In the NFL, maybe you don't worry too much if a No. 1 running back is out, but they can still be vital in college. RB Darius Taylor has been arguably the top offensive player for the Gophers since 2023, and he's expected out. It's also the first road game of the year for Minnesota and a unique start time. Cal has looked good against an iffy slate. Our model has the Bears winning. The 3s are disappearing and I wouldn't play +2.5.

With other sportsbooks listing a line of 2.5, this is the one for Cal proponents. The Golden Bears wield a body-clock advantage with a 7:30 p.m. (PT) kickoff. While their elite LB Cade Uluave can show up late, having been suspended in the first half for a targeting infraction, top Minnesota RB Darius Taylor might not appear at all in uniform as he copes with a hamstring injury. QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele has been a revelation in his new role as Cal's starter.