Soccer
Premier League
7:30am ET
Manchester City v Liverpool
Referee: Jonathan Moss
Last Head-To-Heads at Manchester City
1-1
1-4 (Liverpool Win)
3-1 (Man City Win)
2-1 (Man City Win)
Recent Form:
Manchester City: 5-0-1
Liverpool: 5-0-1
KEY STAT: Liverpool have failed to score in only one of their last 13 away league fixtures
EXPERT VERDICT: Liverpool excelled against top eight opponents last season and their defence shaped up well in the two league clashes with Manchester City – a 1-0 win at Anfield and a 1-1 draw in the return fixture. Jurgen Klopp has some serious attacking quality at his fingertips. Pep Guardiola’s City are not short of creativity either, but they haven’t quite hit their stride this term. Klopp relishes these high-profile matches and at the prices Liverpool are worth a small bet.
RECOMMENDATION: Liverpool (1)
Premier League
7:30am ET
Manchester City v Liverpool
Referee: Jonathan Moss
Last Head-To-Heads at Manchester City
1-1
1-4 (Liverpool Win)
3-1 (Man City Win)
2-1 (Man City Win)
Recent Form:
Manchester City: 5-0-1
Liverpool: 5-0-1
KEY STAT: Liverpool have failed to score in only one of their last 13 away league fixtures
EXPERT VERDICT: Liverpool excelled against top eight opponents last season and their defence shaped up well in the two league clashes with Manchester City – a 1-0 win at Anfield and a 1-1 draw in the return fixture. Jurgen Klopp has some serious attacking quality at his fingertips. Pep Guardiola’s City are not short of creativity either, but they haven’t quite hit their stride this term. Klopp relishes these high-profile matches and at the prices Liverpool are worth a small bet.
RECOMMENDATION: Liverpool (1)
Soccer
Premier League
10am ET
Brighton v West Brom
Referee: Chris Kavanagh
Last Head-To-Heads at Brighton
3-1 (Brighton Win)
2-0 (Brighton Win)
0-3 (West Brom Win)
0-1 (West Brom Win)
Recent Form:
Brighton: 1-3-2
West Brom: 3-2-1
KEY STAT: West Brom are unbeaten this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Brighton supporters would have marked this fixture down as a winnable one but West Brom have made a fine start to the season. The Seagulls have captured just one point from three matches and the Baggies, who have bought well over the summer, could be decent value to sneak a win
RECOMMENDATION: West Brom draw no bet (1)
Premier League
10am ET
Brighton v West Brom
Referee: Chris Kavanagh
Last Head-To-Heads at Brighton
3-1 (Brighton Win)
2-0 (Brighton Win)
0-3 (West Brom Win)
0-1 (West Brom Win)
Recent Form:
Brighton: 1-3-2
West Brom: 3-2-1
KEY STAT: West Brom are unbeaten this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Brighton supporters would have marked this fixture down as a winnable one but West Brom have made a fine start to the season. The Seagulls have captured just one point from three matches and the Baggies, who have bought well over the summer, could be decent value to sneak a win
RECOMMENDATION: West Brom draw no bet (1)
Soccer
Premier League
10am ET
Everton v Tottenham
Referee: Graham Scott
Recent Head-To-Heads at Everton
1-1
1-1
0-1 (Tottenham win)
0-0
Recent Form:
Everton: 3-1-2
Tottenham: 4-1-1
KEY STAT: Spurs are unbeaten in last four visits to Goodison Park
EXPERT VERDICT: Tottenham have dropped points in both league matches at Wembley but should be much happier away from their temporary home and can claim a vital three points at Everton. Spurs’ sole win this term came at Newcastle and spearheaded by Harry Kane they can get the job done on Merseyside
RECOMMENDATION: Tottenham (4)
Premier League
10am ET
Everton v Tottenham
Referee: Graham Scott
Recent Head-To-Heads at Everton
1-1
1-1
0-1 (Tottenham win)
0-0
Recent Form:
Everton: 3-1-2
Tottenham: 4-1-1
KEY STAT: Spurs are unbeaten in last four visits to Goodison Park
EXPERT VERDICT: Tottenham have dropped points in both league matches at Wembley but should be much happier away from their temporary home and can claim a vital three points at Everton. Spurs’ sole win this term came at Newcastle and spearheaded by Harry Kane they can get the job done on Merseyside
RECOMMENDATION: Tottenham (4)
Soccer
Premier League
10am ET
Arsenal v Bournemouth
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Recent Head-To-Heads at Arsenal:
3-1 (Arsenal Win)
2-0 (Arsenal Win)
3-0 (Arsenal Win)
Recent Form:
Arsenal: 3-2-1
Bournemouth: 2-3-1
KEY STAT: Last season’s two league meetings between the teams produced ten goals
EXPERT VERDICT: Arsenal desperately need a positive response to their 4-0 defeat at Liverpool and shambolic end to the transfer window. Bournemouth are pointless after three games of the season and, with both sides stronger in attack than defence, an entertaining clash is likely.
RECOMMENDATION: Over 3.5 goals (3)
Premier League
10am ET
Arsenal v Bournemouth
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Recent Head-To-Heads at Arsenal:
3-1 (Arsenal Win)
2-0 (Arsenal Win)
3-0 (Arsenal Win)
Recent Form:
Arsenal: 3-2-1
Bournemouth: 2-3-1
KEY STAT: Last season’s two league meetings between the teams produced ten goals
EXPERT VERDICT: Arsenal desperately need a positive response to their 4-0 defeat at Liverpool and shambolic end to the transfer window. Bournemouth are pointless after three games of the season and, with both sides stronger in attack than defence, an entertaining clash is likely.
RECOMMENDATION: Over 3.5 goals (3)
Soccer
Premier League
10am ET
Leicester v Chelsea
Referee: Lee Mason
Last Head-To-Heads at Leicester:
0-3 (Chelsea Win)
2-4 (Chelsea Win)
2-1 (Leicester Win)
1-3 (Chelsea Win)
Recent Form:
Leicester: 2-3-1
Chelsea: 3-2-1
KEY STAT: Leicester have lost just one of their last 11 home games
EXPERT VERDICT: Leicester eased to victory against Brighton in their only home fixture of the season so far and can get at least a point against champions Chelsea. The Blues have responded well to their opening day defeat against Burnley but they face a team who do their best work in front of their own fans.
RECOMMENDATION: Leicester or draw double chance (3)
Premier League
10am ET
Leicester v Chelsea
Referee: Lee Mason
Last Head-To-Heads at Leicester:
0-3 (Chelsea Win)
2-4 (Chelsea Win)
2-1 (Leicester Win)
1-3 (Chelsea Win)
Recent Form:
Leicester: 2-3-1
Chelsea: 3-2-1
KEY STAT: Leicester have lost just one of their last 11 home games
EXPERT VERDICT: Leicester eased to victory against Brighton in their only home fixture of the season so far and can get at least a point against champions Chelsea. The Blues have responded well to their opening day defeat against Burnley but they face a team who do their best work in front of their own fans.
RECOMMENDATION: Leicester or draw double chance (3)
Soccer
Premier League
10am ET
Southampton v Watford
Referee: Lee Probert
Last Head-To-Heads at Southampton:
1-1
2-0 (Southampton Win)
4-0 (Southampton Win)
0-3 (Watford Win)
Recent Form:
Southampton: 1-2-3
Watford: 1-3-2
KEY STAT: Saints have failed to net in six of their last seven at home
EXPERT VERDICT: Saints ended their home drought with a 3-2 win over West Ham – though two of the three goals were from penalties – and remain a side you wouldn’t back with much confidence on their own patch. They’ve won just three at home since Christmas and Watford can enjoy more south-coast success.
RECOMMENDATION: Draw (1)
Premier League
10am ET
Southampton v Watford
Referee: Lee Probert
Last Head-To-Heads at Southampton:
1-1
2-0 (Southampton Win)
4-0 (Southampton Win)
0-3 (Watford Win)
Recent Form:
Southampton: 1-2-3
Watford: 1-3-2
KEY STAT: Saints have failed to net in six of their last seven at home
EXPERT VERDICT: Saints ended their home drought with a 3-2 win over West Ham – though two of the three goals were from penalties – and remain a side you wouldn’t back with much confidence on their own patch. They’ve won just three at home since Christmas and Watford can enjoy more south-coast success.
RECOMMENDATION: Draw (1)
CFB Week 2 Notes:
Oregon players went toward Pacific coast to practice this week after air in Eugene was affected by wildfires in that area. Ducks (+3) lost 35-32 in Lincoln LY, despite rushing for 336 yards- since 2015, they are 3-10 vs spread at home. Since ’13, Nebraska is 12-6-1 vs spread in road games; Cornhuskers allowed 415 passing yards in surprisingly tough 43-36 home win over Arkansas St. last week. ASU outgained Nebraska 497-463. Last 4+ years, Big 14 teams are 15-10-1 vs spread when playing a Pac-12 opponent, but only 4-6 when favored- underdogs were 17-8-1 vs spread in those games.
Louisville/North Carolina are meeting for first time as ACC rivals; Cardinals won three of last four meetings (last one was in ’12). Louisville outgained Purdue 524-344 LW but struggled to a 35-28 (-26) win in Hoosier Dome. Cardinals are 10-7 vs spread on road under Petrino, 7-5 as a road favorite; they’ve got a great QB (Jackson) but only three other returning starters on offense. North Carolina lost 35-30 (-12.5) at home to Cal last week; Tar Heels allowed 363 passing yards. UNC is 19-12 vs spread at home under Fedora.
Iowa won three of last four games with Iowa State, winning 31-17/27-21 in last two visits to Ames. Iowa averaged 34.5 pts/game in their last four games at ISU. Hawkeyes shut down Wyoming 24-3 LW but gained only 263 yards themselves- they are 16-4 vs spread in last 20 road games, covering 11 of last 12 tries as a road favorite. Cyclones beat a I-AA team last week; State was 4-1 as a home dog LY, in Campbell’s 1st year as ISU’s coach. Iowa’s OL has 99 returning starts, State only 35. Since 2011, Big X teams are 10-9 vs spread when facing a Big 14 opponent.
Pittsburgh (-5) beat Penn State 42-39 last year; Pitt ran the ball for 341 yards in former rivals’ first meeting since 2000. Panthers needed OT to beat I-AA Youngstown 28-21 LW, after blowing a 21-0 halftime lead. Nittany Lions crushed Akron 52-0 LW, running ball for 247 yards- since ’14 they’re 10-6 vs spread as a home favorite. Since ’15, Pitt is 6-3 vs spread as a road underdog; they’re 3-12 vs spread in last 15 non-league games. ACC teams won 8 of last 10 games vs Big 14 foes (6-4 vs spread). Both teams have experienced offensive lines.
Arkansas (+7.5) won 41-38 at TCU LY, teams’ first meeting in 20+ years. Frogs outgained the Hogs 572-403 but were -2 in turnovers in game Arkansas led 13-0 at the half. Since 2014, TCU is 7-5 vs spread in non-league games; since 2011, they’re 5-13 as a road favorite. 9 of Horned Frogs’ top 10 OL guys are back from LY. Arkansas is 6-8 vs spread in last 14 home games; they’re 6-6 as a home dog under Bielema. Razorbacks have 70 starts back on OL. both teams have senior QB’s. Last three years, Big X teams are 9-7 vs spread when facing an SEC squad.
South Carolina was outgained 504-246 last week but they beat NC State 35-28; Gamecocks ran kick back for a TD- since 2013, Carolina is 7-13 vs spread in true road games- they’ve got 98 starts back on OL and have an impressive sophomore QB in Bentley. Problem is, NC State threw for 415 yards against them LW. Missouri gained 815 TY LW in 72-43 win over a I-AA team- game was 48-35 at half. Mizzou covered five of last seven home games. Teams split last four meetings. Both teams have 10 returning starters on offense.
Clemson (-9) held off Auburn 19-13 LY, outgaining War Eagles 399-262, holding Auburn to 87 rushing yards. Since 2014, Auburn is 4-8 vs spread on road; Baylor transfer Stidham gets his first big test as Auburn’s QB- his OL has 106 returning starts. Clemson has a new QB; they thrashed Kent State LW, but Kent threw only 5 passes the whole game, so Clemson’s pass defense is an unknown. Since 2013, Clemson is 15-12-1 vs spread at home. Since 2015, ACC teams are 15-11 vs spread won facing an SEC opponent.
Georgia’s starting QB Eason sprained his knee last week; true freshman Fromm gets his first college start here— he was 10-15/143 against Appalachian State LW. Since 2014, Dawgs are 7-5 vs spread on road; their OL has only 45 returning starts, but they’ve got 10 returning starters on defense. Since 2013, Notre Dame is 8-10 vs spread as a home favorite; Irish have 15 starters back- their OL has 76 returning starts. ND beat rebuilding Temple 49-16 LW, running ball for 422 yards- their QB and two RB’s all had 100+ yards on the ground.
Ohio State (-1) went to Norman LY and beat Oklahoma 45-24, running ball for 291 yards; they were +2 in turnovers. Buckeyes were down in 3rd quarter at Indiana LW but won going away, 49-21; they’re 17-19 vs spread as home favorites under Meyer. OSU has a senior QB and 15 returning starters. Since 2012, Oklahoma is 15-10 vs spread on road; they’re 4-2 as a road underdog the last 10 years. Sooners have a new coach, but a senior QB and 97 retiring starts on their OL. Indiana threw for 420 yards LW; can Mayfield pull the road upset?
Memphis/Central Florida both have offensive lines with 100+ returning starts; Tigers won opener 37-29 in quagmire LW, so stats are misleading. Memphis is 5-2-1 in last eight games as a road underdog. Since 2010, Knights are 24-14 vs spread as a home favorite; they passed for 439 yards LW in easy win over FIU. UCF won its last nine games with Memphis, but covered only one of last four; teams haven’t met since 2013— Memphis has gotten good since then, but they’re still 0-4 in last four trips to UCF (0-4 vs spread).
Stanford won its last three games with USC, by 19-10-17 points; underdogs are 6-3 vs spread in last nine series games. Cardinal won four of last five games in the Coliseum. Stanford is 8-3 vs spread in last 11 true road games; they were in Australia two weeks ago, crushing Rice 62-7- they’ve got 8 starters back on both sides of the ball. USC was tied with Western Michigan in 4th quarter LW, pulled away late for 49-31 win. Since 2011, Trojans are 23-11 as home favorites; since ’14, they’re 13-6 vs spread at home.
Utah won its last six games with BYU; they were underdog in three of those games- their last four series wins were all by 7 or less points. Utes are 12-5 vs spread in last 17 true road games. BYU is 13-11-1 vs spread at home; they didn’t cross the 50-yard line in ugly 27-0 loss to LSU in New Orleans last week. Utes won last two visits to Provo, 20-13/34-10. This is intense rivalry that had a 2-year gap in it- this is Utes’ first visit to BYU since 2013- underdogs covered six of last seven series games. BYU is 6-2-1 vs spread in last nine games as an underdog.
Boise State (-11) beat Washington State 31-28 LY, despite Coogs passing for 480 yards; Boise is 11-6 vs spread on road under Harsin- they’re 9-6 vs spread in last 15 non-league games. Wazzu is 8-5 vs spread in its last 13 home games; they’ve got 16 starters back and Falk is a really good senior QB (29 starts). Boise State (-11) got past Troy State 24-13 LW; Coogs drilled an inferior I-AA opponent. Last 2+ years, Pac-12 schools are 15-9-1 vs spread when playing a Mountain West opponent.
Oregon players went toward Pacific coast to practice this week after air in Eugene was affected by wildfires in that area. Ducks (+3) lost 35-32 in Lincoln LY, despite rushing for 336 yards- since 2015, they are 3-10 vs spread at home. Since ’13, Nebraska is 12-6-1 vs spread in road games; Cornhuskers allowed 415 passing yards in surprisingly tough 43-36 home win over Arkansas St. last week. ASU outgained Nebraska 497-463. Last 4+ years, Big 14 teams are 15-10-1 vs spread when playing a Pac-12 opponent, but only 4-6 when favored- underdogs were 17-8-1 vs spread in those games.
Louisville/North Carolina are meeting for first time as ACC rivals; Cardinals won three of last four meetings (last one was in ’12). Louisville outgained Purdue 524-344 LW but struggled to a 35-28 (-26) win in Hoosier Dome. Cardinals are 10-7 vs spread on road under Petrino, 7-5 as a road favorite; they’ve got a great QB (Jackson) but only three other returning starters on offense. North Carolina lost 35-30 (-12.5) at home to Cal last week; Tar Heels allowed 363 passing yards. UNC is 19-12 vs spread at home under Fedora.
Iowa won three of last four games with Iowa State, winning 31-17/27-21 in last two visits to Ames. Iowa averaged 34.5 pts/game in their last four games at ISU. Hawkeyes shut down Wyoming 24-3 LW but gained only 263 yards themselves- they are 16-4 vs spread in last 20 road games, covering 11 of last 12 tries as a road favorite. Cyclones beat a I-AA team last week; State was 4-1 as a home dog LY, in Campbell’s 1st year as ISU’s coach. Iowa’s OL has 99 returning starts, State only 35. Since 2011, Big X teams are 10-9 vs spread when facing a Big 14 opponent.
Pittsburgh (-5) beat Penn State 42-39 last year; Pitt ran the ball for 341 yards in former rivals’ first meeting since 2000. Panthers needed OT to beat I-AA Youngstown 28-21 LW, after blowing a 21-0 halftime lead. Nittany Lions crushed Akron 52-0 LW, running ball for 247 yards- since ’14 they’re 10-6 vs spread as a home favorite. Since ’15, Pitt is 6-3 vs spread as a road underdog; they’re 3-12 vs spread in last 15 non-league games. ACC teams won 8 of last 10 games vs Big 14 foes (6-4 vs spread). Both teams have experienced offensive lines.
Arkansas (+7.5) won 41-38 at TCU LY, teams’ first meeting in 20+ years. Frogs outgained the Hogs 572-403 but were -2 in turnovers in game Arkansas led 13-0 at the half. Since 2014, TCU is 7-5 vs spread in non-league games; since 2011, they’re 5-13 as a road favorite. 9 of Horned Frogs’ top 10 OL guys are back from LY. Arkansas is 6-8 vs spread in last 14 home games; they’re 6-6 as a home dog under Bielema. Razorbacks have 70 starts back on OL. both teams have senior QB’s. Last three years, Big X teams are 9-7 vs spread when facing an SEC squad.
South Carolina was outgained 504-246 last week but they beat NC State 35-28; Gamecocks ran kick back for a TD- since 2013, Carolina is 7-13 vs spread in true road games- they’ve got 98 starts back on OL and have an impressive sophomore QB in Bentley. Problem is, NC State threw for 415 yards against them LW. Missouri gained 815 TY LW in 72-43 win over a I-AA team- game was 48-35 at half. Mizzou covered five of last seven home games. Teams split last four meetings. Both teams have 10 returning starters on offense.
Clemson (-9) held off Auburn 19-13 LY, outgaining War Eagles 399-262, holding Auburn to 87 rushing yards. Since 2014, Auburn is 4-8 vs spread on road; Baylor transfer Stidham gets his first big test as Auburn’s QB- his OL has 106 returning starts. Clemson has a new QB; they thrashed Kent State LW, but Kent threw only 5 passes the whole game, so Clemson’s pass defense is an unknown. Since 2013, Clemson is 15-12-1 vs spread at home. Since 2015, ACC teams are 15-11 vs spread won facing an SEC opponent.
Georgia’s starting QB Eason sprained his knee last week; true freshman Fromm gets his first college start here— he was 10-15/143 against Appalachian State LW. Since 2014, Dawgs are 7-5 vs spread on road; their OL has only 45 returning starts, but they’ve got 10 returning starters on defense. Since 2013, Notre Dame is 8-10 vs spread as a home favorite; Irish have 15 starters back- their OL has 76 returning starts. ND beat rebuilding Temple 49-16 LW, running ball for 422 yards- their QB and two RB’s all had 100+ yards on the ground.
Ohio State (-1) went to Norman LY and beat Oklahoma 45-24, running ball for 291 yards; they were +2 in turnovers. Buckeyes were down in 3rd quarter at Indiana LW but won going away, 49-21; they’re 17-19 vs spread as home favorites under Meyer. OSU has a senior QB and 15 returning starters. Since 2012, Oklahoma is 15-10 vs spread on road; they’re 4-2 as a road underdog the last 10 years. Sooners have a new coach, but a senior QB and 97 retiring starts on their OL. Indiana threw for 420 yards LW; can Mayfield pull the road upset?
Memphis/Central Florida both have offensive lines with 100+ returning starts; Tigers won opener 37-29 in quagmire LW, so stats are misleading. Memphis is 5-2-1 in last eight games as a road underdog. Since 2010, Knights are 24-14 vs spread as a home favorite; they passed for 439 yards LW in easy win over FIU. UCF won its last nine games with Memphis, but covered only one of last four; teams haven’t met since 2013— Memphis has gotten good since then, but they’re still 0-4 in last four trips to UCF (0-4 vs spread).
Stanford won its last three games with USC, by 19-10-17 points; underdogs are 6-3 vs spread in last nine series games. Cardinal won four of last five games in the Coliseum. Stanford is 8-3 vs spread in last 11 true road games; they were in Australia two weeks ago, crushing Rice 62-7- they’ve got 8 starters back on both sides of the ball. USC was tied with Western Michigan in 4th quarter LW, pulled away late for 49-31 win. Since 2011, Trojans are 23-11 as home favorites; since ’14, they’re 13-6 vs spread at home.
Utah won its last six games with BYU; they were underdog in three of those games- their last four series wins were all by 7 or less points. Utes are 12-5 vs spread in last 17 true road games. BYU is 13-11-1 vs spread at home; they didn’t cross the 50-yard line in ugly 27-0 loss to LSU in New Orleans last week. Utes won last two visits to Provo, 20-13/34-10. This is intense rivalry that had a 2-year gap in it- this is Utes’ first visit to BYU since 2013- underdogs covered six of last seven series games. BYU is 6-2-1 vs spread in last nine games as an underdog.
Boise State (-11) beat Washington State 31-28 LY, despite Coogs passing for 480 yards; Boise is 11-6 vs spread on road under Harsin- they’re 9-6 vs spread in last 15 non-league games. Wazzu is 8-5 vs spread in its last 13 home games; they’ve got 16 starters back and Falk is a really good senior QB (29 starts). Boise State (-11) got past Troy State 24-13 LW; Coogs drilled an inferior I-AA opponent. Last 2+ years, Pac-12 schools are 15-9-1 vs spread when playing a Mountain West opponent.
NCAAF's Biggest Betting Mismatches: Week 2
Auburn Tigers at Clemson Tigers (-5.5, 53.5)
Jarrett Stidham's turnover troubles vs. Clemson's vaunted pass rush
One of this week's marquee matchups is an all-tabby affair, with Auburn and Clemson both coming off eerily similar victories in their respective openers. Auburn steamrolled Georgia Southern 41-7, limiting the overmatched Eagles to just 78 total yards - including a scant eight passing yards. Clemson was even more impressive in its opener, holding Kent State to one yard through the air en route to a 56-3 drubbing of the visiting Golden Flashes.
If there's one thing Auburn will need to improve heading into this week's difficult test, it's their turnover game. The Tigers coughed the ball up three times in their season-opening victory; quarterback Jarrett Stidham was the biggest culprit, throwing an interception and losing one of his two fumbles. It may have just been a combination of rust and jitters for Stidham, who was playing his first collegiate game since 2015 - but two turnovers against a weak opponent is still cause for concern.
Auburn, which turned the ball over three times as a team and fumbled four times overall, will need to be much more careful against a Clemson defensive unit that has been one of the best in the nation at pressuring the quarterback in recent years. The Tigers ranked 12th in Division I in sack percentage a season ago, and second overall in 2015. Experts believe this roster might be even better - which could mean very bad things for Stidham and the rest of the Clemson offense.
Oklahoma Sooners at Ohio State Buckeyes (-7.5, 64.5)
Sooners' surgical passing vs. Buckeyes' shaky first-half D
Expect plenty of offensive fireworks in this one as the Sooners and Buckeyes do battle at Ohio Stadium on Saturday night. As expected, both teams are coming off one-sided victories in their respective curtain raisers, with Oklahoma crushing Texas-El Paso 56-7 and Ohio State cruising to a 49-21 triumph over Indiana. But the Buckeyes had a little more work to do in their opener, and that could foretell some problems against a truly dominant Oklahoma passing game.
Sure, it was a home game against a lowly Conference USA opponent, but completing 32 of 36 passes is an impressive achievement no matter the opponent. Sooners starter and Heisman Trophy candidate Baker Mayfield was truly surgical in the opener, misfiring on just one of his 20 pass attempts while finishing with 329 yards and three touchdowns. Backups Kyler Murray (10-for-11) and Tanner Schafer (3-for-5) were also impressive as Oklahoma did whatever it wanted on the offensive end.
Contrast that with a rough first half for Ohio State, which actually trailed 14-13 at the half before putting its foot on the gas over the final 30 minutes. A Buckeyes pass defense that allowed the third-lowest opponent quarterback rating in the nation a year ago looked flat-footed against Indiana, allowing the Hoosiers to rack up 420 yards through the air (albeit on 68 pass attempts) and seven pass plays of 16+ yards in the first half alone. A much better effort will be required Saturday against a red-hot Mayfield.
Georgia Bulldogs at Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-4.5, 55.5)
Georgia's rush D woes vs. Notre Dame's pounding ground attack
There are major concerns in Athens after starting quarterback Nick Eason suffered a sprained knee ligament in the Bulldogs' season-opening triumph over Appalachian State. Jake Fromm will make his first career start against Notre Dame this weekend after asserting himself well in relief last week. But there are bigger concerns with the Bulldogs - primarily, how are they going to slow down a Fighting Irish run game that dominated last week against Temple?
Last week's out come was never in doubt, as the Bulldogs scored the first 31 points of the game and then coasted to the finish. But permitting 4.3 yards per carry on 32 attempts against Appalachian State is a troubling development - and one that has carried over from last season, with Georgia allowing an average of 225.7 rushing yards over its final three games of 2016. With the Bulldogs now facing the toughest schedule in the nation based on the Football Power Index, that run defense had better improve in a hurry.
The Fighting Irish will be more than happy to provide a stiff test in that department. Notre Dame ran roughshod over the Owls last week, racking up 422 rushing yards on 44 attempts for an absurd 9.6 YPC average. Three players finished with more than 100 yards on the ground; it's believed to be the first time in school history that has happened. The Irish were a below-average rushing team in 2016, but did finish the season averaging better than 200 yards on the ground over their final three games.
Stanford Cardinal at USC Trojans (-6.5, 56)
Bryce Love's Heisman skill set vs. USC's ineffective 2-4-5
The big matchup out West this weekend pits the Trojans against the Cardinal in their annual early-season tilt. Both teams prevailed to open the year, with Stanford laying a 62-7 beating on Rice and USC using a big fourth quarter to subdue Western Michigan 49-31. The Cardinal rocked the Trojans for more than 300 yards on the ground in their 27-10 victory last season - and if last week is any indication, USC might find itself on the wrong end of another virtuoso rushing performance.
With Christian McCaffrey now property of the NFL's Carolina Panthers, there were questions about how Bryce Love would fare as the Cardinal's new full-time lead back. Those questions were effectively answered last week, as Love rumbled for 180 yards and a touchdown on just 13 carries in the one-sided win over Rice. Love came into the year averaging better than seven yards per carry on 141 collegiate attempts, so it wasn't like he was a great unknown.
Love and the Cardinal should have a decided advantage on the ground against a Trojans defense that was gashed for 263 rushing yards by a plucky Western Michigan side. USC rolled with a 2-4-5 defensive alignment, and that gave the Broncos plenty of room to roam; LeVante Bellamy gained 102 yards on just nine attempts, while Jamauri Bogan added 77 yards and a score. If USC doesn't close those gaps, Love is going to pad his Heisman resume in a major way Saturday night.
Auburn Tigers at Clemson Tigers (-5.5, 53.5)
Jarrett Stidham's turnover troubles vs. Clemson's vaunted pass rush
One of this week's marquee matchups is an all-tabby affair, with Auburn and Clemson both coming off eerily similar victories in their respective openers. Auburn steamrolled Georgia Southern 41-7, limiting the overmatched Eagles to just 78 total yards - including a scant eight passing yards. Clemson was even more impressive in its opener, holding Kent State to one yard through the air en route to a 56-3 drubbing of the visiting Golden Flashes.
If there's one thing Auburn will need to improve heading into this week's difficult test, it's their turnover game. The Tigers coughed the ball up three times in their season-opening victory; quarterback Jarrett Stidham was the biggest culprit, throwing an interception and losing one of his two fumbles. It may have just been a combination of rust and jitters for Stidham, who was playing his first collegiate game since 2015 - but two turnovers against a weak opponent is still cause for concern.
Auburn, which turned the ball over three times as a team and fumbled four times overall, will need to be much more careful against a Clemson defensive unit that has been one of the best in the nation at pressuring the quarterback in recent years. The Tigers ranked 12th in Division I in sack percentage a season ago, and second overall in 2015. Experts believe this roster might be even better - which could mean very bad things for Stidham and the rest of the Clemson offense.
Oklahoma Sooners at Ohio State Buckeyes (-7.5, 64.5)
Sooners' surgical passing vs. Buckeyes' shaky first-half D
Expect plenty of offensive fireworks in this one as the Sooners and Buckeyes do battle at Ohio Stadium on Saturday night. As expected, both teams are coming off one-sided victories in their respective curtain raisers, with Oklahoma crushing Texas-El Paso 56-7 and Ohio State cruising to a 49-21 triumph over Indiana. But the Buckeyes had a little more work to do in their opener, and that could foretell some problems against a truly dominant Oklahoma passing game.
Sure, it was a home game against a lowly Conference USA opponent, but completing 32 of 36 passes is an impressive achievement no matter the opponent. Sooners starter and Heisman Trophy candidate Baker Mayfield was truly surgical in the opener, misfiring on just one of his 20 pass attempts while finishing with 329 yards and three touchdowns. Backups Kyler Murray (10-for-11) and Tanner Schafer (3-for-5) were also impressive as Oklahoma did whatever it wanted on the offensive end.
Contrast that with a rough first half for Ohio State, which actually trailed 14-13 at the half before putting its foot on the gas over the final 30 minutes. A Buckeyes pass defense that allowed the third-lowest opponent quarterback rating in the nation a year ago looked flat-footed against Indiana, allowing the Hoosiers to rack up 420 yards through the air (albeit on 68 pass attempts) and seven pass plays of 16+ yards in the first half alone. A much better effort will be required Saturday against a red-hot Mayfield.
Georgia Bulldogs at Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-4.5, 55.5)
Georgia's rush D woes vs. Notre Dame's pounding ground attack
There are major concerns in Athens after starting quarterback Nick Eason suffered a sprained knee ligament in the Bulldogs' season-opening triumph over Appalachian State. Jake Fromm will make his first career start against Notre Dame this weekend after asserting himself well in relief last week. But there are bigger concerns with the Bulldogs - primarily, how are they going to slow down a Fighting Irish run game that dominated last week against Temple?
Last week's out come was never in doubt, as the Bulldogs scored the first 31 points of the game and then coasted to the finish. But permitting 4.3 yards per carry on 32 attempts against Appalachian State is a troubling development - and one that has carried over from last season, with Georgia allowing an average of 225.7 rushing yards over its final three games of 2016. With the Bulldogs now facing the toughest schedule in the nation based on the Football Power Index, that run defense had better improve in a hurry.
The Fighting Irish will be more than happy to provide a stiff test in that department. Notre Dame ran roughshod over the Owls last week, racking up 422 rushing yards on 44 attempts for an absurd 9.6 YPC average. Three players finished with more than 100 yards on the ground; it's believed to be the first time in school history that has happened. The Irish were a below-average rushing team in 2016, but did finish the season averaging better than 200 yards on the ground over their final three games.
Stanford Cardinal at USC Trojans (-6.5, 56)
Bryce Love's Heisman skill set vs. USC's ineffective 2-4-5
The big matchup out West this weekend pits the Trojans against the Cardinal in their annual early-season tilt. Both teams prevailed to open the year, with Stanford laying a 62-7 beating on Rice and USC using a big fourth quarter to subdue Western Michigan 49-31. The Cardinal rocked the Trojans for more than 300 yards on the ground in their 27-10 victory last season - and if last week is any indication, USC might find itself on the wrong end of another virtuoso rushing performance.
With Christian McCaffrey now property of the NFL's Carolina Panthers, there were questions about how Bryce Love would fare as the Cardinal's new full-time lead back. Those questions were effectively answered last week, as Love rumbled for 180 yards and a touchdown on just 13 carries in the one-sided win over Rice. Love came into the year averaging better than seven yards per carry on 141 collegiate attempts, so it wasn't like he was a great unknown.
Love and the Cardinal should have a decided advantage on the ground against a Trojans defense that was gashed for 263 rushing yards by a plucky Western Michigan side. USC rolled with a 2-4-5 defensive alignment, and that gave the Broncos plenty of room to roam; LeVante Bellamy gained 102 yards on just nine attempts, while Jamauri Bogan added 77 yards and a score. If USC doesn't close those gaps, Love is going to pad his Heisman resume in a major way Saturday night.
NCAAF Line Movement
Early line moves
Here are Week 2 lines that saw at least a 2-point swing in the favorite’s direction in the first 48 hours of wagering at the Wynn.
Oklahoma State at South Alabama
Opening line: Ok State -25
Tuesday line: Ok State -28
Central Michigan at Kansas
Opening line: Kansas -2.5
Tuesday line: Kansas -5
Nebraska at Oregon
Opening line: Oregon -6.5
Tuesday line: Oregon -13.5
Eastern Michigan at Rutgers
Opening line: Rutgers -2
Tuesday line: Rutgers -4.5
Western Michigan at Michigan State
Opening line: Michigan State -5.5
Tuesday line: Michigan State -7.5
Cincinnati at Michigan
Opening line: Michigan -32
Tuesday line: Michigan -35
Louisville at North Carolina
Opening line: Louisville -5
Tuesday line: Louisville -10
UAB at Ball State
Opening line: Ball State -10.5
Tuesday line: Ball State -14
Pitt at Penn State
Opening line: Penn State -17.5
Tuesday line: Penn State -20.5
Mississippi State at Louisiana Tech
Opening line: Miss State -4
Tuesday line: Miss State -7.5
San Diego State at Arizona State
Opening line: Arizona State -1
Tuesday line: Arizona State -4.5
Boise State at Washington State
Opening line: Wash State -7.5
Tuesday line: Wash State -10
Here are Week 2 lines that saw at least a 2-point swing in the underdog’s direction in the first 48 hours of wagering at the Wynn.
New Mexico State vs. New Mexico
Opening line: New Mexico State +11.5
Tuesday line: New Mexico State +7.5
Miami (Fla.) at Arkansas State
Opening line: Arkansas State +16
Tuesday line: Arkansas State +14
TCU at Arkansas
Opening line: TCU +1
Tuesday line: TCU -3
Toledo vs. Nevada
Opening line: Nevada +11.5
Tuesday line: Nevada +9.5
Louisiana-Monroe at Florida State
Opening line: UL-Monroe +35
Tuesday line: UL-Monroe +32.5
UNLV vs. Idaho
Opening line: UNLV +9.5
Tuesday line: UNLV +6.5
Minnesota vs. Oregon State
Opening line: Oregon State +2.5
Tuesday line: Oregon State -2
Early line moves
Here are Week 2 lines that saw at least a 2-point swing in the favorite’s direction in the first 48 hours of wagering at the Wynn.
Oklahoma State at South Alabama
Opening line: Ok State -25
Tuesday line: Ok State -28
Central Michigan at Kansas
Opening line: Kansas -2.5
Tuesday line: Kansas -5
Nebraska at Oregon
Opening line: Oregon -6.5
Tuesday line: Oregon -13.5
Eastern Michigan at Rutgers
Opening line: Rutgers -2
Tuesday line: Rutgers -4.5
Western Michigan at Michigan State
Opening line: Michigan State -5.5
Tuesday line: Michigan State -7.5
Cincinnati at Michigan
Opening line: Michigan -32
Tuesday line: Michigan -35
Louisville at North Carolina
Opening line: Louisville -5
Tuesday line: Louisville -10
UAB at Ball State
Opening line: Ball State -10.5
Tuesday line: Ball State -14
Pitt at Penn State
Opening line: Penn State -17.5
Tuesday line: Penn State -20.5
Mississippi State at Louisiana Tech
Opening line: Miss State -4
Tuesday line: Miss State -7.5
San Diego State at Arizona State
Opening line: Arizona State -1
Tuesday line: Arizona State -4.5
Boise State at Washington State
Opening line: Wash State -7.5
Tuesday line: Wash State -10
Here are Week 2 lines that saw at least a 2-point swing in the underdog’s direction in the first 48 hours of wagering at the Wynn.
New Mexico State vs. New Mexico
Opening line: New Mexico State +11.5
Tuesday line: New Mexico State +7.5
Miami (Fla.) at Arkansas State
Opening line: Arkansas State +16
Tuesday line: Arkansas State +14
TCU at Arkansas
Opening line: TCU +1
Tuesday line: TCU -3
Toledo vs. Nevada
Opening line: Nevada +11.5
Tuesday line: Nevada +9.5
Louisiana-Monroe at Florida State
Opening line: UL-Monroe +35
Tuesday line: UL-Monroe +32.5
UNLV vs. Idaho
Opening line: UNLV +9.5
Tuesday line: UNLV +6.5
Minnesota vs. Oregon State
Opening line: Oregon State +2.5
Tuesday line: Oregon State -2
