This spread has jumped mostly because Houston will be going with its backup quarterback due to the injury absence of D'Eriq King. But Clayton Tune played fairly well in the second half of last week's win over Tulane. Defense end Ed Oliver also is expected to return Friday. Although the Tigers tend to play much better at home, these clubs are just too evenly matched to warrant laying os many points.

The winner will represent the American Athletic West in the conference championship game. Houston lost last year at home by four and looks for revenge, but must do it without starting QB D'Eriq King. King was responsible for 50 TDs. Houston will go with true freshman Clayton Tune. There will be a 8-point dropoff. Under is the play, and also looks good in the first half.

This sky-high total would make sense if Houston had its usual QB. But D’Eriq King (knee) saw his season end prematurely last Saturday after having a hand in 50 TDs this year. Fill-in Clayton Tune might have a bright future yet is a true freshman. Reports that All-America DT Ed Oliver (knee) will end a lengthy layoff must be met with skepticism, but he would contribute to an Under. So would predicted rain and double-digit-mph winds.