for a touchdown along with a 50-yard interception return for a TD along with a fumble recovery in their end zone that Akron turned into a third defensive touchdown. Those miscues overwhelmed their 491 to 367 edge in total yards. The week off and the opportunity to upset the Wolverines should help the Wildcats play their best game of the season. They have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after the first month of the season under head coach Pat Fitzgerald. There were bright spots in that loss to the Zips. Fifth-year senior quarterback Clayton Thorson completed 33 of his 52 passes for 383 yards in a losing effort. Northwestern has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after failing at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last contest. The Wildcats also held Akron to just 90 rushing yards — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after not allowing more than 100 rushing yards in their last contest. Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a win by at least 20 points. Jim Harbaugh’s team has bounced-back from their opening loss at Notre Dame to win their last three games in convincing fashion. But all three of those games were at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight road games against teams with a losing record at home — and they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games on the road overall. The weak link of this team is their offensive line that was manhandled by the Irish — and this will that group’s biggest challenge since that game against a Northwestern front four that returned three starters from last year’s team that was 20th in the FBS by holding their opponents to just 20.1 PPG. The Wolverines have failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last contest. And in their last 14 games after holding their last opponent to less than 21 points, Michigan is just 4-9-1 ATS.

FINAL TAKE: The underdog has covered the point spread in 6 of the last 8 meetings between these two teams. The Wildcats are significant home underdogs in this game — but they will be motivated to redeem themselves from a bad loss two weeks ago. Fitzgerald’s team was 10-3 last year with a bowl win over Kentucky. Fourteen starters including their four-year starting QB in Thorson returned from that team. This should be a close game. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Northwestern Wildcats (210) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (209). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:20 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Virginia Cavaliers (143) and the North Carolina State Wolfpack (144). THE SITUATION: Virginia (3-1) enters this game coming off a dominant 27-3 victory over Louisville last Saturday as a 4.5-point favorite. NC State (4-0) remained undefeated last season with a 37-20 victory at Marshall as a 6-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Cavaliers flexed their muscles on defense against the Cardinals as they held them to just 214 yards of offense. This strong defensive effort should carry over to this game as Virginia has played 31 of their last 43 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a win by at least 20 points. Furthermore, Virginia has played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after holding their last opponent to no more than 275 yards. The Cavaliers outgained Louisville by +187 net yards — and they have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total after outgaining their last opponent by at least +175 net yards. Overall, Bronco Mendenhall’s team is limiting their opponents to just 16.7 PPG along with only 297.5 total YPG. But generating points could be an issue for this Virginia team that is playing just their second true road game this year. In their first true road game at Indiana, the Cavaliers managed only 294 yards which resulted in just 16 points. Virginia has played 14 of their last 19 road games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 7 points. NC State has played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Dave Doeren’s team is also playing outstanding defense as they are rank 9th in the FBS by allowing only 13.3 PPG. The Wolfpack have surrendered only four touchdowns this season. On offense, NC State generated 502 yards last week — but they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Furthermore, the Wolfpack have played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total against fellow ACC opponents — and they have played 14 of their last 19 games Under the Total in the first month of the season. NC State returns home where they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total — and they have played 16 of their last 22 home games Under the Total as a favorite laying no more than 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: In the last 7 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Under the Total 5 times. With both these teams playing very good on the defensive side of the football, expect a lower scoring game. 25* CFB ACC Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Virginia Cavaliers (143) and the North Carolina State Wolfpack (144). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the UCLA Bruins (107) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (108). THE SITUATION: UCLA (0-3) looks to earn their first victory in the Chip Kelly era as they take the field again after their 38-14 loss to Fresno State back on September 15th. Colorado (3-0) remained unbeaten this season after they defeated New Hampshire two Saturdays ago by a 45-14 score as a 37.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BRUINS PLUS THE POINTS: Kelly needed that bye week to help get the UCLA ship on order. He certainly inherited a roster with plenty of talent despite finishing just 6-7 last year. An injury in the opening week to graduate transfer quarterback Wilton Speight did not help the cause. Speight’s back has improved enough for him to be able to ;any tonight but it is unclear if the former Michigan starting quarterback will take the field instead of freshman quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Despite receiving plenty of criticism this season, it is not as if Kelly has forgotten how to coach football. The Bruins should be in a better position to execute his up-tempo spread offense tonight. UCLA managed only 270 yards of offense against Fresno State with just 151 of these yards being in the air — but they are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games after failing to pass for at least 170 yards in their last game. The Bruins needs to play better on the defensive end of the field after allowing 49 points in their previous game at Oklahoma. UCLA has covered the point spread in 22 of their last 32 games after allowing at least 31 points in their last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after allowing at least 37 points in their last two contests. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a victory where they failed to cover the point spread. Furthermore, the Buffaloes have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a bye week. Colorado is thriving due in a large part to some good fortune with turnovers. After winning the turnover battle in their previous game at Nebraska, the Buffaloes forced three turnovers to seize a +1 net turnover margin against New Hampshire. But net turnover margins are a better gauge to explain past win-loss records rather than future results. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after forcing at least three turnovers in their last game. The Buffaloes have also failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 51 games after winning the turnover battle in two straight games. Colorado is also just 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games at home.

FINAL TAKE: While it has been a disastrous start for UCLA, the three teams they have played so far this season enter Week Four of the CFB season with a 10-1 record. With the week off to regroup and the clean slate they still have as they begin Pac-12 play, the Bruins still have plenty to play for this season under their new head coach. Expect UCLA to play their best game of the season. 10* CFB Friday Daily Discounted Deal with the UCLA Bruins (107) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (108). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Tulane Green Wave (106) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (105). Memphis (3-1) looks for their first win in American Athletic Conference play tonight after they defeated South Alabama last week by a 52-35 score. Tulane (1-3) looks to bounce-back from their 49-6 loss at Ohio State last Saturday as a big 37.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GREEN WAVE PLUS THE POINTS: Tulane may look unappealing to many bettors with their lone win being against Nicholls State this season — but head coach Willie Fritz is a great coach who typically gets the most out of his talent. Their opening game loss to Wake Forest was in overtime and they were tied at UAB with ten minutes to go in the 4th quarter before they lost by a touchdown. The Green Wave returns fourteen starters from last year’s team that finished just 5-7 — but nine of those opponents were bowl eligible and they lost four of those games by 6 points or less. Tulane should rebound with a strong effort tonight as they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games after a loss by at least 20 points. Additionally, the Green Wave are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games after failing to score at least 20 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after failing to score at least a touchdown. Furthermore, Tulane has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight home games after playing a non-conference opponent. And in Fritz’s last 9 games with this team against fellow American Athletic Conference opponents, the Green Wave are 6-2-1 ATS. Memphis may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 38 of their last 60 games after a win by at least 17 points. Furthermore, the Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after scoring at least 40 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 20 games after scoring at least 50 points in their last game. Memphis was 10-3 last year while being helped out by a +15 net turnover margin which was 4th best in the FBS. But this year’s team has seen the Regression Gods appear when it comes to turnover as they have a net turnover differential of zero. That could bode trouble for them now playing in a hostile environment. Defense remains an issue for this team as well after they ranked 116th in the FBS by allowing 466.2 total YPG. The Tigers surrendered 467 yards to the Jaguars last week with 360 of those yards being in the air. Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after allowing at least 325 passing yards. And while the Tigers rushed for 271 yards last week, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: Tulane is better than their record appears — they should score enough points to at least keep this game interesting while staying within the point spread. 25* CFB Friday ESPN2 Game of the Month with the Tulane Green Wave (106) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (105). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (104) minus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (103). THE SITUATION: Miami (FL) (3-1) looks to build off their 31-17 win over Florida International last Saturday as a 26.5-point favorite. North Carolina (1-2) enters this game coming off a 38-35 upset victory at home against Pittsburgh as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HURRICANES MINUS THE POINTS: The Tar Heels now go back on the road on a short week to play their third game away from home this month. North Carolina is 0-2 on the road this year while being outscored by -14.5 PPG against inferior teams than these Hurricanes in East Carolina and California. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 road games as a big underdog in the 17.5 to 21 point range. Defense is an issue for this team after they allowed 31.3 PPG while ranking tied for 98th in the FBS by surrendering 436 total YPG last year. The whispers are getting louder that head coach Larry Fedora is not paying close enough attention to the defensive side of the football. Successful opponents against North Carolina have been able to run the football to keep Fedora’s typical dynamic offense off the field. This season, the Tar Heels are allowing 4.5 Yards-Per-Carry which has resulted in 203 rushing YPG for their opponents along with keeping the UNC offense off the field for 33:51 minutes per game. This defense allowed 213 rushing YPG last season which was 213th in the nation — and they were last in the ACC in run defense. The Tar Heels previous game was a 41-19 loss at East Carolina before they pulled that upset last Saturday — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 30 games after playing two straight games where at least 60 combined points were scored. North Carolina is also 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games in the month of September. Miami returned seven starters from their good defense last year — and they have been even stingier so far this season as they are allowing only 18.5 PPG while giving up just 223.7 total YPG. They limited the Golden Panthers to just 187 yards of offense last week — and they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after not allowing more than 275 yards of offense in their last game. The Hurricanes have also covered the point spread in 21 of their last 26 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. On offense, head coach Mark Richt has not declared who is starting quarterback will be despite last year’s starter Malik Rosier being the first under center in all four games this season. But redshirt freshman N’Kosi Perry has been dynamic when giving the opportunity to play — and he might get the start tonight after completing 17 of 25 passes for 224 yards with three touchdown passes last week while adding another 32 yards on the ground with his dangerous ability to move the ball with his scrambling ability. But the Miami offense will revolve around their strong one-two punch at running back with Travis Homer and Lorenzo Lingard who have helped this offense average 204 rushing YPG while averaging 4.8 Yards-Per-Carry — and they have churned out at least 239 rushing yards in each of their last three games. The Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. They dominated FIU last week by +301 net yards — and not only have they then covered the point spread in 27 of their last 38 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +150 net yards but they have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +200 net yards. Miami has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Lastly, this team is outscoring their opponents by +25.0 PPG while also outgaining their opponents by +225.5 net YPG — and they have been even more dominant at home in their first two games where they have outscored their opponents +45.5 PPG while outgaining these opponents by +358.5 total YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Miami should dominate the Tar Heels by using the tried-and-true method of running the football to dominate time of possession. 25* CFB ACC Game of the Month with the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (104) minus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (103). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Utah State Aggies (392) minus the points versus the Air Force Falcons (391). THE SITUATION: Utah State (2-1) looks to build off the mAt 10:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Utah State Aggies (392) minus the points versus the Air Force Falcons (391). THE SITUATION: Utah State (2-1) looks to build off the momentum of their 72-12 win over Tennessee Tech Thursday. Air Force (1-1) takes the field again after having lost week off following their 33-27 loss at Florida Atlantic back on September 8th as an 8-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AGGIES MINUS THE POINTS: Utah State generated 621 yards of offense against their FCS foe last week. While some bettors might discount those numbers given their opponent, I consider this Aggies’ offense to be the best unit that head coach Matt Wells has assembled in his six years with the football program. Redshirt sophomore quarterback took over the starting job midway during last season and displayed a propensity for big-play ability down the stretch to justify him entering this season as the incumbent starter. He validated that faith last week by completing 21 of 26 passes for 236 yards and two touchdown passes last week. Utah State has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. This Aggies team was just 6-7 last year three of those losses were decided by one scoring possession. If this team could learn to win close games, they would likely be considered one of the best teams in the Mountain West Conference. After losing by just a 38-31 score in East Lansing to Michigan State to start the season, Utah State has now lost their last nine games that were decided by just one scoring possession. Eventually, this Aggies team will start winning their share of those games — and this inability to pull out close games right now obscures a team from many bettors that should cover this double-digit point spread tonight. Nine starters along with 84.2% of their tackles from last year returned — and they only allowed 227 yards in their blowout last week. Utah State is 15-7-1 ATS in their last 23 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +175 yards. Wells’ team owns a huge field advantage as they are on a 31-9 run at home while outscoring their first two visitors by an average score of 66.5 to 12.5 point margin. The Aggies have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games in the month of September. Air Force (1-1) is not likely to bounce-back with a strong effort as they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 31 games after a straight-up loss. Even with the bye week, this is a difficult assignment for the Falcons playing on the road for the second straight game. They have failed to cover the point spread in 43 of their last 69 games after a loss on the road. That now two-loss Owls team outgained Air Force in that game by 152 net yards — and the Falcons have failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 37 games after being outgained by at least 125 yards. Air Force was only 5-7 last year with there being whispers that the talent level is declining on this squad after head coach Troy Calhoun missed out on a bowl for only the second time in his eleven-year coaching tenure. Opposing offenses destroyed them last year when they were in shotgun formation where slow-developing run plays continued to expose the lack of speed on this defense. To compound matters, Calhoun lost his skilled defensive coordinator in Steve Russ who was wooed to the NFL by the Carolina Panthers. The offensive line is also small which puts them at a disadvantage at the better FBS programs. Air Force has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games against fellow Mountain West Conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: The icing on the cake for this contest is that Utah State is motivated with revenge after losing last year’s matchup with the Falcons by a 38-35 score on the road. Air Force is on a 51-18 run at home but it is much different story for them on the road. And while the Falcons have their unique spread triple option offense, I am sure that Wells has been practicing against those schemes for at least two weeks since that contest with Tennessee Tech last week was a glorified scrimmage. 25* CFB ESPN2 Game of the Month is with the Utah State Aggies (392) minus the points versus the Air Force Falcons (391). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the South Alabama Jaguars (389) and the Memphis Tigers (390). THE SITUATION: South Alabama (1-2) won their first game of the season last Saturday with their 41-31 win over Texas State as a 10-point favorite. Memphis (2-1) enters this game coming off their 59-22 win over Georgia State as a 28.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: South Alabama will be without their senior quarterback Cole Garvin who has been suspended after getting arrested for public intoxication last week. While that may have compelled many bettors to take the Under, the Jaguars’ offense will be just fine under the leadership of another senior in Evan Orth. The former UAB quarterback transferred to the Jaguars when the Blazers abandoned their football team for a few years but was never able to seize the starting job. But he seems to be growing into the position after leading South Alabama to their win over Texas State last week as he completed 24 of 33 passes for 266 yards with two touchdown passed while adding another 21 yards with his legs. Orth is completing 65.6% of his passes while averaging 9.5 Yards-Per-Carry when he tucks the ball to run with it this season. The Jaguars are averaging 26.7 PPG this year which is almost a touchdown more than what they scored last year. This team has then played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight up win. Furthermore, South Alabama forced three turnovers against the Bobcats — and they have then played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after forcing at least three turnovers in their last game. Now the Jaguars go back on the road where they have played 5 of their last 6 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record at home. South Alabama has also played 12 of their last 17 games Over the Total against teams outside the Sun Belt Conference. The Jaguars are allowing their opponents to score 38.7 PPG along with 476.3 total YPG — and that is a scary proposition when facing this Memphis team that is scoring 48.7 PPG along with generating 603.0 YPG so far this season. The Tigers have played 11 of their last 15 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 10 of their last 13 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. Additionally, while Memphis produced 679 yards of offense last week against the Panthers, they have played 8 straight games Over the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have also played 15 of their last 20 games Over the Total after a win by at least 20 points. And in their last 29 games at home, the Tigers have played 21 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Memphis is huge favorites laying more than 30 points in this game. While the Tigers are going to score their share of points (they may approach the Over by themselves), South Alabama should score their share of points as well. 25* CFB Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the South Alabama Jaguars (389) and the Memphis Tigers (390). Best of luck for us — Frank.  

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Iowa State Cyclones (312) minus the point versus the Akron Zips (311). THE SITUATION: Iowa State (0-2) has opened the season winless after losing at home to Oklahoma last week by a 37-27 score as an 18.5-point underdog. Akron (2-0) is undefeated after they upset Northwestern last Saturday by a 39-34 score as a 21-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CYCLONES MINUS THE POINTS: The Zips were rather fortunate to steal that game last week in Evanston against the Wildcats after being outgained by a 491 to 367 mark. Akron made up for that significant gap by scoring three defensive touchdowns with a 97-yard interception return for a touchdown along with a 50-yard interception return for a TD and a fumble recovery in the end zone. Iowa State is not likely to be near as accommodating this week — and that likely means a rude awakening for this Akron team that has failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games after an upset win as a double-digit underdog. The Zips stay on the road for a second straight week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games after a win on the road. Terry Bowden’s team is vulnerable to being blown out as they were outgained in Mid American Conference play last year by -103 net YPG. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games played on grass. Iowa State should bounce-back with a big effort as they are 16-5-1 ATS in their last 22 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 6-0-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a point spread victory. And while their defense surrendered 519 yards to the Sooners, they are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing at least 450 yards. They stay at home where they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games. And in their last 8 games in September, the Cyclones have covered the point spread 6 times. Together, these team trends produce our specific 78-16-3 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: Iowa State should easily earn their first win of the season in this one against a Zips team that was a season full of good breaks last week when it comes to scoring defensive touchdowns. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Iowa State Cyclones (312) minus the point versus the Akron Zips (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Purdue Boilermakers (324) plus the points versus the Boston College Eagles (323). THE SITUATION: Boston College (3-0) remained undefeated this season last week with their 41-34 win at Wake Forest back on September 13th as a 6.5-point favorite. Purdue (0-3) is still looking for their first win of the season after they lost at home to Missouri last week by a 40-37 score as a 5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOILERMAKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Don’t blame the Purdue offense as they generated 614 yards of offense in their loss to the Tigers. The Boilermakers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Purdue has the benefit of staying home for the fourth straight game — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. The Boilermakers have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games outside Big Ten play — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in the month of September. Boston College has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against Big Ten opponents. The Eagles usually have a strong defense under head coach Steve Addazio but they allowed the Demon Deacons to generate 512 yards of offense in escaping with that victory. Now Boston College stays on the road for the second straight week where they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 20 road games when laying 3.5 to 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Expect the Boilermakers to be very feisty as they look to get their first win of the season. This should be a close game the Purdue can win. 10* CFB Boston College-Purdue ESPN2 Special with the Purdue Boilermakers (324) plus the points versus the Boston College Eagles (323). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Maryland Terrapins (320) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (319). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (3-0) won their third straight games last Saturday with their 26-3 win over Miami (OH) as a 14-point favorite. Maryland (2-1) looks to bounce-back from a 35-14 upset loss last week versus Temple as a 15-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TERRAPINS MINUS THE POINTS: The Golden Gophers might be primed for a letdown as they are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they are only 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a point spreadn win. Furthermore, Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a win by at least 20 points — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 6 points in their last game. Now head coach P.J. Fleck’s team goes on the road for the first time this season. This could lead to some harrowing moments for a group that has 59 of their 113 players being true or redshirt freshmen led by starting quarterback Zack Annexstand who is a former walk-on for this team. Yikes — the road may provide a stern reality check for this group that was just 2-7 in Big Ten play last year while getting outgained by -100 YPG. Minnesota is just 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games on the road — and they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games in Big Ten play. Maryland should rebound with a strong effort after their embarrassing loss last week. The Terrapins have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after an upset loss by at least 17 points. Furthermore, Maryland has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after a double-digit loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 39 games at home after a loss by at least 17 points Additionally, the Terrapins have covered the point spread in 40 of their last 61 games after a loss by at least three touchdowns. Maryland managed only 195 yards in that loss to the Owls but their offense should play better this afternoon. The Terrapins have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 27 games after failing to generate at least 275 yards in their last contest.

FINAL TAKE: Maryland started the season strong with another upset win over Texas. They took a step back last week — but they are playing well for interim coach Matt Canada who is leading the team during the ongoing controversy they team suffered in their preseason that has resulted in head coach D.J. Durkin being on indefinite leave with the school just ruling that the football team was irresponsible in the handling of their player who died on the practice field. Amidst this emotional backdrop, look for the Terrapins to rebound with a big effort against a very young Golden Gophers group. 25* CFB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Maryland Terrapins (320) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (319). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the USC Trojans (310) minus the points versus the Washington State Cougars (309). THE SITUATION: Washington State (3-0) won their third straight game last Saturday with their 59-24 win over Eastern Washington as a 20-point favorite. USC (1-2) has lost two straight games after they lost at Texas last Saturday night by a 37-14 score as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TROJANS MINUS THE POINTS: The Cougars may be due for a letdown after starting the season a perfect 3-0. Washington State had come off a 31-0 shutout win over San Jose State the previous week before easily dispatching of their FCS opponent — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning their last two games by at least four touchdowns in each game. The Cougars generated 565 yards of offense last week but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. Now after playing their last two games at home, Washington State goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games. The Cougars have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning their last two games at home by at least two touchdowns. Washington State has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on Friday night. USC needs a win after losing two straight games at Stanford and then last week in Austin against the Longhorns. Returning home will help this Trojans team as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. USC has also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a straight-up loss. This team remains one of the most talented groups in the nation — they returned thirteen starters from their team that was 11-3 last year. Too often this team plays uninspired football for head coach Clay Helton. But I expect a very spirited effort from this team on a two-game losing streak yet with the opportunity to avenge a 30-27 upset loss to this Washington State team from last September.

FINAL TAKE: Motivated by revenge and redemption from a two-game losing streak, don’t be surprised if the Trojans play their best game of the season. 10* CFB Friday Late Show Bailout with the USC Trojans (310) minus the points versus the Washington State Cougars (309). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Washington State Cougars (309) and the USC Trojans (310). THE SITUATION: Washington State (3-0) won their third straight game last Saturday with their 59-24 win over Eastern Washington as a 20-point favorite. USC (1-2) has lost two straight games after they lost at Texas last Saturday night by a 37-14 score as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Cougars offense under head coach Mike Leach has not missed a beat despite moving on from their graduated quarterback from last year in Luke Falk. Graduate transfer Gardner Minshew came in from East Carolina and has stepped in to continue to run the Washington State Air Raid offense at a high level. He completed 45 of 57 passes for 470 yards last week with two touchdowns. The Cougars are scoring 43.7 PPG while averaging 501.0 total YPG so far this season. Washington State should keep their momentum going on offense as they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after both a straight-up win as well as after a point spread victory. The Cougars have also played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. Washington State has raced out to 18 and 24 point leads in their last two games — and they have played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total after holding at least two touchdown leads at halftime in each of their last two games. The Cougars defense has also been stout so far this year as they have held their three opponents to just 229 total YPG — but they have then played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 250 total YPG in their last three contests. The Washington State defense was 16th in the nation last year by allowing only 323.3 total YPG — but regression is likely for this team after their outstanding defensive coordinator Alex Grinch left to join the Ohio State defensive staff in the offseason. This defense also lost their elite defensive end in Hercules Mata’afa who took his pass rushing talents to the NFL. Now after playing their last two games at home, the Cougars go back on the road to place their most potent offense so far on their schedule. Washington State has played 5 straight games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 20 of their last 26 road games Over the Total as an underdog of fewer than 7 points. USC lost their second game in a row with that loss at Texas — but now they return home for the first time in three weeks where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total while also seeing the Over go 20-7-2 in their last 29 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. This has been a tough early gauntlet for their true freshman quarterback J.T. Daniels but the former 5-star recruit is showing glimpses of his vast potential. After a tough assignment in Palo Alto against Stanford, Daniels completed 30 of 48 passes for 322 yards in Austin last week against a talented Longhorns defense. The Trojans have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a loss by at least 20 points. Furthermore, while USC has only scored 17 combined points in their last two games, they have then played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after not scoring more than 17 points in each of their last two games while also playing 4 straight games Over the Total after failing to score more than 20 points in their last contest. Lastly, the Trojans have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total against fellow Pac-12 opponents.

FINAL TAKE: USC will be playing with desperation tonight after losing their last two games. Expect a shootout in Los Angeles tonight between these two teams on national television. 25* CFB Friday ESPN Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Washington State Cougars (309) and the USC Trojans (310). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Florida Atlantic Owls (305) plus the points versus the Central Florida Golden Knights (306). THE SITUATION: FAU (2-1) has won two straight games after their blowout 49-28 win over Bethune Cookman last Saturday. Central Florida (2-0) takes the field again after a bye week following their 38-0 shutout over South Carolina State two weeks ago.

REASONS TO TAKE THE OWLS PLUS THE POINTS: Central Florida has now won fifteen straight games with their two wins tacking on to their perfect 13-0 record last year. But the Golden Knights returned only twelve starters from that team and have a new Air Raid-influenced offensive system under new head coach Josh Heupel. While Central Florida still has their junior quarterback McKenzie Milton under center, this new offense asks him to stay under center more often in passing situations rather than the horizontal option schemes that previous head coach Scott Frost designed for him to run to accentuate his speed. This will be Milton’s biggest test so far this season after an easy schedule against UConn and then an FCS opponent before this game. Last year’s team benefited from a +17 net turnover margin which is a primed for a visit from the Regression Gods while also surviving all four of their games decided by one scoring possession. Yet the Golden Knights are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a win by at least 20 points. Central Florida has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home. FAU (2-1) has rebounded with two straight wins after the opening week lesson they were served in Norman. Oklahoma at the hands of the Sooners. Head coach Lane Kiffin will have his team ready for this game and they should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up win. The Owls seized a 36-14 lead at halftime last week — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after scoring at last 24 points in the first-half in their last game. The FAU offense cranked out 559 yards in that victory — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Now the Owls go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 road games after a game where at least 70 combined points were scored. And while Kiffin’s team is an underdog of almost two touchdowns, FAU has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games as an underdog of 7.5 to 14 points.

FINAL TAKE: FAU should offer a tough challenge to Central Florida’s fifteen game winning streak — especially since the Golden Knights do not enjoy a significant home-field advantage. Expect a close game. 10* CFB FAU-Central Florida ESPN Special with the Florida Atlantic Owls (305) plus the points versus the Central Florida Golden Knights (306). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) and the Temple Owls (304). THE SITUATION: Tulsa (1-2) has lost two games in a row after their 29-20 upset loss last Saturday against Arkansas State as a 2-point favorite. Temple (1-2) won their first game the season last Saturday in a 35-14 upset win at Maryland as a 15-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Golden Hurricanes has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a point spread setback. Additionally, Tulsa has played 5 straight games Under the Total after losing two of their last three games — and they have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total in the month of September. Now, this Golden Hurricanes travels over 1300 miles out east for this challenging conference game on a short week. Tulsa has played 4 straight games Under the Total playing on the road. And in their last 6 games against fellow American Athletic Conference opponents, the Golden Hurricanes have played 5 of these games Under the Total. Temple has played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a victory by at least 20 points. The Owls flexed their muscles on defense against the Terrapins as they held them to just 195 yards of offense. Temple has played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they have also played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 20 points in their last contest. Now the Owls return home where they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total. And while Temple outgained Maryland by +234 yards in that dominant win, they have then played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total after outgaining their last opponent by at least +225 yards.

FINAL TAKE: With both these teams playing on a short week in this early conference showdown, expect a lower scoring contest. 10* CFB Tulsa-Temple ESPN O/U Special with Under the Total in the game between the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) and the Temple Owls (304). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) plus the points versus the Temple Owls (304). THE SITUATION: Tulsa (1-2) has lost two games in a row after their 29-20 upset loss last Saturday against Arkansas State as a 2-point favorite. Temple (1-2) won their first game the season last Saturday in a 35-14 upset win at Maryland as a 15-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN HURRICANES PLUS THE POINTS: Tulsa opened their season with an 11-point win over Central Arkansas before losing by a touchdown as a 21-point dog in Austin against Texas. This is a critical contest in head coach Philip Montgomery’s fourth year in Tulsa after they fell plummeted from a 10-3 mark in 2016 to just a 2-10 record last year. Last year’s Golden Hurricanes’ group was better than that record suggests as they played eight teams who reached a bowl game. Tulsa lost five games that came down to the final possession as well — so that final record could have been much better. Fifteen starters return from that group including both quarterbacks in sophomore Luke Skipper and junior Chad President who endured a trial by fire last year. Skipper proved to be the more dangerous weapon last year given his dual-threat capabilities. So far this season, Skipper is completing 61.3% of his passes for 521 yards while adding another 109 rushing yards on the ground. Montgomery should have his team play tough as they are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a point spread loss. The Golden Hurricanes have also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games as the underdog. Tulsa suffered from a -2 net turnover margin in that loss to the Red Wolves while forcing only one turnover. But the Golden Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after only forcing one turnover — and they have covered the point spread in 3 straight games after enduring a -2 or worse turnover margin in their last contest. Temple began the year suffering upset losses to Villanova and Buffalo before pulling that trick off themselves as a double-digit underdog against a Big Ten school in the Terrapins. But it might be hasty to assume that all is right again for second-year head coach Geoff Collins. The Owls have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after an upset win by at least two touchdowns on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a victory by at least three touchdowns. Furthermore, inconsistency has been an issue for this Temple team under Collins as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win. The Owls have questions at quarterback with the undisclosed injury to Frank Nutile that kept him out last week. Sophomore Anthony Russo played well in his absence so it is unclear what will happen tonight — especially since Nutile had completed only 52.4% of his passes in his first two games while tossing 4 interceptions. Temple returned only twelve starters from last year’s 7-6 team. Defense has been a staple for this team as of late — and they held Maryland to just 195 yards of offense in that upset win last week. But the Owls have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. Lastly, Temple has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in the month of September — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home.

FINAL TAKE: With Tulsa coming into this game feisty and with something to prove while Temple being perhaps a bit relieved from last week but with underlying quarterback issues, expect a close game in this American Athletic Conference contest. 25* CFB Thursday Night ESPN Game of the Month with the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes (303) plus the points versus the Temple Owls (304). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the TCU Horned Frogs (204) minus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (203). THE SITUATION: Ohio State (2-0) remained undefeated this season last Saturday when they crushed Rutgers at home by a 52-3 score as a 35-point favorite. TCU (2-0) also remains unscathed this year after they traveled to SMU to defeat the Mustangs by a 42-12 score as a 23.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HORNED FROGS PLUS THE POINTS: TCU entered this season underrated after they went 11-3 last year in a season that culminated with a 39-37 shootout victory over Stanford in the Alamo Bowl. Two of their three losses were to an Oklahoma team that made the College Football Playoff. The offense is led by redshirt sophomore quarterback Shawn Robinson who has a similar game to former star Horned Frogs quarterback Trevor Boykin in his ability to generate yardage with a big arm as well as his legs. 18-year head coach Gary Patterson may have the most talent he has ever assembled on offense in his tenure with TCU. But the signature of a Patterson football team is his defense — and this year’s group returns six starters from a unit that was 15th and 19th in the nation by holding teams to just 19.0 PPG and 331.4 total YPG. This group is loaded with speed which will help them slow down the Buckeyes’ spread offense. So far this season, the Horned Frogs have not allowed a Red Zone touchdown. They limited SMU to just 3.36 Yards-Per-Play last week — and they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 3.75 YPP in their last game. This game is being played fifteen minutes away from TCU’s campus in the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium in Arlington which will afford the Horned Frogs a big home advantage — and this should make them dangerous underdogs along with their outstanding defense. TCU has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 “home” games as an underdog getting 7.5 to 14 points — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 30 games as an underdog getting 10.5 to 21 points. Ohio State may be setting themselves up for a letdown in this significant jump in competition as they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a win over a Big Ten opponent — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win by at least 21 points over a conference rival. This will be the last game the teams plays without their head coach Urban Meyer walking the sidelines after he serves his three-game suspension to begin the season. While I don’t think the loss of Meyer on the sidelines is a big deal with interim head coach Ryan Day doing the game-management, there is no question that the team is better with Meyer serving as the leader of the team. But I do not like the overall vibe with this program after they faced all the distractions and negativity in the offseason. They only return twelve starters from last year’s team that finished 12-2 — and, as usual, much of their lost talent went on to the NFL. Sophomore quarterback Dwayne Haskins has looked great so far under center — but he has yet to face an elite defense in hostile territory. The Buckeyes have averaged 7.93 and 8.29 Yards-Per-Play against shaky competition to open their season — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after averaging at least 7.25 YPP in their first two games. The defensive secondary will be tested in this game — and this is a vulnerable unit that lost cornerback Denzel Ward among a handful of players that took their talents to the NFL. Not only is this group raw but they only ranked 45th in interceptions last year after ranking 4th in the nation in that category in 2016. Last week’s game finished Under the 58.5 point total — but Ohio State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games following a game that finished Under the Total.

FINAL TAKE: This is a tough assignment for the Buckeyes to face a team on the road in a hostile environment who boast an outstanding defense. Ohio State may survive but I expect them to have their hands full against a TCU team that I consider a good long shot bet to win the Big 12 and reach the College Football Playoff. 25* CFB Saturday Night ABC-TV Game of the Month on the TCU Horned Frogs (204) minus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (203). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Auburn Tigers (154) minus the points versus the LSU Tigers (153). THE SITUATION: Auburn (2-0) remained undefeated so far this season after they crushed Alabama State last Saturday by a 63-9 score. LSU (2-0) is also undefeated so far this year after they shutout Southeast Louisiana last week by a 31-0 score as 41.5-point favorites.

REASONS TO TAKE AUBURN MINUS THE POINTS: Guz Malzahn’s team should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least five touchdowns — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 42 points in their last game. Auburn has a strong defense once again this year led by an elite defensive front that has helped them only allow 25 so far this season. These Tigers have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 17 points in two straight games. Auburn returned thirteen starters including their starting quarterback Jarrett Stidham from last year’s group that defeated both Alabama and Georgia while outscoring all their SEC opponents by +153.8 net YPG. Auburn has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games against fellow SEC foes. Auburn has also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games at home. LSU may be due for a letdown for this showdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win at home where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. These Tigers have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a point spread loss. LSU enjoyed a +3 turnover in that game last week after producing a +2 net turnover margin in their first game of the season against the Miami Hurricanes and their “turnover chain.” But the Regression Gods are fickle and may likely make an appearance against this team that is +5 in the turnover margin after their first two games. Even their +10 net turnover margin from last season is ripe for a return to earth. As it is, LSU has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after enjoying at least a +2 net turnover margin in their last two games. These Tigers return only ten starters from last year’s group that finished 9-4. LSU has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games in the month of September.

FINAL TAKE: Auburn will also have revenge on their minds from a 27-23 upset loss at LSU last year where they were 6-point favorites. Look for Auburn play with passion with this motivation for a little vengeance. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Auburn Tigers (154) minus the points versus the LSU Tigers (153). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 AM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Rice Owls (397) and the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors (398). THE SITUATION: Rice (1-1) is already playing their third game of the season after they lost to Houston last week at home by a 45-27 score as a big 25.5-point underdog. Hawai’i (2-0) is also playing their third game of the year after they upset Navy at home last week by a 59-41 score as a 13.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Owls have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a double-digit loss at home — and they have also played a decisive 45 of their last 67 games Over the Total after allowing at least 40 points in their last contest. Rice has also played 10 of their last 14 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. Struggles on the defensive side of the football were expected for this team that lost their top-five tacklers from last year’s unit that was 112th in the nation by allowing 35.8 PPG. The Owls are allowing 36.5 PPG this season along with 480.5 total YPG. But first-year head coach Mike Bloomgren may have his answer at quarterback in senior graduate transfer Shawn Stankavage from Vanderbilt who was showed promise last week by completing 20 of 31 passes for 204 yards with three touchdown passes while leading the Rice offense to 443 yards of offense which was more 110 more YPG than what they averaged last season. The Owls now go on the road where they have played 28 of their last 38 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning record at home. Rice has also played 10 of their last 13 games Over the Total when playing on field turf — and the Over is 3-0-1 in their last 4 games when facing a team outside Conference USA. Hawai’i seems right at home back orchestrating their old Run-and-Shoot offense that their head coach Nick Rolovich used to operate for then head coach (and now Hamilton Tiger-Cats head coach) June Jones. The Rainbow Warriors generated 526 yards last week against the Midshipmen defense — and it is like the old days for this team so far this season as they are scoring 51.0 PPG while generating 569.0 total YPG for their unique scheme. Hawai’i has then played 14 of their last 20 games Over the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have played 5 straight games Over the Total after scoring at least 40 points in their last contest. Sophomore QB Cole McDonald is loving executing this offense which gives freedom to both the quarterback and the four wide receivers to improvise their routes based off coverage. McDonald completed 30 of 41 passes last week for 428 yards while throwing six touchdown passes with zero interceptions. But the defense remains a work in progress after losing six of their top nine tacklers from a group that allowed 33.9 PPG while ranking 114th in the FBS by allowing 458.8 total YPG. In their first two games this year, Hawai’i is allowing 37.5 PPG while giving up 532.0 total YPG. Moving forward, the Rainbow Warriors have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total in the month of September. And in their last 11 games against non-conference opponents, Hawai’i has played 10 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: With this being the third game for both teams, the offenses should be up-to-speed regarding understanding and operating their schemes. Neither of these teams can stop anybody — so this should be a high-scoring game with Hawai’i likely leading the way. 25* CFB Bailout Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Rice Owls (397) and the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors (398). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:45 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Arizona State Sun Devils (394) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (393). THE SITUATION: Arizona State (1-0) began the Herm Edwards coaching era in strong fashion as they crushed UTSA by a 49-7 score last Saturday as a 17-point favorite. Michigan State (1-0) looked wobbly at home last week as they outlasted Utah State by a 38-31 score despite being a 23.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SUN DEVILS PLUS THE POINTS: The Spartans are supposed to have an outstanding defensive secondary with all five of the starters from their 4-2-5 scheme returning from last year — but they surrendered 319 passing yards to the Aggies despite playing that game in East Lansing. Michigan State is just 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last game. On paper, Sparty looks very good this year with nineteen starters returning from last year’s team that finished 10-3 with their 42-17 win over Washington State in the Holiday Bowl. But considering that they only outgained their Big Ten opponents by +34.6 net YPG, head coach Mark Dantonio’s team probably overachieved — and they certainly benefited from four net close wins in games decided by one scoring possession. Their offensive line was a weak link last season — and they face an intriguing Sun Devils defensive front with Renell Wren in the middle who almost single-handedly upset Washington last year with a performance that put him on the radar of NFL scouts. Michigan State has not been reliable away from home as they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road while also failing to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, Sparty has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games when they are laying the points including failing to cover the point spread in four straight games on the road laying 7 or less points. Additionally, Michigan State has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games against teams outside the Big Ten — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against Pac-12 opponents. I am not a big believer in Edwards returning to the coaching sidelines after his cushy gig at ESPN but he has adopted a CEO model for his responsibilities while installing two good coordinators in Rob Likens on offense and former San Diego State defensive coordinator Danny Gonzalez on defense. So far so good with Gonzalez’s side of the formula as they limited the Roadrunners to just 221 yards of offense last week. Arizona State has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. The offense is led by senior Manny Wilkins who is a dangerous gunslinger when healthy. The third-year starter has a dynamic group of wide receivers led by a potential All-American in N’Keal Harry. Wilkins completed 16 of 24 passes last week for 237 yards with four touchdown passes and no interceptions last week. Wilkins has helped the Sun Devils cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games at home. Arizona State has also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games against Big Ten opponents.

FINAL TAKE: The trip out west can be very precarious for Big Ten teams — especially for nationally televised games at night. The forecast is for a very hot night in Tempe as well which will only make the Spartans more uncomfortable. Expect a close game. 10* CFB Michigan State-Arizona State ESPN Special with the Arizona State Sun Devils (394) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (393). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Stanford Cardinal (388) minus the points versus the USC Trojans (387). THE SITUATION: USC (1-0) enters this game coming off a 43-21 win over UNLV last week as a 24.5-point favorite. Stanford (1-0) also won their opening game of the season with their 31-10 win over San Diego State as a 14-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINAL MINUS THE POINTS: Stanford’s defense flexed their muscles by holding the Aztecs to only 263 yards of offense. The Cardinal returns six starters from a group that gave up too much yardage but still tied for 34th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 22.7 PPG. Stanford was 9-5 last year but finished their season with a loss to these Trojans in the Pac-12 Championship Game by a 31-28 score before then losing to TCU in the Alamo Bowl by a 39-37 score. Four of the five losses for the Cardinal last season were by a field goal or less — so they were very close to a very nice season. They return nine starters on offense including junior quarterback K.J. Costello who completed 21 of 31 passes for 332 yards with four touchdown passes. The team is led by senior Bryce Love who is a Heisman Trophy candidate after using for 2118 yards last year despite being hobbled with a host of injuries last season. Love rushed for only 29 yards last week on 18 carries — and Stanford as a team managed only 50 rushing yards but they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after failing to rush for at least 100 yards in their last game. The Cardinal host this game where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games. Stanford has also covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record. USC has been inconsistent under fourth-year head coach Clay Helton as they are 16-35-1 ATS in their last 52 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Trojans have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread. Too often, this USC team plays uninspired — and that is a risk against a Cardinal team they defeated twice last year with a 42-24 win on September 9th before following that up in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The Trojans finished 11-3 last year after losing to Ohio State in the Citrus Bowl by a 24-7 score. Those eleven wins included a fortunate three net close wins in games decided by one possession. Thirteen starters return but this group lost a lot of talent to the NFL including their QB Sam Darnold who will be starting on Monday for the Jets. USC is relying on a true freshman quarterback in J.T. Daniels — and this will be his first game playing in a hostile environment with it being a nationally televised night game to boot. As it is, the Trojans are just 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games on the road — and they gave failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. USC has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games in the month of September — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog which includes their last three road games when getting up to seven points.

FINAL TAKE: Stanford has had this game circled all off-season given their two losses to USC last year. Both those games were away from home. Playing this game in Palo Alto with an experienced quarterback facing a true freshman should make a huge difference this team that is better-coached under David Shaw than the Trojans under Helton. 25* CFB Fox-TV Game of the Month with the Stanford Cardinal (388) minus the points versus the USC Trojans (387). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Miami (OH) Warhawks (380) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (379). THE SITUATION: Cincinnati (1-0) began their season by pulling the upset on the road at UCLA last Saturday by a 26-17 score as a 14-point underdog. Miami (OH) (0-1) looks to bounce-back from a 35-28 upset loss at home to Marshall as a 1-point favorite last week. This game will be played at the home of the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium for these neighboring Ohio rivals.

REASONS TO TAKE MIAMI (OH) PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): Cincinnati is likely to experience a letdown after traveling out west to shock the Bruins in the opening game of the Chip Kelly era out there. The Bearcats were actually outgained by -2 yards in that game but controlled the time of possession against the up-tempo Kelly offense by keeping the UCLA defense on the field for 34:21 minutes of that game. But Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after an upset victory as a road underdog. The Bearcats have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win while also covering the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread victory. Cincinnati returned 12 starters from last year’s 4-8 squad that was outgained by -77 net YPG in American Athletic Conference play last year. The Bearcats offense was just tied for 110th in the FBS by scoring 20.9 PPG which is perhaps why second-year head coach Luke Fickell decided to tap redshirt freshman Desmond Ridder as his starting quarterback over senior QB Hayden Moore. Ridder completed 13 of 24 passes but managed only 100 passing yards. Cincy lacked game-breakers on offense last year — and generating only 304 yards last week against UCLA did little to alleviate those concerns despite sophomore running back Michael Warren II rushing for 142 yards while needing 35 carries to get there. The Bearcats allowed only 306 yards last week which might speak more to the state of the Bruins’ offense implementing Kelly’s schemes (and their senior transfer quarterback Wilton Speight left that game with an injury) than it did about the quality of their defense. Cincinnati allowed at least 31 points eight times last season while ranking 100th in the nation in 3rd Down defense by allowing opponents to generate first downs in 43.3% of those plays. Moving forward, the Bearcats have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games against non-conference opponents — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. I don’t love this team playing away from home for the second straight week — especially with a rookie QB. Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games played on a neutral field. Miami (OH) should come out inspired as they have rebounded to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after suffering an upset loss at home as the favorite — and this includes them covering the point spread in three of those last four situations. This Warhawks team may be a sleeping giant with sixteen starters returning from last year’s team that finished 5-7. Fifth-year head coach Chuck Martin has to see his team through in close games as they are an awful 5-18 in one-possession games in his tenure after last week’s 7-point loss. While it would be wrong to excuse many of the mental mistakes that have cost this team in these close games, the Regression Gods do tend to make appearances for teams that suffer a disproportionate number of losses in close games. This is a better team than their record has indicated over the last few seasons — which is why they might explode with a very nice season before things are said and done. They outgained the Thundering Herd in that loss with their senior QB Gus Ragland completed 25 of 46 passes for 357 yards with three TD passes and no interceptions. The Redhawks rushed for only 87 yards last week despite their top five rushers returning from last year’s team along with Maurice Thomas who missed last year with an injury. Miami has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after failing to rush for at least 100 yards in their last game. And despite their disappointing record in one-possession games, they have covered the point spread in expected close games where they were listed in the +/- 3-point range.

FINAL TAKE: The Redhawks have a final chip on their shoulder with them being motivated to avenge a 21-17 upset loss to the Bearcats last season as 3.5-point home favorites last September 16th. It will be very easy to Martin to motivate his team this week — and defeating this Cincinnati team will go a long way to make up for the close losses that they have suffered even to begin this season. 25* CFB Non-Conference Revenge Game of the Year Miami (OH) Warhawks (380) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (379). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the South Carolina Gamecocks (348) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (347). THE SITUATION: Georgia (1-0) opened their season last week with an easy 45-0 shutout win over Austin Peay. South Carolina (1-0) also impressed with a 49-15 win at home over Coastal Carolina last Saturday as a 31-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GAMECOCKS PLUS THE POINTS: The Bulldogs fancy themselves as a Top-Five college football program after reaching the National Championship Game last year. The Georgia football team rarely lacks for talent — but consistency and winning under pressure situations has constantly plagued this program. They lost a ton of talent to the NFL in the offseason while returning thirteen starters. While third-year head coach Kirby Smart is recruiting very well, there are some big pieces to replace from last year’s group. The offense lost an All-American left tackle in Isaiah Wynn while the defense must replace standout leaders in linebackers Roquan Smith and Lorenzo Carter along with free safety Dominic Sanders who all took their talents to the NFL. The team also has a potential quarterback controversy brewing with 5-star freshman Justin Fields challenging sophomore Jake Fromm for playing time. This is a fragile foundation for a program that tends to suffer from over-confidence. That is a dangerous combination when facing this Gamecocks team against which they are just 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 encounters which includes going just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games in Columbia. South Carolina enters this game with a bunch of momentum as they generated 561 yards in their win over the Chanticleers. The Gamecocks are 6-1-2 ATS in their last 9 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after scoring at least 40 points. Furthermore, South Carolina is 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games after a win by at least 20 points while also having covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 home games after a win by at least 20 points. The Gamecocks return fourteen starters from their team that finished 9-4 after defeating Michigan in the Outback Bowl by a 26-19 score. The offense returns 98% of their rushing yards along with 80% of their receiving yards and 100% of their passing yards with junior Jake Bentley once again under center. This is the best team that head coach Will Muschamp has put together in his three years at South Carolina — and he is recruiting better than Steve Spurrier was at the end of his tenure. Injuries held this team back last year as they lost 42 games to injuries from prospective starters. They remain very tough at home where they are 50-14 straight-up over their last sixty-four games. The Gamecocks are also 7-1-3 ATS in their last 11 games in SEC play.

FINAL TAKE: South Carolina lost by a 24-10 score in Athens last year as a 24-point underdog back on November 4th. This Gamecocks team looks improved while that Bulldogs team is a step to two behind last year’s team at this point of the season. With South Carolina home underdogs getting around 10 points, take the dogs while expecting a much closer game than expected for Georgia. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the South Carolina Gamecocks (348) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (347). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Virginia Tech Hokies (219) and the Florida State Seminoles (220). THE SITUATION: Virginia Tech (0-0) enters this season coming off a 9-4 campaign that concluded with a 30-21 loss to Oklahoma State in the Camping World Bowl. Florida State (0-0) looks to rebound from a disappointing 7-6 season that ended on a positive note when they crushed Southern Miss by a 42-13 score.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Hokies always have a strong defense under defensive coordinator Bud Carson who has entered his 32nd year in coaching. His defense was 4th in the nation last year by holding their opponents to just 14.8 PPG while also ranking 13th in the FBS by allowing only 319.3 total YPG. This unit has helped Virginia Tech see 35 of their last 52 games in conference play finish Under the Total. The offense returns seven starters from a group that ranked only 69th in the nation by scoring 28.2 PPG. Offensive line issues often held that group back — and facing the stout Seminoles defensive line will be another big challenge. The Hokies also have a big hole at running back after Travon McMillan left early for the NFL. Virginia Tech has played 4 of their last 5 games on the road Under the Total — and the Under is 3-1-1 in their last 5 games in the month of September. Furthermore, Fuente-coached teams have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total as a road underdog — and his teams have played 9 of their last 10 games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 10 points. Florida State usually plays lower-scoring games in situations like this as they have played 6 of their last 7 home games Under the Total when laying 7.5 to 10 points. The Seminoles were 18th in the nation last year by holding their opponents to only 331.1 total YPG — and they were tied for 29th in the FBS by allowing just 21.2 PPG. New head coach Willie Taggart has tapped sophomore Deondre Francois to be his starting quarterback after he suffered a season-ending knee injury last September. But Francois had been recruited to play in a Run-Pass Option offense out of high school and he is now being asked to operate Taggart’s up-tempo spread offense — so growing pains are likely. He inherits eight starters from an offense that ranked only 100th in the nation by averaging 351.9 total YPG. Florida State has played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total in the first-half of the season. The Under is also 20-7-1 in the Seminoles’ last 28 games in ACC play.

FINAL TAKE: Expect a lower-scoring game in this opening game between two teams that are both led by their defenses. 10* CFB Monday Night Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Virginia Tech Hokies (219) and the Florida State Seminoles (220). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Virginia Tech Hokies (219) plus the points versus the Florida State Seminoles (220). THE SITUATION: Virginia Tech (0-0) enters this season coming off a 9-4 campaign that concluded with a 30-21 loss to Oklahoma State in the Camping World Bowl. Florida State (0-0) looks to rebound from a disappointing 7-6 season that ended on a positive note when they crushed Southern Miss by a 42-13 score.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOKIES PLUS THE POINTS: I am not sure why the Seminoles are being given so much respect that they are laying a touchdown against one of high quality program like Virginia Tech. Jimbo Fisher jumped ship to Texas A&M because in large measure of the financial package the Aggies were offering him to make College Station his home. But I would think that Fisher stays at Florida State if he was encouraged about his team’s prospects moving forward. Only twelve starters return from last year’s team. The Seminoles were snakebite by injuries as they lost 39 games to projected starters being hit with the injury bug including their starting quarterback Deondre Francois. But when do the excuses end for a football program that has won only ten of their last nineteen games in ACC play? The Seminoles lost their usual handful of players from that last year’s group to the NFL. They have hired Willie Taggart to be their head coach after his success at South Florida got him the job at Oregon last year that he abandoned with the Seminoles offer. Taggart is installing new systems on both sides of the football so there will likely be growing pains. He inherits players that were used in a Run-Pass Option offense so these players may have some difficulties moving to Taggart’s up-tempo power spread attack. This is a tricky proposition for a team that is just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games in the moths of September. The defense lost six of their top seven tacklers and return only four starters. Additionally, Florida State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range — and they have failed to cover their last three home games with the over/under in that range. The Seminoles are also 0-6-2 ATS in their last 8 games in conference action. Furthermore, Taggart-coached teams have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games with the Total set in the 7.5 to 14 point range — and his teams have also failed to cover the point spread in 7  of their last 11 home games with the Total in the 52.5 to 56 point range. Virginia Tech returns twelve starters as well on a team that sees 3/4ths of the roster being sophomores or younger. But this young group are Justin Fuente players in his third year in Blacksburg — and teams often make a big jump in the third year of new coach’s tenure. The Hokies still have their rock on defense in defensive coordinator Bud Foster in his 32nd season as a coach. He oversaw a team that ranked 4th in the nation by holding teams to just 14.8 PPG. While it might be too much to ask of this group to replicate that feat, this should once again be an outstanding defense under Foster. The offense is led by sophomore QB Josh Jackson who made 13 starts last year. He passed for 2991 yards last year while posting a nice 20 touchdown passes to 9 interception ratio. A mediocre offensive line made things difficult for him last year — but both he and that line that returns three starters including a 6’7 beast at right tackle in Yoshua Nijman should be improved this year. This will be the first time since moving to Virginia Tech that Fuente will have his starting quarterback back under center. The Hokies have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in the month of September — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 34 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: Virginia Tech may have a ceiling regarding how good their football program can be — but they more consistently come close to hitting that ceiling year-after-year. Florida State seems to have taken a step back — particularly on their offensive line. The Hokies likely have the better defense in this game which should help them keep things very close even on the road. 25* CFB ESPN Game of the Month with the Virginia Tech Hokies (219) plus the points versus the Florida State Seminoles (220). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (217) minus the points versus the LSU Tigers (218). THE SITUATION: Miami (0-0) returns to the field after the finished last year with a 10-3 record after a 34-24 loss to Wisconsin. LSU (0-0) completed a 9-4 campaign last season with a 21-17 loss to Notre Dame. This game is played on a neutral field at AT&T Stadium in the home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HURRICANES MINUS THE POINTS: Miami had National Championship aspirations in the month of November last year after winning their first ten games of the season. But we expected their bubble to burst — and they lost their last three games of the season with an upset loss at Pittsburgh before getting crushed by Clemson in the ACC Championship Game and then losing to the Badgers in their bowl game. But this team was also hampered with a slew of injuries by the end of the year that exposed the lack of depth that head coach Mark Richt has yet to establish in South Beach. Two outstanding recruiting classes is getting Richt closer to where he wants to be — and his team is pretty much healthy as they begin this season. They return fourteen starters from last year’s team including their fifth year senior quarterback, Malik Rosier. This is the best team Richt has had since moving from Georgia to Miami — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games against teams outside the ACC. The Hurricanes have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games as the favorite — including covering the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when laying 3.5 to 10 points. And in their last 6 games in the month of September, Miami  has covered the point spread 5 times. LSU is just 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games in the month of September which might speak to the preparation skills of their head coach Ed Orgeron. Together, these team trends produce our specific 31-13-1 ATS combined angle for this situation. The journeyman has proven capable of taking over teams in decline as he has served as the interim head coach both for the Tigers and with USC but his head coaching stint at Ole Miss was uninspiring. He could not make things work out with offensive wunderkind Matt Canada last year as he invested in too much micromanaging which led to Canada departing to Maryland (where he just coached the Terrapins to an upset win over Texas serving as their interim head coach to the suspended D.J. Durkin). I cannot argue with the conventional wisdom that this LSU program is in decline. The recruiting is down a bit with two of the key additions to this roster being graduate transfers from the football hot bed that is Texas Tech. Orgeron also suspended a handful of players for this game including a returning starter and emerging star in sophomore linebacker Tyler Taylor. This team has only four senior starters this season of the ten starters they returned from last year. As always, this team took significant hits by losing players that moved on to the NFL. They probably made a good move in grabbing a disgruntled graduated senior quarterback in Joe Burrow who transferred from Ohio State after losing the quarterback battle with Dwayne Haskins. It might speak more to the sorry state of the LSU offense that is so easy to see a fifth senior who has never started a game in college as an obvious upgrade at the position — but I remain skeptical of the team’s likely move to a more pass-happy attack under new offensive coordinator Steve Emsinger. That decision may speak more to the lack of a bell-cow running back on the roster.

FINAL TAKE: LSU lost their first four games vis-a-vis the point spread by -16.5 PPG before covering the point spread in their next seven games by +7.8 PPG. I think the former numbers speak to Orgeron’s acumen to prepare his team early while that good seven-game stretch speaking to the public overreacting to a few losing tickets with LSU’s name on it. The action on this game is almost split (Miami has a narrow edge from my latest scan). Look for a better-prepared Hurricanes team to take care of business. 10* CFB Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (217) minus the points versus the LSU Tigers (218). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (217) and the LSU Tigers (218). THE SITUATION: Miami (0-0) returns to the field after the finished last year with a 10-3 record after a 34-24 loss to Wisconsin. LSU (0-0) completed a 9-4 campaign last season with a 21-17 loss to Notre Dame. This game is played on a neutral field at AT&T Stadium in the home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Miami returns seven starters from a very good defense that was 28th in the FBS by allowing 21.0 PPG. The Hurricanes lost five key contributors on the defensive line with two of those players leaving early for the NFL — but head coach Mark Richt had nice depth at this position last year and has been recruiting very well. Depth is an issue for the defensive line this season but that that is less of a concern for this opening game. The offense returns seven starters from a group that sputtered down the stretch of the season as they scored 41 combined points in losing their last three games. Injuries certainly played a role with that collapse in production with running back Mark Walton being the biggest loss. But that is the new reality for this team with him leaving early for the NFL — so Richt is counting heavily on a five-star freshman tailback in Lorenzo Lingard. Senior quarterback Malik Rosier completed just 40 of 89 passes for an unforgiving 44.9% completion rate — and he completed just 54% of his passes in a very inconsistent season. The Hurricanes have played 14 of their last 21 games Under the Total when favored — and they have also played 6 straight games Under the Total when playing on a neutral field. Richt is likely to play this game cautiously while relying heavily on his defense. His teams have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total when favored on a neutral field laying less than 7 points. His teams have also played a defensive 34 of their last 55 games Under the Total with the number set in the 42.5 to 49 point range — and this included playing three of his last four games Under the Total in that situation. LSU returns five starters and 57% of the tackles from last year’s defense that was 14th in the nation by allowing only 18.9 PPG while also ranking 12th in the FBS by limiting their opponents to just 316.0 total YPG. This should remain a stout group with defensive coordinator still in the fold after he was given a huge four-year $10 million dollar deal which makes him one of the highest paid assistant coaches in the nation. The questions for this program will remain on offense where they ranked just 76th in the nation last year by scoring 27.2 PPG. The team is excited about the prospects of their new starting quarterback in Joe Burrow who is a graduate transfer from Ohio State. The 6’3 senior narrowly lost the Buckeyes’ QB job in the spring before deciding to transfer where he supposedly narrowly beat out sophomore Myles Brennan for this starting job. While Burrow was a highly touted coming out of college, he never got a whiff of possibly starting in Columbus until this spring — and he joined the Tigers with just the August practices to learn the offense. LSU lost Derrius Guice who moved on to the NFL which leaves the biggest hole at this position in my recent memory (going back ten years in my notes). Their leading returning rusher is Nick Brossette who ran the ball 19 times for 96 yards last year. Oy. The idea seems to be for this team that they will become more of a pass-first offense under new offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger. Oy — and Miami returns three starters from one of the best secondaries in the nation last year. The Tigers have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing in September. LSU has also played 4 straight games Under the Total when playing on a neutral field — and the Under is 6-2-1 in their last 9 games outside SEC play. Lastly, Ed Orgeron-coached teams have played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total with the number set in the 42.5 to 49 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Expect this to be a lowing scoring game in this high profile showdown between to two programs with high aspirations who have more questions on the offensive side of the football than their typically strong defenses. 25* CFB ABC-TV Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (217) and the LSU Tigers (218). Best of luck for us — Frank.

No play -- I mistakenly loaded another game into this Middle Tennessee slot. Sorry about the error.

Thanks,

Frank

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Michigan Wolverines (211) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (212). THE SITUATION: Michigan (0-0) closed out a disappointing 8-5 campaign last year with a listless 26-19 loss to South Carolina in the Outback Bowl. Notre Dame (0-0) comes off a 21-17 win over LSU to conclude a 10-3 season in last year’s Citrus Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WOLVERINES PLUS THE POINTS: The en vogue Hot Take topic this week on sports cable shows has been whether or not Jim Harbaugh is on the hot seat this year at Michigan. Who exactly do these folks think is going to be banging down the doors to take the Michigan job if they dump their prodigal son in Harbaugh after four seasons? Bill Belichick? Harbaugh’s seat is ice-cold in Ann Arbor. But he certainly feels some urgency to start racking up some wins against traditional rivals. The Hot Takers point to Harbaugh’s inability to develop a quarterback in his first three seasons at Michigan while neglecting to remember that he took a graduate transfer in Jake Rudock who had lost his starting job at Iowa and made him into an NFL quarterback still rostered down the road with the Lions in just one year of stewardship with him. Harbaugh also nurtured the growth of a not highly recruited Wilton Speight who will be starting for Chip Kelly at UCLA to start this season. The fact is that two quarterbacks on Harbaugh’s roster failed to meet expectations. Shane Morris was a 5-star QB recruited by the previous head coach Brady Hoke who failed to develop in Harbaugh’s pro-style offense and lost his job to despite being a year older than Speight as a redshirt sophomore. Sensing trouble, Harbaugh brought in another transfer in Houston QB John O’Korn who simply could never learn how to read defenses. Both Morris and O’Korn were too loose with the football which is a red-hot negative for Harbaugh — especially with the outstanding defenses that he has overseen in his tenure at Michigan. Harbaugh has played the transfer card once again this year by acquiring junior Shea Patterson from Ole Miss who was granted a hardship waiver to be immediately eligible after being lied to by the despicable Hugh Freeze about the inevitable sanctions coming down on the Rebels’ football program. Patterson was a 5-star recruit coming out of high school who has shown flashes of brilliance in his first two years at Ole Miss. He was challenged in the offseason by something Harbaugh has yet to experience at Michigan: three other QBs on the depth chart that were his specific recruits. These trials and tribulations at QB aside, the overriding reason why the Wolverines have underachieved in Harbaugh’s tenure has been the play of the offensive line. The program was still feeling the effects of the Rich Rodriguez era who recruited smaller and quicker offensive linemen for his spread option attack when Harbaugh arrived. Harbaugh has also had scheme issues with assistant coaches on offense wanting to accomplish conflicting agendas. Harbaugh has been honest about these missteps during the offseason and swallowed hard by letting one of his long-time cronies in Tim Drevno go who was a co-offensive coordinator along with the offensive line coach. Harbaugh has brought in a new offensive line coach in Ed Warinner who coached Ohio State to a National Championship with that unit. He also tapped former Florida head coach Jim McElwain to serve on the offensive coaching staff with the other offensive coordinator from last year in Pep Hamilton who brings with him an NFL pedigree. Say what you want about Harbaugh but he is not afraid of bringing strong personalities into the room — and he is not standing pat with recent results. That philosophy has worked wonders on the defensive side of the football where third-year defensive coordinator Don Brown has built a dynasty with the talent at his disposal in Ann Arbor after coordinating the nation’s top defense at Boston College back in 2015. Michigan returns nine starters on defense along with fourteen of the top sixteen tacklers from a group that was 3rd in the nation by holding opponents to just 271.0 total YPG. It is the strength on defense led by one of the best defensive lines in the nation that makes the Wolverines the strong play tonight. Notre Dame lost two All-American offensive linemen from last year who were both drafted in the first round of the NFL draft. The Irish are now inexperienced on their offensive line while seeing only one player at the same position from last year’s bowl game. That is not a good sign for an offense that scored only 18.4 PPG in their last four games last year after scoring 41.3 PPG in their first nine contests. It was a breakdown on the offensive line that caused their problems late in the season as they averaged only 145 rushing YPG over those last four games while allowing 16 sacks. Senior Brandon Wimbush looks to be the starting quarterback again this season despite completing only 49.5% of his passes while demonstrating difficulties to adapt to complicated defenses that he will surely see this evening. Don’t be surprised if head coach Brian Kelly calls on redshirt sophomore Ian Book before this game is over after a good spring and a strong outing in their bowl game win. But the team will be without senior running back Dexter Williams who has been suspended for the first four games of this season. The Fighting Irish lost a lot of talent to the NFL from last year while seeing their national recruiting rankings dip over the years from years of disappointment in not returning to the College Football Playoff. Kelly also had to hire his third defensive coordinator in three years with Clark Lea promoted to the position after Mike Elko decided the defensive coordinator position at Texas A&M was more attractive than the one in South Bend. The Irish have failed to cover the point spread in expected close games in 4 of their last 6 contest when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Notre Dame has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against Big Ten opponents. Michigan has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games in the month of September — and they have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Harbaugh’s teams have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games with the Total in that 42.5 to 49 range.

FINAL TAKE: Michigan opened as the small road favorite in this game but has been bet down with Notre Dame being the favorite in some spots as the home team in this nationally televised night game. Trust the wisdom in the oddsmakers when they originally posted this line. 10* CFB Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Michigan Wolverines (211) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (212). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the North Texas Mean Green (182) minus the points versus the SMU Mustangs (181). THE SITUATION: North Texas (0-0) begins their season coming off a 9-5 campaign that culminated in a 50-30 loss to Troy in the New Orleans Bowl. SMU (0-0) was 7-6 last season after an upset 51-10 loss they suffered at the hands of Louisiana Tech.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MEAN GREEN MINUS THE POINTS: North Texas returns seventeen starters from last year’s group that played nine bowl teams. The Mean Green need to focus on reducing their turnovers this season: in their nine wins, they had just a -2 net turnover margin but they endured a -9 net turnover margin in their five losses. UNT had a +1 net turnover margin in 2016 so third-year head coach Seth Littrell should receive a positive visit from the Regression Gods this year. Littrell should have his team fired up to play this game after they were crushed by the Mustangs last year in Dallas by a 54-32 score in a game where they suffered a -2 net turnover margin that overwhelmed their matching SMU’s 493 total yards in that game. Now this game is played in Denton where the Mean Green have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 home games. UNT returns nine players on offense led by QB Mason Fine who oversaw a group that finished 9th in the nation by scoring 35.5 PPG. The Mean Green have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games played in the month of September. And in their last 9 games played against teams outside Conference USA, North Texas has covered the point spread 7 times. SMU returns fourteen starters but they only have seven seniors on their roster making them a less experienced group overall than last year. The Mustangs defense needs plenty of work as they allowed 476.7 total YPG which was 121st in the FBS — and this is why this game risks being a blowout for the home team. SMU has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 road games in expected high-scoring games where the Total was set at 70 or higher. This will be Sonny Dykes first regular season game coaching for this team after he was hired just in time to coach the team during their bowl game last December. Dykes teams have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 road games with the Total set at 70 or higher.

FINAL TAKE: The road team has lost eight of the last nine games in the dubbed Safeway Bowl between these two teams. Defense has never been a strong suit for Dykes-coached teams — and inherits a group that needed a lot of work. Look for North Texas to avenge their September loss last season. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the North Texas Mean Green (182) minus the points versus the SMU Mustangs (181). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Washington Huskies (193) plus the points versus the Auburn Tigers (194). THE SITUATION: Washington (0-0) begins their season coming off a 10-3 campaign that ended in a disappointing 35-28 loss to Penn State in the Fiesta Bowl. Auburn (0-0) saw their National Championship aspirations thwarted by a loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship before they limped through their bowl game in an uninspired 34-27 loss to Central Florida in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HUSKIES PLUS THE POINTS: Washington opened as a small favorite in the -2.5 range but this game was bet the other way where now it is Auburn laying up to field goal in many spots. Much has been said about this being a de-facto home game for the Tigers who not only are just a short 90 minute drive east on I-20 to Atlanta but will be playing their third straight game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium after the SEC Championship Game then the Chick-Fil-A Bowl. What does not get mentioned in that spiel is that Auburn got blown out in both those games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 straight games played in a dome. The Tigers lost a ton of talent that moved on from the NFL from that team last year. The biggest concern is on the offensive line where they lost five senior starters from last year’s team. Washington lost their massive defensive tackle Vita Vea from their defense who took this talents to the NFL — but they remain a loaded defensive team that returns nine starters with 72% of their tackles back from last year’s team that finished 5th in the FBS by allowing 16.1 PPG while also ranking 8th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 298.0 total YPG. The Huskies defensive backfield may be the best group in the nation with six players returning who had at least six starts last year — and that group allowed only 5 touchdown passes in Pac-12 play which was the lowest amount since USC in 2008. Washington has key talent returning on offense as well led by senior quarterback Jake Browning and senior running back Myles Gaskin. Injuries decimated the wide receiver unit last year but Browning and Gaskin were the core of the offense two years ago that made the College Football Playoff. The Huskies have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games in the first-half of the season including covering the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games played in the opening two weeks of the season. Auburn has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on a neutral field — and they are just 0-5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against teams outside the SEC.

FINAL TAKE: Auburn is being given a lot of unearned credit for this game being played in Atlanta despite their track record in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Too many bettors are forgetting about the talent Chris Petersen has accumulated in Spokane — and this is probably the best team he has ever coached including his great teams at Boise State. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with Washington Huskies (193) plus the points versus the Auburn Tigers (194). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Wyoming Cowboys (206) plus the points versus the Washington State (205). THE SITUATION: Washington State Cougars (0-0) kicks off their season coming off an 8-5 campaign that concluded with a 42-17 loss to Michigan State in the Holiday Bowl. Wyoming (1-0) played last Saturday in a dominant 29-7 win at New Mexico State where they were 5.5-point favorites.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COWBOYS PLUS THE POINTS: We had a strong play on the Under in that Wyoming game last week and were rewarded with a dominant defensive effort from them as they held the Aggies to just 135 yards of offense and a mere seven first downs. Senior running back Nico Evans exploded with 190 rushing yards on 24 carries and two touchdowns while helping the offense control the Time of Possession for 40:41 in that game. Redshirt freshman Tyler Vander Waal looked steady under center replacing the departed Josh Allen as he completed 13 of 22 passes for 137 yards but did not turn the ball over. The Cowboys return home in a great position to build off that momentum as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after both a straight-up win and after a point spread victory. Wyoming outgained New Mexico State by +315 net yards in that win — and they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +125 yards while also covering the point spread in 24 of their last 34 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +175 net yards. Furthermore, the Cowboys have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after not allowing more than 175 passing yards in their last game. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Wyoming has a significant home-field advantage in the high altitude of Laramie which is 7220 feet above sea level — they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games at home. This is a difficult opening game for a Washington State team that has lost five of their last six opening games under head coach Mike Leach. The Cougars have also lost seven straight opening games to a new season when on the road. This team’s fitness will certainly be challenged by the thin air in Laramie that they will not be familiar with. As it is, Washington State has failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games in the opening two weeks of a new season. The Cougars return just ten starters from last year’s group with Leach still officially noncommittal regarding who will replace their quarterback Luke Falk. This will be the first time in seven seasons where Washington State is unsettled at the QB position. Leach has a couple of jucos and a true freshman in the mix but it will likely be a graduate transfer in Gardner Minshew who came over from East Carolina who will get the call. The Cougars have been last in the FBS in five of the last six seasons in rushing attempts so this is not a program that is built to have the running game make things easier for their quarterback. The defense lost two of the key contributors last year in All-American defensive end Hercules Mata’afa and defensive coordinator Alex Brinch who oversaw significant improvement with that unit. Washington State has won sixteen of their last twenty games at home to demonstrate a strong home field advantage — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. The Cougars have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against a non-conference opponent.

FINAL TAKE: Wyoming has a significant advantage in having their first game under their belts. They return home with confidence that makes them a dangerous underdog in this game against a football team with a history of poor starts to a new season — especially on the road. 25* CFB CBS-Sports Network Game of the Month with the Wyoming Cowboys (206) plus the points versus the Washington State (205). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas Longhorns (173) minus the points versus the Maryland Terrapins (174). THE SITUATION: Texas (0-0) enters this game coming off a 7-6 campaign that concluded with a 33-16 win over Missouri in the Texas Bowl. Maryland (0-0) comes off a disappointing 4-8 campaign. While the Terrapins are the technical home team for this contest, the game will be played on a technical neutral field at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland which is the home of the Washington Redskins.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LONGHORNS MINUS THE POINTS: The Terrapins are a mess right now amidst the tragedy in the offseason where one of their players passed away during a summer practice. The debacle has third-year head coach D.J. Durkin suspended for this game and fighting to keep his job after the utter failure in control to maintain the safety of his players. New offensive coordinator Matt Canada will serve as the interim head coach after coming off from LSU in the offseason. What Maryland did not need to enter this season was more turmoil after they lost seven of their last eight games to close out a once-promising season. The Terrapins were blitzed in Big Ten play by being outgained by a whopping 128 net YPG. They are likely to start a freshman QB this afternoon in Kasim Hill who looked good in three games last year before suffering an ACL injury that ended his season. But this remains a Maryland team that has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games as an underdog. Texas returns fourteen starters from last year’s group that lost four games by four points or less. This was also a team riddled with injuries as they ranked 13th in the nation with 38 games lost by prospective starters to injuries. This team should make a major leap in quality of play in the second-year under head coach Tom Herman. The defense sees seven starters return from a group that tied for 29th in the FBS by allowing only 21.2 PPG. The Longhorns led the nation in 3rd down defense while ranking 4th in the nation by stuffing opponent’s rushing plays at or behind the line of scrimmage in 27.1% of those plays. The offense is the area that should the most immediate growth with Herman being an offensive guru - he has tapped sophomore Sam Ehlinger as his starter. Texas has covered the point spread in 6 straight games against teams outside the Big 12 — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games played on a neutral field. Additionally, the Longhorns have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing in September. Lastly, Texas will have revenge on their minds after being shocked by the Terrapins at home last year by a 51-41 score. Maryland rushed for 263 yards in that opening game last year — but this Longhorns defense has come a long way since that September 2nd contest.

FINAL TAKE: Texas has had this game circled on their schedule for a long time now as they will be very motivated to start out strong after getting upset as 19-point favorites last year at this time. They should smell blood in the proverbial water with these Terrapins rocked with scandal. 10* CFB Texas-Maryland FS1-TV Special with the Texas Longhorns (173) minus the points versus the Maryland Terrapins (174). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Colorado State Rams (149) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (148). Colorado State (0-1) looks to bounce-back from a disappointing effort last week in their 43-34 upset loss at home to Hawai’i last Saturday despite being 17-point favorites in that game. Colorado (0-0) makes their debut this season after suffering a 5-7 campaign last season.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS PLUS THE POINTS: Colorado State was not ready to face the Rainbow Warriors new Run-and-Shoot passing offense as they surrendered 617 yards in that contest with 418 of those yards being in the air. The Rams defense has a new staff this season led by new defensive coordinator John Jancek who had served as the coordinator for the Tennessee defense from 2013-15. He had his unit switch from a 3-4 to a 4-3 scheme and has to be very frustrated with the efforts of his group. But that should have ensured an alert group of players in practice this week. As it is, Colorado State has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. The Rams have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last contest. Colorado State can take some positives from that game as graduate transfer K.J. Carta Samuels looked very good running the offense. The former Washington quarterback completed 34 of 50 passes for 537 yards while throwing 5 touchdown passes. Overall, the Rams generated 653 yards against Hawai’i — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after gaining at least 575 yards in their last game while also covering the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after passing for at least 375 yards. Moving forward, Colorado State is 16-7-1 ATS in their last 24 games when facing an opponent outside the Mountain West Conference. Colorado returns only ten starters from last year’s team that took a big step back from a 10-4 season back on 2016. The concern for sixth-year head coach Mike MacIntyre is just how swift the decline was last season as not only did they lose seven of their nine games in Pac-12 play but they were outgained by -87 net YPG against those opponents. The team returns junior Steven Montez at quarterback but they must replace their running back Phillip Lindsay along with their top four starters at wide receiver and three straight starters on the offensive line. The defense struggled to stop the run last year as they allowed their opponents to average 5.2 Yards-Per-Carry while ranking 109th by giving up 208.0 rushing YPG. They return four of their starters in that front seven — and they have to replace Isaiah Oliver in their defensive backfield who left for the NFL from a group that was 94th against the pass. This game will be played on a neutral field in Denver at the Broncos Stadium at Mile High — and the Buffaloes are just 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games played on grass.

FINAL TAKE: Colorado State should play much better this week on defense with the benefit of a game under their belts. It will be Colorado that will be dealing with opening day jitters and rust in this contest. While the Rams are very frustrated with their loss last week to Hawai’i, that all can be rectified by upsetting their in-state rival this week. Expect a close game where having the points will be quite valuable. 25* CFB Game of the Month with  Colorado State Rams (149) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (148). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Army Black Knights (159) and the Duke Blue Devils (160). THE SITUATION: Army (0-0) enters the new season coming off a triumphant 10-3 campaign that culminated with a 42-35 victory over San Diego State in the Armed Forces Bowl. Wake Forest (0-0) comes off a 7-6 season that ended with a 36-14 win over Northern Illinois in the Quick Lane Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Black Knights return eight starters along with five of their last top seven tacklers from a strong group that finished tied for 32nd in the nation by holding their opponents to just 22.0 PPG while also ranking 32nd in the FBS by limiting their opponents to only 349.7 total YPG. This defense should be quite good right out of the gates this season — and they have played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total in the first month of the season. Army is rebuilding of offense as they only returned three starters from last year’s group including their quarterback Ahmad Bradshaw. The Black Knights have played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total on the road. Duke has the benefit of having all of fall camp to prepare for Army’s spread triple option. The Blue Devils always invest time to prepare for this unique offense with Georgia Tech on the schedule year-after-year. These two teams played last year and while Duke was upset by a 21-16 score as a 4-point favorite, they did hold Army to 136 yards below their rushing YPG mark while limiting them to just 3.96 Yards-Per-Carry. The Blue Devils have played 11 of their last 13 games Under the Total in the first-half of the season. Duke has also played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total at home — and they have also played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: The defenses should be ahead of the offenses in this August contest. Duke should also be able to slow down the rebuilding Army offense that they did a fine job against last year in a game that finished 15 points Under the Total. 10* CFB Friday Daily Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the game between the Army Black Knights (159) and the Duke Blue Devils (160). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Western Michigan Broncos (144) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (143). THE SITUATION: Syracuse (0-0) begins their season coming off a lackluster 4-8 campaign last year. Western Michigan (0-0) was 6-6 last year and also missed out on a bowl like the Orange.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BRONCOS PLUS THE POINTS: Western Michigan was ravaged with injuries last season — they lost twenty-one players to season-ending injuries. The defense was hit hard with the loss of five safeties that just wreaks havoc on positional depth. But the Broncos were hit even worse on offense where they lost five running backs, five wide receivers and their starting quarterback Jon Wassink who suffer a season-ending injury in Week Eight. Western Michigan was a solid 5-3 with Wassink starting the game but lost three of their last four games once he went on the shelf with that depleted offense. Yet the Broncos still ended the season tied for 25th by scoring 33.9 PPG. This has the potential to be an explosive offense — and they have covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games in expected high-scoring games with the Total set at least at 63. Wassink led the Mid-American Conference by completing 64.2% of their passes. They should play very well tonight with this opportunity to upset a Power-Five Conference opponent. Western Michigan has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games in the first month of the season — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games as an underdog. The Broncos have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against non-conference opponents. Syracuse has lost fourteen of their last eighteen games when opening their season on the road. The Orange collapsed on defense last year as they allowed 54 PPG with that unit exposed from their lack of depth. That unit may have simply been exhausted for being on the field too long in the Dino Babers hurry-up offense that has the residual negative effect of keeping his defense on the field. But this is also a team has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the month of August. Lastly, Syracuse is just 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games when playing on field turf.

FINAL TAKE: This shapes up to be a high-scoring game. Western Michigan is just one year removed from their 13-1 campaign and remain a dangerous Group of Five opponent for any Power-Five team. Expect a close game where the Broncos have the opportunity to pull the upset. 10* CFB Friday Night Kick Off with the Western Michigan Broncos (144) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (143). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Purdue Boilermakers (136) minus the points versus the Northwestern Wildcats (135). THE SITUATION: Purdue (0-0) finished with a 7-6 record last year after they defeated Arizona by a 38-35 score in the Foster Farms Bowl. Northwestern (0-0) concluded a strong 10-3 season with their 24-23 victory over Kentucky in the Music City Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOILERMAKERS PLUS THE POINTS: The Wildcats won last year’s meeting between these two teams back on November 11th by a 23-13 score as a 6.5-point favorite. Purdue will also be looking to avenge a rough 45-17 loss to Northwestern the last time these two teams played in West Lafayette. The Boilermakers had a 10-0 early lead in that game before surrendering a whopping 605 yards in that blowout loss. Purdue has lost their last four games against the Wildcats but this will be just their second meeting against them with second-year head coach Jeff Brohm. He leads the Boilermakers to a 7-6 winning record last year which was a big improvement over their 3-9 campaign in 2016. Brohm is an offensive coach but the team’s progress was best measured by their significantly better play on defense as they ranked 24th in the FBS by allowing only 20.5 PPG. Only four starters return from that unit but defensive coordinators Nick Holt and Anthony Poindexter have the benefit of working with these players for over a year now. Brohm has not tipped his hand regarding who his starting quarterback will be after relying on senior David Blough and junior Elijah Sindelar last season. It looks like it will be Sindelar will get the nod (although I suspect both players will get time in this game). The big-armed QB passed for 376 yards against Northwestern last season. If there are some speed bumps with the Boilermakers defense this year, their offense that returns nine starters should keep them in this game. Purdue has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games as a favorite — and the Boilermakers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games in the first half of the season. Northwestern enjoyed a very fortunate season last year as they led the nation with the fewest games lost to injury while benefiting from winning all three of their games decided by one scoring possession. The big question for this team is the health of their 5th-year senior quarterback Clayton Thorson who tore his ACL in the Music City Bowl. While head coach Pat Fitzgerald has not announced who will be his starting QB for this game, Thorson was cleared to take part in practices earlier this month and will likely. However, Thorson has yet to see his recovered knee tested against live competition. The Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games in the first two weeks of a new season.

FINAL TAKE: Brohm proved he was one of the best coaches in the country by immediately making the Boilermakers competitive after building a very strong program at Western Kentucky. Northwestern enters this season probably a bit overvalued — and their QB situation is less than ideal with Thorson returning from injury. 25* CFB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Purdue Boilermakers (136) minus the points versus the Northwestern Wildcats (135). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Tulane Green Wave (140) plus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (139). THE SITUATION: Wake Forest (0-0) comes off an 8-5 season last year that culminated by 55-52 win over Texas A&M in the Belk Bowl. Tulane (0-0) is looking to reach a bowl game this year after a 5-7 campaign in 2018.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GREEN WAVE PLUS THE POINTS: Tulane returns fourteen starters from last year’s team in the third season under head coach Willie Fritz. The offense should make a jump this year after averaging 27.5 PPG as the personnel on the roster continues to better fit the run-first spread option that Fritz oversaw at Georgia Southern before coming over to the Big Easy. His Green Wave teams have steadily improved as their -20 net point differential last year was much better than the -43 net point differential in 2016 and the ugly -199 net point differential in that 2015 year prior to Fritz being wooed from Georgia Southern. Fritz has the quarterback to run this offense with senior Jonathan Banks who made big improvements in the second-half of last season with his passing game as he threw for 565 yards in those two games to offer a better complement to the Tulane ground game. Not coincidentally, the Green Wave upset Houston and almost upset SMU in those two games. This Tulane team was battle-tested last year as they faced nine bowl-eligible teams — and they lost four of these games by 6 points or less. The Green Wave have covered the point spread in 4 straight games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 10 points. Tulane has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. Furthermore, Fritz should have his team ready to play as the Green Wave have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games in the first-half of the season in his tenure. Wake Forest has lost twenty-two of their last twenty-nine road openers straight-up — so they are prone to slow starts. They will be without their top quarterback on the depth chart in junior Kendall Hinton who was expected to replace the graduated John Wolford. Hinton has been suspended for the first three games of this season. Even worse for head coach Dave Clawson, sophomore Jamie Newman is questionable for this game with a quad injury which leaves the team relying on a true freshman in Sam Hartman as their man under center tonight. Hartman was lower-ranked QB coming out of high school than Newman so this is not a good turn of events for this Demon Deacon team that returned eight other starters on offense. Wake Forest lost some key players on the defensive side of the football so that group may be work in progress early this year. The Demon Deacons have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games with the Total set in the 52.5 to 56 point range — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 road games when laying 3.5 to 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Wake Forest opens this season with a number of question marks on both sides of the football which makes them precarious favorites when playing in a hostile environment. Expect a close game. 20* CFB Wake Forest-Tulane CBS Sports Network Special with the Tulane Green Wave (140) plus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (139). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Wyoming Cowboys (291) and the New Mexico State Aggies (292). THE SITUATION: Wyoming (0-0) closed out last season by winning their second straight bowl game when they defeated Central Michigan in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl by a 37-14 score. New Mexico State (0-0) also ended their season on a high-note when they upset Utah State in the Arizona Bowl by a 26-20 score.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Wyoming will be learning to live life without Josh Allen declared early for the NFL draft who was then drafted in the 1st round by Buffalo. But even with that blue-chipper under center, the Cowboys only scored 23.5 PPG while averaging a mere 286.0 total YPG which ranked 104th and 125th in the FBS. Struggles with their offensive line made things difficult for Allen under center — and they only averaged 3.17 Yards-Per-Carry which was 6th worst in the nation. It is difficult to imagine this offensive unit to be much better out of the blocks without Allen. Head coach Craig Bohl has named redshirt freshman Tyler Vander Waal as the starting quarterback over an experienced senior in Nick Smith — but this will be his first collegiate start and he will be doing it on the road in a nationally televised night game. As it is, Wyoming has paled 4 of their last 5 games away from home Under the Total. The Cowboys have also played 37 of their last 56 games Under the Total in the first month of the season. But the foundation of this team last year was a defense that ranked 9th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 17.5 PPG. Eight starters return from that unit including All-Mountain West Conference candidates at all three levels — so Bohl will likely lean on this group heavily to begin the year. Wyoming has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total against non-conference opponents — and they have also played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing on field turf. New Mexico State (0-0) makes their debut as an independent after their contract with the Sun Belt last season. They also have a new starting quarterback with head coach Doug Martin tapping junior college transfer Matt Romero over senior Nick Jeanty. But the Aggies will also have the luxury of leaning on an experienced defense as they return ten of their top eleven tacklers from last year’s team. New Mexico State was a bend-but-do-not-break group last year on defense as they were 7th in the nation in 3rd Down defense while ranking 41st in the FBS in Red Zone defense. This should be an even better group under the guidance of an outstanding defensive coach in defensive coordinator Frank Spaziano who had some elite defensive units when he was the head coach at Boston College. The Aggies have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total on field-turf — and the Under is 8-0-1 in their last 9 games at home.

FINAL TAKE: With both these teams kicking off their seasons early with experienced defenses and rookie quarterbacks, expect this to be a low-scoring game. 25* CFB Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Wyoming Cowboys (291) and the New Mexico State Aggies (292). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Colorado State Rams (294) minus the points versus the Hawai’i Warriors (293). THE SITUATION: Hawai’i (0-0) closed out last season losing their last five games to conclude a disappointing 3-9 campaign. Colorado State (0-0) comes off a 7-6 season that ended in disappointment when they were upset as 5.5-point favorites to Marshall in the New Mexico Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE COLORADO STATE MINUS THE POINTS: The Rams enters this season returning nine starters from the team. The team had a scare this month with head coach Mike Bobo having a medical issue — but he was cleared to rejoin the team on Wednesday and will be on the sidelines for this opening contest. Colorado State was very close to experiencing a much better year that could have included a spot in the Mountain West Conference Championship Game. The team blew a 14-point lead to Boise State with 2 minutes left in the 4th quarter before losing to the Broncos in overtime. The Rams outgained their Mountain West Conference opponents by +76 net YPG but only had a 5-3 record. Suffering three net upsets ruined what could have been a much better final record. Talent remains on this team particularly at running back. They also have an intriguing player at quarterback in graduate transfer K.J. Carta-Samuels who has been the backup at Washington for the last few seasons. Colorado State typically starts strong as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games played in the month of August. The Rams also enjoy a strong home-field advantage in the high altitude of Colorado. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games when favored by 14.5 to 17 points — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 26 home games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range. Hawai’i has only one victory in the Mountain Time Zone since 2012 when they joined the Mountain West Conference. They return nine starters for a team that is implementing new schemes on both sides of the football — so this early game is a big challenge for this inexperienced group. They will have a new quarterback under center as well with Dru Brown ending his 22-straight starts by transferring to Oklahoma State in the offseason. The Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 road games when getting 14.5 to 21 points. Additionally, Hawai’i has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. Lastly, the Warriors have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games in Mountain West Conference play.

FINAL TAKE: Colorado State crushed Hawai’i in their last meeting on September 30th by a 51-21 score. It might be tempting to take the Warriors with this opportunity to avenge a loss where they surrendered so many points — but that will be a tough task for this young team so early in the season when adjusting to a new 4-3 defense along with new schemes on offense. Bobo’s teams are reliable at home when they are expected to overwhelm their opponent. 10* CFB Hawaii-Colorado State CBS-Sports Network Special with the Colorado State Rams (294) minus the points versus the Hawai’i Warriors (293). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:45 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Alabama Crimson Tide (151) minus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (152) in the National Championship Game. Georgia (13-1) earned one of the biggest victories in their school’s program history with their 54-48 epic overtime victory over Oklahoma last Monday. But the fact that this history does not include championship game experience may play a role in how this showdown plays out. The Bulldogs have an inferiority complex with the Crimson Tide which will likely rear its ugly head in this game. Most of the teams in the SEC are insecure relative to the Alabama football program. Georgia fired Mark Richt despite him being one of their most successful coaches in their history because he was not leading them into enough championship games — as if the program was rife with those opportunities before they arrived. This is a football culture that still considers the Hershel Walker era as a recent event. The school tried to model themselves off the Crimson Tide program when they replaced Richt with Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart. While Smart has done a good job with the program, he lacks the pedigree and certainly the experience to out-coach his mentor in Nick Saban. Throw in the lack of playoff experience this roster has (as compared to that Clemson team that faced Alabama for the third straight time in the last three years in the playoffs) along with a true freshman at quarterback in Jake Fromm — and the results look like a team happy to be in this National Championship Game but also with likely significant doubts that they can pull off this upset. The Bulldogs showed some weaknesses in their win over the Sooners. Oklahoma generated a whopping 531 yards against what had been considered a stout Georgia defense. 289 of those yards were in the air — and the Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last game. Georgia has also failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 21 games after a game where they scored at least 30 points while their opponent also scored at least 30 points. And while the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in four straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after covering the point spread in at least three straight games.

Alabama (12-1) has played in the College Football Playoffs in four straight years — and this will be the third straight postseason where they play to win the National Championship. After avenging their 35-31 loss to Clemson in last year’s Championship Game on Monday, this team with eleven returning starters from that team will not be satisfied with just that victory. This is a team that is groomed to win championships each and every season under Saban — and this group is hungry. And while the Bulldogs are talented, this Crimson Tide team has better players. They dominated the Tigers in their 24-6 victory. They held the Clemson offense to just 188 total yards in that game at a paltry 2.69 Yards-Per-Play mark — and they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after not allowing more than 3.25 YPP in their last game. Alabama has also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after winning at least six or seven of their last eight games. Additionally, the Crimson Tide has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on a neutral field. Alabama has also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games played on a field turf. And in their last 11 games as the favorite laying 3.5 to 10 points, the Crimson Tide has covered the point spread 7 times. 25* CFB Alabama-Georgia A-List Special with the Alabama Crimson Tide (151) minus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (152) in the National Championship Game. Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:45 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the National Championship Game between the Alabama Crimson Tide (151) and the Georgia Bulldogs (152). Alabama (12-1) flexed their muscles on defense last Monday by holding Clemson to just 188 yards of offense en route to their 24-6 win over the Tigers. Considering that the Crimson Tide generated just 261 yards of offense against the Clemson defense, it might appear that the Under is the preferred totals play when they face off against another Top-Ten defense in this Alabama team. But each game has its own internal narrative. The third contest in the Crimson Tide-Tigers trilogy played out as a defensive battle. Don’t be surprised if this Alabama-Georgia showdown between two teams of similar compositions ends up seeing much more offense — and with a Total set in just the mid-40s. The Crimson Tide have seen the Over go 6-2-1 in their last 9 games after allowing no more than 275 yards in their lsat game. And while Alabama has played three straight games that finished Under the Total, they have then played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after playing at least two straight games that finished Under the Total. Remember that while this Crimson Tide team has the nation’s top scoring defense (11.1 PPG) and total defense (252.4 YPG), they are no slouches on offense either. Alabama was 12th in the nation by scoring 37.9 PPG while averaging 449.7 total YPG (27th in the FBS). And remember that these offensive numbers are a little lower than they could be since their outstanding defense helped them earn comfortable leads without putting up Oklahoma-like numbers. An elite defense is nothing new for a Nick Saban-coached team. Yet they have played 10 of their last 14 Bowl games Over the Total — and this includes playing five of their last six games in the month of January Over the Total.

Georgia (13-1) finished Top-Five in scoring defense (15.7 PPG) while finishing 6th in total defense (289.5 YPG). But this Bulldogs team scored 36.3 PPG while averaging 440.3 total YPG which ranked 17th and 31st in the FBS respectively. As Georgia proved against the Sooners on Monday, they can crank up their offense into high gear to winning a scoring fest if they need to in order to win. In their 54-48 win in overtime against Oklahoma, they generated 527 yards of offense. The Bulldogs have then played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. But the Georgia defense had trouble slowing down the Sooners offense as they gave up 531 yards along with 6.55 Yards-Per-Play. The Bulldogs have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after allowing at least 6.25 YPP in their last game. Additionally, while Georgia has covered the point spread in four straight games, they have then played 5 of the last 6 games Over the Total after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six contests. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total against fellow SEC opponents. Lastly, in the last 6 meetings between these two teams, the game finished Over the Total 5 times. 25* CFB Bowl Total of the Year with Over the Total in the National Championship Game between the Alabama Crimson Tide (151) and the Georgia Bulldogs (152). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:45 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the Sugar Bowl between the Alabama Crimson Tide (273) and the Clemson Tigers (274). Clemson (12-1) has won six straight games after defeating Miami (FL) in the ACC Championship Game by a 38-3 score back on December 2nd. The Tigers rushed for only 77 yards in that game — but they have then played 4 straight games Over the Total after rushing for at least 100 yards in their last game. Clemson ranks 35.4 PPG this season which was 20th in the FBS — and they did not experience any drop-off when playing away from home where they scored 35.3 PPG. Of course, the Tigers have played the Crimson Tide for the National Championship in each of the last two seasons with the final score seeing 66 and 85 combined points. Despite the Total being a few points lower than the 51 or so points assigned as the Total for those two games, I see little reason why this Semifinals showdown will not be another shootout. Certainly both coaches will assume that scoring 30 points will be a prerequisite for winning this game. Clemson has played 4 straight games Over the Total when playing in the month of January. And in their last 6 games played on speedy field turf, the Tigers have played 5 of these games Over the Total.

10* CFB play with the Over. Best of luck for us -- Frank.

TO BE CONTINUED -- please check back before this game begins for my full written Report before this game starts -- and I also reserve the right to raise the Star Value of this play (while you still get it at the discounted price by buying early). Given the high volume of plays I offer clients, I am providing an initial “abridged version” of the play to get them posted faster to accommodate my Daily, Weekly and Monthly subscribers so they can begin shopping lines. My research is detailed for our plays (which I do complete before endorsing a play) but it does take some time to write the more detailed Reports that clients have grown to count on. Thanks, Frank.

At 8:45 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Alabama Crimson Tide (274) minus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (273) in the Sugar Bowl. Alabama (11-1) saw their undefeated season spoiled in the Iron Bowl back on November 25th in a 26-14 upset loss at Auburn as a 5-point favorite. Look for the Crimson Tide to bounce-back with a very strong effort. Alabama has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a point spread loss. The Crimson Tide has also covered the point spread in 42 of their last 63 road games after a straight-up loss. And in their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points, Alabama has covered the point spread 5 times. Nick Saban's team will be razor sharp as they look to bounce-back from that loss while also getting the opportunity to avenge their Championship Game loss to Clemson last season. Injuries at linebacker have slowed Alabama over the last month of the regular season -- which is one of the reasons why we went against them against Mississippi State and Auburn. But the Crimson Tide enters this game as healthy as they have been all season. Getting those linebackers back improves a stout defense that was already tops in the nation by allowing only 11.5 PPG. The Alabama offense also ranked 9th in the nation by scoring 39.1 PPG. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing on a neutral field. And in their last 4 games playing on field turf, the Crimson Tide have covered the point spread all 4 times.

Clemson (12-1) has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games played on field turf. The Tigers are riding high having won six straight games since their loss at Syracuse after winning the ACC Championship Game by a 38-3 score over Miami (FL). But this Clemson team may be primed for a big letdown as they look to defend their National Championship now as the hunted team. The Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games after winning at least six straight games. Clemson has covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 33 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games including failing to cover the point spread in three straight games in that situation. The Tigers have not allowed more than 14 points in four straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after not allowing more than 17 points in four straight games and this includes failing to cover their last three games after not giving up more than 14 points in three straight. Lastly, Clemson has blowout their last three opponents by at least 24 points — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after winning at least three straight games by at least three touchdowns. 25* CFB Playoff Game of the Year with the Alabama Crimson Tide (274) minus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (273) in the Sugar Bowl. Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (271) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (272) in the Rose Bowl. Oklahoma (12-1) clinched their spot in the College Football Playoff with their 41-17 win over TCU in the Big 12 Championship Game. The high-powered Sooners offense totaled 461 yards of offense against the Horned Frogs in that rematch — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after generating at least 450 yards in their last game. I am skeptical that the passing attack of this Oklahoma team will work against the speed of the Bulldogs defense. There is a reason why these video game offenses rarely work on a consistent basis in the NFL. It is telling that the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games against teams from the SEC. Oklahoma has also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games played on a neutral field — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games played on a neutral field with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range. Additionally, I think this might be the competitive situation where the inexperience of first-year head coach Lincoln Riley begins to rear its ugly head. Remember, he was tapped as the Oklahoma head coach in the summer after Bob Stoops unexpectedly stepped down after eighteen years with the program. Preparing for the Bowl Playoffs is something even seasoned veterans learn from. Lastly for this Sooners team, their defense is only mediocre. Oklahoma allowed opponents to average 240.6 passing YPG which was 88th in the FBS. Overall, Oklahoma allowed 384.8 total YPG which was 59th in the nation and right smack in the middle of all FBS teams.

Georgia (12-1) has won three straight games since their loss at Auburn — culminating with their revenge win over the Tigers in the SEC Championship Game in their 28-7 win at Auburn. The Bulldogs have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a win by at least 20 points. Georgia has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after allowing no more than 14 points in their last game. The Bulldogs averaged 6.68 Yards-Per-Play against Auburn — and they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after averaging at least 6.25 YPP. Moving forward, Georgia has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when the favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games when the favorite on a neutral field. Additionally, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread 4 of their last 5 Bowl games. And in their last 5 games against teams outside the SEC, Georgia has covered the point spread 4 times. 25* CFB Georgia-Oklahoma Rose Bowl Special Feature with the Georgia Bulldogs (271) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (272). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the Rose Bowl between the Georgia Bulldogs (271) and the Oklahoma Sooners (272). Georgia (12-1) reached the College Football Playoffs with their 28-7 win over Auburn in the SEC Championship Game as a 2-point favorite. The Bulldogs have then played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Additionally, Georgia has played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after allowing 20 points or less in their last game. The Bulldogs defense dominated this game as they held Auburn to just 259 yards of offense. Georgia has then played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. The Bulldogs allowed only 145 passing yards in that game as well — and they have then played a decisive 21 of their last 26 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 170 passing yards in their last game. Moving forward, Georgia has played 4 straight games Under the Total against teams outside the SEC. And in their last 8 games played on a neutral field, the Bulldogs have played 6 of these games Under the Total.

Oklahoma (12-1) has won eight games in a row with their 41-17 win over TCU in the Big 12 Championship Game. The Sooners have not committed a turnover in four straight games — and they have then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after not committing a turnover in their last game. It may be tempting to expect the Over given Oklahoma’s high-powered offense that has scored at least 38 points in four straight games. But the Sooners have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after scoring at least 37 points in three straight games. Additionally, Oklahoma has generated at least 461 yards in all their games this season — and they have then played 11 of the last 16 games Under the Total after gaining at least 450 yards in five straight contests. The Sooners have played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record. They also have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total against teams from the SEC. Furthermore, Oklahoma has played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing on a neutral field including five of their last six games Under the Total in Bowl games. Together, these team trends produce our specific 93-34 combined angle for this situation. 10* CFB Georgia-Oklahoma O/U Discounted Deal with Under the Total in the Rose Bowl between the Georgia Bulldogs (271) and the Oklahoma Sooners (272). Best of luck for us — Frank.