I think this game is one that features two teams that are mirror images of each other. Both are solid along the offensive line and both can run the ball WHEN they want to. Defensively they are fundamentally sound and do a great job of minimize the big play. 5.5 points is a bit too much for me, when the matchup says it should be close to a pick'em.
The Cavaliers have played excellent offense this year, but their defensive efforts are the reason why they are in this position to punch their ticket to the postseason. Look for them to be able to get both key and timely stops against the Blue Devils offense en route to running into the postseason.
With the spread being only four points, I actually think that's giving a nod and some respect to Indiana. The problem is that I don't think the Hoosiers can find enough points to successfully cover this spread. Ohio State's passing offense is going to be the reason why they are able to get to cover town vs Indiana.
Alabama was able to take advantage of Georgia still trying to figure things out at the earlier juncture of the season. Right now, QB Gunnar Stockton is playing more consistent ball than Ty SImpson. Alabama also is entering this game a bit banged up, all of which will help the Bulldogs get their revenge and cover.
This game will be one of the more entertaining ones of the weekend. Both teams are equally as tough defensively and on offense. I am quite surprised at the 8.5 spread, as this game should be under 4.5 points. Expect this one to come down to the wire, especially with a trip to the Celebration Bowl on the line
I know it may be counterintuitive regarding rematch games, but the team with the better defensive unit tends to have an edge. In this game, that is the Redhawks of Miami (OH). I like how Chuck Martin's teams are both disciplined and assignment sound. Both of which will help them knock off the Broncos for the second time this season.
Mercer has been one of the top teams in the FCS all season long and does it because of how explosive they are on offense. South Dakota has some playmakers and does matchup well defensively, but in a potential track meet, I don't see how they can keep of the pace on the road against the Bears.
Villanova is an FCS blue blood program and is probably who you would think of when answering the question of 'who is the most balanced offense in the FCS'. However, this year that is the Lehigh Mountain Hawks who are also strong defensively as well. With their level of consistency on both sides of the ball, I don't foresee them slipping up against an in-state foe.
This is a game where the Red Raiders can put the nation on notice. We've seen them slip up once in a high leverage moment and they won't allow themselves to do it again. What the difference is here is the defense is still suffocating and will do a great job once again vs a freshman QB-led BYU offensive attack.
Both offenses can score, but North Texas does so consistently and regardless of the opponent. They lead the FBS averaging 47 points per game. Defensively is where I trust them more than Tulane. I like how the Mean Green can play strong situational defense on top of being opportunistic as well.
With the announcement of coach Mike Locksley returning for the next season and a newfound investment into the football program will give the Terps a significant bump and confidence boost entering this game vs Michigan. On the other side, we've seen the Wolverines struggle throwing the ball with consistency on the road. On top of that, they're significant banged up in the backfield. Game should be closer to 4 points as opposed to 14 points.
Both teams share a lot of similarities offensively, especially at QB. What I like about both teams in this game is they share a commonality with how they played vs Iowa. With this being essentially a playoff elimination game, I would expect both team to play it as such. Look for a tightly contested matchup between two teams who are surging.
Look for the UConn Huskies to continue to put together another impressive showing in the trenches. They win games up front, which allows their offense to have the type of success that wins you games. I like how this trip take place on grass, which is tailor-made for the type of game the Huskies like to play.
What a year the PVAMU Panthers have had so far this season, earning themselves a spot in the SWAC title game. Mississippi Valley State has struggled mightily on offense, putting their defense in a bad spot on a consistent basis. Look for the Panthers to really roll in this ball game. They've only given up 14 points in the last two games on defense.
Love what the Mercer Bears have done so far this season. This is one of the more explosive offenses in the FCS and does a great job in playing up to the level of competition. Over time, we've seen Auburn do the exact opposite in the same scenarios. This is a very large spread vs a very good FCS team that might earn a 1st round bye in the playoffs. Trust the Bears to play their best in their final game of the season.
