PAGE_HEADER

T.M. Selection: UL Lafayette

The Lousiana Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns have absolutely dominated teams this year. Entering this game, they come in with the eighth best offense in the nation with 501.3 yards per game. That's incredible! Louisiana-Lafayette is also a crushing 10-2 SU in their last 12 games this season. On the other hand, Miami (OH) is 0-2 this season as an underdog of 10.5 to 21 points (0-4 L3 years.) They are also only 2-10 in non-conference games the past three years. Expect a beatdown on Monday Night.

T.M. Prediction: 44-13 ULL

T.M. Selection: Southern Miss

Tulane hasn't had a very good season. Although they made it to a bowl, I feel that they got lucky to even be here. The Green Waves are only 1-4 SU in their last 5 games this season. They are also a terrible 0-6 SU in their last 6 games against Southern Miss (1-4 ATS L5.) On the other hand, Southern Miss is 2-0 this season when playing with 2 weeks or more of rest. The Golden Eagles are also a dominant 17-10 L27 after scoring 17 points or less in 2 straight games. Expect Sourthern Miss to upset Tulane in the Armed Forces Bowl. 

T.M. Prediction: 31-28 Southern Miss

T.M. Selection: Nevada 

The Wolf Pack come into the Idaho Potato Bowl with a 7-5 record. They may have lost their last game, but prior to that, they had won three in a row. Nevada is now 12-6 SU in their last 18 games dating back to last season. Even better, they are an 80% 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games played on a Friday. For Ohio, they come inot this game with a 6-6 record. They have a sad 3-6 ATS record in their last 9 games this season (4-8 ATS L12 games.) The Bobcats have had an up-and-down season and you never know what they are going to do. Also, they are only 0-3 as a favorite of in between 3.5-10 points this year. Expect the Wolfpack to not only keep it close, but to come away with the upset victory in the 2020 Idaho Potato Bowl. Take Nevada.

T.M. Prediction: 31-30 Nevada

T.M. Selection: Cinci

The Bearcats have been winning all season long, and that is why they are here today as the #21 ranked team in the nation. They may be off back-to-back losses, but they still come in with a dominant 10-3 record. Cincinnati is 9-2 SU in their last 11 games this season. They are also 5-1 after playing their last game on the road. Even better, they are a perfect 19-0 SU in their last 19 games when playing as the favourite. For, Boston College, they barely even got into a bowl. With a 6-6 record they are lucky to even be here today. The Eagles are 0-3 ATS in their last three games off an upset win over a conference rival as an underdog this season. They are also 3-5 ATS off a road win win the past three seasons. The Bearcats are by far the better side in this one. With Boston College allowing 31+ points per game, expect Cincinnati to eat this weak Eagles program alive in the Birmingham Bowl. Take the Bearcats.

T.M. Prediction: 31-10 Cincinnati

T.M. Selection: Oregon/Wisconsin OVER

Both of these two teams may have great defenses. But in the end, great offense beats great defense. Wisconsin comes in to the Rose Bowl off an excellent season. 10-3 may not sound like much, but their losses came against some very tough opponents. The Badgers have seen the total go OVER in 4 of their last 5 games. They have also seen the total go OVER in 4 of their past 5 games as the favorite. On the other hand, the total has gone OVER in 5 of Oregon's last 7 games. The Ducks average 35.92 points per game this season while Wisconsin averages 34.62 ppg. With RB Jonathan Taylor leading the way for the Badgers, I expect this to be a very competetive, high-scoring Rose Bowl. Takethe OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 34-31 Badgers

T.M. Selection: Minnesota

Two extremely talented schools will go head-to-head in the Outback Bowl on Wednesday. Dating back to last season, the Gophers are 12-2 SU in their last 14 games. They are also 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games. On the other hand, Auburn has been great too. Although they have a 9-3 record, they have not played too well when they are off a home win against a Conference Rival. In those game the oast three years, the Tigers are a sad 0-7 ATS (0-2 this season.) Auburn is also only 5-11 off a home win the past three years. A full touchdown for the team with the better record? Give me Minnesota any day.

T.M. Prediction: 21-17 Min

T.M. Selection: Virginia

Florida comes into the Orange Bowl with a 10-2 record. Although they have a great record, they haven't really looked extremely strong. The Gators are only 1-5 in games played on a neutral field the past three years (0-2 this season.) They are also 2-4 off a bye week. For UVA, they enter with a 9-4 record. They've looked very good, and confedent. The Cavaliers did get hammered against Clemson, but coach Bronco Mendenhall has high-hopes for this game. He said, "This is a giant opportunity for us. This game means the world to us in terms of growth and in terms of taking the next step for our program." I expect Virginia to give all they have on Monday Night while they try and pull off the upset. 14.5 points is a lot, give me UVA any day.

T.M. Prediction: 31-28 Florida

T.M. Selection: Clemson/Ohio St OVER

Some of the best teams in the country will match up against each other in a must-win game to take them to the National Championship Game. Coming into this game, both of these two teams have averaged 46+ points per game. That's ridiculous. Trevor Lawrence (Clemson QB) has dominated all season long. He is paired up with one of the best Running Backs in the entire country in Travis Etienne. On the other hand, QB Justin Fields has been even better. He has thrown for 2953 passing yards, 40 Touchdowns, and only 1 Interception. This could potentially be one of the most exciting football games in College Football History with how many poiints they are going to put up today. Even with top defenses, I expect a very high-scoring affair in this one. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 38-35 Ohio St

T.M. Selection: Oklahoma

In the Peach Bowl, the Oklahoma Sooners are up against the #1 team in the nation in LSU. Other than one game the entire season, the Sooners have absolutely dominated their opponents. They are led by star QB Jalen Hurts who has led them to a near-perfect season. Oklahoma comes into this game with a sweet 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against opponents in the Southeast Conference (SEC.) For LSU, they might be the best team in the country, but they have yet to face a team like Oklahoma. OU can put up points with ease and I expect LSU to have a bit of difficulty keeping up with them. The line is big, and I like the Sooners to keep it close in this one. Take Oklahoma.

T.M. Prediction: 43J-41 LSU

T.M. Selection: OKST/Texas A&M OVER

Texas A&M hasn't had the best of season's, but they managed to sneak in here with 7 wins. They've lost their last 2, but they looked decent in both of those games. In this game, they'll be going up against a poor Oklahoma St defense who gives up points for breakfast. On the other hand, the Cowboys have had a pretty good season. They come into this one with a solid 8-4 record. The defense they are about to go up against could possibly be even worse than the OKST defense. QB Dru Brown has been dominant all season long and will look to continue that success here. I expect hardly any defense in this high-scoring Cowboy victory. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 38-33 OKST

T.M. Selection: EMU

Both of these two teams narrowly got into this bowl. Pitt finished with 7 wins, while EMU ended up with 6. Pittsburgh comes into this game with a sad 1-4 SU in their last 5 games played in December. They also come in off 2 straight losses. On the other hand, Eastern Michigan is 14-6 ATS in their last 20 games when playing as the underdog. They are also a dominant 5-1 the past three years off a home loss. I expect EMU to not only cover, but to keep it close the entire game, potentially even winning this game outright. Take the Eagles.

T.M. Prediction: 27-24 Pitt

T.M. Selection: Hawaii/BYU OVER

Both teams come into this game off a loss and will be looking to score lots here. Hawaii has seen the total has gone OVER in 7 of their last 8 games against opponents from the Independent Conference. The total has gone OVER in 8 of Hawaii's L11 games played in December. On the other hand, BYU has seen the total has gone OVER in 6 of ther last 8 games against opponents from the Mountain West Conference. I expect lots of points to be scored in Hawaii under the bright sun. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 41-37 BYU

T.M. Selection: Marshall

Last year, in the Gasparilla Bowl, I had Marshall -2.5 vs. South Florida. Of course they won. This year, I feel that this line is way too big. UCF is only 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games coming into this one. The Knights are also a sad 1-4 when playing on a neutral field as a favorite. Even worse, they are only 32-46 when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.Marshall, on the other hand, has been dominant all season long. The Herd are a sweet 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games when playing as an underdog. Marshall is also 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games against opponents in the American Athletic Conference (AAC.) They are also 6-1 in their last 7 games in December. I expect the Thundering Herd to not only cover, but to keep this one extremly close on Monday Night. I wouldn't be surprised if Marshall even won this game outright. Don't hate on the Herd.

T.M. Prediction: 34-31 UCF

T.M. Selection:Appalachian St/UAB OVER

Coming into this game, Appalachian St averages a huge amount of points per game (39.38!) They may have seen more "under's" than "over's," but today's line is by far lower than any that they have had all season long. UAB, on the other hand, has seen the total go OVER in 4 of their last 5 games played in December. I expect lots of points to be scored in the New Orleans Bowl on Saturday Night. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 41-23 Appalachian St

T.M. Selection: North Carolina A&T

This bowl, first played in 2015, is played between the winner of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Souh-Western Athletic Conference. Last year, North Carolina A&T beat Alcorn St 24-22 in this bowl. When in this bowl, the Aggies have never lost (3-0.) This year I expect another beatdown for NCAT. Take North Carolina A&T.

T.M. Prediction: 31-20 NCAT

T.M. Selection: Utah St

Utah State comes into this one 14-6 SU in their last 20 games. Kent State is only 7-13 SU in their last 20 games. The Golden Flashes have never won a single bowl game in school history and I expect that to stay the same here. With the Utah St Qb having all of the experience in the world, I like the Aggies to destroy these guys on Friday in the Frisco Bowl. Take Utah St

T.M. Prediction: 34-10 Utah St

T.M. Selection: Navy/Army OVER

In the past, this rivalry game has seen more UNDER's than OVER's. I expect that to be different in this year's battle. The total has gone OVER in 4 of Navy's last 5 games. Navy has also seen the total go OVER in 6 of their last 7 games off a game against a Conference opponent. On the other hand, the total has gone OVER in 8 of 12 games, when Army has won 2 of their last three games. Look for both offenses to be smooth and for this to be a decently high-scoring affair. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 34-27 Navy

T.M Selection: Wisconsin

I know that the Buckeyes haven't lost to this Badgers team since 2010. I know Ohio St is the better team. But expect a close, high-scoring, and physical game to be played on Saturday Night. Wisconsin comes in with an 11-2 SU record in their last 13 games played. They are also 7-3 in their last 10 games played in the month of December. On the other hand, there isn't much bad to say about the perfect 12-0 Buckeyes. But that doesn't mean anything until the ballgame is over. Although they are poerfect, Ohio St are just 9-10 ATS after playing 3 straight conference games. Expect a highly contested game to be played and for the Badgers to stay in it the entire way, if not win the game. Take Wisconsin.

T.M. Prediction: 41-37 Wisconsin

T.M. Selection: Oregon Ducks

It's the Pac-12 Championship Game between the Oregon Ducks and the Utah Utes. Oregon comes into this game with a dominant 10-1 SU record in their last 11 games vs. Pac-12 opponents. Now they'll be going up against a Utah team who isn't the best at throwing the ball. With Justin Herbert (Oregon QB) sitting on the edge of being a great selection in the 2020 NFL draft, I expect him to rise to the occasion at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Take the Ducks.

T.M. Prediction: 41-28 Ducks

T.M. Selection: OU/OKST OVER

This rivalry game has gotten bigger and bigger as the years go on and both of these two teams could use a win in a big way here on Saturday. Coming into this game, both teams have averaged 35+ ppg, while they avg a combined total score of 80.27 ppg. In the past, the Bedlam Series has gone OVER 4 out of the past 5 games. I expect that to be similar case here. Take the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 41-34 Oklahoma

T.M. Selection: Miami Fl

Duke is officially out of bowl contention, while the Miami Fl Hurricanes can improve their chances at a better bowl game with a win here. In their last 10 games against each other, Miami Fl has won 8 of them, averaging over 200 rushing yards in all of them. Coming into this game, they are 4-1 ATS in their L5 games against an opponent in the Atlantic Coast Conference. I expect them to dominate this weak Blue Devils team here. Take Miami Florida and expect an easy winner.

T.M. Prediction: 34-17 Miami Fl

T.M. Selection: Troy/Appalachian St UNDER

This s a must-win game for both teams as they look ahead to the bowls. Appalachian State is 10-1 and would really like to win this one to be in consideration of a huge bowl game. On the other hand, Troy (5-6) needs a win desperately, as they look to squeak in one of the last bowl spots. The Mountaineers have seen the total go UNDER in 10 of their L15 games against an opponent in the Sun Belt conference. I expect a highly contested defensive game on Black Friday. Take the UNDER.

T.M. Prediction: 31-10 Appalachian St

T.M. Selection: Missouri 

Missouri will play the Arkansas Razorbacks on Black Friday With a win, the Tigers can secure their spot in a bowl game. Missouri comes in with a 5-1 SU record in their L6 games played on a Friday. On the other hand, Arkansas is 0-8 SU in each of their L8 games. The Razorbacks are also a sad 3-7 SU in their L10 games at home. I expect Missouri to get it done under pressure. Take the Tigers.

T.M. Prediction: 44-10 Missouri

T.M. Selection: Mississippi St

The Egg Bowl is almost always fun as both the two teams have always hated each other. Ole Miss is out of Bowl contention, but can knock Mississippi St out of it with a win. It's a must win game for the Bulldogs, who are off a huge win last week to get them in this position. Mississippi State is 14-6 ATS in its last 20 home games. Ole Miss is only 0-5 SU in their last 5 games on the road. I expect the Bulldogs to play their guts out as they come out with smiles on their faces heading into the bowls. Take Mississippi St.

T.M. Prediction: 34-20 Mississippi St

T.M. Selection: Virginia Tech/Pitt UNDER

Both of these two teams have seen the total go UNDER 60+% ytd. The Panthers have seen the UNDER in 11 of their L14 games. They are a run first offense who loves to keep the ball on the ground. The Hokies a basically the same. In their last 10 meetings with each other, neither team has thrown the ball well. V Tech has a 52.6 completion percentage while Pitt has a 59.5 completion %. I expect lots of running in this matchup. Take the UNDER.

T.M. Prediction: 17-14 Hokies

T.M. Selection: Penn St

Penn St has proven to everyone that they belong in the 4 best team conversation. They have beaten teams like Iowa and Michigan as they come in with a dominant 9-1 record. They may be playing the best team in the nation right now, but they are getting a lot of points. When I say a lot, I mean A LOT. Two top 10 teams with an 18 point difference. C'mon. I think Penn St might even win this game. The Nittany Lions also come into this game 8-1 SU in their L9 games on the road. Take PSU and expect a close game.

T.M. Prediction: 45-42 Ohio St

T.M. Selection: GT

Coming into this game, Georgia Tech is 14-2 SU in their L16 against teams with losing records at home. NC State is only 4-6, winless on the road. I expect that to continue here. Expect the Wolfpack to struggle tonight. Take GT.

T.M. Prediction: 31-21 GT

T.M. Selection: Notre Dame

Coming into this game, Notre Dame is 17-3 SU in their last 20 games. They have proven to be one of the very best teams, each and every year. In week 11, they'll face a struggling Duke team who have lost their last two games. After playing a conference game, the Blue Devils are 6-11 ATS the L3 years. I expect the Fighting Irish to dominate here, as they send the Duke fans home crying. Take ND.

T.M. Prediction: 38-17 Fighting Irish

T.M. Selection: TCU/Baylor OVER

Both of these two teams are very capable of scoring many points. Baylor comes in unbeaten in eight games so far. They've dominated their opponent in every single matchup. Baylor has averaged 36.375 ppg in each of their games, scoring at least 21 in each of those. On the other hand, TCU has also scored a lot. In eight games, they've averaged 33.375 points per game. The number is low. I like the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 34-31 Baylor

T.M. Selection: Miami (OH)/Ohio UNDER

First place in the MAC East Conference is at stake on Wednesday night when the Ohio Bobcats welcome their rival Miami-Ohio RedHawks to Peden Stadium. In the past, the total has gone UNDER in 8 of the L10 games between these two teams. They've always locked in on defense and it's almost never high-scoring. Expect that to happen again here. Play the UNDER.

T.M. Prediction: 17-14 Miami OH

T.M. Selection: Washington

The Huskies are off a huge loss against Oregon last week. This week they'll look to rebound against Utah on Saturday afternoon. Coming into this game, Washington is 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games. On the other hand, Utah hasn't faired well ATS in the past. As a road favorite, the Utes are 38-46 since 1992. This week, I expect the Huskies to rebound bigtime with a huge victory against Utah. Look for QB Jacob Eason to go off on Saturday. Take Washington.

T.M. Prediction: 27-10 Huskies

T.M. Selection: ND/VT UNDER

Notre Dame is a ridiculous 16-0 SU and 10-6 ATS in their last 16 games at home coming into this matchup. In most of those games, their defense shut down their opponents offense. On the other hand, the total has gone UNDER 59 times out of 108 after a win against a conference rival. I expect both defenses to lock in in this huge game for both teams. Take the UNDER.

T.M. Prediction: 24-17 ND

T.M. Selection UCONN

Connecticut is off a huge beatdown against UMASS last week. They played well and looked confident. On the other hand, Navy has been good but have played some pretty bad teams. In the past, Navy is 9-12 off 4 consecutive victories SU. I expect the Huskies to keep it close on Friday Night. Take Connecticut.

T.M. Prediction: 31-24 Navy

T.M. Selection: Air Force/Utah St OVER

Both teams enter this matchup with a winning record. Air Force has always been known as a high-scoring team as they've seen the total go OVER 9 out of 13 times when playing in the second half of the season. The OVER is also 18-9 in games played on turf, for Air Force. On the other hand, Utah St has seen the total go OVER in 7 of 10 games as an underdog. I expect those streaks to continue here in this late one. Take the UNDER without a doubt.

T.M. Prediction: 38-34 Air Force

T.M. Selection: Ohio State

This is one of the biggest games of the entire year for both of these top 15 teams. OSU are playing like the best team in the nation right now. Last week, QB Justin Fields threw for another 5 TD's. He now has 30 touchdowns on the season. The Badgers enter this game having lost their last matchup in what may be considered as one of the biggest upsets of the year. It all started to fall apart at halftime for them as they allowed Illinois to get closer and closer. Many may think that they'll for sure bounce back here, but I expect that loss to be still in their heads as they play the always deadly Ohio State team. Look for the Buckeyes to stomp all over the Badgers on Saturday morning. Take OSU.

T.M. Prediction: 38-24 OSU

T.M. Selection: WSU 

Washington State come into this game with a mind-blowing 15-2 SU record at home in their last 17 games. They are also a dominant 10-6 as a home favorite ranging from 10.5 to 14. On the other hand, the Buffaloes have been pretty bad so far YTD. Dating back to 3 years ago, Colorado is an awful 2-13 after facing B2B opponents from their conference. I expect the Cougars to destroy them here. Take Washington St

T.M. Prediction: 45-17 Washington St 

T.M. Selection: Iowa/Purdue UNDER

Iowa has absolutely dominated defensively this season so far as they've held their opponents to a max. of 17 points in each of the first 7 games. The total has also gone UNDER in 4 of Iowa's last 6 games this season. On the other hand, the Boilermakers have seen the total go UNDER in 11 of their L13 road games. I expect the Hawkeyes defense to shut down this Purdue team with ease on Saturday. Look for Iowa to dominate everywhere on the field as the win 27-10 AND for the total to go UNDER comfortably.

T.M. Prediction: 27-10 Iowa

T.M. Selection: LSU/Florida OVER

Both of these SEC teams have started this season off perfectly as they are both undefeated. Coming into this game, the Gators have seen the total go OVER in 6 of 8 road games the L3 years. The OVER also has a 7-3 record, when Florida is off a home win. The Tigers have also been seeing high-scoring games in the past. The total has gone OVER in 7 of LSU’s last 8 games, dating back to the end of last season. So far this season, LSU QB Joe Burrow now has a ridiculous 22-3 TD-INT ratio. LSU has now scored at least 42 points in each of their five outings YTD, leading the nation with an incredible average of 54.6 PPG. That number alone is enough for this OVER. The total is way too low here. This one has OVER written all over it.

T.M. Prediction: 37-34 LSU

T.M. Selection: Kent St

Coming into this matchup, Akron is winless, while the Golden Flashes are 2-3. In the past, the Zips are 15-24 after allowing 31+ points in 2 straight games. Kent St is now 12-8 as a road favorite. I expect the Golden Flashes to come out strong again as they look to keep the Zips without a win.

T.M. Prediction: 38-17 Kent St

T.M. Selection: Oklahoma/Texas OVER

Big-12 games usually find at least the 70+ mark with always a high total line. Here I believe that the line could be even higher. OK QB Jalen Hurts, who has been absolutely dominant this season, is throwing for 1,521 yards and 14 touchdowns and adding 499 yards and seven scores on the ground through the first five games. That's insane. Expect Hurts to destroy his opponent once again as the Sooners help the total go OVER with ease. Play the OVER.

T.M. Prediction: 45-37 Oklahoma

T.M. Selection: Texas State

Both teams enter Thursday's matchup with a 2-3 record on the year. The Warhawks have looked out of sink defensively this season, as they've allowed an average of 506.8 total yards. Louisiana-Monroe is also 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games. On the other hand, Texas St is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games played on a Thursday. The Bobcats are also a dominant 8-4 after having won 2 out of their last 3 games. Expect Texas St to come out strong again here. Take the Bobcats.

T.M. Prediction: 27-17 Texas St

T.M. Selection: Auburn (vs. Florida)

This is going to be a battle. Two 5-0 SEC Rival teams going at it. Let's start with Florida. Although being perfect, the Gators have yet to face one of the better teams in the nation. Against a conference, the L3 years, Florida has not been too good as they are a sad 7-11. In their last 3 meetings against Auburn, they've fallen short every time, losing by 3 or more in each of those games. Auburn has been great this year, winning every single game AND covering the spread in every single game. In the past, the Tigers are a dominant 11-4 after leading their last 3 games by 10+ points at the half. I expect the Auburn Tigers to come out hungrier than ever before as they look to start the season 6-0 for the first time since 2010. Play Auburn.

T.M. Prediction: 31-24 Auburn

T.M. Selection: Temple Owls

The 3-1 Owls enter this game with great energy as they meat with the 3-2 East Carolina team. Temple has looked confident so far as they just picked apart Georgia Tech last Saturday. The Owls are a dominant 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games on the road AND they're a sweet 40-19 ATS over their L59 games. On the other hand, East Carolina comes into this one 2-3 ATS YTD. The Pirates have only averaged 21.4 ppg YTD (well over #100 in the nation.) They're also an awful 5-13 ATS in their last 18 games at home. I expect the Owls to pick apart this East Carolina team with ease. Take Temple.

T.M. Prediction: 37-17 Temple

T.M. Selection: Vanderbilt (vs. NIU)

I've got to admit, neither teams have looked good this season so far. Northern Illinois has given up 5+ TD's in b2b games as they've just gotten worse and worse as the season continues. Now, they'll play a Vanderbilt team who'll be very hungry for their first win of the 2019-20 campaign. Although losing in each of their games, the Commodores have shown some promise. Last week, they scored 38 points against a great LSU squad who are/were the #4 team in the nation. Expect them to play their guts out on Saturday morning behind their home crowd. 

T.M. Prediction: 31-13 Vanderbilt

T.M. Selection: Virginia Tech (vs. Duke)

Over the years, the Hokies are a dominant 13-2 SU against Duke. I look for them to continue that domination on Firday Night. In most of those 15 games, the Hokies were big favorites. Last time the teams met here, VT was favored by 17 points. Now, the point spread isn't even really a factor. Hokies win and get us the cover to boot! This number is small. Lay the points. 

T.M. Prediction: 28-17 VT

T.M. Selection: Memphis (vs. Navy)

T.M. Analysis: We will see the stronger team seize control of this one right away. Tigers have taken on Ole Miss. Navy has faced nothing but lightweights. Tigers, 14-1 straight-up last 15 as a home favorite, recall last year when Navy beat them by 1. They'll step on their throats early. 

T.M. Prediction: 27-13 (first half)

T.M. Selection: OVER (UCLA/WSU)

Remember when the Pac-12, once known as the Pac-10, used to regularly feature wide-open aerial shootouts? Expect a case of deja vu from tonight's game. Bruins gashed for 48 last week and now face a Mike Leach offense. Will be ugly. They will score though. Cougs defense is suspect. Leach versus Kelly = Over. 

T.M. Selection: 44-34 WSU

T.M. Selection: Houston (vs. Tulane)

The line opened with Tulane at -3 and then went up. I agree with the opener. Not the move. These teams are very equally matched, in my estimation. Houston, perhaps, is even the stronger of the two. Homefield isn't worth as much, in this case, as the odds are suggesting. The Cougars won 48-17 at Houston in 2018 and they lost by 3 here in 2017. This one comes down to the wire again. Grab the points. 

T.M. Prediction: 34-31 Houston

T.M. Selection: Houston (GAME OF MONTH)

Analysis posted at least 8 hours before game time.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Oregon (10* GAME OF THE WEEK)

Is there ever a “must win” game in Week 2? For the Ducks who were picked by many to win the Pac 12 and who lost 27-21 in Auburn last weekend, it has essentially turned into that for them. Oregon won’t be throwing in the towel on its season yet though. The Ducks still have a shot at a CFP berth, but they need to win and they need to win big. Nevada? It’s primed for a letdown here as well after it upset Purdue 34-31, capped off by a 56 yard field goal as time wound off the clock. Can anyone say letdown spot? The conditions are definitely correct for a home side rout. Lay the points.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: WVU/Missouri over (10* TOTAL OF WEEK)

Neither team is happy about its Week 1 performance and because of that, I believe each will open up the playbook in Week 2, which will in turn help in pushing this total over the number sooner, rather than later. WVU scraped by FCS opponent James Madison 20-13, while Missouri fell 37-31 at Wyoming. WVU has a powerful run game that’s led by Kennedy McKoy and Leddie Brown. Mountaineers’ QB Austin Kendall was 27 of 43 last weekend. Bryant was 31 of 48 for 423 yards for the Tigers and I think he’ll have plenty of opportunity vs. WVU at home. When you add it all up and based strictly from a “situational” stand point, I definitely think this one sets up as a “shootout.” Play the over.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Sacramento State (10*)

The Sun Devils rolled to an easy victory in Week 1 over Kent State and in Week 2, they face an even weaker opponent. No outright here, but I do think this one sets up as a classic “look ahead” spot for Arizona State. And that’s because I find it impossible for Herm Edwards and the home side to not already be planning for a road tilt at No. 18 Michigan State in Week 3. The Hornets destroyed Southern Oregon 77-19 in Week 1 and while it was just an NAIA program, they still come in with confidence and momentum. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Marshall/Boise State under (10*)

From a situational stand point, I think this one sets up beautifully as a lower-scoring under. Marshall was untested in Week 1, easily rolling to victory over FCS opposition VMI. But now the Herd face a Boise State which comes in off a season opening upset win for the ages over Florida State. The Broncos looked incredible on the defensive end and I think they’re going to carry that momentum over here. As I stated off the top, I think from a situational stand point, looking at each team and what it did last weekend, that this weekend’s contest definitely sets up as more of a “chess match,” than a high-scoring “shootout.” Additionally note that Marshall has seen the total go under the number in 14 of its last 20 as a road dog in the 7.5 to 14 points range, while Boise State has seen the total go under in nine of its last 11 as a home favorite. Play the under.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Louisville (GAME OF THE YEAR)

I’m not calling for the outright victory, but I do believe that the stage is set for a much closer than expected battle. Notre Dame has a lot to live up to this season after posting 12 victories a year ago, including a par of 24-17 victory over Michigan and USC. The Irish’s season came to a crashing halt in the Cotton Bowl though, falling 30-3 to eventual Champion Clemson. Many key players return for Notre Dame, but there’s no question that the Irish lost a lot from last year’s squad in the offseason as well. The good news for Louisville fans? It’s practically impossible for this year’s team to do worse that last season’s (2-10). But Louisville has a new head coach in Scott Satterfield and I think he’ll have his team prepared to fight today. Notre Dame has the advantage with Ian Book under center, but his lines on both sides of the ball are a work in progress to open the season and I think that’s going to be the small opening that Louisville can use to keep this one competitive. Bryan Brown is the new defensive coordinator in Louisville and he is the beneficiary of seven returning starters. Louisville QB Jawon Pass now has a fall year under his belt and I think he’s going to be dramatically different in his second season in this offense. I believe the Irish come out flat to start and because of that, I’ll ultimately recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Louisville.

T.M. Prediction: 33-24 Notre Dame.

T.M. Selection: Houston (10* CASH-MACHINE!)

No outright victory, but Houston has the offense in place to keep pace. The Cougars have a dynamic play-making QB in D’Eriq King, who I think has a big advantage over Oklahoma transfer Jalen Hurts, who has plenty of weapons around him, but whose defense is still a big question mark (also note that Oklahoma brings back just one starter on the offensive line.) I think this one is going to come down to whichever of these teams has its hands on the ball last. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: New Mexico State/WSU under (10* TOTAL OF MONTH)

The Aggies averaged only 25.2 PPG last year, while conceding 41.3. New Mexico State is expected to be much better defensively though with its entire line returning and the unit led by standout Javahn Ferguson. WSU averaged 37.5 PPG last year and it allowed only 23.3. I have a hard time seeing the Aggies mustering much of offensive attack today vs. this experienced WSU secondary. This total is much too high in my opinion, play the under.

T.M. Prediction: 41-15 WSU.

T.M. Selection: Pittsburgh (10* GAME OF THE MONTH)

It’s an important conference matchup right out of the gate for both teams and I don’t think that the home field advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor. Last year the Cavs were 8-5, but it lost at home to Pittsburgh and it lost three of its last four regular season contests. Pittsburgh went on to win the Coastal Division, but it fell apart down the stretch, losing to Clemson in the ACC Championship game and then 14-13 to Stanford in the Sun Bowl. Bryce Perkins is back under center for the Cavs and he had 2,680 rushing yards and 25 TD passes, along with 923 rushing yards and nine more rushing TD’s. The Cavs offensive line though is a weak point with seniors Marcus Applefield and Jake Fieler having moved on. Kenny Pickett is back as QB for the Panthers after finishing with 12 TD’s and six INT’s. The offensive line is s question mark as well for Pittsburgh, but its defense is the difference maker in my opinion. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: BYU (10* GAME OF THE WEEK)

The outright win is of course not out of the question, but in this Holy War, I’m going to ultimately recommend to grab the points. 15 returning starters are back for Utah, and it’s been picked by many to win the Pac 12 this year. The defense is stout and the offense should only be better with QB Tyler Huntley back, along with RB Zack Moss. BYU actually had a 20 point lead over the Utes in the third quarter in last year’s instalment between the schools, but it wound up falling 35-27. The “revenge” factor also definitely comes into play here for the home side. BYU has a powerful new RB in Ty-Son Williams, who came over from South Carolina after posting 799 yards and five major scores on 165 carries. Grab the points and expect a nail-biter.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Arizona (10* MONEY-MAKER)

I think Arizona comes in focused on the task at hand and I look for it to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Khalil Tate is back to 100% health for the Wildcats and after finishing 5-7 in Kevin Sumiln’s first year as head coach, I’m expecting a dramatic reverse of fortunes this season. Conversely, after finishing 8-6 last year, I believe regression is imminent for the Warriors. True Cole McDonald is back under center for Hawaii, but I believe he’ll have difficult vs. this re-vamped Arizona defensive unit. The last time these teams faced off against each other, the Wildcats won 47-28 in 2016 and I believe a similar lop-sided blowout is in the card this time around as well. Lay the points.

T.M. Prediction: FINAL PREDICTED SCORE COMING SHORTLY

T.M. Selection: Clemson (10* TRADE-MARK)

The two best teams in the country meet for a fourth straight year in the National Championship Game. Alabama leads the all time series 14-4 and it’s taken 14 of the last 15 in the series. That includes a 24-6 win in last year’s Sugar Bowl. To say the Tigers play with revenge would be an understatement obviously. But now Clemson has both the offense and defense to steal this one outright. The Tigers only allow 12.6 PPG (which is good because the Tide are second in the country in scoring with 47.7 PPG). The Tide defense looked pretty average in its 45-35 win over Oklahoma last week and I think that Tigers’ freshman QB Trevor Lawrence, who had 327 passing yards with three TD’s and no INT’s will have his opportunities today as well. Note as well that the Tigers are 8-1 ATS in their last nine bowl games. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 30-29 Clemson.

T.M. Selection: Texas (10* GAME OF MONTH)

Texas is 9-4 and it’s thrilled to be back in a New Years Day 6 game for the first time since 2014. The Bulldogs though are once again devastated after their loss to Alabama in the SEC Championship game. The Longhorns fell 39-27 to Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game, but QB Sam Ehlinger was a bright spot with 349 passing yards and two TD’s, along with two more rushing scores as well. Georgia is led by QB Jake room, who had 2,537 passing yards and a 27/5 TD:INT, but note that the Bulldogs are still just 2-3 ATS in their last five non-conference games. The Longhorns on the other hand a 4-0 ATS in their last four as an underdog in the 10.5 to 21 points range.

T.M. Prediction: 30-27 Georgia.

T.M. Selection: Over Iowa/Mississippi State (10* TOTAL OF MONTH!)

These two teams are hungry for a win. The Hawkeyes went 8-4 overall and 4-4 in league play. Mississippi State went 8-4 overall and 4-4 in the SEC. Iowa QB Nate Stanley will be given the green light today and he finished with a solid season, 2,638 passing yard with 23 TD’s and nine INT’s. Overall Iowa averages 31.5 PPG and it allows 17.4. Mississippi State averages 29.1 PPG and it allows just 12.0. Bulldogs’ QB Nick Fitzgerald had 1,018 rushing yards and 12 TDs on the ground. These are two defensive minded clubs, but with extra time off to prepare, I think it’ll be these competent offensive players which “steal the show.” Additionally note that Iowa has seen the total go over the number in all three games it’s played in this year as an underdog. 

T.M. Prediction: 27-21 Mississippi State.

T.M. Selection: NC State (10* TRADE-MARK)

In a game which I think’ll be decided by whichever of these talented schools has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to recommend to grab the points. NC State comes in on top form with three straight wins. Texas A&M also won its final three games of the year. Both teams will be missing a few players due to the draft. NC State will be leaning on QB Ryan Finley, who had 3,789 passing yards and 24 passing TD’s. The A&M secondary was terrible, allowing 262.7 YPG through the air. The Aggies will in fact be down some key players on the defensive side of the ball, including LB Otaro Alaka and safety Donovan Wilson. Note as well that the Wolfpack are 7-2 ATS in their last nine non-conference games as an underdog in the 3.5 to 7.5 points range. As mentioned off the top, this one has “war” written all over it. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 28-27 Aggies.

T.M. Selection: Cincinnati (10* BANKROLL BUILDER)

In all honesty, I think the 6-6 Hokies would admit themselves that they shouldn’t be in this bowl vs. the 10-2 Bearcats. Cincinnati got smashed by UCF on November 17th, but it would close its season with a resounding 56-6 thumping of East Carolina. Bearcats’ QB Desmond Ridder has 2,359 passing yards and a 19/5 TD:INT. Cincinnati is especially potent in the run game, averaging 238.1 YPG. But the Bearcats are best on the defensive side of the ball, ranked seventh in the nation by allowing only 16.1 PPG. VT has Ryan Willis under center and he finished with 2,497 yards with a 22/8 TD:INT. But note that the Bearcats are also 5-2 ATS in their last seven non-conference games, while VT is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on field turf. BLOWOUT! Lay the points.

T.M. Prediction: 35-19 Cincinnati.

T.M. Selection: Oklahoma (10* BOWL SIDE OF YEAR)

Am I calling for an outright upset? I am not. However I think that the 12-1 Sooners have the offense to put enough pressure on the Tide to keep this one more competitive than what Vegas would like us to believe. Oklahoma enters off a 39-27 win over Texas in the Big 12 Championship Game, while Alabama defeated No. 4 Georgia 34-27 in the SEC Championship. Oklahoma is the No. 1 offense in the league with 49.5 PPG, while the defense allows 32.4. Alabama averaged 47.9 PPG and it allowed only 14.8. Note that Oklahoma is 4-2 ATS in its last six when playing on two weeks or more of rest, while Alabama is 2-4 ATS in its last six non-conference games. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 45-37 Bama.

T.M. Selection: Irish/Tigers under (10* BOWL TOTAL OF YEAR)

With more than three whole weeks off to game-plan for this one, I think these elite defensive units battle each other tight, which will in turn result in this total staying below the posted number. Both teams are unbeaten. Notre Dame finished 12-0 and in its finale vs. USC, QB Ian Book had 352 yards, two TD’s and an INT in the 24-17 win. The Tigers get the job done on the defensive side of the ball as well. In their ACC Title clinching 42-10 win over Pittsburgh the Tigers’ defense had three sacks and nine tackles for a loss. Clemson has seen the total go under in seven of their last nine neutral site affairs following a three weeks or more layoff, while the Irish have seen the total dip under in four of their last five neutral site games. This number is high.

T.M. Prediction: 27-14 Clemson.

T.M. Selection: Iowa State (10* MONEY-MAKER) 

It’s the No. 24 Iowa State Cyclones vs. the No. 13 Washington Huskies and I smell an upset. Iowa State started slowly, but it’s since won seven of its last eight, including two straight. WSU comes in dejected, relegated to the Alamo Bowl after a disappointing 28-15 home loss to Washington in the Apple Cup. These two teams closed their respective regular seasons on completely opposite ends of the spectrum, and I think that carries over here. The Cyclones average 26.8 PPG and they allow 22.5. “We’re as healthy as we’ve been,” Coach Matt Campbell said. “That time off that we took for us was really, really important. I really feel like we’ll be 100 percent going into this bowl game.” WSU averages 38.3 PPG and it allows 23.1. Note though that Iowa State is 17-7 ATS in its last 24 as an underdog, while WSU is just 2-3 ATS in its last five when playing with two weeks or more of rest. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 30-27 ISU.

T.M. Selection: Vanderbilt (10* MONEY-MAKER)

Baylor and Vanderbilt became bowl eligible late, but I think Vanderbilt has the momentum here. Also note that the Bears will be without star receiver Jalen Hurd, who played through a knee injury in his team’s 35-24 win over Texas Tech in its regular season finale, a victory which made it eligible. Note though that the Bears have turned in a Big 12 worst turnover margin of minus-9 and they’ve given up 37 sacks total, which is worst in the conference as well. Vandy on the other hand comes in with a lot of momentum with back-to-back wins to end the year over Ole Miss and Tennessee. The Commodores have a potent one-two punch on offense to between RB Ke’Shawn Vaughn (who had an SEC best 6.95 rushing yards per attempt) and QB Kyle Shurmur (23 passing TDs). Note as well that the Bears are 0-5-1 ATS in their last six non-conference games, while Vanderbilt is 5-1 ATS in its last six non-conference games. I’m laying the points.

T.M. Prediction: 35-20 Vandy.

T.M. Selection: TCU/Cal under (10* TOTAL BLACK-LABEL BLOWOUT)

Neither team had a great year. Both teams are above average defensively and poor offensively. With three weeks off in between games, I think these trends become amplified, as I look for the defenses to complete dominate the headlines of this one. Cal averages 22.8 PPG and it allows 21.2. TCU averages 24.7 PPG and it allows 24.4. Note as well that TCU has seen the total go under the number in its last four off two straight wins vs. conference rivals, while Cal has seen the total go under in its last five after scoring 14 points or less in its previous game. This number is a little high.

T.M. Prediction: 17-10 Cal. 

T.M. Selection: Louisiana Tech (10* BANKROLL BUILDER)

It’s a clash of two styles. LT was 7-5 and Hawaii finished 8-5. The Warriors average over 32 PPG, while LT hold opponents to under 24. Hawaii is just 4-3 all time in the Hawaii Bowl, proving that home field doesn’t mean much in this situation. Louisiana Tech though is 5-1 ATS in its last six bowl games, while the Warriors are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four non-conference games and just 9-23 ATS in their last 32 vs. teams with winning records. I’m grabbing the points but expecting an upset.

T.M. Prediction: 33-28 Bulldogs.

T.M. Selection: Buffalo (10* BLACK-LABEL BLOWOUT)

The Bulls finished 10-3 and the Trojans were 9-3. Buffalo will be extra angry here as it looks to atone for a 30-29 loss to NIU in the MAC title game, a contest in which it held a 29-10 lead at one point. Bulls’ QB Tyree Jackson will be given the green light after posting 2,857 passing yards and a 27/11 TD:INT. Buffalo is also strong rushing, ranked 45th in the FBS. In the end the Bulls averaged 34.8 PPG and allowed 24.7. Troy averaged just 29.8 PPG and it allowed 21.2. The Trojans are just 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven vs. the MAC though, while Buffalo is 5-0 ATS in its last five following an ATS loss. With a few weeks off to prepare, I like the Bulls’ offense to win out over Troy’s tough defense. Play on Buffalo.

T.M. Prediction: 27-23 Bulls.

T.M. Selection: Toledo (10* MONEY-MAKER)

FIU was 8-4 and Toledo was 7-5. FIU averages 34.6 PPG and it allows 24.7. James Morgan has 2,727 yards and a 26/7 TD:INT. The Rockets averaged a whopping 41.1 PPG and they allowed 30.2. Eli Peters had 1,573 passing yards and 15/7 TD:INT. The Rockets though were money in the bank for bettors in the spot, going 10-1 ATS in their last 11 after allowing less then 275 total yards in their previous game, while the Golden Panthers are a poor 0-5-1 ATS in their last six neutral site games. I’m laying the points and expecting a blowout.

T.M. Prediction: 37-21 Rockets.

T.M. Selection: Marshall (10* BOWL MONEY-MAKER)

What’s to like about USF here? The Bulls opened the year 7-0, but then a combination of injury and bad luck saw USF back into the bowl season on five straight losses. The Herd finished 8-4 and they’ve won their last six bowl appearances. The Bulls feature a strong run game with Johnny Ford and Jordan Cronkrite, but the uncertainty surrounding starting QB Blake Barnett is a major concern here in my opinion. If he can play, one has to wonder about his health and if he’s really at 100% capacity? The combination of Brett Kean and Chris Oladokun went for 113 passing yards in USF’s season-ending loss to UCF. Note as well that Marshall is 21-8-1 ATS in its last 30 non-conference games. This one has blowout written all over it.

T.M. Prediction: 31-20 Herd.

T.M. Selection: Over Frisco Bowl (10*)

SDSU is 13-0-1 all time vs. MAC schools. That run may continue here, but the Bobcats won’t be going down without a fight. The Bobcats rely heavily on the run game and star RB AJ Ouellette, who had 1,142 rushing yards and 12 TD’s. He had 196 yards rushing and three TD’s in the Bobcats win over Buffalo in their most recent action. SDSU didn’t have the best season, but that was due mostly to injuries. But with starting QB Christian Chapman and starting RB Juwan Washington back in the mix, the Aztecs will be looking to rebound here and try to salvage a disappointing season. It sets up great for more of an offensive affair in my opinion. Also note that Ohio has seen the total go over in three of its last four when playing with two weeks of rest. Play the over.

T.M. Prediction: 35-25 Ohio.

T.M. Selection: Over NIU/UAB (10* TOTAL OF WEEK)

Despite these being two extremely defensive minded clubs, I’m expecting more of a wide open offensive affair. NIU averaged only 20.7 PPG, while allowing 21.8. UAB averaged 29.7 and only allowed 17.9. But with a couple of week’s off to prepare and game-plan, I think this one will sneak above the number once it’s all said and done. And the O/U trends support that theory, as note that NIU has seen the total go over the number in three of its last four off an upset win as an underdog, while UAB has seen the total soar over in all four games it played in this year when the total was set between 42.5 and 49 points. Play the over.

T.M. Prediction: 27-21 UAB.

T.M. Selection: ASU/Fresno State under (10*)

Arizona State finished 7-5, while Fresno State was 11-2. Note that the Sun Devils will be without the services of their top receiver N’Keal Harry as he skips the bowl to prepare for the draft. This is a major blow for Manny Wilkins and company. Fresno State earned this spot by posting a 19-16 OT win over Boise State and I’m expecting a similar dominant defensive performance here as well. ASU has seen the total go under in eight of its last 12 off a win vs. a conference rival, while Fresno State has seen the total go under in its last three games off an upset win as an underdog.

T.M. Prediction: 27-21 Fresno State.

T.M. Selection: Navy (10* GAME OF THE WEEK)

Army went into this game last year with an identical 9-2 record and after winning 14-13, it finished at 10-2. Now the Knights have a chance to do that again. Navy is only 3-9 and it’s going to suffer its first losing season since 2002. Clearly the Midshipmen aren’t happy: “It has obviously been disappointing,” lamented senior linebacker Hudson Sullivan recently. “It’s not the kind of season that any of us even remotely imagined we would have had,” continued Sullivan, who will be playing in his fourth Army-Navy game (the last two of which his team has lost.) “When the season started we were looking forward to having a winning season, beating Army, playing for the conference championship and going to a bowl game. That didn’t happen. So as big as winning the Army-Navy game usually is, it would mean more this year…. We’re going into the game to play as hard as we can and to beat Army and put a black mark on their season. As seniors, it would be a great way to end our career.” All of the pressure is now on the Knights, who are just 1-4 ATS in their last five as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 20-17 Army.

T.M. Selection: Under Georgia/Alabama (10* TOTAL OF YEAR).

It’s a rematch of last year’s Championship Final. Georgia plays with revenge and the winner of this gets a ticket to the Playoff Tournament. Both teams features top notch offenses and elite defensive units. Alabama though ranks third in the nation in allowing just 13.8 PPG, while Georgia ranks 10th in scoring defense with 17.2 PPG. Note that Georgia has seen the total go under in three of its last four after scoring 42 points or more in two straight games, while Alabama has seen the total go under in seven of its last nine after two straight victories by 28 or more points. Play the under.

T.M. Prediction: 31-21 Tide.