CFB Lookaheads:
- Michigan St. -3 *
- AZ State +6 **
- Alabama -13.5 *
- Georgia -7.5 **
- GA/Michigan under 45.5 **
- Notre Dame -2 ***
- Utah/Ohio State under 64 *
Why is Notre Dame a 3 star play? Unlike previous years, the Irish have been one of the best ATS teams in the country. They’re 7-2 ATS as a favorite and 9-3 overall, and this bowl game sets up really well for an all-out effort against a shaky Oklahoma State team. The Irish also have added motivation after Brian Kelly surprisingly shipped off to LSU before season’s end. New head coach Marcus Freeman is charismatic, turned ND’s defense around, and players love him. The Irish maintain continuity with this hire and should be ultra-motivated to perform for their new leader. Not to mention, because of Freeman, the Irish rank sixth nationally in interceptions (15) and defensive touchdowns (4), seventh in total sacks (40.0), 11th in turnovers gained (23) and scoring defense (18.2) and 18th in third-down conversion percentage (.329). The 40.0 team sacks is one shy of the program record of 41 from the 1996 season. Take the Irish at a discount – I’d be SHOCKED if they lose.
