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It seems sort of weird to say, but I am thankful to have a week off from Penn State football. For one, after spending last weekend in Chicago and experiencing the last-second loss in person, I think my heart needs a break. For another, I am rather excited to have a Saturday off from the Nittany Lions to just enjoy the games. With no PSU game to forecast, let us jump right into this week's picks.
Top Plays
Temple heads to South Florida on Saturday night and is only a 2.5-point favorite. As you may know, the 21st-ranked Owls' only loss this season was a heartbreaker to the now fourth-ranked Fighting Irish. For most of the season, it has felt like Temple has been undervalued by our friends in the desert setting lines. In fact, Temple is 7-2 against the spread this season. South Florida is not a bad team (5-4 on the year), and they have been solid at home, but 2.5 is not nearly enough.
Forgive the horrible obvious pun, but Alabama is absolutely rolling right now. Ever since a somewhat fluky loss to Ole Miss at home, the Tide and Nick Saban have gone into full "F you" mode. In all but one game, Alabama has won by at least two scores, and is only an 8-point favorite in Starkville this weekend. The Bulldogs' offense is the type that gives Alabama trouble, but it is hard to see Dan Mullen's bunch hanging with an Alabama team firing on all cylinders. The letdown factor is a concern, but I really like Alabama giving eight.
5b visits Duke this weekend. Duke is a three point favorite. Take Duke because 5b. (This may or may not be a serious pick).
Eli's #HOT #PICKS
Oklahoma State -15 @ Iowa State - Iowa State will fight for a half, or maybe they won't. This game won't be close, though.
Oklahoma/Baylor over 77 - Two offenses that like to score play each other. If the total is too high, consider Oklahoma +3
Last Week's Prop Bet Results
Saquon Barkley Pass Receptions (O/U 3.5) - 6
Geno Lewis Receptions (O/U 3.5) - 2
Crazy Carl Nassib Breaks PSU Sack Record During Game (-150) - OF COURSE HE DID HE IS CRAZY CARL NASSIB
Penn State Returns a Punt/Kick for a Touchdown (+350) - Um, they gave one up?
Penn State Passes Thrown by a Non-QB (O/U .5) - 1. It was a good play too IMO.