At 12:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (269) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (270). Iowa (8-4) has won two straight games with their 31-28 win over Nebraska to close out their regular season back on November 23rd as a 7.5-point favorite. Mississippi State (8-4) has won two games in a row as well with their 35-3 win at Ole Miss back on November 22nd as a 12.5-point favorite. These two teams meet in Tampa Bay in the Outback Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES PLUS THE POINTS: Mississippi State preceded their big rivalry game win over the Rebels in the Egg Bowl with a 52-6 win over Arkansas. But the Bulldogs may be due for a letdown now as they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after winning two straight games by double-digits against conference rivals. Mississippi State has won four of their last five games while covering the point spread in five of their last seven games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. The Bulldogs are led by their defense that is tops in the nation by allowing only 12.0 PPG and just 268.4 total YPG. They have held their last three opponents to only 237.7 YPG — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after holding their last three opponents to no better than 250 YPG. Furthermore, while Mississippi State has allowed just a field goal in the first-half of two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games on the road after not allowing more than 7 first-half points in two straight games. The problem for this Bulldogs team is that when they are playing away from home, they are scoring only 15.2 PPG while averaging just 317.6 total YPG. Their offense is too one-dimensional as they are averaging just 175.6 passing YPG behind senior quarterback Nick Fitzgerald which ranks 110th in the nation. Mississippi State has committed no more than one turnover in five straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not committing more than one turnover in two straight games. Additionally, the Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 major bowl games played in January — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field when the favorite. Iowa has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after a narrow win at home by 3 points or less. And while the Hawkeyes have not covered the point spread in two of their last three games, they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after failing to cover the point spread in two of their last three games. This Iowa team has an outstanding defense themselves that ran 11th in the nation by allowing just 17.4 PPG while also ranking 7th in the FBS by giving up only 289.7 total YPG. Their defensive line has racked up an impressive 28.5 combined sacks. This strong defense helps them play well on the road — the Hawkeyes are outscoring teams by +19.6 PPG when playing away from Iowa City while out-gaining these opponents by +83.0 net YPG. Iowa has also outscored their last three opponents by +20.7 PPG while out-gaining them by +71.7 net YPG. Junior QB Nate Stanley will not have the services of his star tight end Noah Gant who is skipping this game to stay healthy for the NFL draft — but he still has Mackey Award winner T.J. Hockenson as another tight end target which is not too shabby. The Hawkeyes have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams outside the Big Ten.

FINAL TAKE: The opportunity to take an underdog getting around 7 points in an expected low-adoring game offers us nice value. Mississippi State’s lack of a potent passing attack should help head coach Kirk Ferentz oversee a defensive scheme that will limit the Bulldogs’ scoring chances which will keep the Hawkeyes in this game. 20* CFB New Year’s Day Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Iowa Hawkeyes (269) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (270). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Michigan State Spartans (261) plus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (262). Michigan State (7-5) snapped a two-game losing streak to close out their regular season on November 24th with their 14-10 win over Rutgers as a 24.5-point favorite. Oregon (8-4) has won three of their last four games with their 55-15 win at Oregon State on November 23rd as an 18-point favorite. These two teams meeting Santa Clara’s Levi Stadium for the newly named Redox Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SPARTANS PLUS THE POINTS: Michigan State had sky-high expectations this season with nineteen starters back from a team that went 10-3 last season which culminated in a 42-17 drubbing of a Washington State team in the Holiday Bowl who then defeated these Ducks this season by double-digits. Injuries on offense held Sparty back this year with quarterback Brian Lewerke and running back L.J. Scott both battling injuries all season. Both players have had five weeks to heel and both should as healthy as they have been in months for this bowl game as the Spartans look to end their season on a high note. There is little wrong with the Michigan State defense that ranked 12th in the nation by allowing just 18.0 PPG while also ranking 14th in the FBS by allowing their opponents to average just 311.5 total YPG. Sparty was also 10th in the nation by holding their opponents to -106 YPG below their season offensive average. They limited Ohio State to just 347 yards of offense — so they should be able to contain Justin Herbert and this Ducks’ offense with the few weeks of preparation. Michigan State has allowed only four offensive touchdowns in their last five games. After shutting down the Buckeyes offense, the Spartans then limited Nebraska to 248 yards of offense before allowing Rutgers to gain a mere 217 yards in their final regular season game. Michigan State is 20-8-1 ATS in their last 29 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they have also covered the point spread in 18 of their last 23 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in two straight games. This defense travels as well as they only allowed 13.2 PPG in their five games away from East Lansing while limiting those opponents to just 294.0 YPG. The Spartans out-gained their five opponents on the road by +64.0 net YPG. Head coach Mark Dantoni should have his team ready to play this game as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 bowl games — and they are 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games when played on a neutral field. Oregon has been reliably inconsistent as of late. The Ducks have failed to cover the point spread in 11 straight games after a win by at least 20 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread cover as a double-digit favorite. Furthermore, Oregon is just 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a point spread victory. And while the Ducks offense generated 510 yards against Beavers, they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after scoring at least 50 points in their last contest. This Oregon team was riding high after they pulled off an upset win over Washington — but then they fell to earth with double-digit losses to Washington State and Arizona while allowing an offensively-challenged Utah team score 32 points against them. In their five games away from home, the Ducks were out-gained by -24.8 net YPG. Oregon has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams outside the Pac-12. The Ducks have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games played on a neutral field when favored by no more than 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Michigan State is a very physical team with five weeks to rest up and heal for this game. The team with the closest profile to their style of play that Oregon played was Stanford — and the Cardinal defeated the Ducks by a 38-31 score. Dantoni relishes the underdog role for his Spartans. His teams have covered the point spread in their last five bowl games as the dog with Dantoni leading his team to the straight-up upset win in those last four bowl contests. Expect another upset — but take the points for some valuable insurance. 25* CFB Bowl Game of the Month with the Michigan State Spartans (261) plus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (262). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (259) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (260). Pittsburgh (7-6) has lost two straight games after their 42-10 loss to Clemson as a 27-point underdog on December 1st in the ACC Championship Game. Stanford (8-4) has won three straight games with their 23-13 win at California on December 1st as a 3-point favorite. These two teams meet in El Paso, Texas in the Sun Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS PLUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh had won four straight games to put themselves in position to play for the ACC Championship before a 21-point loss at Miami preceded their blowout loss to the Tigers. Head coach Pat Narduzzi should have his team ready to play in this game as his team has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games are a loss by at least 20 points. Furthermore, the Panthers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after scoring less than 20 points in their last game. Quarterback Kenny Pickett suffered an embarrassing game against the outstanding Clemson defense as he completed only 4 of 16 passes for a mere 8 yards. That eye-popping stat line should have served as motivation for Pickett to work even harder in bowl practices for this game. Pitt has covered the point spread in 6 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 7 of their last 10 games after failing to pass for at least 75 yards in their last game. While the play of Narduzzi’s defense remains a disappointment given the reputation he established as the defensive coordinator at Michigan State, the young talent on that unit should have benefitted from the extra weeks of bowl preparation. Pittsburgh saw their nine-year bowl streak snapped last year so this group should have something to prove in this game. Stanford has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win on the road — and they are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last games after a point spread win. Frankly, the Cardinal was fortunate to pull off that final win over the Golden Bears as they were out-gained by -23 net yards. A +2 net turnover margin helped to make up that difference in yardage — but Stanford has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a game where they had a +2 or better turnover margin. This is not a typical team for head coach David Shaw in his eighth year with the program. This Cardinal group ranked 122nd in the FBS by averaging just 108.3 rushing YPG. Superstar running back Bryce Love battled injuries all season — and he has decided to skip this game to prepare for the NFL draft. Stanford is very vulnerable on pass defense as they allowed 274.7 passing YPG which ranked 121st in the FBS. And when this team played away from Palo Alto, the Cardinal were out-gained by -90.3 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Motivation has to be questioned for this underachieving Stanford team as they will be playing their third straight bowl game in a second-tier contest hosted in the State of Texas. This is the Cardinal’s second appearance at the Sun Bowl in the last three years as well. Pitt is motivated to redeem themselves from two bad losses to end the season — and the opportunity to knock off a blue-blood like Stanford has to be appealing. Expect a close game. 10* CFB Pittsburgh-Stanford CBS-TV Special with the Pittsburgh Panthers (259) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (260). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Virginia Tech Hokies (257) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (258). THE SITUATION: Virginia Tech (6-6) became bowl eligible by winning their last two games of the season culminating in their 41-20 blowout win over Marshall on December 1st as a 3.5-point favorite. Cincinnati (10-2) has won four of their last five games with their 56-6 blowout win over East Carolina as a 15.5-point favorite. These two teams meet in Annapolis in the Military Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOKIES PLUS THE POINTS: Virginia Tech ended the season with just twelve starters back from last year’s 9-4 season. Three-fourths of the incoming roster was just freshman and sophomores — so depth was very thin. Unfortunately for the Hokies, this team was hit hard with injuries including three starters on defense and their incumbent starting quarterback all being lost for the season. A handful of other contributors were also dismissed by third-year head coach Justin Fuente. This team could have folded up the tent and gone home to end their season after upsetting a solid Virginia team at the end of November — but this team played hard with the opportunity to play the Thundering Herd in a rescheduled game from earlier in the season and they earned the opportunity to play in this game. I think the extra week of bowl preparation will be of enormous benefit for Fuente defensive coordinator Bud Foster further develop this young team with the benefit of tailoring their practices to a specific opponent in the Bearcats. So, throw out the Hokies underwhelming offensive and defensive numbers for this one. Virginia Tech disappointed with six straight point spread losers before covering the point spread in their final two games — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after failing to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Virginia Tech is seeing the continued development of their 6’4 junior quarterback Ryan Willis who completed 18 of 26 passes for 312 with four touchdown passes against Marshall. The Hokies have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. And while Virginia Tech has played their last two games Over the Total, they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after playing two straight Overs. Furthermore, the Hokies have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games in the month of December which is good evidence of the continued development this coaching staff sees in their players. Cincinnati has enjoyed a surprising 10-win season after only winning eight of their previous twenty-four games over the last two seasons. They fit the blueprint of a team happy to reach a bowl game for the first time in three seasons and may let up a bit when reading that they are nearly a touchdown favorite in this game. As it is, the Bearcats have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win at home against an American Athletic Conference rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit win over a conference rival. Cincinnati has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 37 points in their last game. The Bearcats average 34.9 PPG and 458.2 total YPG this season which is 25th and 24th in the nation respectively — but those numbers plummeted in their six games away from home to just 25.3 PPG and 393.8 total YPG marks. That is not a good sign for a team that has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games played on a neutral field as a favorite. Additionally, Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 bowl games — and they are just 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games in the month of December. Lastly, the Bearcats have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Virginia Tech certainly played the more difficult schedule this season with the ACC being a better conference than the American Athletic Conference. Expect the Hokies to be an improved team this afternoon after a month of additional practice — they should (at least) keep this game close. 10* CFB Virginia Tech-Cincinnati ESPN Special with the Virginia Tech Hokies (257) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (258). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:10 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Alabama Crimson Tide (254) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (253). Alabama (13-0) won the SEC Championship Game back on December 1st with their 35-28 win over Georgia as an 11-point favorite. Oklahoma (12-1) won the Big 12 Championship Game with their 39-27 win versus Texas as a 9.5-point favorite. These two teams meeting in Miami, Florida in the Orange Bowl for the second Semifinals showdown in the College Football Playoff.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CRIMSON TIDE MINUS THE POINTS: The Sooners were playing with revenge on their minds when facing the Longhorns to begin this month — but I suspect they get exposed tonight for their subpar play on defense. Oklahoma allows 32.4 PPG which is 96th in the nation along with 448.1 total YPG which is 108th in the nation. Over their last three games, the team has not improved as they have surrendered 41.0 PPG along with an incredible 555.0 total YPG. In their six games on the road this year, the Sooners have given up 472.8 YPG. The team’s lack of competent safeties has consistently burned them all season — they rank 129th in the nation by giving up 291.4 passing YPG. This team allowed their opponents to average +31 YPG above their season average. These are very ominous signs when considering that they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win. The theory for Oklahoma backers is that they will simply outscore Bama in this game. Heisman Trophy winner Kyle Murray led the nation’s number one statistical offense in the nation — and he passed for 379 yards in their win over Texas. But the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after passing for at least 325 yards in their last game. Murray may not have his best target available — or at full strength — given the foot injury to Marquise Brown that he suffered in the Big 12 Championship that did not look very encouraging at the time. These circumstances are not encouraging given that this is a football team that has is just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. Oklahoma has also failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 bowl games — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games played on a neutral field. Furthermore, the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games against SEC opponents. Alabama played their closest game of the season in their comeback win over the Bulldogs. Head coach Nick Saban typically gets his team to respond with a strong effort after a game where he can show them the bad game tape. The Crimson Tide have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 road game after a narrow victory of 7 points or less against a conference rival. The theory that Oklahoma will simply outscore Bama has to account for the fact that the Tide are the second-best scoring team in the nation by putting up 47.9 PPG — and they rank 5th in the nation by averaging 527.6 total YPG. When Alabama plays outside Tuscaloosa, they see their offensive production rise to them scoring 50.0 PPG while averaging 533.0 total YPG. This team averaged +155 YPG more than what their opponents allowed on average this season which was the third-best mark in the nation. The Crimson Tide did allow 454 yards against Georgia — but they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last contest. Alabama did take a step back on defense this season after losing eight starters along with their top six defensive backs from last year’s National Championship team. But this remains a unit loaded with blue-chippers (as opposed to Oklahoma) who should benefit from the extra week of bowl practices. The Crimson Tide have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Alabama has suspended a few players — but they have the depth on the offensive line to sustain those losses for this game. Tua Tagovailoa seems to be 80-85% with his foot injury that he suffered against Georgia. I would worry about these issues more if they were playing a better defensive unit. Jaylen Hurts proved in the SEC Championship Game that he is willing and able to provide this team a spark if Tagovailoa is not effective. Ultimately, I think the Alabama defense will be able to generate at least some defensive stops — and I don’t think Oklahoma can slow down the Tide’s powerful offense. 25* CFB Playoff Game of the Year with the Alabama Crimson Tide (254) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (253). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (255) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (256). THE SITUATION: Notre Dame (12-0) closed out their perfect regular season with their 24-17 win at USC as a 13.5-point favorite back on November 24th. Clemson (13-0) won the ACC Championship Game on December 1st with their 42-10 win against Pittsburgh as a 27-point favorite. These two teams meet in Dallas’ AT&T Stadium in the Cotton Bowl which serves as a proxy for the College Football Semifinals.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FIGHTING IRISH PLUS THE POINTS: Notre Dame has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. This is a team that raised their level of play on offense when head coach Brian Kelly elevated sophomore Ian Book to be his starting quarterback as he completed 70% of his passes while averaging 8.84 Yards-Per-Passing Attempt to give the offense a legitimate deep threat. Clemson has been vulnerable against vertical passing attacks — they have allowed Texas A&M to pass for 430 yards against them along with South Carolin to pass for 510 yards. The Irish have the size in the wide receiving corps with 6’4 Miles Boykin, 6’4 Chase Claypool and tight end Alize Mack all have size advantages over a smaller Clemson secondary. The Irish have averaged at 462 Yards-Per-Game in three straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after gaining at least 450 yards in three straight games. Notre Dame is ab outstanding defensive team that ranked 10th in the nation by allowing only 17.3 PPG — and they also ranked 20th in the FBS by giving up just 331.5 total YPG. This team has not allowed an opponent to score more than 27 points all season. The key to their efforts has been to minimize big plays — they gave up only five plays that accounted for more than 40 yards this season. They also have a stout run defense that limits their opponents to just 3.7 Yards-Per-Carry. Notre Dame has covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games when playing on a neutral field. Clemson has covered the point spread in six of their last eight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after covering the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. They have rushed for 301 and 350 yards in their last two games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after rushing for at least 300 yards in two straight games. Their defense did hold Pittsburgh to an incredible 8 passing yards in the ACC Championship Game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 170 passing yards in their last game. That unit will miss Dexter Lawrence after the 340-lb defensive tackle was suspended for this game for a positive PED test. Moving forward, the Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against opponents outside the ACC — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games when playing on a neutral field laying 10.5 to 14 points.

FINAL TAKE: Notre Dame has played a challenging schedule this season and answered the bell every time. Their good defense, as well as their advantage with the height of their receiving targets, should help them keep this game very close. 10* CFB Notre Dame-Clemson ESPN Special with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (255) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (256). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Virginia Cavaliers (252) plus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (251). THE SITUATION: Virginia (7-5) has lost two straight games after their 34-31 overtime loss on the road at Virginia Tech as a 4-point favorite on November 23rd. South Carolina (7-5) has won two of their last three games with their 28-3 win over Akron as a 28.5-point favorite on December 1st. These two teams meet in Charlotte for the Belk Bowl this afternoon.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS PLUS THE POINTS: Virginia endured a brutal ending of their season by losing their last two games on the road in overtime with setbacks to the Hokies and Georgia Tech. Head coach Bronco Mendenhall should have his team ready to play as the Cavaliers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a narrow loss by 3 points or less on the road. Virginia has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after losing two straight games that were played on the road. The Cavaliers’ offense did average 6.33 Yards-Per-Play against Virginia Tech — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after averaging at least 6.2 YPP in their last game. Virginia plays good defense which is typical of a Mendenhall-coached team. The Caves rank 27th in the nation by allowing just 21.8 PPG — and they also rank 23rd in the FBS by allowing only 337.2 total YPG. This strong defensive play helped them out-gain their opponents by +22.8 net YPG when playing on the road. Virginia has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams outside the ACC — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. Furthermore, the Cavaliers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 10 points. South Carolina enter this game undermanned with a host of injuries along with their top wide receiver Deebo Samuel sitting out this game to prepare for the NFL draft. The Gamecocks held the Zips to just 260 yards of offense in their victory to begin the month — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. South Carolina had covered the point spread in their previous two games before putting on the brakes at halftime against Akron after taking a 28-3 lead to then fail to cover the -28.5 point spread. But the Gamecocks  has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in two of their last three games. Defense remains a concern for this team who allowed their last three Power-Five conference opponents to average a whopping 629 YPG. They are being out-gained when playing away from home by -29.6 PPG due to their defense that surrenders 499.8 total YPG. Not surprisingly, South Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field as  the favorite. Run defense is the primary concern for this team as they rank 93rd in the nation by allowing their opponents to average 194.5 rushing YPG. To make matters worse for the Cavaliers, they are missing two of their key players on defense due to injuries to defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw and cornerback Keisean Nixon. Virginia’s solid running back Jordan Ellis who rushed for 920 yards this season should be able to find space to move the football. The Gamecocks will rely on the arm of QB Jake Bentley — but he faces a tough Cavaliers’ pass defense that ranks 14th in the nation by allowing only 180.1 passing YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Virginia is undervalued in this spot given those two overtime losses. The Cavaliers play the better defense — and they face a Gamecocks team that is missing some pieces. Expect a close game. 10* CFB South Carolina-Virginia ABC-TV Special with the Virginia Cavaliers (252) plus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (251). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:15 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the West Virginia Mountaineers (244) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (243). THE SITUATION: West Virginia (8-3) has lost their last two games with their 59-56 loss to Oklahoma as a 3-point underdog back on November 23rd. Syracuse (9-3) enters this game coming off a 42-21 upset win at Boston College as a 6-point underdog back on November 24th. These two teams trade to Orlando, Florida to take part in the Camping World Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MOUNTAINEERS PLUS THE POINTS: The big news with this West Virginia team relates to the players who will not be playing in this bowl game. The Mountaineers’ offense will be without quarterback Will Grier along with their star left tackle Yodney Cajuste and slot wide receiver Gary Jennings who have chosen to not play due to nagging injuries and the prospects of staying healthy for the NFL draft in the spring. Their absence explains why West Virginia opened as a 7.5-point favorite but now find themselves as 3-point underdogs. Frankly, those players are not worth the 10-point swing with this point spread. In head coach Dana Holgorsen, we trust — at least when it comes to the offensive side of the football. Frankly, I always found Grier a bit overrated as a quarterback. Holgorsen’s offensive system is the star of this program and he has a comer four-star recruit in Miami (FL) transfer in Jack Allison to step in as his starting quarterback after getting all the first-team reps in practice. The West Virginia offense will be just fine. And this team should play hard as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a straight up loss. Furthermore, the Mountaineers are 3-1-2 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. West Virginia almost pulled the upset against a Sooners’ team that advanced to the College Football Playoffs. Oklahoma scored two touchdowns from fumble recoveries that made the winning difference in that game. The Mountaineers are 3-0-2 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams outside the Big 12. Syracuse may be due for a big letdown after the 21-point upset victory over the Eagles. The Orange have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games after an upset victory by at least two touchdowns as an underdog. Syracuse has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games after an upset win by at least three touchdowns as an underdog. Furthermore, the Orange have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games after an upset win over an ACC conference rival. And while Syracuse out-gained Boston College by +219 net yards, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after out-gaining their last opponent by at least +225 yards. Pass defense is an area of concern for this team as they ranked 112th in the nation by allowing 263.0 passing YPG. That is a big concern when facing a Holgorsen offense (who will be calling the plays in this game after offensive coordinator took the head coaching job at Texas State). The Orange also struggled on the road where they were out-gained by -46.0 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Syracuse will be playing in their first bowl game since 2014 — so this may be a group that is just happy to be here. West Virginia should be feisty after their loss to the Sooners while motivated to make a good start to next season with this program moving forward from Grier and company. 10* CFB Syracuse-West Virginia ESPN Special with the West Virginia Mountaineers (244) plus the points versus the Syracuse Orange (243). Best of luck for us — Frank.

Take the Baylor Bears plus the points versus the Vanderbilt Commodores in the Texas Bowl. Baylor (6-6) looks to build off their 35-24 win at Texas Tech in their last game as a 6-point underdog. The Bears got their offense going by generating 478 yards of offense in that game. Baylor has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Bears have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games in the month of December. Vanderbilt (6-6) has won three of their last four games with their 38-13 win over Tennessee to close out their regular season. The Commodores held the Volunteers to just 139 yards of offense in that game — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 170 passing yards in their last game. Additionally, while Vanderbilt did not force a turnover in that game, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after not forcing more than one turnover in their last game. Take Baylor plus the points. Best of luck — Frank.

Frank Sawyer’s Hollywood Sports CA$HED the Denver-Oakland Under in the NFL on Monday in their last Football Totals play which continued their 19 of 28 (68%) FOOTBALL TOTALS TEAR! Now after passing in CFB Bowl Totals plays yesterday, Frank’s TOP THURSDAY TOTAL is with the Vandy-Baylor O/U winner on ESPN at 9 PM ET! WATCH & WIN — and BANK on Frank!

At 1:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Duke Blue Devils (235) plus the points versus the Temple Owls (236). Duke (7-5) stumbled into the postseason losing their last two games after their ugly 59-7 upset loss to Wake Forest as a 9.5-point favorite. Temple (8-4) has won three straight games after their 57-7 win at UConn as a 32-point favorite. These two meet in the hotbed that is Shreveport, Louisiana for the Independence Bowl this afternoon.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLUE DEVILS PLUS THE POINTS: Duke’s loss to the Demon Deacons was preceded by a 35-6 loss at Clemson the previous week. Those bad losses make these Blue Devils pretty unappetizing to many bettors — but this team has rebounded to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after losing their last two contests by at least four touchdowns. Injuries took their toll on this team particularly on the defensive side of the football. Duke held their opponents to just 341 total YPG in their first seven games but then surrendered 529 YPG over their last five games. While the Blue Devils are still banged up on defense, the extra weeks of preparation allows teams to coach-up the younger players as these football teams make the turn to beginning the groundwork for their next season. There is no one better in the business in coaching up his players than Duke’s head coach David Cutcliffe who is finishing his eleventh season running this football program. It is telling that the Blue Devils have covered the point spread in 4 straight bowl games — and they have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. Duke surrendered over 500 YPG over their last three contests — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last three games. The Blue Devils are due for some luck when it comes to the bouncing-ball that plays a big role in the turnover game. Duke has not forced a turnover in three straight games — but they have then covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after not forcing more than one turnover in three straight games. Additionally, the Blue Devils are a decisive 34-16-1 ATS in their last 51 games against teams outside the ACC — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games as an underdog. Temple will be playing with an interim head coach with their special teams/tight end coach Ed Foley handling these duties for Geoff Collins who left the program for the Georgia Tech job. While predicting how this will impact the morale of the players when a head coach departs is often just a guessing game, it is safe to say the Owls do not benefit from this turnover in leadership. Temple grounded out 293 rushing yards in their last game against the Huskies — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after rushing for at least 275 yards in their last contest. The Owls have used three quarterbacks this season due to injuries and poor play — they all combined to throw 17 touchdown passes along with 18 interceptions. It looks like sophomore Anthony Russo will be healthy to get the start this afternoon — but he has thrown 13 of the team’s interceptions. Run defense is also an issue for this team as they allowed their opponents to average 190.3 rushing YPG which is 90th in the nation — and Duke is a run-first team. Furthermore, the Owls have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when played on a neutral field.

FINAL TAKE: Temple had a better record this season but faced inferior competition than Duke given their American Athletic Conference schedule. Cutcliffe will have his team prepared to play as he always does in bowl games — and he had the leverage of imposing his will on a group of players who played poorly in their last two games. Expect a close game that the Blue Devils have an opportunity to win — but take the points for some insurance. 10* CFB Duke-Temple ESPN Special with the Duke Blue Devils (235) plus the points versus the Temple Owls (236). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:15 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (232) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (231). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (6-6) closed out their regular season winning two of their last three games with a 37-15 upset win at Wisconsin as a 12-point underdog on November 24th. Georgia Tech (7-5) saw their four-game winning streak snapped on November 24th with their 45-21 loss at Georgia as a 17-point underdog. These two teams meet for the first time ever in Detroit’s Ford Field in the Quick Lane Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE YELLOW JACKETS MINUS THE POINTS: While this is the first bowl game for this team in head coach P.J. Fleck’s coaching tenure at Minnesota, there are reasons to believe the team already won their “proverbial” bowl game when they pulled the upset over Big Ten West powerhouse Wisconsin to close out their season. Two of their best players in linebacker Blake Ashman and offensive lineman Donnell Greene have opted to skip this game to stay healthy for the NFL draft in the spring. Fleck has also suspended at least one player for this game after violating team rules — and because he is being cagey on this front, we cannot dismiss the possibility that a rash of suspensions may be pending tonight with the head coach looking to next season. As it is, the Golden Gophers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by at least three touchdowns against a conference rival — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a victory by at least 20 points. Minnesota is also 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread win. Despite their upset win in Madison against an injured Badgers team, the Golden Gophers were not a very good team on the road where they were just 1-4 while being outscored by -14.4 PPG. Their defense surrendered 520.0 Yards-Per-Game on the road which led to them being out-gained by -140.8 net YPG away from home. Minnesota also struggled against the run this season which is not a good sign when facing this Georgia Tech spread triple option that led the nation by averaging 334.9 rushing YPG. The Golden Gophers surrendered 430 yards to Illinois and another 383 rushing yards to Nebraska en route to them being routed by 49 combined points to both teams. They allowed their opponents to average 7.9 Yards-Per-Carry when playing away from home. Minnesota has covered the point spread in two of their last three games but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in two of their last three games. Georgia Tech has not covered the point spread in two of their last three games — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to cover the point spread in two of their last three games. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 37 points in their last game. The Yellow Jackets managed only 219 total yards in their last game against the Bulldogs — but they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after failing to gain at least 225 yards in their last game. Georgia Tech’s ground game travels which helps explain why they out-gained their opponents by +87.2 net YPG when playing on the road. The Yellow Jackets offense has been cranking it up as of late as they have scored 144 combined points in their last four games. Additionally, much like the speculation about who will have the home crowd edge in a bowl game that will have less than 20,000 in attendance in a cavernous large stadium (as if that crowd noise will play a lick of difference then in the game), there is the conventional wisdom that the Yellow Jackets underachieve in bowl games since their opponents have extra time to prepare for their unique offense. Yet Georgia Tech has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the month of December — and they are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games played on a neutral field.

FINAL TAKE: Head coach Paul Johnson has plenty of wrinkles he can add to his spread triple option with the extra weeks of preparation. This will be the eleven year veteran at Georgia Tech his last game as a head coach with his decision to retire after this game. Expect plenty of surprises from this team. Most importantly, his players should be very motivated to play for their head coach in his final game and have him leave as a winner. Don’t be surprised if this one is a blowout. 10* CFB Minnesota-Georgia Tech ESPN Special with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (232) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (231). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (227) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors (228). THE SITUATION: Louisiana Tech (7-5) has lost their last two games after closing out their regular season on November 24th with a 30-15 upset loss at Western Kentucky as a 10.5-point favorite. Hawai’i (8-5) has won two straight games after they pulled off a 31-30 upset victory at San Diego State on November 24th as an 18-point underdog. The Rainbow Warriors are the host team in the Hawai’i Bowl taking place a couple days earlier than it’s traditional Christmas Eve or day spot.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINT(S): If there is one coach I am not going to worry too much about having his team ready to play even in Hawai’i over winter break, it is Skip Holtz who has led Louisiana Tech to win all four of their bowl games under his guidance in the previous five seasons with the program. Even better, the average winning margin for the Bulldogs under Holts has been by -20.5 PPG. After this team lost three of their last four games of the regular season, this is a business trip for this team. As it is, Louisiana Tech has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 17 games after a loss by at least 10 points on their home field. The Bulldogs did out-gain the Hilltoppers by a decisive +92 net yards in that contest while holding them to just 288 net yards but lost the Time of Possession battle by having the ball for only 25:57 minutes of that game. Little worries of that History Repeating itself tonight against this pass-happy Warriors offense. Western Kentucky has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. Louisiana Tech ranks 32nd in the nation by holding their opponents to just 350.9 total YPG — and they have held their last three opponents to only 298.0 total YPG. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker will benefit from the extra few weeks to prepare for the unique relic of an offense that Hawai’i operates with their old Run-and-Shoot resurrected by their third-year head coach Nick Rolovich. Four close wins decided by one scoring possession for this Rainbow Warriors team obscures the fact that they were out-scored and out-gained in yardage by their opponents this season. They do have the home field advantage for this game but despite their 5-2 home record, they are only outscoring their visitors by 1.0 PPG. Over their last three games, Hawai’i was outscored by -10.3 PPG. They did generate 516 total yards against a collapsing San Diego State defense to end the season — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 32 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Louisiana Tech should be able to move the ball at will against this suspect Rainbow Warriors defense that ranked 101st in the nation by allowing 438.7 total YPG. Hawai’i has failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games against teams with a winning record — and they are just 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games against teams outside the Mountain West Conference.

FINAL TAKE: Home field advantage is tempting for the Rainbow Warriors tonight — but that edge only goes so far. A motivated Bulldogs team that is well-coached with a very good defense should overwhelm this Hawai’i team that has become too one dimensional on offense with the Run-and-Shoot gimmick. 25* CFB Bailout Game of the Year with the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (227) (or plus) the point(s) versus the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors (228). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (221) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (222). THE SITUATION: Wake Forest (6-6) became bowl eligible by winning two of their final three games after their 59-7 upset win at Duke as a 9.5-point underdog on November 24th. Memphis (8-5) saw their four-game winning snapped in the American Athletic Conference Championship Game with their 56-41 loss to Central Florida back on December 1st where they were 1-point underdogs. These two teams meet in Alabama for the Birmingham Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE DEMON DEACONS PLUS THE POINTS: It might be difficult for Memphis to pick themselves off the mat for this second-tier bowl game after they blew a 38-21 halftime to once again lose the Knights. There has been plenty of attrition over the last couple of weeks with three assistant coaches (including the offensive and defensive coordinator) taking new jobs and running back Darrell Henderson opting not to play in this game. The Tigers still have talent at running back — but it will be hard to replace his 1909 rushing yards that resulted in 22 touchdowns and an 8.9 Yards-Per-Carry average. Memphis has covered the point spread in six of their last eight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after covering the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. The Tigers have also failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games after a game where at least 80 combined points were scored. Memphis generated 583 yards of offense against UCF after gaining 610 yards in their previous game against Houston — but the Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after gaining at least 575 yards in their last game while also failing to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after gaining at least 525 yards in two straight games. This is a team that ranked 92nd in the nation by allowing 31.5 PPG — and that number increased to 40.3 PPG in their six games away from home along with 513.0 Yards-Per-Game that they allowed their opponents to generate. This porous defense makes them precarious favorites — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 54 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Tigers have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games in the month of December — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against non-conference opponents. Wake Forest has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a game where at least 63 combined points were scored. The encouraging aspect from this Demon Deacons team down the stretch was the improved play of their defense. Over their last three games, their run defense got significantly better as they allowed only 307 combined rushing yards and held opposing rushers to just a 2.8 Yards-Per-Carry average. The Blue Devils managed only 105 rushing yards and 145 passing yards against this defense. Wake Forest has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they have also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after not allowing more than 170 passing yards in their last contest. Wake held a 31-7 halftime lead in that game as well — and they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 35 games after not allowing more than 7 points in the first-half of their last game. The offense is clicking by the continued improvement of sophomore quarterback Jamie Newman who took over under center after freshman Sam Hartman suffered a season-ending leg injury. He oversees an offense that ranks 31st in the nation by averaging 443.2 total YPG — and the Demon Deacons have scored 33.0 PPG over their last three games. Wake Forest has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 bowl games — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field where they are underdogs. Together, these team trends produce our specific 145-53 combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: Wake Forest played the more difficult schedule with a full tilt of ACC opponents. The Demon Deacons will not have their star sophomore slot receiver in Greg Dortch who is out with an injured finger but their run-oriented spread offense should still move the ball against the Tigers defense. 10* CFB Wake Forest-Memphis ESPN Special with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (221) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (222). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Western Michigan Broncos (220) plus the points versus the BYU Cougars (219). THE SITUATION: Western Michigan (7-5) enters the postseason coming off a 28-21 upset win over Northern Illinois as a 6.5-point underdog back on November 20th. BYU (6-6) saw their two-game winning streak snapped on November 24th with their 35-27 loss at Utah as a 10.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BRONCOS PLUS THE POINTS: Western Michigan has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a win at home. And while some teams may suffer an emotional letdown after an upset victory, I suspect that victory for this Broncos team will be galvanizing for them. Second year head coach Tim Lester fired his defensive coordinator before that game against the Huskies and the result was his defense played their best game of the season by only allowing 262 yards of offense. Western Michigan has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. The Broncos have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after an upset victory as a home underdog — and they have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after pulling an upset over a conference rival. Western Michigan dominated that Northern Illinois team that then went on to upset Buffalo in the Mid-American Conference Championship Game as they out-gained them by +137 net yards. The Broncos have then covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after out-gaining their last opponent by at least +125 yards. The extra weeks of bowl practice should help in the continued development of freshman quarterback Kaleb Eleby who has started the last three games for the injured Jon Wassink. Eleby completed 19 of 35 passes for 285 yards against a stout Huskies defense — and he is completing 64.5% of his passes this season. Western Michigan has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after passing for at least 285 yards in their last game. And in their last 17 games on the road after losing three of their last four games, the Broncos have covered the point spread in 14 of these contests. BYU has questionable motivation issues after blowing a 20-0 halftime lead against their in-state rivals to close out the season. Losing that game cost the Cougars a more attractive bowl site — now they travel north to bland Boise to play a team not representing a Power Five conference. This BYU team has a host of distractions as well with some players out getting married with others out due to injuries and a number of players taking exams while on this trip. The Cougars have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a bye week. They also have a freshman at quarterback with Zach Wilson starting the last six games for the team when he was tapped by head coach Kalani Sitake to take over as the starter. BYU relies on their defense as they grind out games with an offense dedicated to running the ball and winning the battle at the line of scrimmage. While that is a consistent way to be be successful and stay competitive in all their games, it is not a reliable way to cover double-digit point spreads. The Cougars have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight bowl games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field. Together, these team trends produce our specific 74-24 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: This is the first bowl game for Western Michigan under head coach Lester after they were one of the few teams passed over despite having six wins last season. They should be motivated to make a statement in this game to close out their season. BYU has hire expectations as an independent modeling their program as the Notre Dame of the west. BYU’s defense may be the difference in this game — but they are laying way too many points as a double-digit favorite. 10* CFB BYU-Western Michigan ESPN Special with the Western Michigan Broncos (220) plus the points versus the BYU Cougars (219). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Florida International Golden Panthers (217) plus the points versus the Toledo Rockets (218). FIU (8-4) looks to bounce-back from their 28-25 loss to Marshall as a 3.5-point underdog on November 25th. Toledo (7-5) has won two straight games after their 51-13 win over Central Michigan as a 19-point favorite on November 23rd.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN PANTHERS PLUS THE POINTS: FIU has rebounded to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a loss to a conference rival. The Golden Panthers will be without their starting quarterback James Morgan in this game as he has been declared out with an injury he sustained in that final game against the Thundering Herd. Junior Christian Alexander has experience under center this season and he will get the start tonight. He benefits from getting most of the starter’s reps in bowl practice — and he is the likely starter next season. He will also be protected by a good offensive line that allowed only 10 sacks this season. The Golden Panthers have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams outside the Mid-American Conference. FIU has also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games as an underdog. And while they have played five straight games Over the Total, they have then covered the point spread in 24 of their last 35 games after playing at least two straight Overs. Toledo has played two straight games Over the Total — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games after playing at least two straight Overs. The Rockets have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after not allowing more than 20 points. This Toledo team has a leaky defense which makes them precarious favorites now when laying at least a touchdown. They rank 94th in the nation by allowing 430.1 total YPG — and they are giving up 30.2 PPG. When playing away from home, the Rockets are being out-gained by -21.6 Yards-Per-Game. This is also a team playing with their second-string quarterback with sophomore Eli Peters now their starter after the season-ending injury to Mitchell Guadagni last month. Toledo has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against non-conference opponents. Lastly, the Rockets are just 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games in the month of December — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when playing with more than two weeks of rest and preparation.

FINAL TAKE: I am adding this as a late play given the line movement on Toledo that has elevated the Golden Panthers to an underdog getting (at least) 7 points in most spots. The FIU offense will be fine with Alexander — especially against this porous Rockets defense. Too many points to lay. Both of these teams will be motivated to play in the Bahamas. Toledo was shutout by Appalachian State in the Dollar General Bowl last season but FIU was embarrassed in a 28-3 loss to Temple in the Gasparilla Bowl in a game where they had to rely on unprepared backup quarterbacks after an injury to senior QB Alex McGough. 10* CFB FIU-Toledo ESPN Special with the Florida International Golden Panthers (217) plus the points versus the Toledo Rockets (218). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the South Florida Bulls (216) plus the points versus the Marshall Thundering Herd (215) in the Gasparilla Bowl. THE SITUATION: Marshall (8-4) saw their three-game winning streak snapped on December 1st with their 41-20 loss at Virginia Tech as a 3.5-point underdog. South Florida (7-5) has lost five straight games after their 38-10 loss to Central Florida as a 16.5-point favorite back on November 23rd. With this bowl game being moved from St. Petersburg to Raymond James Stadium on Tampa Bay, the Bulls playing in their home stadium for this bowl game.

REASONS TO TAKE SOUTH FLORIDA PLUS THE POINTS: Not only are the Bulls 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a straight-up loss but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit loss at home. Furthermore, South Florida has covered the point spread in 6 straight games at home after a loss by at least four touchdowns. It has almost been a month since the Bulls last played and second-year head coach Charlie Strong needed to take full advantage of bowl preparation as looks to build this team for next season. Things started very well for this team with second straight wins to begin the season — and a victory now will remove the bad taste that is in everyone’s mouth after this team dropped its last five games. South Florida has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with at least two weeks between games. The big question for this team is whether or not junior quarterback Blake Barnett will be able to take the field in this game. The former Alabama QB injured his ankle two games ago which kept him out of that final game with UCF. Barnett is officially listed as questionable for this contest and while he has taken off his walking boot this week, there is little other indication that he is actually ready to play in this game. I suspect that second-year head coach Charlie Strong will not risk further injury to his likely incumbent starter who has not practiced for this game and who will not be at 100%. The Bulls have only scored 27 combined points in their last two games — but they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after failing to score more than 17 points in two straight games. South Florida remains a football team that has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games against teams with a winning record. Marshall has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a loss by at least 20 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after winning three of their last four games. This is the Thundering Herd’s third straight game away from home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after playing a game on the road. There are some concerns with the Marshall defense after a suspect Virginia Tech offense that generated 454 yards of offense. The Thundering Herd have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. While Marshall boasted an outstanding run defense this year, they did allow opponents to average 231.7 passing YPG against them which ranks 69th in the FBS. They also allowed home teams to average 372.8 total YPG against them which was over 35 more YPG than their season average. The Thundering Herd have 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 6 of their last 8 games on the road as the favorite. Additionally, Marshall has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games as the favorite. And in their last 7 games with the Total in the 49.5 to 56 point range, they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: The Thundering Herd were flat in their opportunity to upset a vulnerable Virginia Tech team which would have been a nice accomplishment for them. Their motivation to play a true road game in Tampa Bay against a team on a five-game losing streak with a 10-win season no longer possible will be a big challenge for Holliday as a head coach. On the other side of the field, home field advantage should have helped Strong get his team focused on salvaging their season and building for next year. Taking the points with the underdog is where the value is for this situation. 10* CFB Marshall-South Florida ESPN Special with the South Florida Bulls (216) plus the points versus the Marshall Thundering Herd (215) in the Gasparilla Bowl. Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the San Diego State Aztecs (214) plus the points versus the Ohio Bobcats (213). THE SITUATION: San Diego State (7-5) limps into the bowl season having lost three straight games after their 31-30 upset loss at home to Hawai’i to end their regular season despite being an 18-point favorite in that game back on November 24th. Ohio (8-4) has won two straight games with their 49-28 win over Akron as a 24-point favorite back on November 23rd. These two football programs meet for the first time in the Frisco Bowl in Frisco, Texas tonight.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AZTECS PLUS THE POINTS: It was a strange season for San Diego State. After an opening week loss at Stanford, the Aztecs rattled off six-straight wins including impressive wins against Arizona State and at Boise State. But Rocky Long’s team was hit with the injury bug with starting quarterback Christian Chapman and running back Juwan Washington missing significant time with injuries — and that coincided with a difficult stretch of the season where they had challenging road games at Nevada and Fresno State. San Diego State lost three of four games down the stretch against Mountain West Conference rivals that were decided by just 15 combined points. The team was then flat in their season finale where they got upset by Hawai’i. But now Chapman and Washington are healthy again — and one thing this program has been under Long’s leadership is reliable when bouncing-back a from loss. The Aztecs have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 road games after a loss decided by 3 points or less — and they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 37 road games after a loss to a conference rival. Additionally, San Diego State has covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games on the road after losing three of their last four games. Having Washington healthy should jumpstart this offense as he rushed for 870 yards with ten touchdowns despite playing in just eight games. The Aztecs are once again outstanding on the defensive side of the football where they rank 20th in the nation by limiting their opponents to only 327.4 total YPG. The Bobcats want to run the football as they rank 9th in the nation by rushing for 262.2 rushing YPG. But San Diego State ranks 4th in the nation by allowing only 94.5 rushing YPG this season — and opposing rushers averaged just 2.7 Yards-Per-Carry. The Aztecs faced six teams that qualified for bowl games this season — and those six teams averaged only 64.3 rushing YPG against this stout San Diego State defense. The Aztecs entered this season with a 32-9 record over their last three seasons. They are rarely an underdog under Long’s leadership — but when they are, they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games when getting the points. Ohio has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after a win by at least 20 points. The Bobcats preceded that 21-point win over the Zips with a 35-point win over Buffalo the previous week — but Frank Solich’s team has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after winning their last two games by at least three touchdowns. Ohio has also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games when playing away from after winning their last two games by double-digits. The Bobcats out-rushed Akron by a whopping 349 net yards in their last game — but they have failed cover the point spread in 25 of their last 37 games after out-rushing their last opponent by at least 200 yards. Ohio has benefited from averaging +1.08 net turnovers per game this season which is the 5th best mark in the nation. They have not committed more than one turnover in six straight games. But after playing their last two games at home, they go on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after not committing more than one turnover in three straight games. They will be facing an Aztecs team that has not committed a turnover in two straight games. The Bobcats thrived at home where they were a perfect 6-0 this season — but they were just 2-4 on the road while being out-gained by -30 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Ohio has reached a bowl game in nine of the last ten seasons under Solich while enjoying a 41-6 blowout win over UAB in the Bahamas Bowl last year. San Diego State has reached a bowl game in all eight years in Long’s tenure but fourteen returning starters will look to redeem themselves from a 42-35 upset loss to Army in the Armed Forces Bowl as a 7-point favorite. With the Aztecs healthy again, they are probably the better team in this game — and they will be doubly motivated to use this game to erase last year’s underwhelming performance as well as the poor effort over three weeks against Hawai’i. 25* CFB Group of Five Bowl Game of the Year with the San Diego State Aztecs (214) plus the points versus the Ohio Bobcats (213). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the UAB Blazers (212) minus the point(s) versus the Northern Illinois Huskies (211). THE SITUATION: UAB (10-3) won the Conference USA Championship with their 27-25 upset win at Middle Tennessee as a 1.5-point underdog back on December 1st. Northern Illinois (8-5) snapped a two-game losing streak on November 30th by upsetting Buffalo by a 30-29 score as a 3-point underdog to win the Mid-American Championship. These two conference champions meet in the Boca Raton Bowl in Florida tonight.

REASONS TO LAY THE POINTS WITH THE BLAZERS: Alabama-Birmingham should play well tonight as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games off win on the road against a conference opponent. UAB has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread win. And while the Blazers surrendered 456 yards in that contest, they have then covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread win. This team is led by one of one most underrated head coaches in the nation in Bill Clark who pulled off a minor miracle getting this team to a bowl game for two straight seasons despite the football program disbanded in the previous two years. UAB is led by an outstanding defense that is 10th in the nation by allowing 17.3 PPG while also holding their opponents to only 300.2 total YPG which is 11th best in the FBS. The Blazers have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 23 games when getting at least two weeks to prepare. And in their last 11 games against teams with a winning record, UAB has covered the point spread in 8 of these contests. Northern Illinois is a strange team to handicap. On the one hand, the fact that they were outscored and out-gained by their opponents this season should throw up some red flags. On the other hand, the Huskies played one of the most difficult non-conference schedules in the nation with games against Iowa, Utah, Florida State, and BYU — so those negative numbers need to be taken with a grain of salt for this non-power five conference team. The offense has been an issue for this team as they rank 119th in the nation by scoring just 20.7 PPG and they also rank 122nd in the FBS by averaging only 325.0 total YPG. In situations like this, looking to the team trends helps illuminate things if we can get a sense of the personality of the team in question when faces situations like this. Northern Illinois’ win over Buffalo went Over the 51.5 point Total — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. The Huskies have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in five of their last seven games with the over/under in that range. Furthermore, head coach Rod Carey is 0-5 in the five bowl games he has coached with an average losing margin of -25 PPG in those contests. While those results need to be taken with a grain of salt, it certainly is not a ringing endorsement for Carey’s vigor in getting his team ready to play in these postseason games. The Huskies are 5-16-1 ATS in their last 22 games played on a neutral field — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games played on a neutral field as an underdog. At a certain point, we need to follow the numbers.

FINAL TAKE: Northern Illinois will certainly be motivated to end their bowl losing streak — and fourteen starters returned from last year’s team that was embarrassed by a 36-14 score to Duke in the Quick Lane Bowl. But UAB has sixteen starters back from last year’s team that got blown out by Ohio by a 41-6 score in the Bahamas Bowl. In hindsight, the Blazers may have just been happy to reach a bowl game since they were not playing football in the previous two seasons. Now this team travels to Florida with a conference championship and an opportunity to avenge that loss to another MAC opponent. I am trusting the team trends and the better defense in this bowl game. 10* CFB Boca Raton Bowl ESPN Special with the UAB Blazers (212) minus the point(s) versus the Northern Illinois Huskies (211). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (209) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (210). THE SITUATION: Middle Tennessee (8-5) has lost two of their last three games after they 27-25 loss to UAB at home in the Conference USA Championship Game two weeks ago as a 1.5-point favorite. Appalachian State (10-2) has won five straight games with their 30-19 win over Louisiana-Lafayette as a 17.5-point favorite in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game back on December 1st. These two teams meet in the Big Easy for the New Orleans Bowl.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLUE RAIDERS PLUS THE POINTS: Head coach Rick Stockstill will have his team ready to play this bowl game with it being the final collegiate game for his son, Brent, as his starting quarterback. As it is, Middle Tennessee has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a straight-up loss — and this includes them covering the point spread in five of their last six games after a defeat. The Blue Raiders has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. That was a difficult situation for this Middle Tennessee team (that we jumped all over) as they ended up playing the Blazers in two straight weeks after qualifying for the conference championship game by defeating UAB the previous week. After out-rushing the Blazers by +132 yards in their victory, they were then out-rushed by -129 yards the next week in that rematch. The Blue Raiders have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 37 games after being out-rushed in their last opponent by at least 125 yards. This team has still won five of their last seven games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning four or five of their last six contests. They have also 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 6 games against Sun Belt Conference opponents, Middle Tennessee has covered the point spread 5 times. Appalachian State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. This team will be playing without their six-year head coach Scott Satterfield who left the program to take the Louisville head coaching job. Defensive line coach Mark Ivey will serve as the interim head coach for this game. This team may be due for a letdown after winning the Sun Belt Championship. They have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after winning their last two games by at least double-digits against conference rivals. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning at least four straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after winning at least eight of their last ten games.

FINAL TAKE: This is the eighth bowl back for Stockstill as the head coach of Middle Tennessee. The extra time to prepare for the Mountaineers spread offense should help the Blue Raiders defense. With Middle Tennessee having the benefit of a gunslinger at quarterback playing his final game, expect a close game. 10* CFB Saturday Late Show Bailout with the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (209) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (210). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Eastern Michigan Eagles (207) plus the points versus the Georgia Southern Eagles (208). Eastern Michigan (7-5) has won three straight games with their 28-20 win at Kent State as a 12.5-point favorite back on November 23rd. Georgia Southern (9-3) has won two straight contests after their 35-14 win at Georgia State back on November 24th as a 10-point favorite. These two teams face off in the Camellia Bowl in Birmingham, Alabama.

REASONS TO TAKE EASTERN MICHIGAN PLUS THE POINTS: These Eagles should build off their momentum of becoming bowl eligible with their November success. Eastern Michigan has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after a point spread loss. Eastern Michigan is led by a stout defense that ranks 32nd in the FBS by allowing only 22.0 PPG. This strong play has helped them stay competitive in almost all of their games. Despite facing teams playing in bowl games this season, five of their losses were decided by a combined 31 points with three of those losses by 3-point setbacks. Eastern Michigan’s defense has helped them play three straight Unders which is a good sign for them now. They have then covered the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games after playing an Under — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after playing two straight Unders and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after playing three straight Unders. Eastern Michigan has covered the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 17 games against non-conference opponents, Eastern Michigan has covered the point spread 14 times. Georgia Southern has failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after winning their last two games against conference rivals. This team relies on their spread rushing attack to move the football — they have generated 276 and 409 rushing yards in their last two games. But Georgia Southern has then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after rushing for at least 275 yards in two straight games. They have out-rushed their last two opponents by +182 and +335 yards in their last two games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after out-rushing their last two opponents by at least +125 yards. But this Eagles’ offense is one-dimensional as they rank 127th in the FBS by averaging just 82.8 passing YPG. Georgia Southern is averaging 66 YPG below what their opponents typically allow per game. They will be facing an Eastern Michigan team that already has played a similar offense from Navy before having two weeks to prepare for this specific scheme. Lastly, Georgia Southern has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games played on field turf.

FINAL TAKE: Eastern Michigan is extremely well-coached by Chris Creighton who gets the most out of his talent. With a strong defense with extra time to prepare for the Georgia Southern offense, expect another close game from this Eagles defense from the Mid-American Conference. 10* CFB Eastern Michigan-Georgia Southern ESPN Special with the Eastern Michigan Eagles (207) plus the points versus the Georgia Southern Eagles (208). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Fresno State Bulldogs (206) minus the points versus the Arizona State Sun Devils (205). Fresno State (11-2) won the Mountain West Conference Championship with their 19-16 upset win at Boise State in the snow as a 1.5-point underdog two weeks ago. Arizona State (7-5) has won four of their last five games with their 41-40 win at Arizona as a 1.5-point favorite back on November 24th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Fresno State should build off the momentum from that victory in the Mountain West Conference Championship Game as they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a straight-up win — and they are 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games after a point spread victory. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have covered the points spread in 16 of their last 21 games after failing to score more than 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after not allowing more than 20 points. That game finished below the 51.5 point total — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight road games after a game that finished Under the Total. This is a team that thrives on defense — they rank 2nd in the nation by allowing only 13.7 PPG while also ranking 17th in the FBS by giving up just 323.8 total YPG. Their defense travels as the Bulldogs are 5-2 on the road this season with an average winning margin of +15.3 PPG due to them only allowing 12.6 PPG away from home. This stout defense is a great complement to the Fresno State offense overseen by head coach Jeff Tedford who is considered an offensive guru and a quarterback whisperer with stints in the NFL and CFL following his coaching tenure at Cal. Senior quarterback Marcus McMaryion has passed for 3453 yards this season while posting an outstanding 25:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio. The coaching staff will be very familiar with the 3-3-5 defensive scheme they will see from Arizona State under defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales who came over from San Diego State which the Bulldogs compete against every year running the same defensive system. That is a good sign for a football team that has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against teams outside the Mountain West Conference. Arizona State has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 road games after a victory on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 25 games on the road after winning four or five of their last six games. The Sun Devils have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. The Arizona State offense will be without their most dangerous weapon in wide receiver N’Keal Harry who is sitting out this game to keep himself healthy for the NFL draft that he is leaving school early to enter. First-year college head coach Herm Edwards looks to be using this game more as an opportunity to get his younger players experience for next season than a crucial contest that he wants his team to win. Sophomore quarterback Dillon Sterling-Cole is likely to get time in this game for senior QB Manny Wilkins. Arizona State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 bowl games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing on a neutral field. The Sun Devils have struggled away from Tempe this season as they have lost four of their six games on the road wheel being out-gained by -85 net YPG. Furthermore, over their last three contests, Arizona State has been out-gained by -67.6 net YPG. The Sun Devils are vulnerable against the pass as they rank 82nd in the nation by allowing 238.7 passing YPG — and the Bulldogs rank 25th in the FBS by averaging 274.2 passing YPG. Arizona State has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams outside the Pac-12 — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games in the month of December.

FINAL TAKE: Tedford is 6-3 in his nine opportunities to coach in bowl games — and his team will be motivated to not only knock off a school from a Power-Five conference while earning a twelfth win this season which would be the most in program history. The Sun Devils have not been very good away from home and it looks like Edwards is using this game to prepare for next season. 20* CFB Arizona State-Fresno State ABC-TV Special with the Fresno State Bulldogs (206) minus the points versus the Arizona State Sun Devils (205). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the North Texas Mean Green (201) plus the points versus the Utah State Aggies (202). THE SITUATION: North Texas (9-3) has won two straight games as well as three of their last four games with their 24-21 win over UTSA as a 25-point favorite back on November 24th. Utah State (10-2) saw their ten-game winning streak snapped on that Saturday when they lost by a 33-24 score at Boise State as a 2.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MEAN GREEN PLUS THE POINTS: I do not like the dynamic from which Utah State enters this game. They suffered a deflating loss to the Broncos that ruined their Mountain West championship aspirations. As it is, the Aggies have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a loss to a conference rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games when bouncing back from a loss on the road to a conference rival. And while Utah State has not covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to cover the point spread in two straight games. The team is also without their head coach Matt Wells who left the program after that game to become the new head coach for Texas Tech. With interim head coach Frank Maile operating as a lame duck before Gary Andersen returns to the program to serve as the Aggies’ head coach again, it is questionable as to just how motivated this team will be for this game. Utah State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games in the month of December. The Aggies have benefited from a +0.92 net turnover margin per game which is 8th best in the nation — but they did not force a turnover and suffered a -2 net turnover margin in that loss to Boise State. Utah State has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after failing to force a turnover in their last game. Defense is also a concern for this team as they have allowed 471.1 total YPG which is over 85 YPG above their season average. Teams can pass on this team as they rank 84th in the nation by giving up 240.1 passing YPG. This is also a team that thrives at home with a dominant 35-9 mark at home over the years. Both of the Aggies’ losses were on the road this year where they were out-gained away from home by -47.8 net YPG. Additionally, Utah State has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning record. North Texas has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a win by 3 points or less against a Conference USA rival — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 games after winning two straight games against conference rivals. Furthermore, the Mean Green has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. North Texas may scare off some bettors considering that they have only covered the point spread once in their last eight games — but they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Led by quarterback Matt Fine who has passed for over 3700 yards this season while posting a sterling 27:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio, the Mean Green has generated 511 and 516 yards in each of their last two games. North Texas has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after gaining at least 450 yards in two straight contests. Fine should find success against this Aggies pass defense as he leads an offense that ranks 11th in the nation by averaging 316.3 passing YPG. While the UNT pass defense is vulnerable, the Mean Green defense can make Utah State one-dimensional as they rank 15th in the nation by allowing only 113.5 rushing YPG. Lastly, North Texas has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games against non-conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: North Texas has reached a bowl game in each of the first two seasons under third-year head coach Seth Littrell — but they have yet to win that final game. The Mean Green should be very motivated to earth their first bowl win under Littrell while reaching the ten-win milestone this season. 25* CFB New Mexico Bowl Special Feature with the North Texas Mean Green (201) plus the points versus the Utah State Aggies (202). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Tulane Green Wave (203) minus the points versus the UL-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (204). THE SITUATION: Tulane (6-6) became bowl eligible by winning four of their last five games with their 29-28 victory over Navy on November 24th as a 5-point favorite. UL-Lafayette (7-6) saw their three-game winning streak snapped on December 1st in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game where they lost at Appalachian State by a 17.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GREEN WAVE MINUS THE POINTS: Tulane will be very excited to be playing in their first bowl game since 2014 — and their first postseason game under third-year head coach Willie Fritz. The Green Wave were inches away from being bowl eligible last season before getting stuff on the goal line in their upset bid against SMU leaving them at 5-7 and ailing to become bowl eligible. This moment has been a long time coming for this program that returned fourteen starters from last year’s team. Tulane has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a narrow win at home by 3 points or less. The Green Wave have lost three games this season decided by 7 points or less. And while they have not covered the point spread in four of their last six games, they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six games. This team has improved on offense since Justin McMillan took over at quarterback. The graduate transfer from LSU has throw ten touchdown passes in his last five games after completing 18 of 29 passes for 291 yards with three TD passes against the Midshipmen while adding another touchdown with 51 rushing yards in that victory. The Green Wave have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Tulane did not force a turnover in that game — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to force at least one turnover in their last contest. This team led the American Athletic Conference by allowing just 5.4 Yards-Per-Play in conference games. They are particularly tough against the run as they ranked second in the AAC by allowing just 152.6 rushing YPG — and they held their opponents to only 3.95 Yards-Per-Carry. They held their opponents to 38 YPG below their offensive season average. Furthermore, the Green Wave have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 29 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. UL-Lafayette has covered the point spread in eight of their last ten games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. This is not a good matchup for this Ragin’ Cajuns team facing an opponent from a superior conference. UL-Lafayette relies on running the football so they will be playing into the strength of the Tulane defense — and they only average 208.0 passing YPG which is 89th in the FBS. The Ragin’ Cajun defense struggles to defend the run as they rank 107th in the nation by allowing 210.0 rushing YPG — and their opponents average 5.8 Yards-Per-Carry. They face a big challenge when facing this Green Wave offense that is 30th in the nation by averaging 208.3 rushing YPG. UL-Lafayette may be facing some new wrinkles as well after Fritz fired his offensive coordinator Doug Ruse after the Navy game. Alex Atkins will be calling the plays for this game. The Ragin’ Cajuns allowed their opponents to average 41 YPG above their offensive season average. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range. And while they have played two straight games Under the Total, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after playing two straight Unders.

FINAL TAKE: I like the dynamic this Tulane team has entering this game with the challenge of a new offensive coordinator helping to focus their attention as they play their first bowl game in years. UL-Lafayette usually is tapped to play in the New Orleans Bowl in the opening Saturday of the bowl season. This Green Wave is more battle-tested having played in an American Athletic Conference that is significantly better than the Sun Belt. 25* CFB CBS Sports Network Game of the Year with the Tulane Green Wave (203) minus the points versus the UL-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (204). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Navy Midshipmen (103) plus the points versus the Army West Point Black Knights (104). THE SITUATION: Navy (3-9) enters their rivalry game coming off a 29-28 loss at Tulane as a 5-point underdog back on November 24th. Army (9-2) has won seven straight games with their 28-24 win over Colgate as an 11-point favorite back on November 17th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MIDSHIPMEN PLUS THE POINTS: Navy had dominated this series by winning fourteen straight meetings starting in 2002 but they have lost these last two encounters with their arch rival. This has been a lost season for head coach Ken Niumatalolu in his eleventh season with the Midshipmen. Expectations were certainly high that with nine returning starters (not uncommon for a service academy program) from last year’s 7-6 team that lost six of their last seven games that this year’s team would take a step back up. Instead, the rigors of playing in the American Athletic Conference has taken its toll on the win-loss record of this football team. Yet an upset win over the Black Knights would offer this team plenty of positive feelings going into next season. Senior Zach Abbey will be concluding his career this afternoon back at quarterback after initially being moved to wide receiver to start the season — and he should offer the team an emotional lift since he played the last time the Midshipmen won this rivalry game. Expect the strongest effort of the season from Niumatalolo’s team as they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a loss on the road against a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 road games after a loss by 6 points or less. Navy has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after losing eight of their last ten games. The Midshipmen are doing a good job of protecting the football as they have won the turnover battle in each of their last two games. Navy has covered the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games after enjoying a +1 or better turnover margin in at least two straight games. Army had a 14-0 halftime lead over Colgate in their last game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 3 points in the first-half of their last game. The Black Knights have not allowed more than 241 yards of offense in three straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in at least two straight games. Furthermore, Army has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a losing record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 23 games in games with the Total set no higher than 42. Lastly, the Black Knights have failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 51 games after a bye week(s) — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing on a neutral field as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: The last four games between these two teams have been decided by 7 points or less. Expect another close game between these two rivals. 10* CFB Army-Navy CBS-TV Special with the Navy Midshipmen (103) plus the points versus the Army West Point Black Knights (104). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Northwestern Wildcats (321) plus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (322). THE SITUATION: Northwestern (8-4) has won three straight games with their 24-16 win over Illinois as a 16-point favorite last week. Ohio State (11-1) has won four straight games with their triumphant 62-39 upset win over Michigan as a 3.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WILDCATS PLUS THE POINTS: No one doubts the talent level with this Buckeyes team — but this team has been underachieving all season. The issues regarding Urban Meyer were a distraction for this team early on — but it just seems like the culture of this team has gone in the wrong direction considering their 29-point loss at Purdue along with a narrow victory at Maryland that might have been decided when the Terrapins decided to go for the win rather than the tie with a 2-point conversion attempt in overtime. Ohio State has much more talent than either of those teams — and they will be facing a Wildcats team that is more talented than either of those two Big Ten rivals. The Buckeyes played their best game of the season — or in many seasons — last week against their arch rival. The last time Ohio State was a home underdog was in 2011 when they hosted Wisconsin — and they had not been an underdog to the Wolverines since 2004. This was a team clearly motivated to make a statement. But emotional letdowns are common after big wins like that — and this Buckeyes’ team is particularly susceptible to inconsistency. Not only has Ohio State failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a win by at least 20 points. Furthermore, the Buckeyes have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after winning their last four games. No tricks were saved on offense last week against the top statistical unit in the country — and Ohio State ripped the Michigan defense for 567 total yards while averaging 8.46 Yards-Per-Play. But the Buckeyes have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 road games after averaging at least 7.25 YPP. Failure to play fundamental football has been the biggest weakness for this team this season — it is as if the players have stopped listening to the coaches. The Michigan game was probably an exception with all the players on notice — but this defense ranks 67th in the nation by allowing 398.8 total YPG despite being loaded with NFL talent. It is even worse when they play away from home as they are allowing 470.2 total YPG when playing on the road. Northwestern is battle-tested with a 3-point loss to Michigan and a 10-point loss to Notre Dame. The Wildcats play strong defense as they rank tied for 29th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 21.7 PPG — and that marks drop to a mere 17.0 PPG when this team is playing away from home where they are a perfect 5-0 this year. Under head coach Pat Fitzgerald, this team is 20-5-1 ATS in their last 26 games in conference play — and they are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. This team is the epitome of dangerous underdogs given their strong fundamental play. The Wildcats have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games as a dog with nine outright wins. Furthermore, they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games as a double-digit underdog — and they have seven outright wins in those games. Northwestern has also covered the point spread in 7 straight games as an underdog against Big Ten opponents with six of those games being where they pulled the upset.

FINAL TAKE: Ohio State needs a statement victory to overcome Oklahoma to reach the final four in the playoff race (assuming that Georgia does not upset Alabama). When in a similar situation in 2014, the Buckeyes responded by destroying Wisconsin by a 59-0 score. We had Ohio State in that game — but I don’t think this group can flip the switch the way this program could under Meyer a long four years ago. These two teams last played in late of October of last season where another uber-talented Buckeyes team only won by a 24-20 score. In this classic letdown spot, I look for Ohio State to struggle against a sound opponent. 25* CFB Fox-TV Game of the Year with the Northwestern Wildcats (321) plus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (322). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:45 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Fresno State Bulldogs (317) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (318). THE SITUATION: Fresno State (10-2) reached the Mountain West Conference Championship Game with their 31-13 win over San Jose State last Saturday as 32-point favorites. Boise State (10-2) matched them last week with their 33-24 win over Utah State as a 2.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS PLUS THE POINTS: Fresno State has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread setback. The Bulldogs generated 515 yards of offense against the Spartans last week — and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 28 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Led by quarterback Marcus McMaryion, Fresno State averages 282.8 passing YPG which is 23rd best in the nation. Pass defense is a vulnerability for the Broncos as they rank 79th in the nation by allowing 238.9 passing YPG. But where this Bulldogs team shines is on the defensive side of the football where they rank 2nd in the nation by allowing only 13.5 PPG — and they rank 17th in the nation by giving up 321.7 total YPG. Fresno State has been even stingier on the road as home teams are scoring just 12.0 PPG against them while averaging a mere 324.8 total YPG. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Additionally, Fresno State is 13-3-1 ATS in their last 17 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Additionally, Fresno State has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 17 games against teams with a winning record. Boise State (10-2) has played two straight clean games when it comes to committing turnovers — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after not committing a turnover in their last game. The Aggies passed for 363 yards last week in that loss — and the Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 3 straight games after allowing at least 325 passing yards in their last game. Boise State has scored 78 combined points in their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after scoring at least 31 points in two straight games. They get to host this game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games on their blue home field. Furthermore, not only have the Broncos failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games with the Total set in that range.

FINAL TAKE: This is a rematch of a 24-17 upset win that Boise State pulled off back on November 9th as a 2-point underdog. After losing at home to San Diego State in October, the Broncos survived two games at home against the Bulldogs and BYU that were settled by one scoring possession before scoring with four (darn) seconds left in the game last week to pull away from Utah State. Look for Boise State’s good fortunes at home in close games to finally run out tonight against an opponent with an elite defense that will be motivated with double-revenge from not only this year but also losing in Boise in last year’s Mountain West Conference Championship Game. 25* CFB Saturday Night Special Feature with the Fresno State Bulldogs (317) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (318). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (317) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (318). Georgia (11-1) has won five straight games with their 45-21 win over Georgia Tech as a 17-point favorite last week. Alabama (12-0) remained undefeated with their 52-21 win over Auburn last Saturday as a 25.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS PLUS THE POINTS: Georgia is one of the few teams that take the field with the Crimson Tide with the confidence that they can pull off the victory. Thirteen starters return from the team that went into halftime of the National Championship Game last January with a 13-0 lead before losing that game in heartbreaking fashion in overtime by a 26-23 score. Alabama enjoys a significant talent advantage against most football teams in the country — but the Bulldogs are one of the few teams that can hang with their high-level players given their strong recruiting classes. Certainly, this is the game that this Georgia has wanted to play over the last eleven months. The Bulldogs enter this game with confidence as they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after a win by at least three touchdowns. Georgia held the Yellow Jackets to just 219 yards of offense — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing no more than 275 yards in their last game. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 6 straight games played on a neutral field — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games in the month of December. Alabama likely does have the same level of urgency to win this game against a revenge-minded Georgia team. The likelihood is that the Crimson Tide can still lose this game but still make into the College Football Playoff just as they did last year with one loss. Alabama did not commit a turnover last week in the Iron Bowl — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after not committing a turnover in their last game. And while the Crimson Tide have scored 111 combined points in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 42 points in two straight games. Auburn was not able to challenge them in the passing game as they only managed 153 passing yards — but Bama has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after not allowing more than 170 passing yards in their last game. Alabama has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 encounters with the Bulldogs.

FINAL TAKE: This Crimson Tide team looks invincible right now — but their non-conference schedule was light with Louisville being the high-profile game, in theory. LSU is a step below in class and Auburn took a step back as well. This is, by far, the biggest challenge this team has faced all season in facing Georgia. Expect a close game. 10* CFB Alabama-Georgia CBS-TV Special with the Georgia Bulldogs (317) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (318). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Memphis Tigers (309) plus the points versus the Central Florida Knights (310). THE SITUATION: Central Florida (11-0) continued their undefeated season last week with their 38-10 thrashing of South Florida on the road laying 16.5 points. Memphis (8-4) has won four straight games with their 52-31 win over Houston as a 9.5-point favorite last Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: It was a Pyrrhic victory for the Knights last week with their third-year starting quarterback Mckenzie Milton suffering a season-ending knee injury. While UCF owns the nation’s longest winning streak, Milton started at quarterback in all twenty-four of those games. Head coach Josh Heupel now turns to redshirt freshman Darriel Mack to lead the team to the American Athletic Conference championship this afternoon. While the 6’3, 230-lb phenom oozes with physical talent, he is a complete unknown regarding his mental and emotional ability to handle the pressure of the moment. Mack completed only 5 of 14 passes for 81 yards in relief last week against the Bulls. Central Florida earned the right to host this game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as the favorite laying no more than 3 points. The Knights have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 home games with the Total set in the 63.5 to 70 point range. There are two other areas of concern I have for this team. First, UCF has been very fortunate with the bouncing ball as they rank 2nd in the nation by averaging a +1.45 net turnover margin per game. Milton was excellent at protecting the football in both the passing and running game. Mack’s inexperience combined with the pressure of the moment may lead to a visit from the Regression Gods regarding this very favorable turnover ratio. Second, the Knights are very vulnerable in their run defense as they rank 109th in the nation by allowing 211.6 rushing YPG. Enter Darrell Henderson and the vaunted Memphis rushing attack. The Tigers are 5th in the nation by averaging 275.9 rushing YPG. Not only can this Memphis team move the chains by running the football but this can also keep their defense fresh. The Tigers have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a win over a conference rival. They generated 610 yards of offense last week against the Cougars defense — and they have then covered the point spread in 22 of their last 30 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. And in their last 21 games in conference competition, Memphis is 15-5-1 ATS. Together, these team trends produce our specific 60-20-1 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: The Tigers have lost twelve straight meetings with UCF including losing by a narrow 31-30 score earlier this year as a 4.5-point underdog to the Knights. The loss that stung, even more, was when they surrendered a late interception that served as the winning score in a 62-55 loss to UCF in last year’s American Athletic Conference Championship Game that was also played in Orlando. Memphis’ running game helps them play this team as tough as anyone during their 23-game winning streak. But with the injury to Milton, the Tigers have a great opportunity to earn some well-deserved measure of revenge against this team that has been a thorn in their side for years. 20* CFB Memphis-Central Florida ABC-TV Special with the Memphis Tigers (309) plus the points versus the Central Florida Knights (310). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the California Golden Bears (334) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (333). THE SITUATION: This game was rescheduled from a couple of weeks ago that was canceled due to the fires in northern California. California (7-4) enters the same having won two straight games as well as four of their last five contests with their 33-21 win over Colorado as a 10.5-point favorite last week. Stanford (7-4) has won two straight games with their 49-42 win at UCLA as a 7-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: The Cardinal has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a win on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a win over a conference rival. Stanford averaged 7.01 Yards-Per-Play last week against the Bruins — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after gaining at least 6.75 YPP. The Cardinal has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 42 points in their last contest. But the concern for head coach David Shaw has to be his defense after UCLA shredded them for 528 yards of offense. Stanford has failed to cover the point spread in 3 straight games after allowing at least 525 yards. The Cardinal is just 3-2 on the road this year — but they are being out-gained by -106.2 net YPG due to their defense that is allowing home teams to average a whopping 482.0 total YPG. Cal should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread victory. The Bears defeated the Buffaloes last week despite generating only 211 yards of offense — but they have then covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after failing to gain at least 250 yards in their last game. Cal is 4-2 on their home field this season — and they have are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games on their home field. The Golden Bears have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games as an underdog getting no more than 7 points. Furthermore, Cal has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. Together, these team trends produce our specific 70-19-1 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: This is the best team at Cal in their last three seasons — and that makes this the best opportunity for this team to end the eight-game losing streak they have endured against their arch-rivals across the bay. Stanford only won this rivalry game last year by a 17-14 margin despite playing the game at home in Palo Alto as a 13.5-point favorite. Don’t be surprised if the Golden Bears pull the upset — but take the points for some insurance. 10* CFB Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the California Golden Bears (334) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (333). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the UAB Blazers (307) plus the points versus the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (308). THE SITUATION: These two teams meet again in Murfreesboro for the second straight week after Middle Tennessee (8-4) won last Saturday’s game by a 27-3 score in an upset where they were 3-point underdogs. UAB (9-3) travels back looking to avenge that loss and to win the Conference USA Championship Game.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLAZERS PLUS THE POINTS: UAB had their spot in this championship game clinched before playing last week — but winning that game would have ensured that they hosted the conference championship game back in Birmingham. Perhaps head coach Bill Clark preferred to hold back some plays last week and ensure the opportunity to face these Blue Raiders again this week even if it meant playing on their home field? Either way, it looks pretty evident that Clark had the Blazers take their foot off the proverbial gas pedal after falling behind by a 13-3 score at halftime in that game. UAB managed only 89 yards of offense in that game. Clark is an outstanding coach who has pulled off a minor miracle to get this team to the conference championship game despite going on a two-year hiatus four years ago. Clark was rewarded on Friday with a big contract extension that makes him the highest paid football coach in Conference USA. He should have his team ready to play a great game. The Blazers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after suffering an upset loss by at least 17 points despite being favored in that game. UAB is also 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a straight-up loss as well as being 13-4-1 ATS in their last 18 games after a loss by at least 20 points — so this group has proven themselves to be very resilient under Clark’s leadership. Furthermore, the Blazers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when avenging a loss where they did not score more than 9 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when avenging a loss by at least three touchdowns to their opponent. UAB has lost their last two games with both those contests being played on the road. But the Blazers have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after losing their last two contests on the road — and they have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after suffering two straight losses on the road by double-digits. UAB should get their offense going this week — they rank 30th in the nation by averaging 207.5 rushing YPG. They are 20-8-2 ATS in their last 30 games after failing to score at least 20 points in their last game — and they are 10-4-2 ATS in their last 16 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game. But where this team should really see improvements in this rematch is on the other side of the football where they rank 8th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 287.2 total YPG. UAB is also 9th in the FBS by allowing just 16.7 PPG — and they out-gain their home hosts when playing on the road by +46.7 net YPG. This stout defense has helped the Blazers cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. Middle Tennessee may not be able to prevent themselves from suffering from a bit of a letdown after winning easily last week to earn their opportunity to win the conference championship. As it is, the Blue Raiders have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a win at home by at least 17 points — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after an upset win as an underdog. Middle Tennessee did not commit a turnover last week but that might not bode well for them now as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after playing a game where they did not commit a turnover. The Blue Raiders get the opportunity to host this game at their Floyd Stadium where they are 5-0 this season — but they are only out-gaining their visitors by +35.8 net YPG. Middle Tennessee has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the month of December. And in their last 9 expected close games where they are listed in the +/- 3-point range, the Blue Raiders have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: I suspect that Clark kept a few tricks up his sleeve with the expectation that this rematch would be occurring this week. He will have a very eager and motivated team looking to redeem themselves from the thumping they received last week. It will be difficult for the Blue Raiders to maintain the intensity and sense of urgency that they displayed last week. 25* CFB Game of the Year with the UAB Blazers (307) plus the points versus the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (308). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas Longhorns (311) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (312). THE SITUATION: Texas (9-3) has won three straight games with their 24-17 win at Kansas as a 15.5-point favorite last Friday. Oklahoma (11-1) has won six straight games after their 59-56 win at West Virginia as a 3-point/3.5-point favorite last Friday night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LONGHORNS PLUS THE POINTS: With Michigan losing last week, the Sooners are in a great position to reach the College Football Playoffs again this year if they can defeat their arch-rivals. But that pressure will be very heavy this afternoon. I know there are pundits on ESPN that describe the Oklahoma offense as the best one ever in College Football. Those dudes need to get a grip. Kyler Murray passed for 364 yards last week against the Mountaineers defense — but the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Additionally, Oklahoma has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games played on a neutral field — and they are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games against teams with a winning record. The Sooners are playing with revenge on their mind with their lone loss this season being that 48-45 barnburner back on October 6th where they were 7-point favorites. But Oklahoma has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games when looking to avenge a loss where they surrendered at least 42 points. And that is the rub: this Sooners’ defense is a mess. Head coach Lincoln Riley fired his defensive coordinator Mike Stoops after that game — but the defense has not improved. In fact, Oklahoma has allowed 623 YPG over their last three contests which is -182 net YPG worse than what they were allowing before that stretch. The Sooners have won their last three games by an average winning margin of 6 PPG — but they were favored by an average of 18 PPG so this defense has them significantly underachieving. Texas is 13-5-2 ATS in their last 20 games against teams with winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams playing on a neutral field. Head coach Tom Herman should be able to oversee an offensive game plan that will be even more effective than the one that led to their victory in the first incarnation of the Red River Rivalry this season. Quarterback Sam Ehlinger has thrown 23 touchdown passes with only four interceptions. The Longhorns have lost three times this season with the losing margins being by just 5, 3 and 1 point. And Herman simply thrives when his teams are playing the role of the underdog as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 14 games as the dog which includes ten outright victories.

FINAL TAKE: Texas has covered the point spread in the last 6 meetings between these two teams — and the last five meetings have been decided by 7 points or less. The pressure to make the playoffs and the bad defense will likely lead to this being another close game. 10* CFB Texas-Oklahoma ABC-TV Special with the Texas Longhorns (311) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (312). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Marshall Thundering Herd (329) plus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (330). THE SITUATION: Marshall (8-3) has won three straight games with their 28-25 win at Florida International as a 3.5-point favorite last Saturday. Virginia Tech (5-6) comes off a 34-31 win in overtime at home against Virginia as a 4-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDERING HERD PLUS THE POINTS: I hate this situation for the Hokies. This game is only being played because Virginia Tech’s game with East Carolina in September was canceled. The Hokies reached out to Marshall to arrange for this possible game if it was necessary for them to become bowl eligible — and with their upset win over Virginia last week, they need one more victory to reach a bowl game this year. So this is all happening for Virginia Tech to play in one more game — but that can also lead to plenty of pressure on this team that has underachieved all season. Frankly, the Hokies were very fortunate to earn the win over the Cavaliers last week. They scored on a fumble recovery for a touchdown early in that game to seize a 14-0 lead yet needed a second fumble recovery in the end zone to tie the game with under two minutes to go to force overtime which they did win. But Virginia Tech 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 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread victory. The Hokies have been uninspired at home this season where they are just 2-4 while being outscored by -4.9 PPG — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home. What has happened to the Bud Foster-coached defense? They are allowing 435.4 total YPG this season which is 96th in the nation — and they are allowing 472.0 total YPG over their last three games. They do face a non-power conference opponent this afternoon — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against Conference USA opponents. Marshall is bowl bound with their eight wins — so one might question what they have at stake in this game. But head coach Doc Holliday will have his team licking their chops with this opportunity to knock off one of the heavyweight programs in their geographical region — there is a reason he agreed to take this game midyear. His teams have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games as an underdog. The Thundering Herd have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in the month of December. Furthermore, not only is Marshall 21-7-1 ATS in their last 29 games against teams outside Conference USA but they are also 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games against teams from the ACC. The Thundering Herd are 4-1 on the road this year with an average winning margin of +6.6 PPG. Together, these team trends produce our specific 55-14-2 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: This extra game gives Marshall a chance to reach ten wins this season. All the pressure is on the Hokies — but the Herd gets to relish in their role as the spoiler. Don’t be surprised if they pull the upset — but take the points for some insurance. 10* CFB Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the Marshall Thundering Herd (329) plus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (330). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Utah Utes (305) plus the points versus the Washington Huskies (306). THE SITUATION: Utah (9-3) has won three straight games with their 35-27 win over BYU last Saturday as a 10.5-point favorite. Washington (9-3) has also won three in a row after they upset Washington State on the road last Friday as a 2.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE UTES PLUS THE POINTS: In head coach Kyle Whittingham I trust to have his team ready to play this game. Utah has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread loss. The team has handled the adversity of losing starting quarterback Tyler Huntley and starting running back Zack Moss to season-ending injuries. During their three-game winning streak, the Utes are scoring 32.3 PPG while averaging 393.3 total YPG operating the Air-Raid spread offense under second-year offensive coordinator Troy Taylor. Utah has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against Pac-12 opponents — and they are also 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 games against teams with a winning record. Furthermore, the Utes have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing on a neutral field. This Utah team is looking to avenge a 21-7 loss to the Huskies back on September 15th. Utah is very tough under Whittingham when motivated by revenge. The Utes have covered the point spread in 6 straight games when avenging a loss at home to their opponent. Furthermore, Utah has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games when avenging a loss by at least two touchdowns — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they failed to score at least 14 points. Washington 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 4 straight games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Huskies have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. Furthermore, while Washington gained 487 yards against the Cougars last week, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Huskies have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against Pac-12 rivals — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. And in their last 10 games as the favorite, Washington has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: The Huskies were a dark horse National Championship contender for me to begin the season but the season-ending injury to left tackle Trey Adams has hampered their offensive line. Washington is just 3-3 away from home this season with losses at Oregon, California and in Atlanta against an Auburn team that has also disappointed. The Huskies may win this game — but I look for the Utes to be a very difficult out. 10* CFB Utah-Washington Fox-TV Special with the Utah Utes (305) plus the points versus the Washington Huskies (306). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Northern Illinois Huskies (303) plus the points versus the Buffalo Bulls (304). Northern Illinois (7-5) limps into the Mid-American Conference Championship Game with their 28-21 upset loss at Western Michigan back on November 20th as a 6.5-point favorite. Buffalo (10-2) clinched their opportunity to win the conference championship with a 44-14 win at Bowling Green last Friday as a 16-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HUSKIES PLUS THE POINTS: Northern Illinois has suffered two straight upset losses in a row as their loss to the Broncos was preceded by a 13-7 upset loss at home to Miami (OH) as a 6.5-point favorite. But because the Huskies raced out to a 6-0 record in conference play, the team was in firm control of winning the MAC West Division despite then losing their last two games. There is no better way for Rod Carey’s team to erase the memory of these last two setbacks then by winning this game and winning their conference title. This team returned fourteen starters from last year’s group that finished 8-5. This is the team’s first trip back to Ford Field in Detroit to play in this game in the last three years. As usual, this is a battle-tested team that played Utah at home while also traveling to play Iowa, BYU and Florida State in their non-conference schedule. They should play very well tonight as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games after a loss by 7 points or less against a conference opponent. Northern Illinois did allow 285 passing yards to Western Michigan in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last game. The Huskies are led by their outstanding defense that ranks 26th in the nation by allowing only 344.0 total YPG. They rank 13th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 107.0 rushing YPG. Northern Illinois has only allowed 94 rushing yards in each of their last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 125 rushing yards in two straight games. The Huskies are due for some better luck when it comes to the bouncing ball that often determines turnovers as they have endured a -2 or worse net turnover margin in three straight games. But Northern Illinois has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after losing the turnover battle in three straight games. Moving forward, the Huskies have covered the point spread in 23 of their last 33 road games in the month of November. Buffalo raced out to a 34-7 halftime lead over Bowling Green last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after holding at least a 24-point halftime lead in their last game. The Bulls are led by one of the best offensive lines in the country that helped them churn out 332 rushing yards against the Falcons meager defensive line (as we predicted when taking Buffalo in that game) — but this team has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after rushing for at least 300 yards in their last game. The Bulls held the Bowling Green offense to only 58 rushing yards — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 road games after not allowing more than 100 rushing yards in their last contest. But run defense is an issue for this team as their opponents are averaging 169.5 rushing YPG this season which is 74th in the nation. On paper, the Northern Illinois offense looks weak as they rank 124th in the FBS by averaging only 318.0 total YPG — but that mark rises over 50 YPG to a 369.0 total YPG mark in conference play. This is Buffalo’s third straight game away from home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when playing on a neutral field.

FINAL TAKE: Northern Illinois is in a better position to win this game given their experience in this game along with their brutal non-conference schedule and the extra days they have had to rest and prepare for this showdown. Their defense should frustrate a Bulls’ offense that ranks last in the MAC in Red Zone offense. This is the biggest football game for this Buffalo team perhaps in program history — they have not even played in a bowl game since 2013. 25* CFB Underdog of the Month with the Northern Illinois Huskies (303) plus the points versus the Buffalo Bulls (304). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Utah State Aggies (181) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (182). THE SITUATION: Utah State (10-1) enters their final game of the regular season coming off a 29-24 win at Colorado State as a 30.5-point favorite. Boise State (9-2) enters this game coming off a 45-14 win at New Mexico as a 21-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AGGIES PLUS THE POINTS: The close call with the Rams should get the attention of this team. Those 29 points were the second-fewest that Utah State has scored all season — and two of their touchdowns were scored on defense. The Aggies are second in the nation by scoring 49.3 PPG but they only had the ball for 17:55 minutes in that game against Colorado State. The weather did play a role in that contest — but that close call will help head coach Matt Wells communicate that his team can take nothing for granted tonight. Utah State has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. The Aggies have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up victory. Utah State has been very good on the road this year where their only loss was a 7-point loss at East Lansing against Michigan State in their opening game of the season. The Aggies are 4-1 away from home this year while outscoring their hosts by +14.0 PPG. Utah State needs to play better on defense this week after allowing 506 yards to Colorado State last week. The Rams have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Utah State ranks 34th in the nation by allowing only 22.1 PPG. The Total is set in the high-60s for this game — and the Aggies have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games with the Total set at 63 or higher. Boise State had only scored 45 combined points in their previous two games at home against San Diego State and Fresno State before traveling to Albuquerque to face the Lobos last week. The Broncos are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Boise State held New Mexico and their run-based spread offense to just 103 passing yards (on just 14 pass attempts). The Broncos’ previous five opponents had generated at least 242 passing yards with that lowest number being from a run-oriented Air Force team that averaged 15.1 Yards-Per-Attempt in the air. Boise State allows 226.9 passing YPG which is just 63rd in the nation — and that likely spells trouble when now facing quarterback Jordan Love who leads an offense that is 22nd in the nation by averaging 282.1 passing YPG. The Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games after not allowing more than 125 passing yards in their last game. Boise State enjoyed a +3 net turnover margin in that win over the Lobos after not committing a turnover in that game. But the Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 home games after a game where they did not commit a turnover. Boise State has also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games on their blue field at home. And in their last 19 games against teams with a winning record, the Broncos have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: The winner of this game advances to the Mountain West Conference Championship Game — so the stakes could not be higher. The Aggies also will have revenge on their minds after getting blown out by the Broncos last year by a 41-14 score. Eighteen starters returned from that team. Wells’ teams in the past could not win close games — they entered this season having lost their last eight games decided by one scoring possession. But after that opening loss to Michigan State, Utah State has won their only two games decided by one score with the experience of this team finally paying off. Don’t be surprised if this team pulls the upset — but take the points for some insurance. 25* CFB Saturday ESPN Bailout Game of the Year with the Utah State Aggies (181) plus the points versus the Boise State Broncos (182). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Iowa State Cyclones (208) minus the points versus the Kansas State Wildcats (207). THE SITUATION: Iowa State (6-4) saw their five-game winning streak snapped last week with their 24-10 loss at Texas as a 1-point underdog. Kansas State (5-6) has won two in a row after their 21-6 upset win against Texas Tech as a 6.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO LAY THE POINTS WITH THE CYCLONES: Iowa State should rebound with a strong effort on Senior Night. They have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss. And while Iowa State only generated 210 yards of offense, they are then 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game — and they are also 21-7-2 ATS in their last 30 games after failing to gain at least 20 points in their last contest. Now this team returns home where they are 4-1 this season while outgaining their opponents by +61.0 net YPG. The Cyclones have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Furthermore, Matt Campbell’s team has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 home games when favored by 7.5 to 14 points — and this tightens to them covering six of their last seven games when laying more than 10 points but no more than two touchdowns. Kansas State can be a dangerous underdog under head coach Bill Snyder — but that rarely extends for two straight weeks. The Wildcats ave failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset win as an underdog — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after an upset victory over a conference rival as an underdog getting at least 6 points. Furthermore, Kansas State has 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 7 of their last 9 games after a point spread win. Now this team goes back on the road where they are 0-4 this year with an average losing margin of -17.5 PPG due to a defense that allowed 34.2 PPG along with 499.5 total YPG. Together, these team trends produce our specific 112-34-3 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: Some might argue that Iowa State has little to play for tonight after they saw their chances to play for the Big 12 Championship next week fall by the wayside with their loss to the Longhorns. Of course, these same pundits will talk about relative motivations for winning their bowl game next month. The fact is that the Cyclones would love to end their ten-game losing streak to the Wildcats with their last victory in this series coming all the way back in 2007. Iowa State lost a 20-19 heartbreaker to Kansas State in Manhattan last year — look for them to win by double-digits to earn some revenge. 10* CFB Kansas State-Iowa State FS1 Special with the Iowa State Cyclones (208) minus the points versus the Kansas State Wildcats (207). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (146) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Panthers (145). THE SITUATION: Miami (6-5) snapped a four-game losing streak last Saturday with their 38-14 win at Virginia Tech as a 6.5-point favorite. Pittsburgh (7-4) has won four games in a row with their 34-13 win at Wake Forest as a 5.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HURRICANES MINUS THE POINTS: Miami has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a win by at least 17 points — and they have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 27 games after not allowing more than 20 points — and this includes them covering the point spread in nine of these last eleven situations. Furthermore, Miami has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after losing four of their last five games. Head coach Mark Richt should be able to have his team very motivated to avenge a 24-12 loss at Pittsburgh last season as a 12-point favorite which ruined their perfect season and College Playoff aspirations. The Hurricanes get this rematch in South Beach where they are 4-1 with an average winning margin of +24.2 net PPG and out-gaining these opponents by +193.8 net YPG. While Miami’s offense comes to life at home, it is their defense that really shines as they limit their guests to just 14.8 PPG along with a mere 216.8 total YPG. Pittsburgh (7-4) may be caught looking ahead to the ACC Championship Game next week against Clemson. And after a cold few weeks in Pennsylvania, this Panthers team may be in for a shock playing in the still warm Florida weather. As it is, the Panthers have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning at least four straight games. Pittsburgh is also 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a win by at least 20 points. And while the Panthers have generated 470 and 654 yards of offense in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after gaining at least 450 yards in two straight games. Pitt plays their third game on the road in their last four contests where they are just 2-3 while being out-gained by -46.2 net YPG. The Panthers have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 18 road games when favored in the 3.5 to 7 point range.

FINAL TAKE: With Pittsburgh looking ahead to Clemson, Miami should be very motivated to exact some revenge from their loss last season with this being Senior Day. 10* CFB Pittsburgh-Miami ESPN Special with the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (146) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Panthers (145). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Liberty Flames (180) minus the points versus the New Mexico State Aggies (179). THE SITUATION: Liberty (4-6) has lost three straight games with their 53-0 loss at Auburn last week. New Mexico State (3-8) has lost four of their last five contests with their 45-10 loss at BYU last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FLAMES MINUS THE POINTS: Liberty returns home to close out their season where they are 3-1 this year. The Flames should respond with a strong effort under seven-year head coach Turner Gill. Liberty 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 15 of their last 20 games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Flames managed only 134 yards of offense against the Tigers defense — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game. Liberty has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to score at least 20 points in their last game. And while Auburn rolled up 531 yards of offense against them, the Flames have then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. New Mexico State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread setback. Furthermore, the Aggies have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a loss by at least 20 points. Additionally, not only has New Mexico State failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after failing to score at least 20 points but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after allowing at least 20 points. They stay on the road where they are just 1-5 this season while being outscored by -24.7 net PPG. They are allowing their hosts to score 44.3 PPG while generating over 500 YPG. The Aggies have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road. Together, these team trends produce our specific 71-15 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: Liberty will have the extra motivation to avenge an upset loss to this New Mexico State team back on October 6th where they fell by a 49-41 score. The Aggies score only 19.7 PPG on the road so it will be difficult for them to keep up the pace in this rematch. It is hard to see what the motivation for this New Mexico State team will be either as they play out the string of this season. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Liberty Flames (180) minus the points versus the New Mexico State Aggies (179). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (165) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (166). THE SITUATION: Georgia Tech (7-4) has won four straight games with their 30-27 win over Virginia last week as a 6.5-point favorite. Georgia (10-1) has won four in a row as well with their 66-27 win over UMass as a 41-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE YELLOW JACKETS PLUS THE POINTS: Georgia Tech is looking to avenge an ugly 38-7 loss to the Bulldogs last season. That was just the second time in the last fifteen meetings between these two teams that the game was decided by more than two touchdowns in this rivalry game. The Yellow Jackets usually play very well in Athens where they are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games against Georgia. Georgia Tech is 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 games after a straight-up win. And while the Yellow Jackets have covered the point spread in five of their last seven games, they have then covered the point spread in 19 of their last 27 road games after covering point spread expectations in five or six of their last seven contests. Additionally, Georgia Tech is 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams outside the ACC. Georgia may get caught looking ahead to their rematch of the National Championship Game with Alabama next week in the SEC Championship Game. As it is, they may be due for a letdown. The Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 41 home games are winning their previous three games. This is Georgia’s third straight game at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 120 home games after playing at least their last two games at home. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games after winning their last two games at home. And while Georgia has covered the point spread in four of their last six games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 home games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Together, these team trends produce our specific 128-45-4 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia used to attempt to schedule a team that ran an offense similar to the spread triple option that they will see from Paul Johnson’s team today — but they have not had that opportunity this season. The road team is 17-4-1 ATS in the last 22 meetings between these two teams. Expect a close game once again between these two rivals with the Yellow Jackets much more invested in this contest. 10* CFB Big Dog Surprise with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (165) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (166). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Tulane Green Wave (214) minus the points versus the Navy Midshipmen (213). THE SITUATION: Tulane (5-6) saw their three-game winning streak snapped last Thursday with their 48-17 loss at Houston as a 7.5-point underdog. Navy (3-8) snapped their seven-game losing streak with their 37-29 win over Tulsa last Saturday as 5-point favorites.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GREEN WAVE MINUS THE POINTS: Tulane has failed to cover the point spread in their last two games — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to cover the point spread in their last two contests. The Green Wave is also 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games after failing to score at least 20 points in their last game. Now, this Tulane team returns home where they are outscoring their visitors by +7.4 PPG while out-gaining these opponents by +46.5 net YPG. The Green Wave have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 home games again teams with a losing record on the road. Additionally, Tulane has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 home games when favored in the 3.5 to 7.5 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. The Green Wave are doing a good job of implementing head coach Willie Fritz’s run-first spread offense as they rank 25th in the nation by averaging 215.5 rushing YPG. This ground game should have plenty of success against the faltering Midshipmen defense that ranks 92nd in the nation by allowing 194.5 rushing YPG. It has been a lost season for this Navy team that returned only nine starters from a team that dropped six of their last seven games in the regular season last year. With this group not eligible for a bowl with just three wins, this team may be looking ahead for their rivalry game with Army. As it is, the Midshipmen are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a straight-up win. Navy has been a disaster on the road this season where they are 0-6 with an average losing margin of -20.3 net PPG. They are also being out-gained by -154.1 net YPG in these six road games. The Midshipmen have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games. Navy has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: Tulane needs this victory to become bowl eligible for the first time in Fritz’s three years with the program. They are also playing with revenge on their mind after losing to the Midshipmen last year by a 23-21 score. The Green Wave did limit Navy to just 194 rushing yards in that game as they contained their spread triple option to averaging just 3.73 Yards-Per-Carry. I like that Tulane had an extra two days of rest and preparation for this unique offense. 25* CFB American Athletic Conference Game of the Year with the Tulane Green Wave (214) minus the points versus the Navy Midshipmen (213). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the West Virginia Mountaineers (142) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (141). THE SITUATION: West Virginia (8-2) looks to bounce-back from a 45-41 upset loss at Oklahoma State last week as a 6-point favorite. Oklahoma (10-1) has won five straight games with their 55-40 victory over Kansas last week as a 35-point favorite. The winner of this game earns the right to play Texas next week in the Big 12 Championship Game.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MOUNTAINEERS PLUS THE POINTS: West Virginia had won three straight games before being upset by the Cowboys — but Dana Holgorsen’s team can redeem themselves from that loss with a win tonight. Led by Heisman Trophy candidate Will Grier at quarterback, the Mountaineers have a powerful offense that ranks 10th in the nation by averaging 502.0 total YPG. West Virginia has scored at least 41 points in four straight games and they generated 553 yards of offense last week against Oklahoma State. The Mountaineers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 525 yards in their last game. They return home where they are a perfect 5-0 while scoring 46.0 PPG and generating 540.2 total YPG. Grier leads a passing attack that is 5th in the nation by averaging 340.0 passing YPG — and he should have plenty of success against this Sooners’ pass defense that ranks 107th in the nation by allowing 263.6 passing YPG. Defense is an issue for this West Virginia team (as it is for all Big 12 teams). But they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. Playing back in Morgantown should help this team as they are allowing only 13.8 PPG along with just 281.2 total YPG at home. West Virginia is outscoring their opponents by +32.8 net PPG while out-gaining their guests by +259 net YPG. The Mountaineers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games as the underdog. West Virginia is also 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games against teams with a winning record. Oklahoma may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a straight-up win. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win over a conference rival. The Sooners did generate 568 yards against the Jayhawks — they averaged 7.89 Yards-Per-Play in that game. Oklahoma had averaged 9.12 YPP in their previous game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 road games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP in their last two games. The bigger concern for this team is on the other side of the football where they have allowed at least 40 points in three straight games. The Sooners are allowing 425.8 total YPG which not only ranks 87th in the nation but is -73.6 net YPG worse than what West Virginia allows. Oklahoma allowed the Kansas offense to generate 524 yards against them — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Furthermore, not only have the Sooners failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games on the road but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: Last year’s Oklahoma team allowed under 395 yards per game — yet head coach Lincoln Riley fired defensive coordinator Mike Stoops for that unit finishing outside the top-50 in defense for the sixth time since 2012. This defense appears even worse. Look for West Virginia to outscore this Sooners team back on their home field. 25* CFB Friday ESPN Game of the Year with the West Virginia Mountaineers (142) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (141). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the South Florida Bulls (134) plus the points versus the Central Florida Knights (133). THE SITUATION: South Florida (7-4) has lost four straight games with their 27-17 loss at Temple as a 14-point underdog last week. Central Florida (10-0) remained undefeated with their 38-13 win at home against Cincinnati last Saturday night as a 6.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLS PLUS THE POINTS: South Florida can earn a signature win by giving the Knights their first loss of the season — and they will certainly be confident in this game after being upset by a 49-42 score to UCF in a back-and-forth affair last November despite being a 10.5-point favorite in that contest. Head coach Charlie Strong should get a strong effort from his team as USF is 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games after a straight up loss. South Florida managed only 266 yards of offense against the Owls but they have a good chance to get their offense that ranks 27th in the nation by averaging 456.6 total YPG going in this game. The Bulls have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last contest — and they are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. They return home where they are 4-1 this season after playing three of their last four games on the road. Playing a full 60 minutes will be one of the messages that Strong has for his players in this game after they went into the locker room against Temple with a 17-0 lead. The Bulls have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 28 games after enjoying at least a 17 point lead at halftime of their last game — and they have also covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 home games after not allowing more than a field goal in the first half of their last game. Additionally, South Florida has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games in the month of November. Central Florida defeated the Bearcats by 25 points despite only being on offense for 22:48 minutes of that game. The Knights only out-gained Cincinnati by 23 net yards. UCF may be undefeated but their suspect run defense is going to catch up with them sooner rather than later. The Knights rank 111th in the nation by allowing 213.2 rushing YPG. They have allowed their last three opponents to generate at least 226 rushing yards. Not only has UCF failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 225 rushing yards in their last game but they have also failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after allowing at least 225 rushing yards in three straight contests. They face a USF team that averages 203.1 rushing YPG this season. Central Florida has also benefited from a favorable schedule that has seen them play at home for their last three games. The Knights go on the road for just the fourth time this season with easy trips already in the books against UConn and East Carolina. Their closest game of the season came on the road where they defeated Memphis by a 31-30 score which demonstrated their vulnerability away from home. They are allowing their home hosts to average a whopping 490.7 total YPG. Central Florida is being asked to lay a bunch of points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 road games when laying 14.5 to 21 points. Together, these team trends produce our specific 84-32-2 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: UCF has clinched their spot in the American Athletic Conference championship game next week — but a loss here in the “War on I-4” could ruin their hope to at least lay claim to the one non-Power Five conference New Years Day bowl slot. There is also the pressure this team faces in maintaining their two-year win streak. Expect the Bulls ground game to keep this game close. 10* CFB Central Florida-South Florida ESPN Special with the South Florida Bulls (134) plus the points versus the Central Florida Knights (133). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Buffalo Bulls (121) minus the points versus the Bowling Green Falcons (122). THE SITUATION: Buffalo (9-2) saw their five-game winning streak snapped back on November 14th with their 52-17 loss at Ohio as a small 2.5-point underdog. Bowling Green (3-8) has won two straight games after their 21-6 upset win at Akron as a 6.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLS MINUS THE POINTS: Buffalo had the opportunity to clinch a spot in the Mid-American Conference championship game in that game with the Bobcats but they were simply flat and mentally unprepared for that game. We took Ohio in that midweek MACtion game — and we were rewarded with the Bobcats enjoying a +4 net turnover margin while out-gaining the Bulls by a whopping 646 to 277 yards advantage. Head coach Lance Leipold should have his team ready to play this afternoon — they have a big preparation edge with the extra days off and now facing a Falcons team playing on a short week from last Saturday. Buffalo still advances to face Northern Illinois next week in the MAC championship game with a victory this afternoon. Buffalo has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after a loss by at least 20 points. Furthermore, the Bulls have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. Buffalo has also covered the point spread in 5 straight games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games against teams with a losing record. The Bulls have one of the best offensive lines in the nation — they should overwhelm a Falcons team with a weak defensive line that has let their opponents average 275.8 rushing YPG which is 127th in the nation. Interim head coach Carl Pelini has seen his team upset Central Michigan and then Akron in their last two games — but the Chippewas are a hot mess at 1-10 this season and the Zips offense makes every defense look good as they rank 126th in the nation in total offense. Bowling Green has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. The Falcons return home where they have only won once in the last two seasons while allowing this year’s guests to score 39.0 PPG along with gaining 484.2 total yards of offense. Bowling Green has failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 27 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Together, these team trends produce our specific 70-20 ATS combined angle for this situation. 

FINAL TAKE: This Buffalo team is angry and motivated — and their ground attack travels as they average 185 rushing YPG on 4.7 Yards-Per-Carry on the road. The Bulls should overwhelm this Bowling Green that has taken a few steps back which prompted the firing of their third-year head coach Mike Jinks. 20* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Buffalo Bulls (121) minus the points versus the Bowling Green Falcons (122). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (124) minus the points versus the Nebraska Cornhuskers (123). THE SITUATION: Iowa (7-4) snapped their three-game losing streak last Saturday with their dominant 63-0 win at Illinois as a 15-point favorite. Nebraska (4-7) has won two straight as well as four of their last five games with their 9-6 win over Michigan State as a 1.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES MINUS THE POINTS: Iowa should build off the momentum of their blowout victory. They have covered the point spread in 5 of the last 7 games after both a straight-up win as well as after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Hawkeyes are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Head coach Kirk Ferentz’s team is one of the best defensive teams in the nation. They rank 9th in the FBS by allowing only 16.5 PPG — and they rank an even better 6th in the nation by giving up only 279.5 total YPG. After playing three of their last four games on the road, they return home to Iowa City for Senior Day where they are outscoring their opponents by +11.3 PPG due their stifling defense that limits their visitors to just 11.0 PPG along with a mere 243.8 total YPG. Iowa is also out-gaining their guests by +125.4 total YPG. The Hawkeyes are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games on their home field. Iowa has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a losing record. Nebraska defeated Sparty in the snow last Saturday despite being outgained by -41 net yards. The Cornhuskers managed only 248 yards of offense against the Michigan State defense. That is not a good sign for this contest. Not only are they just 1-7-1 ATS in their last 9 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game but they are also 0-6-1 ATS in their last 7 games after failing to generate more than 275 yards of offense in that contest. Head coach Scott Frost’s team is also just 2-10-2 ATS in their last 14 games after a point spread victory. Not they finish their disappointing season on the road where they are 0-4 this year while being outscored by -17.7 net PPG and out-gained by -102.5 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Frost has to get his team into the weight room as he looks to change the nature of this Nebraska program. The Cornhuskers’ defense has plummeted over the years — these Blackshirts rank tied for 96th in the nation by allowing 434.8 total YPG. These soft defenses are the type of teams that the Hawkeyes expose in the Ferentz era — especially when playing at home in Kinnick Stadium. 25* CFB Big Ten Game of the Year with the Iowa Hawkeyes (124) minus the points versus the Nebraska Cornhuskers (123). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Mississippi Rebels (114) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (113). THE SITUATION: Mississippi (5-6) has lost four straight games with their 36-29 loss in overtime at Vanderbilt as a 3-point underdog last Saturday. Mississippi State (7-4) has won three of their last four games after enjoying their biggest victory of the season last week with their 52-6 blowout win over Arkansas as a 23.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE REBELS PLUS THE POINTS: Ole Miss seemingly scored the winning touchdown in overtime before a penalty erased that play. It has been a disappointing season in the first-year under head coach Matt Luke who had the interim job last year after the program imploded when the actions of grifter Hugh Freeze came to light. The football program imposed a bowl ban for this year’s team — so this is the proverbial de-facto bowl game for this team with its nineteen seniors. In this rivalry game, don’t be surprised if Ole Miss plays their best game of the season. They have lost four games in a row — but they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after losing four straight games. They outgained the Commodores last week by a decisive 578 to 387 yardage margin but somehow found a way to lose that game. But this team plays their opponents close — they are out-gaining their opponents by +50.5 net YPG while out-gaining their last three opponents by +78.4 net YPG despite losing all three contests. Now after playing their last two games on the road, Ole Miss returns home where they are outscoring their out-gaining their opponents by +79.6 net YPG. This Rebels offense can score points on anyone. They rank 5th in the nation by averaging 539.7 total YPG — and they score 41.8 PPG while generating 572.3 total YPG when playing on their home field. Senior quarterback Jordan Ta’amu has passed for 3831 yards this season while tossing 19 touchdowns while throwing just seven interceptions. Ta’amu is second in the NFL by averaging 348.2 passing YPG — and he has a dynamic target in wide receiver A.J. Brown who has 1259 receiving yards this season. This duo makes Ole Miss a dangerous underdog — they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games as an underdog getting 7.5 to 14 points. The Rebels have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 22 games at home with the Total set int one 56.5 to 63 point range. Ole Miss has played their last two games Under the Total — but they have then covered the point spread in 23 of their last 40 games after playing their last two games Under the Total. And in their last 7 games played on a Thursday, the Rebels have covered the point spread in 5 of these games. Mississippi State may be due for a letdown after playing their best game of the season. That is not a good sign for a team that has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after winning three of their last four games. And while the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in three of their last four games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in a decisive 29 of their last 44 games after covering the point spread in three of their last four games — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in five of these last six situations. Furthermore, Mississippi State has failed to cover the points spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a win over a conference rival. Don’t be surprised if turnovers play a role in this game. While the Bulldogs have not committed more than one turnover in four straight games, they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games when not experiencing more than one turnover in four straight contests. They go back on the road where they are 1-3 this season while being outscored by -10.0 net PPG. The problem for this team away from home is they are scoring only 10.2 PPG away from home. The hope of first-year head coach Joe Moorhead was that he could establish a vertical passing attack for senior quarterback Nick Fitzgerald. Instead, Mississippi State is completing only 44.7% of their pass attempts on the road while averaging a mere 121.0 passing YPG which is 60 YPG below their season average. The Bulldogs have 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 8 of their last 9 road games against teams without a winning percentage higher than 50% at home. Furthermore, the Bulldogs are just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 trips to OIe Miss in the Egg Bowl.

FINAL TAKE: Mississippi State does bring a great defense into this game — but they will be facing a confident Rebels team that returned 15 starters (including Ta’amu and Brown) who pulled a 31-28 upset on the road as 14-point underdogs last season. This is where the hiring of Moorhead from Penn State where he was offensive coordinator may be a negative since as an outsider he lacks an appreciation for this rivalry game. The underdog has covered the point spread in 5 of the last 6 meetings between these two teams. Expect Ole Miss to keep this game closer than expected. 25* CFB SEC Game of the Year with the Mississippi Rebels (114) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (113). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Washington State Cougars (378) minus the points versus Arizona Wildcats (377). THE SITUATION: Washington State (9-1) has won six straight games with their 31-7 win at Colorado last week as a 5.5-point favorite. Arizona (5-5) has won two straight games with their 42-34 win over that same Buffaloes team two Saturdays ago as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS MINUS THE POINTS: Washington State should continue to build off their momentum. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a victory by at least 20 points. The Cougars have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 29 games after a point spread victory. Washington State returns home where they are a perfect 5-0 this season while outscoring their opponents by +18.0 PPG and out-gaining them by +189.0 net YPG. Led by quarterback Gardner Minshew, the Cougars lead the nation by averaging 392.3 passing YPG. He leads an offense that averages 473.4 total YPG when playing at home. But the improvement of this Washington State in the seventh year of head coach Mike Leach can be attributed to the play of their defense that is holding their visitors to just 16.2 PPG along with 284.4 total YPG. This strong defensive play helps explain why they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games at home. Arizona has covered the point spread in five of their last seven games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after covering the point spread in five or six of their last seven contests. But the Wildcats look due for a big letdown now having to go back on the road where they are just 1-3 this season. Arizona is being outscored by -9.8 net PPG away from home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games on the road. The Wildcats have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games after playing their last two games against fellow Pac-12 opponents — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games away from home after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored. And in their last 10 games played in the month of November, Arizona has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: Washington State needs to win this game to make their impending showdown with Washington next week being the deciding game as to which team will represent the Pac-12 North Division in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The Cougars are unlikely to be looking ahead to that game as they will be motivated to avenge a 58-37 loss to the Wildcats last season. 25* CFB Pac-12 Game of the Year with the Washington State Cougars (378) minus the points versus Arizona Wildcats (377). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Cincinnati Bearcats (353) plus the points versus the Central Knights (354). THE SITUATION: Cincinnati (9-1) has won three straight games with their 35-23 win over South Florida last week as a 15-point favorite. Central Florida (9-0) remained one of four undefeated teams in the FBS with their 35-24 win over Navy as a 23.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARCATS PLUS THE POINTS: The Knights have won three straight games by at least 12 points after surviving a 31-30 victory at Memphis back on October 13th. But Central Florida has failed to cover then points read in 3 of their last 4 games after winning two straight games by double-digits over American Athletic Conference opponents. The UCF offense has averaged 6.81 and 8.29 Yards-Per-Play in each of their last two games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP in their last two games. But despite being undefeated, the Knights are vulnerable to good rushing teams. They have allowed their last two opponents average a whopping 600 rushing yards in their last two games (374 and 226 rushing yards respectively). Central Florida has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 225 rushing yards in two straight games. The Knights rank 104th in the nation by allowing 208.9 rushing YPG — and this Bearcats team is 19th in the nation by rushing for 235.8 rushing YPG. Cincinnati has generated at least 238 rushing yards in two straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after rushing for at least 225 yards in two straight games. The Bearcats have won their last two games by at least 12 points — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their 16 games after winning their last two games by double-digits against conference opponents. Both of those victories were at home — and Cincinnati has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after winning their last two games at home. The Bearcats have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to cover the point spread as the favorite in what was otherwise a straight-up win. Cincy goes back on the road where they are 4-1 with an average winning margin of +14.2 net PPG while out-gaining their home hosts by +109.2 net YPG. The Bearcats only loss this season was an overtime loss at Temple — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 23 road games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Even at home, Central Florida will be feeling the pressure of maintaining their perfect two-year run — and they also need to win this game to ensure they reach the American Athletic Conference championship game. But the Knights have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in the month of November. 10* CFB Cincinnati-Central Florida ABC-TV Special with the Cincinnati Bearcats (353) plus the points versus the Central Knights (354). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Texas A&M Aggies (386) minus the points versus the UAB Blazers (385). Texas A&M (6-4) looks to build off their 38-24 win over Ole Miss last week as a 13-point favorite. UAB (9-1) comes off a 26-23 win in overtime over Southern Miss as a 13.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AGGIES MINUS THE POINTS: The Blazers have enjoyed a remarkable season in just their second season back playing college football after a two-year hiatus. Head coach Bill Clark has done a fantastic job resuscitating this program — winning nine of their first ten games might be even impressive than the 8-5 record he oversaw last year after the program was dormant. But UAB has also benefited from a front-loaded early schedule filled with home dates and winnable games. The Blazers have not faced a difficult list of opponents either with Louisiana Tech, Tulane or North Texas being their best team they have played this season. This will be the first Power-Five opponent they will have faced all season. UAB played only one Power-Five team last year — and that resulted in a 36-7 loss at Florida. The Blazers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against SEC opponents. UAB has also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a no-cover victory where they won the game straight-up as the favorite. Now this team goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread 6 of their last 8 games on the road with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. This team may be without their starting quarterback again this week with senior A.J. Erdely questionable with a shoulder injury. Freshman Tyler Johnson III has a very difficult assignment playing in a very hostile environment in College Station. Johnson III is completing only 54.7% of his passes this season with an unfavorable 4:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Texas A&M should build off the momentum of their victory last week under first-year head coach Jimbo Fisher who will be cracking the whip for this game. The Aggies have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after a win at home. Texas A&M stays at home where they are 5-1 this season with an average winning margin of +19.1 PPG while outgaining these opponents by +200.0 net YPG. The Aggies have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games when favored by 14.5 to 17 points. Furthermore, Texas A&M has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games against non-conference opponents.

FINAL TAKE: Texas A&M is one of the few teams that gave Alabama a competitive game. They should overwhelm these upstart Blazers who are simply not ready for this level of competition. 20* CFB UAB-Texas A&M ESPN2 Special with the Texas A&M Aggies (386) minus the points versus the UAB Blazers (385). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Purdue Boilermakers (326) minus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (325). THE SITUATION: Purdue (5-5) has lost two of their last three games after their 41-10 loss at Minnesota as a 10-point favorite last week. Wisconsin (6-4) has lost two of their last three games with their 22-10 loss at Penn State last week as a 7.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOILERMAKERS MINUS THE POINTS: Purdue should bounce-back and play well in this game. The Boilermakers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win by at least 20 points. Purdue has also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after failing to score more than 20 points in their last game. The Boilermakers have enjoyed a soft and light schedule on the road that caught up with them last week — and they were flat after pulling a big upset over Iowa in the previous week. But returning home will help where they are scoring 33.3 PPG while gaining a healthy 484.5 total YPG. Purdue has covered the point spread in 4 straight games at home. Wisconsin seems to be in a downward spiral as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against Big Ten opponents who are seeing their opportunity to take out their revenge from past losses to the Badgers. This team has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. They have problems at quarterback with junior Alex Hornibrook still in the concussion protocol. Sophomore Jack Coan completed only 9 of 20 passes last week against the Nittany Lions for a mere 60 yards with two interceptions which left Wisconsin even more one-dimensional on offense than they have been in the past. That does not bode well for them here as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to pass for at least 170 yards in their last game. The Badgers have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. They go on the road where they are just 1-3 this season with an average losing margin of -10.0 PPG due to a stagnant offense that is scoring only 17.0 PPG while averaging 322.5 total YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Purdue will be excited to play this game with it being Senior Day with their last home game of the season. The Boilermakers will also be motivated to avenge a 17-9 loss to the Badgers last season and join their name to the list of teams who successfully enjoyed the sweet taste of revenge on Wisconsin this year. Purdue’s offensive firepower may lead them to an easy win. 20* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Purdue Boilermakers (326) minus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (325). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Oklahoma State Cowboys (390) plus the points versus the West Virginia Mountaineers (389). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma State (5-5) has lost two straight games — as well as four of their last five games — with their 48-47 loss at Oklahoma last Saturday as a 21.5-point underdog. West Virginia (8-1) has won three straight games with their 47-10 win over TCU last week as a 13.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COWBOYS PLUS THE POINTS: Oklahoma State has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. The Cowboys generated 640 yards in their loss to the Sooners — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. This powerful Oklahoma State offense should keep them in this game against this Mountaineers team with a shaky defense. They return home after playing their last two games on the road where they are scoring 42.3 PPG along with averaging 512.7 total YPG — and this helps them out-gain their guests by +13.1 net PPG along with out-gaining them by +116.7 net YPG. The Cowboys have seen at least 66 combined points scored in each of their last three games — and they are very comfortable getting into shootouts with this Total in the mid-70s. Oklahoma State has covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 home games after playing at least two straight games where at least 60 combined points were scored. And while the Cowboys did not force a turnover last week, they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 20 home games after failing to force a turnover in their last game. And in their last 5 games against teams with a winning record, Oklahoma State has covered the point spread in 4 of these contests. West Virginia dominated a reeling Horned Frogs team last week as they out-gained them by +313 net yards by churning out 535 yards of offense while limiting them to just 222 yards. But not only have the Mountaineers failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game — and they are also just 11-27-1 ATS in their last 39 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. And while Dana Holgorsen’s team has covered the point spread in three straight games, his team is likely due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 29 of their last 42 games after covering the point spread in three straight games. Now West Virginia goes back on the road where they are 3-1 this season — but they are being out-gained in yardage in those games because their defense is allowing 445.5 total YPG in those games. Pass defense is the biggest vulnerability of the Mountaineers as they rank 74th in the nation by allowing 233.2 passing YPG — and that mark rises to 269 passing YPG when they are playing on the road. Those are ominous defensive numbers when facing quarterback Taylor Cornelius who is leading an offense that ranks 10th in the FBS by averaging 317.6 passing YPG.

FINAL TAKE: This has been a disappointing season for Oklahoma State who returned twelve starters from a team that finished 10-3 last season. Three of their losses this year have been decided by just one possession total a mere 11 points. But the Cowboys should be motivated to pull off the upset in their last home game of the season. Expect Oklahoma State to keep this one close with a real shot of scoring the straight-up win. 25* CFB Big 12 Underdog of the Year with the Oklahoma State Cowboys (390) plus the points versus the West Virginia Mountaineers (389). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Syracuse Orange (367) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (368). THE SITUATION: Notre Dame (10-0) remained undefeated this season with their 42-13 win over Florida State last week as a 17-point favorite. Syracuse (8-2) has won four games in a row themselves with their 54-23 win over Louisville as a 20-point favorite last Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ORANGE PLUS THE POINTS: This is the time of the season that the Fighting Irish begin to fade. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games in the month of November. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning at least eight straight games. Notre Dame is the technical home team with this game being played in Yankee Stadium. And while there might be more Irish fans in the stadium than fans up from upstate New York, considering the crowd edge as being the essential component to what makes up the home advantage in football misunderstands the concept. It not just enjoying the cheers of the crowd — the advantage of playing at home includes playing a very familiar environment while avoiding the challenges of being on the road. Notre Dame does not enjoy either of those advantages in this game — so I consider this a neutral field situation just as I do all bowl teams that are not playing in their home stadium (despite possible crowd advantages). Moving forward, the Irish have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a straight-up win at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Syracuse will not be shy about being aggressive about pulling the upset this afternoon after losing to Clemson by just four points earlier this season after pulling upsets against the Tigers last year along with Virginia Tech in 2016. The Orange also played LSU and Miami (FL) tough last year — this is a team that will be very confident in the third season under head coach Dino Babers. Syracuse enters this game with momentum after their 54-23 blowout win over the Cardinals that cost Bobby Petrino his job (so the Karma Gods will certainly be on their side after that service to humanity). The Orange have then covered the points pray in 27 of their last 39 games after a win by at least two touchdowns — and they are also 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a straight-up win. The Babers’ up-tempo offense might prove difficult for Brian Kelly and his staff to slow down. Syracuse ranks 6th in the nation by scoring 44.4 PPG — and they also rank 14th in the nation by generating 482.2 total YPG. The Orange should be able to run the ball against the Irish defense that allows their opponents to average 128.9 rushing YPG which ranks 41st in the nation. Syracuse averages 216.1 rushing YPG which is 28th in the nation — and the fast tempo is designed to wear down opposing defenses. The Orange has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record — and they have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games with the Total set in the 63.5 to 70 point range. Syracuse has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games played on a neutral field while also covering the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games on the road as the underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Notre Dame is undefeated despite four of their games being decided by one scoring possession. A loss this afternoon might devastate their College Playoff aspirations — and that pressure should help ensure this is a close game. The Irish lost on the road to Miami in November last year to ruin their undefeated season. 20* CFB Syracuse-Notre Dame NBC-TV Special with the Syracuse Orange (367) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (368). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Michigan State Spartans (415) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Nebraska Cornhuskers (416). THE SITUATION: Michigan State (6-4) looks to bounce-back from a 26-6 loss at home to Ohio State as a 3.5-point underdog. Nebraska (2-7) has won two of their last three games with their 54-35 win over Illinois as a 17-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SPARTANS PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): Michigan State was playing the Buckeyes close as that game was just a 7-3 score at halftime before a bungled punt in their own end zone shifted momentum to Ohio State in the second-half of that game. But the Michigan State defense played quite well in holding the Buckeyes to just 347 yards. Sparty has held their last two opponents to just 223.5 net YPG — and they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after allowing no more than 225 YPG over their last two games. Michigan State will offer a very tough test for the Cornhuskers as they lead the nation by only allowing 76.5 rushing YPG. The Spartans should bounce-back with a tough effort as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a point spread setback. Additionally, Michigan State has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a point spread loss. The Spartans have issues at quarterback with starter Brian Lewerke dealing with an arm injury that left him ineffective last week. Backup Rocky Lombardi may get more playing time in this game with head coach Mark Dantonio looking at his options for next season. But Michigan State should have success running the football against this Cornhuskers defense that ranks 90th in the FBS by allowing 190.4 rushing YPG. Sparty’s defense travels as they are 3-1 away from East Lansing this season while outscoring their opponents by +9.0 PPG and outgaining them by +69.7 net YPG. Michigan State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. Nebraska benefited from a +3 net turnover margin over the Illini last week while surrendering 510 yards of offense. The Cornhuskers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they are just 3-12-2 ATS in their last 17 games after a straight-up win. Nebraska has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last contest. The Cornhuskers have lacked little home field advantage in Lincoln as of late as well as they are just 3-13-2 ATS in their last 18 games at home while also being 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 opportunities to host a team with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Michigan State upset Penn State and played Ohio State tough last week — they are still one of the better teams in the Big Ten. Nebraska has hit rock bottom with a roster that is not to the satisfaction of rookie head coach Scott Frost. Wins over Minnesota and the Illini do not change this fact. The elite Spartans’ defense should dictate how this game plays out. 10* CFB Michigan State-Nebraska Fox-TV Special with the Michigan State Spartans (415) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Nebraska Cornhuskers (416). Bets of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the SMU Mustangs (316) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (315). THE SITUATION: SMU (5-5) has won two straight games with their 62-50 win at UConn last Saturday as an 18-point favorite. Memphis (6-4) has also won two straight games with their 47-21 win over Tulsa as a 17-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MUSTANGS MINUS THE POINTS: For the second straight game, SMU raced out to a big halftime lead with Sonny Dykes team going into the locker room with a 31-10 lead over the Huskies after the first thirty minutes of play. The Mustangs enjoyed a 31-14 halftime lead in the previous week in their 45-31 upset win over Houston the previous week. SMU has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after holding at least a two-touchdown lead at halftime in two straight games. The Mustangs generated 595 yards of offense against the Cougars — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. This offense has improved under Dykes once junior quarterback Ben Hicks got more acclimated to his expectations. The third-year starter lost his spot under center for freshman William Brown but after a strong performance in a losing effort against an undefeated Central Florida team, Hicks has significantly stepped up his game as the starting quarterback. Hicks has averaged 303.3 passing YPG over his last four games with throwing 10 touchdown passes while throwing only two interceptions. SMU has scored 53.5 PPG over their last two games which makes them a very dangerous underdog tonight. They lost at home to a one-loss Cincinnati team by just 6 points three weeks ago. The Mustangs have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games in expected shootouts with the Total set at 70 or higher. SMU did not commit a turnover against UConn last week — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a game where they did not commit a turnover. And while the Mustangs’ defense is giving up plenty of points, they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. Memphis has scored 106 points over their last two games after they defeated East Carolina by a 59-41 score in the week prior to their win over the Golden Hurricanes last week. But the Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after winning their last two games by at least 17 points. Additionally, Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 32 of their last 44 games after scoring at least 42 points in their last game — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after scoring at least 42 points in two straight games. Furthermore, while the Tigers have rushed for at least 277 yards in two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games when rushing for at least 275 yards in two straight games. But now this team goes on the road again where they have lost three of their four games this season while being outscored by -7.8 PPG and being outgained by -78.0 net YPP. The Memphis defense allows their home hosts to score 42.0 PPG along with 503.5 total YPG. Quarterback Brady White has not fared well when asked to win shootouts. In the Tigers’ four losses, he is completing only 50.4% of his passes while averaging just 202 passing YPG (almost 60 passing YPG below the team’s season average) with only a 4:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Memphis has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. This makes the Tigers unreliable road favorites — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 52 games when laying 3.5 to 10 points which includes them failing to cover the point spread in five of their last six games when laying those points.

FINAL TAKE: SMU will be very motivated to pull the upset in this game. Not only are they looking to avenge a 66-45 loss to Memphis last season but a victory tonight keeps them in control of their own destiny to win the American Athletic Conference West Division as they hold the tie-breaker against Houston. 25* CFB American Athletic Conference Underdog of the Year with the SMU Mustangs (316) plus the points versus the Memphis Tigers (315). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the North Texas Mean Green (314) minus the points versus the Florida Atlantic Owls (313). THE SITUATION: North Texas (7-3) has lost two of their last three games with their 34-31 upset loss at Old Dominion last Saturday as a 14-point favorite. FAU (5-5) has won two straight games with their 34-15 win over Western Kentucky as a 17.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MEAN GREEN PLUS THE POINTS: North Texas raced out to a 28-0 lead in the first quarter but then went on autopilot to lose that game to the Monarchs. The Mean Green have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after an upset loss to a conference rival. They also have covered the points spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 24 points in the first-half of their last game. This is a balanced team that ranks in the top-22 in scoring offense and defense while also ranking in the top-29 in total offense and total defense. North Texas is outscoring their opponents by +16.9 PPG. They return home where they are 4-1 with an average winning margin of +22.0 PPG while outgaining these opponents by +188.0 net YPG due to their potent offense that scores 40.4 PPG along with averaging 315.4 total YPG. Despite the loss to Old Dominion, the Mean Green have still covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played in the month of November. FAU has a tough assignment traveling to Denton, Texas on a short week after playing on Saturday — and this is their second game on the road in their last three games. Florida Atlantic is just 1-4 on the road with an average losing margin of -11.8 net PPG. The Owls have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road. FAU forced one turnover against the Hilltoppers in their win last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after not forcing more than one turnover in their last game. The Owls have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Together, these team trends produce our specific 42-16 ATS combined angle for this situation.

FINAL TAKE: North Texas also has the opportunity to avenge their two losses to Florida Atlantic last season including their 41-17 loss last December 2nd in the Conference USA championship game. While their 3-3 conference record was a disappointment for the Mean Green, getting revenge against the Owls offers this team the opportunity to highlight their season. 20* CFB Thursday Late Show Bailout with the North Texas Mean Green (314) minus the points versus the Florida Atlantic Owls (313). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Houston Cougars (312) minus the points versus the Tulane Green Wave (311). THE SITUATION: Houston (7-3) has lost two straight games after suffering their second-straight upset loss in a row with their 59-49 loss to Temple on Saturday as a 3.5-point favorite. Tulane (5-5) has won three straight games with their 24-18 win over East Carolina on Saturday as a 10.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS MINUS THE POINTS: Houston may have been suffering from the hangover of their 45-31 upset loss at SMU the previous week despite being a two-touchdown favorite in that game. The Cougars are still alive to reach the American Athletic Conference championship game but they need to win their remaining two regular-season games while then hoping SMU loses again. This is a team that has also been riddled with injuries on both sides of the ball with the biggest loss being their star defensive tackle Ed Oliver who will likely not take the field tonight with his knee injury. But Houston still has their starting quarterback D’Eriq King who has led an offense that ranks 2nd in the nation by averaging 546.1 total YPG along with scoring 47.8 PPG which is the 4th most in the FBS. The Cougars generated 527 yards of offense in their loss to the Owls last week despite having possession of the football for just 25:37 minutes of that game — and this team’s offense should overwhelm the Green Wave tonight. Houston has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after an upset loss at home to a conference rival despite being the favorite. The Cougars have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Being at home on a short week should help after playing three of their last four games on the road. Houston is 4-1 at home with an average winning margin of +21.6 net PPG while outgaining the visitors by +121.7 net YPG due to their offense that scores 52.4 PPG at home while averaging 581.6 total YPG in those games. The Cougars have struggled on defense after allowing 104 combined points in their last two games — but they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 games after allowing at least 37 points in two straight games. Tulane is scoring only 23.2 PPG along with averaging just 342.0 total YPG when playing away from home. With their senior dual-threat quarterback Jonathan Banks still questionable with an injury, head coach Willie Fritz will likely have to depend on LSU graduate transfer Justin McMillan who led them to victory last week. McMillan can operate the run-first spread offense that Fritz prefers but accuracy in the passing game is an issue as he has completed only 46% of his 87 pass attempts this season. The Green Wave averaged 6.94 Yards-Per-Play against the suspect Pirates defense last week but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after averaging at least 6.25 YPP in their last game. Tulane has only committed one turnover in three straight games as well — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after not turning the ball over in two straight games — and this includes failing to cover the point spread in those last four situations. This is the Green Wave’s third game on the road in their last four contests which is a very tough assignment when playing on a short week. Tulane has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 trips to Houston to face the Cougars.

FINAL TAKE: Houston should take out their frustrations over the last two weeks with a big win over a Tulane team being outscored by -6.6 PPG on the road while being outgained by more than 100 yards in those road contests. 25* CFB Thursday Night ESPN Game of the Year with the Houston Cougars (312) minus the points versus the Tulane Green Wave (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Ohio Bobcats (304) minus the points versus the Buffalo Bulls (303). THE SITUATION: Ohio (6-4) saw their three-game winning streak snapped last Wednesday in their 30-28 upset loss at Miami (OH) despite being a 4.5-point favorite. Buffalo (9-1) has won five straight games with their 48-14 win over Kent State last Tuesday as a 17-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOBCATS MINUS THE POINTS: Ohio remains statistically alive to win the MAC East Division but their loss to the RedHawks was devastating to their realistic chances. The Bobcats need to win out their last two games with the Bulls needing to then lose next week to a lowly Bowling Green team to keep their chances alive of reaching the MAC Championship Game. But Frank Solich’s team can still play the role of the spoiler tonight as they look to redeem themselves from their upset loss to their arch rival in Miami (OH). As it is, Ohio has rebounded to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss by 6 points or less. The Bobcats return home where they are a perfect 4-0 while outscoring their visitors by +23.7 net PPG and outgaining these opponents by +146.5 net YPG. Ohio has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games on their home field. Led by quarterback Nathan Rourke, the Bobcats are scoring 39.3 PPG which is 12th best in the nation. Expected higher scoring games plays into this teams hands as the Bobcats have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games with the Total set at 63 or higher. Ohio has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games against teams with a winning record. Buffalo is in the midst of perhaps their best season in school history — but with their two-game lead in the MAC East Division, they can afford to lose this game and still reach win this title. This team returned fourteen starters from a group that finished 6-6 last year but was snubbed in getting an opportunity to play in a bowl game. This will be a very tough test for this program not used to pressure situations — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in Athens to face this Ohio team. The Bulls have also failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 47 road games after playing their previous three games against MAC competitors. Buffalo raced out to a 34-0 lead last week against the Golden Flashes — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after scoring at least 24 points in the first half of their last game. They also outrushed Kent State by +258 net yards — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 gamed after outrushing their last opponent by at least 150 yards. Lastly, while the Bulls have covered the point spread in five straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after covering the point spread in five straight games — so this is a team that might be primed for a letdown.

FINAL TAKE: Any chance that Ohio might be flat in this game is likely mitigated by Solich’s ability to invoke the memories of last year’s encounter between these two teams. The Bobcats fell behind by a 24-7 score in the first quarter on the road in that game but called to tied that game before falling behind again by 31-24 score. Rourke rallied his team for one final drive to tie the game — but he was intercepted in the end zone with just 1:20 minutes left in the 4th quarter to conclude that upset loss despite them being 6.5-point favorites. Look for Ohio to avenge that loss tonight against a Buffalo team that can still reach the MAC Championship Game with a victory next week. 25* CFB Mid-American Conference Game of the Year with the Ohio Bobcats (304) minus the points versus the Buffalo Bulls (303). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Colorado State Rams (171) plus the points versus the Nevada Wolf Pack (172). THE SITUATION: Colorado State (3-6) has lost two games in a row after their 34-21 loss to Wyoming back on October 26th as a +3.5-point underdog. Nevada (5-4) pulled off their second-straight upset win with their 28-24 win at home over San Diego State two Saturdays ago as a +2-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS PLUS THE POINTS: The Wolf Pack upset the Aztecs just a week after they crushed Hawai’i on the road by a 40-22 score as a small +1.5-point underdog. Now Nevada finds themselves as two-touchdown favorites — but an emotional letdown for this team is likely. As it is, the Wolfpack have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win at home. Furthermore, Nevada has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a narrow win by 6 points or less. The Wolfpack were outgained by San Diego State by a decisive -159 net yards but rallied from a 24-15 halftime deficit by enjoying a +2 net turnover margin. Nevada has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a game where they enjoyed a +2 or better net turnover margin. The Wolf Pack have won three of their games this season by one scoring possession — and they are actually being outgained at home by -17.6 net YPG. Defense is an issue for this team as they are allowing 31.2 PPG due to a weak pass defense that ranks 108th in the nation by allowing 264.2 passing YPG. Colorado State should bounce-back from their loss at home to the Cowboys as they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after a double-digit loss at home. The Rams went into the locker room at halftime trailing by just a 3-0 score — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than a field in the first-half of their last game. Colorado State was burdened by a -3 net turnover margin in their loss to Wyoming — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after enduring a -3 or worse net turnover margin in their last game. Head coach Mike Bobo needed the bye week at this point of the season with his team still fighting to become bowl eligible. The Rams’ defense shifted to a 4-3 formation in the offseason so an extra week of practice should help on that side of the football. Bobo also got an extra week of work with sophomore quarterback Collin Hill who has started the last two games after a long recovery from what has been two torn ACL injuries that have derailed him since being initially tapped to be the starting quarterback for this team in the fall of 2017. Despite this team’s struggles this season, Bobo has still overseen an explosive passing attack that ranks 15th in the nation by averaging 310.3 passing YPG. This potent passing game should keep the Rams competitive in this game — they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Colorado State has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 expected higher-scoring games on the road where the Total is set at least at 63. And in their last 16 games played in the month of November under Bobo’s leadership, the Rams have covered the point spread 11 times.

FINAL TAKE: Colorado State has underachieved this season while Nevada has overachieved a bit. As both teams meet for their tenth game of the season coming off a bye week, expect the Rams to keep his game closer than expected. 25* CFB Mountain Western Conference Underdog of the Year with the Colorado State Rams (171) plus the points versus the Nevada Wolf Pack (172). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Boston College Eagles (122) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (121). THE SITUATION: Boston College (7-2) has won three games in a row with their 31-21 win at Virginia Tech last Saturday as a 2-point favorite. Clemson (9-0) remained undefeated last week with their 77-16 thrashing of Louisville as a 38-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE EAGLES PLUS THE POINTS: The Tigers are on a roll having not allowed more than 16 points while blowing out all four of their opponents by at least 34 points since their narrow 27-23 win at home over Syracuse. But Clemson may be due for some nervy moments tonight as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after winning their last four games by at least 17 points — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after not allowing more than 17 points in at least four straight games. The Tigers did generate 661 yards of offense against the Cardinals last week — but they are then just 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Clemson has covered the point spread in four straight games — and they have scored at least 136 points in their last two games. But the Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after scoring at least 42 points in their last two games — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Furthermore, Clemson has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games when playing on field turf. Boston College will enter this game with momentum as they have covered the point spread in four straight games. The Eagles have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Boston College is also 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they are 14-2-1 ATS in their last 17 games after a point spread victory. The Eagles have the components to keep this game close by running the football and defending against the Tigers rushing attack. Led by A.J. Dillon, Boston College averages 283 rushing YPG on their home field while averaging 4.8 Yards-Per-Carry. Dillon should be able to keep the high-powered Tigers offense off the field. And the Eagles hold visiting teams to just 3.3 YPC — and this Clemson team has become very dependent on the run. Freshman QB Trevor Lawrence passed for only 59 yards last week on 12 passes — this will be the biggest game of his young career. Boston College is 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games against teams with a winning record. On their home field, the Eagles have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games while outscoring their opponents by +24.6 PPG and outgaining these guests by +207.0 net YPG. Boston College has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as an underdog getting 14.5 to 21 points.

FINAL TAKE: The weather will not be doing the Tigers any favors tonight with the temperature dropping below 40 degrees. With the BC faithful revved up to see their team pull the upset, expect a closer game than what is expected. 20* CFB Clemson-Boston College ABC-TV Special with the Boston College Eagles (122) plus the points versus the Clemson Tigers (121). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the LSU Tigers (199) minus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (200). THE SITUATION: LSU (7-2) looks to pick themselves off the mat after their embarrassing 29-0 shutout loss at home to Alabama last week where they were +14-point underdogs. Arkansas (2-7) comes off a 45-31 loss to Vanderbilt as a 1-point underdog two Saturdays ago.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS MINUS THE POINTS: LSU should rebound with a strong effort as they look to make the best of the rest of their season. Their players represent a football program that 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 7 of their last 10 games after a loss by at least 20 points. Additionally, the Tigers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to score more than 20 points. And while they surrendered 576 yards of offense to the Tide, LSU has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after allowing at least 450 yards. The Tigers have covered a decisive 10 of their last 12 games in SEC play — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. LSU has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in the month of November. Facing this Arkansas team may be just what the doctor ordered as the Razorbacks have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 20 home games with the Total set in the 45.5 to 49 point range. Arkansas has covered the point spread in four of their last five games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after covering the point spread in at least two of their last three games. Additionally, the Razorbacks have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored. Arkansas generated 207 rushing yards in their loss to the Commodores while averaging 6.88 Yards-Per-Play in that game — but that does not bode well for them now. The Razorbacks have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP in their last game — and are 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: While LSU was overwhelmed against Alabama last week, they will be motivated to play the role of the bully this week. The Razorbacks are in a major rebuild under first-year head coach Chad Morris. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the LSU Tigers (199) minus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (200). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Virginia Tech Hokies (119) plus the points versus Pittsburgh Panthers (120). THE SITUATION: Virginia Tech (4-4) has lost two straight games as well as three of their last four contests with their 31-21 loss to Boston College last week as a 2-point underdog. Pittsburgh (5-4) has won three of their last four games with their 23-13 upset win at Virginia last Friday as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOKIES PLUS THE POINTS: Virginia Tech remains alive in the Coastal Division race with a 3-2 record in conference play — but they need to win out their games which starts with giving a second loss to this Panthers team that currently resides in first place with their 4-1 record in ACC play. The Hokies should respond with a strong effort this afternoon as they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 29 games after losing two straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after losing two straight against conference rivals. Don’t blame junior quarterback Ryan Willis who completed 25 of 42 passes for 281 yards with three touchdown passes against the Eagles defense while adding another 49 yards on the ground. The transfer from Kansas has played well since stepping in for incumbent starter Josh Jackson who suffered a season-ending knee injury at the end of September. Willis has seen his wide receivers drop too many of his passes — and team turnovers have not helped the cause. Virginia Tech has lost the turnover battle in three straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 32 games after suffering a -1 or worse net turnover margin in at least two straight games. This is a very young defense that was rebuilding from their outstanding unit last season — but in defensive coordinator Bud Foster we trust to continue to get improvement out of his group. This is a team that is 3-1 on the road while outscoring their home hosts by +6.8 PPG — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 19 road games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 7.5 points. Pittsburgh followed up their 54-45 upset win over Duke as a small 2-point favorite with that upset win at Virginia last Friday. But a letdown is likely for this team that is not used to being in control of their own destiny when it comes to the ACC conference championship. The Panthers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after pulling off two straight upset wins. Pittsburgh has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. And while they held the Cavaliers to just 249 yards of offense, they have not covered the point spread in 4 straight games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last contest. Pitt has covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games after covering the point spread in four of their last five games after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. The Panthers are unreliable home favorites. They might be 4-1 on their home field but they are only outscoring their visitors by +0.4 net PPG — and they are being outgained in net yardage at home. Lastly, Pitt has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: The Panthers have been dangerous underdogs in the Pat Narduzzi regime — but this team has been an unreliable favorite as well with a defense that has not come close to taking on the characteristics of the Michigan State defenses that he served as the coordinator of. Look for a close game where taking the points with the underdog will offer plenty of value. 10* CFB Virginia Tech-Pittsburgh ESPNU Special with the Virginia Tech Hokies (119) plus the points versus Pittsburgh Panthers (120). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Florida Gators (194) minus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (193). THE SITUATION: Florida (6-3) looks to bounce-back from their 38-17 upset loss to Missouri last Saturday as a 6.5-point favorite. South Carolina (5-3) has won two straight games with their 48-44 upset win at Ole Miss last week as a 2-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GATORS MINUS THE POINTS: Florida should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after an upset loss as a home favorite. The Gators have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a double-digit loss at home. Florida has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Gators have not forced a turnover in two straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after failing to force a turnover in their last game. Florida will be hosting a Gamecocks team that ranks 105th in the FBS with a -0.63 net turnover margin per game. Even after last week’s loss in the Swamp, the Gators are outscoring their visitors by +12.2 PPG at home. South Carolina looks due for a big emotional letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread win. Furthermore, the Gamecocks have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 37 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a game where both teams scored at least 37 points. South Carolina did surrender a whopping 616 yards of offense to the Rebels last week — they were outgained by -108 net yards but pulled out the win due to a 90-yard kick off return for a touchdown. Run defense is an issue for their defense as they rank 86th in the FBS by allowing 182.0 rushing YPG. The Gamecocks stay on the road this week to play just their fourth game away from home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 road games with the Total set int he 52.5 to 56 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Florida will not only be looking to redeem themselves from last week’s upset loss but they will have revenge on their minds after losing to South Carolina last year by a 28-20 score. 10* CFB South Carolina-Florida ESPN Special with the Florida Gators (194) minus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (193). Best of luck for us — Frank.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 7:30 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 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.