Picks for 9/6/24
College Football
7:00 PM EST
Rotation # 301-302
BYU/SMU Over 55.5 (loss)
Tonight’s wagering line is interesting, as SMU is a hefty favorite. I don’t necessarily disagree with it, but it’s a lot to ask for a team moving from the American Conference to the ACC. The Mustangs play well on their home field and don’t waste much time between plays. SMU should be able to take advantage of a light BYU front seven. The Cougars couldn’t pressure the QB last season and couldn’t generate sacks. If the Cougars want to be eligible for the bowl season, they must get to the quarterback. The Cougars will miss linebacker Ben Bywater, who had to retire medically. The Mustangs have a couple of good returnmen who could play a factor on the special teams’ side of the ball. On offense, BYU looked great in their first week of action. The competition was lesser, but the Cougars spread the ball to ten receivers. QB Jake Retzlaff has newfound confidence, and his BIG 12 experience from a year ago should help. BYU can use the services of backup QB Gerry Bohanon in Wildcats scenarios, as he is excellent with his legs. I expect BYU to spread receivers out much like last week. The undeniable key to this game is the sheer number of talented and experienced receivers each team has. Someone is going to be open on any given play. Look for a high-scoring game. Take the Over.
Free MLB Pick
7:10 PM EST
Rotation # 906
Mets -1.5 runs over Reds +120 (win)
Manaea/Cruz
The Mets can leapfrog the Braves for the last wildcard slot. It will be a fun race between them in the final few weeks of the year. New York is red hot and has the luxury of Sean Manaea being on the mound tonight. Reds pitcher Fernando Cruz has been impressive in his last few innings pitched, but he is a bullpen pitcher, so the advantage goes to the Mets. The Reds are not good against left-handed pitching, so I expect the Mets winning streak to continue. We will go with the run line. Take the Mets -1.5 runs +120.