Picks for 1/1/24
College Football
5:00 PM EST
Rotation #280
Michigan -1.5 over Alabama (win)
What’s interesting about both semi-final games is the betting public is wagering on both underdogs. When the public backs underdogs in big games, they statistically don’t do well. Michigan Head Coach Jim Harbaugh is known for having a bad record in bowl games, but this is his best team. The Wolverines have an outstanding offensive line, and their running game is elite. Michigan has terrific receivers and an experienced quarterback in JJ McCarthy. The Wolverines are the better offensive team. The Wolverines have one of the nation’s best front sevens on the defensive side that can stop the Alabama run and get after their quarterback. The Wolverines are better on both sides of the ball and should finally get the signature win they deserve. Take Michigan.
College Football
8:45 PM EST
Rotation #281
Texas -3.5 over Washington (Loss)
On paper, both teams match up about the same, but what’s alarming is Washington is the 80th-best team in the nation on third down defense, and Texas is ranked 2nd. The public money is 63% backing Washington. I can’t understand why they are getting that much love. The Longhorns play stricter competition in a superior conference. Texas QB Quinn Ewers has a solid offensive line in front of him that should give him time to find his receivers. The PAC 12 improved this season but was still overrated. Huskies QB Michael Penix is a great player that will find his receivers. Washington is ranked 90th in the nation on defense. That doesn’t win you championships. The Longhorns are well-balanced on both sides of the football and have a better coaching staff. Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian is used to this moment. The Longhorns will control the clock and advance to the College Football Championship Game. Take Texas.