South Alabama vs Central Michigan -5 O/U 57.5
This line is a bit of a head scratcher because my number is pretty far off of this line. I really like how Central Michigan played Oklahoma State last week and they showed a ton of offense that actually outgained the Pokes in yards in the box score. South Alabama beat up a tomato can in Nichols State last week, and I am really not that impressed with it. Central Michigan ranked 49th in overall EPA last year while South Alabama ranked 75th on a much easier schedule without having to even play a power 5 team. I love the fact that Jim McElwain’s team played a good big 12 team here and I think that it helps them prepare better for the season. I like being on Group of 5 teams that played a tough opponent the week before and I am laying it with the Chippewas. My number is -12.
Central Michigan -5 – 2.5 stars
Tennessee vs Pittsburgh +6.5 O/U 66
If Alabama Texas isn’t the best this weekend, this game just might be. Road revenge game here for Tennessee after they lost to Kenny Pickett led Pittsburgh while Hendon Hooker wasn’t really named the starter yet for Tennessee. Lots of folks are high Tennessee this year, and I like them more as well, but that defense was a sieve last year allowing over 30 points to every top 65 team last year. I know that Pittsburgh has lost Mark Whipple and Kenny Pickett at quarterback, but Kedon Slovis proved his worth last week vs West Virginia going 16-24 for over 300 yards. Pittsburgh is more weak against the run and stronger against the pass, which I think can give them an advantage against an air raid type Josh Heuple offense. I also like the fact that Pittsburgh can run the ball down their throat tireing their defense and taking momentum away from Tennessee. This is too many points for a home team here and my number is Tennessee -2 at best.
Pittsburgh +6.5 – 2 stars
