The College Football Playoff kicks off with a blockbuster matchup between in-state foes, as the No. 10 seed Indiana Hoosiers (11-1) travel to South Bend to take on the No. 7 seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-1). The Irish are laying 7.5 points at home in this one, with the total sitting at 50.5 points.

This marks the first-ever meeting between these programs in the playoff, adding even more intrigue to what was already shaping up as one of the most compelling first-round clashes.

The Fighting Irish are looking to reestablish themselves as a national powerhouse, while the Hoosiers are out to prove their magical season is no fluke. Oddsmakers are siding with the Irish, but the sharp money is going the other way…

Indiana vs Notre Dame Odds

The spread opened at Notre Dame -8.5 but has since moved to -7.5, with the Hoosiers garnering early betting action. The total has ticked down from 51.5 to 50.5, indicating bettors are expecting a lower-scoring affair.

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Hoosiers Betting Analysis

Indiana has been the feel-good story of the college football season, rattling off 11 wins under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti. The Hoosiers’ explosive offense, led by quarterback Kurtis Rourke (71.5% completions, 27-4 TD-INT), ranks 1st in success rate and 2nd in EPA/Play – and boy, has it worked.

However, the Hoosiers did struggle against elite defenses in Ohio State and Michigan, totaling just 35 points in those contests. Their methodical approach could face another stiff test against a stingy Notre Dame defense. Establishing the run (173.6 YPG) and hitting on selective deep shots will be key.

Kurtis Rourke finds Omar Cooper for another @IndianaFootball TD pic.twitter.com/B4lmJLCH04

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) December 1, 2024

Defensively, Indiana has been surprisingly stout, ranking 2nd in EPA/play allowed. They’ve been vulnerable to the pass at times (61.6% completions allowed) but have excelled at limiting explosive plays (4th in FBS). Winning on early downs and forcing the Irish into third-and-longs will be crucial.

The Hoosiers are 9-3 ATS this season, consistently rewarding bettors who have backed them. They’re 8-1 ATS when generating 7+ explosive plays offensively.

Fighting Irish Betting Analysis

Notre Dame has rebounded from an early-season stumble against Northern Illinois to rattle off 10 straight wins. The Irish lean on an old-school, smash-mouth ground attack (224.8 YPG) that ranks 2nd in EPA/rush, consistently winning at the line of scrimmage (3.94 yards after contact per attempt).

Quarterback Riley Leonard (2,092 passing yards, 16-5 TD-INT, 721 rushing yards, 14 TDs) has been solid if unspectacular. The Irish secondary did show some cracks against USC (360 yards allowed), which could be problematic against the veteran pass-first QB Kurtis Rourke.

Notre Dame’s defense is anchored by an elite secondary that leads the nation in passing success rate and completion rate allowed. However, their run defense has been suspect at times, ranking 129th in stuff rate. If the Hoosiers can stay ahead of the chains on the ground, they could find room to operate.

The Irish are 9-2-1 ATS this season, including 6-2-1 as favorites of a touchdown or more. Their 4-3 ATS mark in South Bend suggests they don’t always dominate inferior opponents as expected.

Early Indiana vs Notre Dame Prediction

This strength vs strength matchup pits Indiana’s dynamic offense against Notre Dame’s stingy defense. The Hoosiers have the firepower to test the Irish secondary that just got torched by USC, while Notre Dame’s punishing run game draws a favorable matchup against an Indiana front that has shown some cracks.

The total has ticked down from 51.5 to 50.5, as both teams’ ball-control offenses and strong defenses point toward a lower-scoring affair. The weather forecast and potential conservative game plans should contribute to a methodical pace.

• Early Picks: Indiana +7.5 | Under 50.5

Here’s the thing: The Hoosiers have consistently exceeded expectations this season, and getting over a touchdown in what should be a competitive game looks enticing. Don’t be surprised if Indiana keeps this one close throughout.

Unless we see a bunch of turnovers or explosive plays, this one should stay under the number while coming down to the final few possessions. I’m grabbing both Indiana +7.5 and the Under before the lines move further.

The post Early Indiana vs Notre Dame Prediction, Pick & Odds for CFP Playoffs Round 1 appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The stage is set for an enticing College Football Playoff first-round matchup between SMU and Penn State. These conference runner-ups will square off on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at noon ET in the iconic Beaver Stadium.

Oddsmakers are heavily leaning toward the Nittany Lions, despite James Franklin’s poor track record in big games. The electric home playoff atmosphere in Happy Valley could make all the difference in a showdown that will be broadcast on TNT/Max.

Let’s break down the early college football bowl betting odds and provide our SMU vs Penn State prediction.

SMU vs Penn State Odds

The books have Penn State as an 8.5-point favorite here. That translates to about a 77% chance of a Nittany Lions win. SMU sits as a +270 underdog, giving them roughly a 27% shot at pulling off the upset.

With the total set at 54 points, oddsmakers are expecting these offenses to put up some fireworks.

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Mustangs Betting Analysis

SMU rolls into this one at 11-2, fresh off a heartbreaking 34-31 loss to Clemson in the ACC title game. QB Kevin Jennings has been the real deal since taking over, going 9-1 as the starter. He’s a true dual-threat weapon, putting up 379 yards and 5 TDs on the ground while throwing for 3,050 yards with 22 TDs and eight picks.

The Mustangs love to pound the rock. They rank 17th in the country in both carries (506) and rushing touchdowns (29).

Running back Brendon Smith has been a beast, racking up 1,270 yards and 14 scores on 217 carries. But they’ll have their work cut out for them against Penn State’s stout run D, which gives up just 103.6 yards per game.

What really impressed me about SMU was their grit in the ACC Championship. They fell behind early but never quit. Jennings showed some serious poise, leading multiple scoring drives to keep them in it. They’ll need that same mental toughness when they walk into what’s sure to be a rowdy Beaver Stadium.

Nittany Lions Betting Analysis

Penn State comes in at 11-2, with their only losses against teams that made the playoff. Their defense has been flat-out nasty all year. They rank eighth in scoring D (16.4 PPG), ninth against the run (103.6 YPG), and 16th against the pass (178.5 YPG).

The Lions’ offense really showed up in the Big Ten title game, hanging 518 yards on a solid Oregon defense. QB Drew Allar has grown up before our eyes this season, putting together a solid stat line (224/324, 2894 yards, 21 TDs, 7 INTs) while making plays with his legs.

Drew Allar had a couple of really impressive throws climbing the pocket, adjusting his arm slot and hitting back side routes for Penn State against Oregon. First throw is just insane, a must-have throw while he's escaping a sack.

Second throw: beautifully layered to Warren. pic.twitter.com/QaokimhnvN

— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) December 9, 2024

Tyler Warren has turned into a monster at tight end, hauling in 88 balls for 1,062 yards and six scores. Not many players improved their draft stock more this season than PSU’s standout tight end.

The elephant in the room? James Franklin’s record in big games. He’s just 1-4 against AP Top 10 teams and has dropped 11 straight against such opponents. Getting over that hump with a playoff win would be huge for this program.

Don’t sleep on the home-field edge here. December in Happy Valley is no joke. If the weather turns nasty, it could really throw off an SMU team that’s used to playing in the Dallas heat.

SMU vs Penn State Early Prediction

SMU’s had a great run and showed tons of fight in the ACC title game. However, Penn State’s overall talent, shutdown defense, and home-field advantage should be too much here. Look for the Nittany Lions to control the pace and grind out a win.

In terms of my ATS prediction, the spread feels about right to me. Penn State has the tools to cover, but SMU’s proven they can hang with anyone. This should be a battle. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and injury updates as we get closer to kickoff – those factors could swing things either way.

I’m leaning toward Penn State -8.5, especially if the weather forecast projections hold. Pinnacle, one of the sharpest bookmakers in the world, has already bumped this line up to -9. If you like the home team here, I’d lock in PSU -8.5 while you can.

Early Lean:

• Penn State -8.5 (-110)

The post SMU vs Penn State Early Prediction, Pick & Odds – College Football Playoffs Round 1 appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

Bowl season has arrived, signaling the pinnacle of the college football calendar! The excitement begins on December 14th with the Salute to Veterans Bowl, kicking off a jam-packed schedule featuring a bowl game on 20 of the next 37 days, all the way through to the National Championship on January 20th.

Many games are scheduled for the afternoon and evening, making it the ideal time to wrap up work early and enjoy some CFB festivities.

Read on for a complete rundown of the opening college football bowl lines from our CFB odds page, along with exclusive early predictions for the biggest matchups.

2024-25 College Football Bowl Game Odds

One of the tightest spreads in the early bowl odds is the Alamo Bowl, where Colorado is favored by 2.5 points over BYU in a Big 12 vs Big 12 matchup. The ReliaQuest Bowl projects to be the most lopsided, with Alabama a heavy -13.5-point favorite over Michigan.

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Alabama vs Michigan Betting Line & Prediction

#11 Alabama and unranked Michigan square off in a rematch of last year’s CFP semifinal at the Rose Bowl. The opening betting line has the Crimson Tide as large -13.5 favorites, with the over/under set at 46 points.

Alabama is coming off a solid 9-3 season under first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer, but missed out on the CFP after a surprising blowout loss to Oklahoma. The Wolverines pulled off an upset of their own in Week 14, though, beating Ohio State for the fourth straight year.

MICHIGAN DELIVERS AN ALL-TIME UPSET AT THE HORSESHOE! UNBELIEVABLE! pic.twitter.com/6wucLsumPh

— ESPN BET (@ESPNBET) November 30, 2024

For my Alabama vs Michigan prediction, I like the Tide to get some revenge after last year’s Rose Bowl loss. QB Jalen Milroe is a true dual-threat (2,652 pass yds, 719 rush yds, 35 total TDs) that will give the Michigan defense fits. The Wolverines could also be without some key players like DT Mason Graham, who may opt out to prepare for the NFL draft.

Yes, Michigan ended the year strong and will be motivated to prove the team is trending in the right direction. But in DeBoer’s quick-strike offense and with superior talent across the board, I expect Bama to roll to a two-touchdown victory in the Sunshine State.

• Pick: Alabama -1.5 (-110)

BYU vs Colorado Odds & Betting Pick

The Alamo Bowl landed a juicy Big 12 vs Big 12 matchup, with #17 BYU taking on #20 Colorado. The Buffaloes are narrow 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under of 53.5 points.

This will be the first meeting between the programs since 1988, a gap of 36 years. Both teams finished 7-2 in Big 12 play, as part of a four-way tie for the conference crown. With identical records, the Alamo Bowl opted for the bigger brand in Colorado.

https://twitter.com/GloryColorado/status/1732845196288460899

In making our BYU vs Colorado pick, the Buffs have a couple key edges that make them the smart play under a field goal. Coach Deion Sanders is undefeated in bowl games, and both his offensive and defensive units rank in the top 25 nationally in terms of efficiency.

Colorado also has the clear talent advantage, with Shedeur Sanders (3,926 pass yds, 35 TD) tossing to Heimsan favorite Travis Hunter (1,152 rec yds, 14 TD). Despite Hunter and Sanders being projected first-round draft picks, Sanders has already stated both players are expected to suit up against BYU.

The Cougars had a nice bounce-back year in their Big 12 debut, but asking them to upset a team as complete as Colorado is a bit much. Expect lots of fireworks in San Antonio, with the Buffs ultimately prevailing something like 38-31.

• Pick: Colorado -2.5 (-105)
• Pick: Over 53.5 Points (-110)

Ole Miss vs Duke Betting Odds & Prediction

The TaxSlayer Gator Bowl features an intriguing interconference showdown between #14 Ole Miss (9-3) and 9-3 Duke. The Rebels are 2.5-point favorites at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, with the total sitting at just 42.5 points.

These teams have never faced off before, adding to the intrigue of an SEC vs ACC clash. The Blue Devils closed the year on a three-game win streak under first-year head man Manny Diaz, finishing 5-3 in conference play.

Meanwhile, Ole Miss looked like CFP contenders after taking down Georgia in November. But they spit the bit with an inexplicable loss at Florida and had to settle for a second-tier bowl instead.

TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Bound!@taxslayerbowl | #HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/snvhNofPqf

— Ole Miss Football (@OleMissFB) December 8, 2024

When analyzing this marchup, motivation is a huge factor working in Duke’s favor. The Blue Devils would love to cap off Diaz’s debut season with a signature win over an SEC foe. The Rebels, on the other hand, could struggle to get up for this game after their CFP hopes were dashed.

On the field, Duke’s stingy defense (22.2 ppg allowed, 2nd in ACC) is well-equipped to slow down the Ole Miss attack. The Blue Devils also have a more balanced offense that should be able to control the clock and keep the Rebels’ playmakers on the sideline.

With Ole Miss possibly suffering a post-Georgia hangover and the Blue Devils peaking at the right time, I like the small dog to spring a mild upset. Diaz’s team has the second-longest active bowl winning streak in FBS (5), and I’m not betting on them slowing down here.

• Pick: Duke +2.5 (-110)

Those are our early betting previews for three of the most high-profile non-New Year’s Six bowl games. Motivation is always tricky to handicap this time of year, with opt-outs and letdown spots galore. But by focusing on the fundamentals and matchups, bettors can still find an edge.

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The post Opening College Football Bowl Game Odds, Lines & Predictions for 2024-25 appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The 2024 Heisman Trophy race has been wild to follow, with several standouts making their case throughout the college football season. As we wrap up the regular season, one player stands head and shoulders above the pack: Travis Hunter, the electric two-way star from the Colorado Buffaloes.

Hunter’s ability to change games as both a receiver and cornerback has made him the clear Heisman favorite. Over on the blue turf in Boise, Ashton Jeanty has put together a rushing season for the ages. But playing outside the Power Five spotlight hasn’t done his Heisman hopes any favors.

Let’s dive into the final Heisman odds and break down why this race will be remembered as a showdown between a generational talent and a small-school sensation.

Heisman Odds

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Travis Hunter Heisman Odds

You won’t find better Heisman odds than Hunter’s current -2500 line. The oddsmakers have spoken, and they’re telling us this race is all but over. That 96.2% implied probability of winning tells you everything you need to know about the gap between Hunter and the field.

The numbers back up the hype. Hunter’s hauled in 92 passes for 1,152 yards and 14 scores as a receiver. On defense, he’s locked down his side of the field with 31 tackles, four interceptions, and a forced fumble. We haven’t seen this kind of two-way impact since Charles Woodson brought home the hardware in ’97.

TRAVIS HUNTER WITH THE EARLY INTERCEPTION

His Heisman Trophy campaign continues pic.twitter.com/6JSXGICw9C

— ESPN (@espn) November 29, 2024

That Oklahoma State game put an exclamation point on his campaign. Three touchdown grabs and a pick in a 52-0 statement win. When he struck the Heisman pose on multiple occasions this year following interceptions, it felt right.

This has been Hunter’s award to lose all season, as he’s doing things we haven’t seen any player do in a very long time. The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honor just adds to a trophy case that’s about to get a lot more crowded.

Ashton Jeanty Heisman Odds

Lost in Hunter’s shadow, Boise State’s Jeanty is having a season straight out of NCAA Football 25. The junior back has racked up 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns, putting him fourth all-time in FBS single-season rushing. He needs just 132 more yards to pass Barry Sanders for the top spot.

But even video game numbers can’t overcome Group of Five bias. Jeanty sits at +1000 despite a historic campaign. Jeanty’s implied probability of winning the Heisman is only 9.1%.

𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty took his ENTIRE offensive line out for dinner this week.

“You don't get 2,000 yards rushing by yourself…I really appreciate them.”

Give this kid the Heisman pic.twitter.com/twNcaIdUOA

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) December 6, 2024

Broncos head coach Spencer Danielson hasn’t been shy about stumping for his star, calling Jeanty “the best football player in the country.” Jeanty’s loyalty to Boise State – turning down big NIL money from Power Five programs – makes you want to root for him even more.

With Boise State securing a playoff spot and potential first-round bye, fans are thinking Jeanty’s got one more chance to make his case. However, it’s important to note that Heisman ballots are due before the playoff starts, so postseason games won’t have any impact.

Dillon Gabriel Heisman Odds

Remember when Gabriel was getting real Heisman buzz? Those +800 odds feel like ages ago. Now he’s at +25000, even after leading Oregon to the Big Ten Championship with four touchdowns through the air against Penn State.

Gabriel’s regular season stats show incredible efficiency. The OU transfer finished with 3,275 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, while also contributing seven rushing touchdowns.

DILLON GABRIEL AND THE DUCKS ARE READY TO CELEBRATE! pic.twitter.com/UTBjVCRBQO

— CBS Sports College Football (@CBSSportsCFB) December 8, 2024

Penn State’s James Franklin praised Gabriel’s veteran presence, but a rough outing against Wisconsin derailed his momentum at the worst possible time. In that game, Gabriel struggled to connect on mid to deep-range passes and failed to throw a touchdown.

After the conclusion of the regular season, Gabriel’s campaign has simply lost steam. He’s been consistently solid, but he lacks the wow factor of a Hunter or Jeanty. Gabriel could have several hypothetical Heisman moments in the playoffs, but as mentioned before, this is a regular-season award.

The Final Word

The Heisman finalists get announced Monday, December 9th, but this feels like a done deal. Hunter’s two-way brilliance has overshadowed everything else – Jeanty’s assault on the record books, Gabriel’s steady leadership, all of it.

When they hand out the trophy in New York on December 14th, expect Hunter to join college football’s most exclusive club. The way he’s dominated both sides of the ball this season, he’s earned every bit of it.

The post Final 2024 Heisman Odds: Travis Hunter on Top as Regular Season Ends appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The Los Angeles Chargers (8-4) visit the red-hot Kansas City Chiefs (11-1) on Sunday Night Football in a Week 14 AFC West clash between two playoff contenders.

The Chiefs are still being the Chiefs, with their only loss this season occurring when they faced the Buffalo Bills on the road. KC is coming off a narrow 19-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, their second straight close call against inferior competition.

Meanwhile, the Chargers have won five of six, but needed their defense to score their only touchdown in an ugly 17-13 win at Atlanta last week.

Here’s our Chargers vs Chiefs prediction and the latest odds for Sunday Night Football.

Los Angeles Chargers vs Kansas City Chiefs Odds

The Chargers vs Chiefs odds show Kansas City as 4-point home favorites, translating to a 66% implied probability. The Chiefs need to win by at least 5 points to cover the spread.

This line opened with the Chiefs as 4.5-point favorites before ticking down to 4 at most sportsbooks. The total opened at 43.5 points and has steadily fallen to 42.5, perhaps due to injuries impacting the Chargers offense and inclement weather in the forecast.

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Odds as of December 7, 2024 at ESPN Sportsbook. Browse the latest NFL betting odds here.

Chargers Betting Outlook

Injuries have hindered the Chargers’ 2024 season, but Jim Harbaugh’s squad has remained competitive in the AFC playoff race. Despite ranking 24th in total offense, Los Angeles still boasts the NFL’s top-ranked scoring defense, allowing just 15.7 PPG.

Star running back JK Dobbins was placed on IR with an MCL sprain, a major blow to an already limited offense. Backup Gus Edwards managed just 32 yards on 11 carries in Atlanta.

JK Dobbins to IR is unfortunate, as he was the best of the low-cost risk vs reward signings GM Joe Hortiz made on offense.

Those acquisitions have been a mixed bag of good, average, and unplayable. pic.twitter.com/FdX9UhPW2X

— Tyler Schoon (@tylerjschoon) November 30, 2024

Rookie receiver Ladd McConkey, who leads the team with 815 yards, is also questionable with nagging knee and shoulder injuries after posting nine catches for 117 yards vs the Falcons.

Quarterback Justin Herbert has managed the Chargers to wins despite the depleted supporting cast. The former #1 overall pick has been efficient, completing 63.4% of his passes for 2,551 yards with 13 TDs and just 1 INT. He’ll need to avoid mistakes against an opportunistic Chiefs defense.

Chiefs Betting Outlook

The Chiefs have been the NFL’s hottest team for most of 2024, starting 11-1, with their only loss coming in Buffalo. Superstar QB Patrick Mahomes hasn’t been his usual dominant self lately, tossing 5 INTs over his last three games, but he still has KC poised for another #1 seed.

Kansas City’s defense has been the story, ranking 8th in points allowed (19.6 PPG) and 3rd against the run (87.8 YPG). They contained a hobbled Raiders offense last week, but did allow 434 total yards. The secondary has been shaky at times, yielding 224 passing YPG (23rd).

The Raiders fumble it, the Chiefs recover it to seal the game #LVvsKC on Prime Video
Also streaming on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/WvNvUONRM5

— NFL (@NFL) November 29, 2024

Offensively, the Chiefs remain potent, averaging 24.1 PPG (11th) despite some uncharacteristic Mahomes INTs. Rookie RB Isaiah Pacheco returned from injury last week to provide a spark (7 carries, 44 yards) alongside veteran Kareem Hunt. TE Travis Kelce (75 rec, 637 yds) remains Mahomes’ top target, with WRs Hollywood Brown and Rashee Rice on IR.

Kansas City signed K Matthew Wright off the practice squad with Harrison Butker and Spencer Shrader both injured. In his KC debut, Wright went 4/5 on FGs in the win over Las Vegas.

Chargers vs Chiefs Prediction

While the Chargers have exceeded expectations at 8-4, I’m very hesitant to bet on them with major injury concerns. Assuming their two top options are limited this week, LA simply does not have much else to work with.

Furthermore, Andy Reid’s Chiefs have owned this rivalry of late, winning six straight over their AFC West foes. In the earlier meeting this season, Kansas City went into LA as 6.5-point road favorites and emerged with a 17-10 victory. Now they’re only laying 4 points at home in Arrowhead with extra time to prepare? Sign me up.

Coach Matt Patricia is "never gonna question" the Chiefs as long as they have Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes. pic.twitter.com/nUG6KK3rlY

— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) December 5, 2024

The Chargers deserve credit for hiding their deficiencies on offense behind a stout defense and mistake-free play from Herbert. But eventually, the attrition catches up to you, especially against elite opposition like the Chiefs. I don’t see Gus Edwards and the ailing pass catchers doing enough to keep pace with Mahomes and co.

While I lean Under due to the weather and LA’s offensive woes, the Chiefs are my strongest play laying less than a TD. Kansas City is 0-6 ATS in their last six, but oddsmakers have asked them to cover some massive numbers.

This short spread is a gift. I’ll lay the points confidently with Reid having extra time to prepare against an underequipped division rival. Let’s back the Chiefs to smother Herbert and win comfortably in a low-scoring battle of attrition.

SNF Pick & Prediction:

• Chiefs -4 (-110)
• UNDER 42.5 (-110)

The post Los Angeles Chargers vs Kansas City Chiefs Prediction, Pick & Odds for Sunday Night Football appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The surging Boston Celtics (19-4) welcome the Memphis Grizzlies (15-8) to TD Garden on Saturday night for an anticipated interconference clash. Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET.

Memphis is aiming to prove they can win on the road, where they’re a shaky 4-5 straight up this season. On the other hand, Boston rides a three-game win streak and boasts a strong 10-2 home record. Oddsmakers initially pegged Boston as 8.5-point favorites, but early action on Memphis trimmed the line to -7.5.

Can Memphis hang tough as road underdogs, or will Boston’s home-court dominance continue? Let’s break it all down with our best Saturday NBA bets and predictions.

Grizzlies vs Celtics Predictions and Picks

• Best Bet: Grizzlies +7.5 (-110) at ESPN Bet
• Lean: Over 237.5 (-115) at ESPN Bet

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Why Memphis Can Cover

The Grizz aren’t getting enough credit from the oddsmakers in this spot. Memphis enters scorching hot, winning four of five while covering the spread in seven of their last 10. They’ve been road warriors of late, covering in four of their last five away from FedEx Forum.

Make no mistake, this Memphis squad is legit. The Grizzlies rank 5th in Offensive Rating (114.5) and play at the NBA’s 6th-fastest pace, making them tough to slow down. With Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the charge, Memphis can score from anywhere.

JA MORANT TAKES FLIGHT pic.twitter.com/ZhJooIQxGs

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 26, 2024

The Grizz also control the glass, ranking 2nd in rebound rate – a big advantage to have against a Celtics team that ranks just 18th in that same category.

Sure, the Celtics have been a juggernaut, especially at home. But they’re also an abysmal 2-8 ATS over their last 10 and consistently failing to cover these big spreads. Marcus Smart’s return to face his old Boston squad adds a little extra narrative juice to this matchup. I’m expecting a spirited effort from Memphis.

My Best Bet

Give me the Grizz and the points. This is simply too many to lay against a red-hot Memphis club that enters in better form than the Celtics. The Grizz are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 and match up well with their length, athleticism, and rebounding ability.

Bundled up for Boston pic.twitter.com/QwSLZ8FVl8

— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) December 6, 2024

Boston’s rest advantage is largely negated by the absence of Horford and the fact that key players like Tatum and Brown will likely have their minutes monitored. I’m banking on Memphis rising to the occasion in a playoff-like atmosphere and giving the C’s all they can handle.

The Celtics probably squeak out the W on their home floor, but I trust the Grizzlies to keep it within this generous number. Play Memphis +7.5 and consider a tickle on the moneyline at +240.

• Pick: Memphis +7.5 (-110) at ESPN Bet

Celtics vs Grizzlies Odds

Boston comes in as 7.5-point favorites, down from -8.5, signaling sharp bettors took Memphis early. The Grizzlies’ moneyline sits at +240 for a potential upset, while the Celtics are steep -290 favorites.

The over/under is set at a sky-high 237.5 points, hinting at a potential offensive shootout.It’s not hard at all to see why oddsmakers project a shootout. Boston averages 120+ points per game at home, while Memphis has been filling it up with 121 PPG over their last 10 contests.

The over is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings between these teams in Boston and 7-1 in Memphis’ last eight games at TD Garden. Unless the Grizzlies’ defense travels better than expected, this one could be a track meet.

Grizzlies vs Celtics Player Props

Here’s a glance at some of our favorite player prop picks for this Saturday night matchup:

NBA player props from DraftKings Sportsbook on Dec. 7.

These are the player props I’m targeting for Saturday’s matchup:

• Jaren Jackson Jr. over 19.5 points (-120): JJJ has gotten buckets in bunches lately, scoring 20+ points in five of his last seven games. He could exploit a Boston defense that ranks just 22nd in points allowed to PFs.
• Jaylen Brown over 2.5 threes (-130): Jaylen has been letting it fly from deep, hitting at least three triples in each of his last three games. He now faces a Memphis squad allowing the ninth-worst three-point percentage on the road (37.9%). Fire away.

The post Grizzlies vs Celtics Predictions, Odds & Player Props (Saturday, Dec. 7) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The SEC Championship Game is giving us a rematch we’ve all been waiting for, as No. 5 Georgia (10-2) clashes with No. 2 Texas (11-1) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Both teams have changed since Georgia’s 30-15 win in Austin back in October – the Bulldogs have shown some cracks, while Texas has reeled off five straight wins. With a playoff bye on the line, the implications couldn’t be greater.

Here is our UGA vs Texas prediction for Saturday’s SEC Championship Game.

Georgia vs Texas Prediction

Look, that first meeting told us a lot. Georgia physically dominated Texas in the trenches on their way to that 30-15 road upset. The Bulldogs’ defense made life miserable for the Longhorns, who mustered just 259 total yards and an abysmal 29 on the ground.

The reality is, while Texas has been rolling lately, there are still legitimate questions about their offensive line holding up against elite defensive fronts like Georgia’s. I’ve been really impressed with how the Bulldogs’ defensive line has rounded into championship form lately, averaging three sacks over their last three games.

On the offensive side, Carson Beck seems to have figured things out after those midseason turnover issues. The junior has been dealing lately, tossing 11 touchdowns without a single pick in his last three games. He’ll look again to target Domini Lovett, who caught five passes for 47 yards and two TDs last week vs GA Tech.

Carson Beck is ready to make his mark in the SEC Championship Game!

Beck told @DjShockley3 earlier this week: “I want my own (SEC Championship).” pic.twitter.com/bjJzBp7alF

— Sudu (@sudu_tv) December 7, 2024

The ground game looks potent too, with freshman sensation Nate Frazier (587 rush yds, 8 TD) stepping up due to Trevor Etienne being injured. The latest Etinee injury update is that the star RB is questionable to play with a rib injury. That would be massive for UGA if he can go, as Etienne found paydirt three times in the first meeting.

Let’s be honest – playing this game in Atlanta is huge for Georgia. The crowd will be heavily pro-Bulldogs, and this team knows Mercedes-Benz Stadium like the back of their hand after playing here the last three seasons.

While Texas definitely has the talent to pull this off, I’m rolling with the battle-tested Bulldogs as 3-point underdogs. Kirby Smart’s defensive scheme and Georgia’s ability to control both lines of scrimmage should be the difference. Expect another rough day for Ewers against that relentless pass rush.

• Prediction: Georgia +3

Before rushing to bet Texas as field-goal favorites ATS, consider that the favorite is 25-6 straight-up in the SEC Championship Game, but just 14-16-1 against the spread.

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Updated Georgia vs Texas Odds

There’s been some interesting line movement since this one opened. Texas started as 1.5-point favorites at -115, but sharp money pushed it up to -3 before some Georgia buyback brought it down to Texas -2.5. It’s gone back up to -3 at the time of publishing.

Here are the latest odds for the SEC Championship Game:

The total has increased slightly from their first meeting’s 45 combined points. It’s worth noting both teams have been trending under lately, with Texas going under in 6 of their last 8. That contradicts a trend of the “over” going 16-5 in the last 21 SEC Championship Games.

Check out our full college football odds page for the latest title game lines and totals.

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Odds updated 1pm ET on December 7, at ESPN Sportsbook.

Georgia vs Texas Player Props

The UGA vs Texas player props show Texas running back Quintrevion Wisner with the best odds to score a TD at -175, which is 63.6% implied probability.

My Best UGA-Tex Prop Bet

One player prop I absolutely love here is Nate Frazier to score a touchdown at -145 odds on BetMGM. The freshman has been an absolute revelation, finding paydirt in five straight games while getting at least 11 carries in each contest.

Nate Frazier will be a dog coming into his sophomore season pic.twitter.com/SWeI7pCH2G

— Coach T (@TheRealRashaud) November 14, 2024

Sure, Texas has been stout against the run overall, giving up just 3 yards per carry. But here’s what catches my eye – they’ve shown some vulnerability in the red zone, with eight of their nine rushing touchdowns allowed coming inside the 20.

The way Georgia’s offense has been clicking lately, Frazier should get his chances near the goal line. Even if the sledding gets tough inside, he’s shown he can break one from distance. At -145, there’s solid value backing a back who’s been money in the end zone lately.

• Our Pick: Nate Frazier anytime TD (-145 at BetMGM )

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Final UGA vs Texas Prediction

I’m riding with Georgia +3 to take down Texas and claim the SEC crown. The Bulldogs’ championship DNA, combined with their defensive prowess and that Atlanta crowd advantage, should be enough to neutralize the Longhorns’ explosive offense.

Watch for Georgia’s front seven to make Ewers uncomfortable all game while their ground attack controls the clock. Back the Dawgs getting points and sprinkle on Frazier to score for a winning championship weekend ticket.

The post Expert Georgia vs Texas Prediction, Latest Odds & Player Props – SEC Championship appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

Championship weekend brings us three conference title games where the trends heavily favor the chalk. My CFB parlay for Saturday features Arizona State looking to complete their remarkable turnaround against Iowa State, SMU aiming for ACC glory against Clemson, and Oregon trying to secure a playoff spot against Penn State.

Here’s a look at the odds and picks for our conference championship college football parlay:

College Football Championship Parlay Odds

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All college football parlay odds as of December 7 at bet365. Check out our bet365 Review for more betting options.

Championship Weekend College Football Parlay

Let’s break down why these three favorites deserve spots in our CFB championship parlay. Combining these picks with bet365’s 5% boost gives us tasty +404 odds.

Iowa State vs Arizona State (Big 12 Championship)

Starting off our college football parlay, Arizona State looks to cap their incredible turnaround after going 3-9 last season. The Sun Devils enter scorching hot with five straight wins and covers, sporting the nation’s second-best ATS record at 10-2.

Speaking of trends, the favorite has won 12 straight neutral-site Big XII title games. That bodes well for Arizona State, who’s been bullying teams with a ground game that ranks 22nd in EPA per Rush. They’re facing an Iowa State defense allowing a brutal 174 rushing yards per game at five yards a pop.

A lot of talent on Iowa State but one interesting nugget: Its run defense ranks 99th in the country

— Paola Boivin (@PaolaBoivin) December 1, 2024

Sure, Iowa State coach Matt Campbell has typically been money as an underdog (36-23-3 ATS), but Arizona State’s defense brings 14 picks and 45 pass breakups to the party. That spells trouble for a Cyclones passing attack that’s relied heavily on it’s .

The Sun Devils have been lighting up scoreboards early, dropping 25.3 first-half points during their current streak. When you’re averaging those kinds of numbers and bringing a top-5 pass defense to a title game, the -120 price tag looks mighty generous.

• Parlay Pick: Arizona State ML (-120)

SMU vs Clemson (ACC Championship)

The middle leg of our CFB parlay features SMU in their ACC Championship debut. The Mustangs gallop in having won nine straight while covering seven of those games. Even better – they’re a perfect 4-0 ATS this season as a small favorite.

Here’s a juicy trend – the favorite has won 12 straight ACC title games, covering seven in a row. While Clemson’s won their last seven appearances, this isn’t your older brother’s Tigers defense. They’re getting gashed for 4.58 yards per carry and looked lost against mobile QBs recently.

Kevin Jennings, you are ridiculous.#PonyUpDallas pic.twitter.com/qK2fpS2pZS

— SMU Football (@SMUFB) November 23, 2024

Enter SMU’s offensive machine that’s putting up 40.7 points per game behind Brashard Smith’s video game-like 6.9 yards per carry. The Mustangs’ diverse attack should give Clemson’s struggling defense fits all night.

Seven of Clemson’s last eight against FBS competition have stayed under, but SMU’s offensive firepower makes them worth backing at this price. When you’re averaging north of 40 points and facing a defense that can’t stop the run, that’s a recipe for cashing tickets.

• Parlay Pick: SMU ML (-140)

Oregon vs Penn State (Big Ten Championship)

Wrapping up our championship parlay is Oregon against James Franklin’s Penn State squad. Speaking of Franklin, his record against elite competition is downright ugly – 1-13 vs top-5 teams, 3-17 vs top-10, and 13-25 vs ranked opponents.

The Ducks’ offense has been a machine, ranking 14th nationally with 277.6 passing yards per game. QB Dillon Gabriel’s been dealing, throwing for 3,275 yards with a tidy 24-6 TD-INT ratio. They’ve dropped 35+ points in five of their last six games.

A year ago, Dillon Gabriel was wondering where he'd spend his final season of eligibility.

Now, he's hours away from opening the nation's No. 1 team's postseason run.@BTNJourney profiles the star QB's seamless transition with @oregonfootball

@AutoOwnersIns pic.twitter.com/YZpHkAby7w

— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) December 7, 2024

Don’t sleep on Oregon’s defense either. They’re allowing just 16.2 points per game while their pass rush duo has racked up 19 sacks. Penn State’s shown particular weakness against zone-read concepts – exactly what Oregon’s offense feasts on.

The stakes couldn’t be higher with Oregon eyeing their first-ever 13-0 season and potential #1 playoff seed. Franklin’s big-game struggles combined with the Ducks’ two-way dominance make them a solid parlay closer.

• Parlay Pick: Oregon ML (-165)

Championship Weekend Parlay: Arizona State, SMU & Oregon (+404)

The post Expert College Football Parlay for Conference Championship Weekend (+405 Odds) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

A surprising Big 12 Championship showdown features #16 Iowa State (10-2) against #15 Arizona State (10-2) on Saturday at AT&T Stadium. Both teams went 7-2 in conference play, setting up this crucial playoff-implications matchup.

Vegas sees Arizona State as a slight 1.5-point favorite with a 50.5 total at most sportsbooks. The Sun Devils have shocked everyone after being picked to finish 16th in the conference, orchestrating one of college football’s most surprising turnarounds under second-year head coach Kenny Dillingham.

Meanwhile, Matt Campbell’s Cyclones are hunting for their first-ever conference title in his seventh season at the helm.

Iowa State vs Arizona State Prediction

The Sun Devils are riding high on a five-game winning streak, capped off by last week’s 49-7 demolition of rival Arizona. They’ve found their offensive groove lately, putting up 28+ points in four of their last five games.

ASU took a tough blow against Arizona though, losing star receiver Jordyn Tyson to a season-ending collarbone injury. The talented wideout had racked up 75 catches for 1,101 yards and 10 TDs this year.

With Tyson out, ASU will lean heavily on workhorse back Cam Skattebo (1,398 rush yards, 17 TDs) to carry the load. The versatile runner has also been a weapon in the passing game, snagging 35 catches for 468 yards and two scores.

Cam Skattebo gave a powerful halftime speech to his teammates during the BYU game.

This man is a leader and would look great in an Arizona Cardinals uniform next season.

Must watch!
pic.twitter.com/8rQ3biGQCd

— Mr. Az (@MrAzSports) November 27, 2024

The Cyclones have bounced back nicely from back-to-back November losses to Texas Tech and Kansas, rattling off three straight wins including a clutch 29-21 victory over Kansas State to punch their ticket to Arlington.

Iowa State’s passing attack has been giving defenses fits all year, with QB Rocco Becht (3,021 pass yards, 20 TDs) slinging it to his dynamic duo of 1,000-yard receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel.

The problem for the Cyclones? A leaky run defense that ranks 112th nationally (173.7 yards allowed/game) and second-worst in the Big 12. They got gashed for 237 rushing yards in that Kansas loss – not a great sign with Skattebo coming to town.

The betting trends favor ASU, who sport a sparkling 10-2 mark against the spread this season – second-best in the country. They’ve covered five straight, beating the number by an average of 14.2 points. Iowa State sits at a more modest 7-5 ATS.

Look for Arizona State’s potent ground game (195.0 yards/game) to control the clock and keep Becht watching from the sideline. Their revamped defense matches up well against Iowa State’s passing attack too.

Watch for Skattebo to have a field day on the fast track at Jerry World as the Sun Devils complete their remarkable run and book their ticket to the CFP.

Big 12 Championship Picks:

• Arizona State -1.5 (-115)
• Under 50.5 (-110)

Iowa State vs Arizona State Odds

The Sun Devils opened as 1-point chalk before sharp money pushed them up to -1.5. The total is holding steady at 50.5.

The current -1.5 spread suggests bookmakers give ASU about a 53.5% chance to cover and win outright. On the moneyline, Arizona State sits at -120 (54.5% implied probability) with Iowa State at even money (+100).

The line movement toward ASU shows how much respect they’ve earned from bettors lately. They’ve been crushing the spread during their 5-0 ATS run, covering by an average of 9.1 points during this stretch,

The Sun Devils have also been lighting up the scoreboard lately, with four of their last five games going over. But sharp money suggests this title game could be more of a grinder. The public is hammering the “over” in the CFB public betting trends, yet the line isn’t budging.

The under is definitely worth a look here – Iowa State’s last four games have all stayed under 50.5 points.

ISU vs ASU Head to Head History

These programs will meet for the first time Saturday, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup.

The Cyclones are still chasing their first conference crown since 1912, with their only other Big 12 title game appearance ending in a 27-21 loss to Oklahoma back in 2020.

The Sun Devils haven’t won a conference title since sharing the Pac-10 crown with USC in 1996. Their last shot at one ended with a 38-14 loss to Stanford in the 2013 Pac-12 Championship.

Forks up! ASU fans are in Texas, ready to see the Sun Devils take on the Iowa State Cyclones in the Big 12 Championship game tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/1E89G7Rlkx

— ABC15 Arizona (@abc15) December 7, 2024

While there’s no history between these teams, ASU’s impressive road wins over ranked Oklahoma State and Kansas State bode well for their chances at a neutral site.

The Sun Devils have been giant killers this year, going 3-0 against ranked teams. Iowa State’s been more up-and-down versus the AP Top 25, sitting at 1-1.

The Cyclones took down #23 Kansas State last week but dropped a tight 23-22 decision to #13 Texas Tech at home in early November.

The post Iowa State vs Arizona State Prediction, Pick & Odds – Big 12 Championship appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The Minnesota Timberwolves will look to extend their three-game winning streak when they visit the Golden State Warriors on Friday night. Tip-off from the Chase Center is set for 10 p.m. EST on ESPN.

Golden State snapped a five-game losing streak by beating the Rockets 99-93 on Thursday without Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. But the Dubs could get their two stars back in the lineup for this divisional clash.

The latest Timberwolves vs Warriors odds show Minnesota as a 1.5-point road favorite, with a total of 219.5. The Warriors opened as 2.5-point home favorites, but the line has shifted towards Minnesota amid the uncertainty surrounding Curry and Green.

Will the well-rested Wolves take advantage of a Warriors squad playing the second game of a back-to-back? Or can Golden State ride the momentum from their much-needed win over Houston?

Let’s break down my Timberwolves vs Warriors picks and predictions for Friday, December 6.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Predictions

Minnesota has looked like a different team over the last week, using lockdown defense to spark a three-game surge. The Wolves have held their last two opponents to just 80 points each in impressive road victories over the Clippers and Lakers.

That defensive intensity starts on the perimeter with Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, and ends in the paint with four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert. Minnesota ranks 5th in the NBA in points allowed at 107.4 per game this season.

Rudy Gobert is going absolutely nuts right now, and it is so much fun to watch. pic.twitter.com/mURpkZGTvO

— Charlie Walton (@CharlieWaltonMN) December 5, 2024

The Wolves’ ability to get stops should loom large against a Warriors offense that mustered just 99 points without Curry on Thursday. Golden State is averaging only 105.7 points over their last six contests.

Even if Curry does suit up, it’s fair to wonder how effective he’ll be on a bad knee on the second night of a back-to-back. Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole will need to provide more scoring punch.

Steph Curry’s bilateral knee tendinitis is something he hasn’t dealt with before.

“It has the potential to be a nagging type thing if you don’t take care of it.”

“The deeper into your career, the more things pop up.”

Full soundbite pic.twitter.com/BAfrHwGLLx

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 1, 2024

The Timberwolves, meanwhile, have gotten stellar play from their role players of late. Julius Randle is coming off a team-high 20 points against the Clippers and provides another scoring dimension at power forward. Naz Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Donte DiVincenzo are also giving the Wolves a lift off the bench.

As slight road favorites, I like the value on Minnesota here, especially since Golden State is playing its third game in four nights and could be shorthanded once again. The Wolves have also won four straight games in this head-to-head matchup.

I expect the Wolves to win this one outright, so I don’t mind a play on their -120 moneyline. The NBA public betting trends show Minny getting 54% of the handle with only 42% of bets. There’s a reason this line has flipped completely.

For the total, I lean towards the under 219.5 points. Both teams rank in the top-10 in defensive rating, with the Wolves allowing just 84 points per game in their last three. The Warriors have also gone under in four straight and eight of their last nine overall.

Timberwolves vs Warriors Picks:

• Timberwolves ML (-120) 
• UNDER 219.5 (-115)

Latest Timberwolves vs Warriors Odds

The Timberwolves enter this matchup as 1.5-point road favorites at ESPN Sportsbook. Minnesota backers can get the Wolves at -105 odds to cover the short spread, while Golden State sits at -115 to cover as home underdogs.

On the moneyline, the Timberwolves are modest -120 favorites to win straight up. A $120 bet on Minnesota returns $100 in profit. Meanwhile, the Warriors are even-money (+100) on the moneyline, so a $100 bet returns $100 in profit if Golden State springs the upset.

The total for Friday’s contest is set at a modest 219.5 points, with the under juiced to -115. That indicates some early sharp action on a low-scoring game between these two defensive-minded teams.

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Timberwolves vs Warriors Injury Report

Both teams have some key names on the injury report heading into Friday’s Western Conference clash.

For Minnesota, Joe Ingles (calf) and Rob Dillingham (ankle) remain out. However, the Wolves are otherwise healthy, with all five starters expected to be available.

The story is quite different for Golden State, which could be without its best player for a second straight game. Stephen Curry (knee) is questionable after sitting out Thursday’s win over Houston. Draymond Green (calf) is also questionable after missing that contest, while Andrew Wiggins (ankle) is probable to play through a minor injury.

If Curry and Green can’t go, the Warriors will need big games from the likes of Wiggins, Jordan Poole and Jonathan Kuminga to keep pace with a Wolves squad that has hit its stride defensively. Kevon Looney would also be tasked with playing big minutes at center.

The post Minnesota Timberwolves vs Golden State Warriors Prediction, Odds & Injury Report (Friday, Dec. 6) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

It’s conference championship time, and Friday night brings us two games that should have bettors’ full attention. Army aims to upset Tulane in the AAC Championship, while Boise State looks to defend their Mountain West crown against UNLV.

Both games have me eyeing some serious betting value, with Army’s dominant ground game presenting problems for Tulane and Boise State’s momentum suggesting they could roll at home.

Let’s break down Friday’s conference championship schedule and dive into our expert predictions for tonight’s action.

Friday Conference Championship Odds

Odds as of Dec. 6 from ESPN Sportsbook. Bet $10 and get $100 with our ESPN Bet promo code.

In the Friday conference championship odds, Army has shortened to a 5-point underdog against Tulane after being listed at 5.5. Meanwhile, Boise State is favored by 4 points at home against UNLV in a rematch of their October thriller.

Let’s analyze our conference championship predictions for these games offering serious betting value.

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Army vs Tulane Prediction

I’m really liking Army in this spot. The Black Knights aren’t just bringing any rushing attack to West Point – they’re bringing the nation’s best ground game (312.5 YPG) into a cold-weather matchup that sets up perfectly for their style. They’ve won eight straight conference games and are battle-tested after recently facing Notre Dame and UTSA.

The betting market seems to agree with me here, as this line has dropped from Tulane -5.5 to -5. That movement suggests sharp money sees value on the home underdog, and the metrics back that up.

Almost time pic.twitter.com/BwTIMzOSqy

— Army Football (@ArmyWP_Football) December 6, 2024

Army leads the AAC in scoring defense (15.1 PPG) and their methodical offensive approach could frustrate a Tulane team that struggled with tempo control in their recent loss to SMU.

History favors service academies in these spots, too, as Army is 19-9 ATS as an underdog since 2020. Meanwhile, the “under” in CFB conference title games is 7-3 when temps are below freezing. The cold weather and Army’s ball-control style should keep this close throughout.

I’m taking the points here – Army’s style is built for December football at West Point.

• Pick: Army +5 (-110 at ESPN Bet)

Boise State vs UNLV Prediction

Switching gears to our nightcap in Boise, I love the Broncos to cover. They aren’t just riding momentum – they’ve been absolutely rolling with 10 straight wins. Star running back Ashton Jeanty has been unstoppable, leading the nation with 2,288 rushing yards and positioning himself for potential Heisman consideration with another big performance.

While UNLV kept things close in their October meeting (29-24 Boise win), the rematch being on the blue turf is significant. The Broncos are 4-1 ATS in their last five Friday night home games, and quarterback Maddux Madsen has been nearly perfect on blue turf with just two picks.

The metrics favor Boise State as well. Their offensive line ranks top-10 nationally in several key metrics. UNLV’s defense, meanwhile, has shown cracks lately, ranking just 40th in the FBS in play-action coverage grade. The Rebels truly struggle to defend mobile quarterbacks, which plays right into Madsen’s dual-threat capabilities.

Between Boise’s championship experience and Jeanty’s dominance, I’m confidently laying the points with the Broncos as they punch their ticket to the expanded playoff.

• Pick: Boise State -4 (-110 at ESPN Bet)

The post Friday College Football Picks – Expert Predictions for Dec. 6 appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

Conference Championship Friday brings us three exciting college football matchups with major implications. I’ve found a three-team parlay at +435 odds that could make your weekend even better. Our college football parlay combines picks from the Conference USA, American Athletic Conference, and Mountain West championship games.

We’re backing Jacksonville State to claim their first CUSA title, while taking the under in what should be a defensive battle between Army and Tulane. To complete the ticket, we’re riding Boise State’s star running back Ashton Jeanty to continue his historic season against UNLV.

Here’s a breakdown of our conference championship parlay odds and picks, with detailed analysis below.

College Football Conference Championship Parlay Odds

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All CFB parlay odds as of December 6 at DraftKings Sportsbook.

Our CFB conference championship parlay pays out at +435 odds, meaning a successful $100 wager would return $435. I break down each individual parlay selection further below.

Jacksonville State vs Western Kentucky (CUSA Championship)

Jacksonville State enters their first Conference USA Championship game looking for revenge after dropping last week’s regular-season finale to Western Kentucky. The Gamecocks have one of the nation’s most explosive rushing attacks, piling up 257.4 yards per game – good for third in the country.

The home-field advantage at AmFirst Stadium can’t be overlooked, where they’re 5-0 this season. The Gamecocks have owned conference play with a 12-1 record in their last 13 matchups. Their high-tempo offense is putting up 35.4 points per game, ranking 18th nationally and consistently wearing down opposing defenses.

The status of quarterback Tyler Huff remains uncertain after he tweaked his ankle last week. But JSU’s shown they can adapt, and Logan Smothers is ready to step in. Even with Huff limited last week, they still averaged 5.3 yards per carry, proving they can move the ball effectively on the ground.

Rich Rodriguez’s squad likely kept some plays in their back pocket during last week’s regular-season finale. With temperatures dropping into the low 30s, their run-heavy approach should work perfectly in the cold conditions. The betting markets see it, too, instilling Jacksonville State a 4.5-point favorite at home.

• Parlay Pick: Jacksonville State ML (-192)

Tulane vs Army (AAC Championship)

The frigid conditions expected at Michie Stadium point heavily toward the under. Temperatures are dropping into the low 20s with winds between 9-16 mph, creating serious challenges for both offenses.

Tulane’s passing attack, coming from the warm climate of New Orleans, could struggle most in these arctic conditions. It’s the kind of weather that forces conservative play-calling and makes every throw a challenge.

IT'S CHAMPIONSHIP GAME WEEK

Prime time Friday night lights on ABC#AmericanWay x #AmericanFB pic.twitter.com/oFiBzAf5Jt

— The American (@American_Conf) December 3, 2024

Army’s triple-option offense is built to control the clock. At 35:30 per game, it leads the nation in time of possession. The Black Knights have been dominant at home, going 5-0 against FBS opponents while giving up just 16 points per game. Their ground game has been unstoppable, churning out 312 yards per game at an impressive 5.7 yards per carry.

These defenses have been lights out all season. Army’s giving up just 15.1 points per game (4th nationally), while Tulane’s allowing 18.4 (15th nationally). Army’s defense, led by All-AAC safety Max DiDomenico, has been especially tough at home. Tulane’s defense isn’t far behind, holding teams to a 31.8% conversion rate on third downs.

Sharp money has already pushed this total down from 48.5 to 45.5, telling us the pros see a defensive battle coming. Tulane’s recent struggles against Memphis, where they gave up 236 rushing yards, suggest they might have trouble with Army’s ground attack. The Green Wave has also shown a pattern—their last four games after hitting an over have averaged just 40.3 points.

• Parlay Pick: Under 45.5 (-108)

Ashton Jeanty Rush Yards (Mountain West Championship)

Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty isn’t just having a good season – he’s having a historic one. He’s leading the nation with 2,288 yards and 28 touchdowns, sitting fifth on the FBS all-time single-season rushing list. He’s just 341 yards away from breaking Barry Sanders’ legendary record. The sophomore’s averaging an incredible 190.7 yards per game.

UNLV managed to contain him in their first meeting, holding him to 128 yards on 33 carries. But Jeanty has shown all season that he can figure out defenses the second time around. His latest showcase was a 226-yard explosion against Oregon State.

Ashton Jeanty vs. Oregon State:

• 37 carries
• 226 yards
• 1 TD

GENERATIONAL TALENT pic.twitter.com/14ybUhrdg6

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 29, 2024

The Broncos’ coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, keeps feeding their star back, consistently giving him 30+ carries.

The stakes for Jeanty couldn’t be bigger – he’s got Heisman buzz building, and the Broncos still have an outside shot at the College Football Playoff. He’s playing with supreme confidence, recently calling himself “the best player in the nation.” When the lights have been brightest, he’s delivered, topping 175 yards six times this season.

The 40-degree forecast actually plays into Jeanty’s power running style, and Boise State had time to study how UNLV defended him last time. His explosive ability – including a 77-yard run this season – plus his consistency (7.3 yards per carry) make the over 174.5 rushing yards a strong play.

• Parlay Pick: Jeanty Over 174.5 Rush Yards (-120)

Conference Championship Parlay: Jacksonville State ML, Under 45.5 Tulane/Army & Jeanty 175+ Rush Yards (+436)

The post Best College Football Parlay for Friday’s Conference Championships appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The super featherweight division is set for fireworks as Emanuel Navarrete defends his WBO crown in a must-see rematch against Oscar Valdez. This all-Mexican clash is set to light up the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on December 7.

Navarrete, the defending champ, is looking to prove his unanimous decision win in their first meeting was no fluke. But Valdez, a proud warrior, has redemption on his mind.

Who will emerge victorious in this battle between two of Mexico’s finest? Let’s dive in with our Navarrete vs Valdez 2 preview and prediction.

Fight Details

• Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
• Venue: Footprint Center, Phoenix, Arizona
• Undercard Highlights: Rafael Espinoza vs. Robeisy Ramirez 2 for WBO featherweight title, Lindolfo Delgado vs. Jackson Marinez, Emiliano Vargas vs. Alan Ayala
• Main Event Ring Walks: Approximately 11:30 PM ET
• How to Watch: ESPN/ESPN+

Navarrete vs Valdez 2 Odds

Navarrete enters as a sizable -270 favorite, with Valdez a +215 underdog. Despite Valdez’s pedigree, oddsmakers are expecting Navarrete to repeat his victory from their August 2023 bout.

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Odds as of Dec. 5, at DraftKings Sportsbook.

Emanuel Navarrete Betting Analysis

Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete has established himself as one of boxing’s most exciting fighters. The 29-year-old Mexican phenom is known for his relentless pressure style and high punch output.

However, Navarrete has hit a rough patch since defeating Valdez, going 0-1-1 in his last two outings. He fought Robson Conceicao to a draw in February before dropping a split decision to Denys Berinchyk in May when challenging for the WBO lightweight strap.

Now back at super featherweight, Navarrete will aim to get back on track against a familiar foe.

NAVARRETE CARRIES POWER!

Bring on the rematch against Oscar Valdez this weekend.#NavarreteValdez2 | Sunday, 1.30am pic.twitter.com/E0Q0mwFJC1

— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) December 5, 2024

Strengths

Navarrete’s greatest assets are his engine and work rate. He throws punches in bunches from all angles, wearing opponents down with his unorthodox offense. The champion also packs serious power, especially with his lethal left uppercut.

Weaknesses

While always entertaining, Navarrete’s style can be reckless at times. He leaves openings for counters, and his defense is far from impenetrable. There are also questions about his stamina after fading late in recent bouts.

Oscar Valdez Betting Analysis

Oscar Valdez is a two-division champion looking to regain his throne at 130 pounds. The 33-year-old is a skilled boxer-puncher with a fan-friendly style.

Since losing to Navarrete, Valdez has fought just once, stopping Liam Wilson in the seventh round this past March. That win earned him the interim WBO belt and set the stage for this rematch.

Valdez will undoubtedly be fueled by the chance to avenge his loss and cement his legacy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTox4ohgFCI

Strengths

Valdez is a well-rounded technician with excellent footwork and head movement. He’s a sharp counterpuncher who picks his spots well. The challenger also possesses fight-changing power, especially with his left hook.

Weaknesses

While a top-tier talent, Valdez is undersized for the division. He gives up noticeable height and reach to Navarrete. Valdez can also be drawn into firefights, which could play into the champion’s hands in a rematch.

Tale of the Tape

Navarrete vs Valdez 2 Prediction

This has all the makings of another captivating battle between two proud Mexican warriors. Valdez will be looking to use his boxing skills to control the tempo, while Navarrete will aim to overwhelm him with volume once again.

Ultimately, I believe Navarrete’s size, reach and relentless pressure will be the difference. Valdez was forced to fight off his back foot for much of their first encounter, and I expect a similar dynamic in the rematch.

Valdez’s best path to victory is to catch Navarrete coming in and do damage in the pocket. But Navarrete’s chin held up well in the first fight, and I’m not convinced Valdez can hurt him consistently.

Look for “Vaquero” to impose his will as the bout progresses, piling up punches and sapping Valdez’s gas tank. Navarrete’s output should sway the judges, even if Valdez makes it to the final bell.

After two frustrating outings, the proud champion will be eager to make a statement. I like Navarrete to secure another clear-cut victory and retain his title.

• The Pick: Emanuel Navarrete by Unanimous Decision (+175)

The post Navarrete vs Valdez 2 Prediction, Odds & Tale of the Tape (Saturday, Dec. 7) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

Coming off a perfect 3-0 weekend in our college football spread predictions, we’re looking to maintain momentum with two picks for conference championships on Saturday.

My college football against the spread picks focus on two matchups where the betting market seems to be overreacting. Georgia finds themselves in the rare underdog role despite dominating the first meeting with Texas, while SMU is getting disrespected against a struggling Clemson program.

Here are my CFB against the spread picks for conference championship weekend.

Conference Championship CFB ATS Picks

All odds current as of December 5th at ESPN Bet. Visit our recommended college football betting apps for more championship week odds and predictions.

Here is some analysis and reasoning for my two college football against the spread picks for conference championships.

Georgia vs Texas Odds

Pick #1: Georgia +2.5 (vs Texas)

I’m beginning my college football picks against the spread with the underdog Bulldogs against the Longhorns. Despite beating Texas 30-15 during the regular season, Georgia is an underdog in the rematch.

Power rankings imply Texas deserves to be favored against Georgia in the SEC Championship, but I’m not about to bet against Kirby Smart in this spot. Georgia is 6-2-1 against the spread in their last nine games as an underdog and has the defense to cause Texas problems.

GEORGIA. TEXAS.

THE REMATCH FOR A TITLE. #SECChampionship pic.twitter.com/xpIiXZ65Rk

— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) December 1, 2024

In the first meeting, the Georgia defensive line was the big story, dominating the line of scrimmage and sacking Quinn Ewers five times. While Texas has improved since this meeting, I don’t see the battle in the trenches playing out significantly different.

Furthermore, Carson Beck has been less turnover-prone lately after throwing three picks in the first meeting. He’s showing improvement with nearly 300 yards and 2+ touchdowns in his last three games. I’m bullish on the chemistry he’s building with Dominic Lovett, who has hauled in three TD passes in the last two weeks.

It’s very hard to beat a team twice in college football, but don’t forget what Washington did to Oregon last season. This game is played in Georgia’s backyard in Atlanta, and Kirby has been here too many times before to bet against the Dogs on Saturday.

Clemson vs SMU Odds

Pick #2: SMU -2 (vs Clemson)

Another addition to my Week 15 college football picks against the spread is SMU -2 against Clemson in the ACC championship. Yes, Dabo Swinney’s Tigers are a bigger national brand, but SMU is favored in this game for good reason.

The Mustangs have been nothing short of dominant in their debut ACC season, going 11-1 overall and a perfect 8-0 in conference play. Their only loss came in Week 2 on a narrow three-point defeat to BYU, a team that narrowly missed out on making the Big 12 Title game.

SMU should be in the College Football Playoff regardless of the result of the ACC Championship game on Saturday.

They’re 11-1.

They’re one of two teams (Oregon) to go unbeaten in P4 conference play this year.

Their only loss is to 10-2 BYU by 3 points.

They have 6 wins over… pic.twitter.com/gjt4qdC3Kx

— CFB Kings (@CFBKings) December 2, 2024

I’m putting my faith in an SMU offense that has torched the ACC all season. Rhett Lashlee’s team has scored 30 or more points in eight of their last nine games, with the only exception being a 28-27 win over Duke in which they turned the ball over six times.

I’m not sleeping on SMU’s defense, either, as the Mustangs rank sixth nationally in rushing yards allowed per carry (2.9). They are also eighth in pass success rate and 14th in quarterback rating allowed. Look for SMU to get pressure on Cade Klubnik, who has been sacked 10 times in the past four games.

The Tigers only made the ACC title game this year because Miami slipped up against Syracuse. In three games against top competition (Georgia, Louisville, South Carolina), Clemson couldn’t manage a win. Most notably, the Tigers haven’t surpassed 24 points against an FBS team since October.

Brady’s 2024 CFB ATS Picks Record: 27-18 (Last Week: 3-0)

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The Dallas Stars are aiming for their fifth win in a row against the LA Kings as they hit the West Coast for a late-night game on Wednesday (December 4). This Western Conference matchup will take place at Crypto.com Arena, with the puck dropping at 10:00 PM Eastern Time. You can catch all the action on TNT.

The oddsmakers have installed the Stars as slight road favorites at -115, while the total sits at 5.5 goals. Can Dallas continue their recent success against Los Angeles and maintain their momentum in the Western Conference playoff race?

Here is our Stars vs Kings prediction for Wednesday Night Hockey.

Stars vs Kings Prediction & Best Bet

I love the Stars on the moneyline in this Western Conference tilt. Dallas has been flat-out dominant lately, going 8-3 in their last 11 games. Dalas’ recent impressive stretch includes an impressive 11-3 mark against Western Conference opponents in their last 14 contests.

More importantly, the Stars have had the Kings’ number recently, winning six of the last seven meetings dating back to 2019, including four straight victories.

The Stars’ offense has been clicking on all cylinders this season, sitting 9th in the NHL at 3.38 goals per game. The dynamic duo of Matt Duchene (28 points) and Mason Marchment (24 points) has been leading the charge, while Roope Hinzt (10 goals) continues to provide reliable secondary scoring.

MASON MARCHMENT, THAT WAS RIDICULOUS pic.twitter.com/JGhJHWVgUJ

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) December 1, 2024

The Kings counter with a balanced attack led by Anze Kopitar (29 points) and Adrian Kempe (24 points), but their 16th-ranked offense (3.04 goals per game) might struggle to keep pace with the high-flying Stars.

Between the pipes, Dallas holds a clear advantage, with Jake Oettinger likely getting the start. The 23-year-old netminder has been stellar this season, ranking 7th in save percentage (.915) and 5th in GAA (2.38) among goalies with 10+ appearances. Los Angeles will likely counter with David Rittich, who owns a subpar .887 save percentage and 2.48 GAA.

The Stars have proven they can get it done on the road, going 4-2 in their last six away games. They’ve also had success keeping games low-scoring in LA recently, with the total going under in five straight visits to Crypto.com Arena.

Given their recent dominance in the head-to-head series, superior goaltending, and impressive play against Western Conference foes, I’m backing the Stars to secure a big road win in LA tonight.

• The Pick: Stars ML (-115)

Stars vs Kings Odds

Odds as of December 4, 2024, at ESPN Bet. Check out the best NHL betting apps for Wednesday Night Hockey. 

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The Stars are currently favored to win, with the moneyline set at -115. This means a $115 bet on Dallas would return a profit of $100 if they emerge victorious. The Kings are slight underdogs at -105.

Dallas is listed at -1.5 (+210) on the puck line, while Los Angeles is +1.5 (-300). A Stars puck line bet would require them to win by 2+ goals for a $210 profit on a $100 wager. The Kings puck line would cash if they win outright or lose by a single goal.

The game total is set at 5.5 goals, with the over slightly juiced at -125 and the under at +105. Oddsmakers expect a relatively low-scoring affair, which aligns with both teams’ defensive capabilities.

Probable Starting Goalies

Dallas Stars: Jake Oettinger

• Career Games Played: 210
• Career Goals Against Average (GAA): 2.49
• Career Save Percentage (SV%): .913

Los Angeles Kings: David Rittich

• Career Games Played: 212
• Career Goals Against Average (GAA): 2.96
• Career Save Percentage (SV%): .905

Oettinger has the edge in both GAA and save percentage, as well as similar experience despite being seven years younger. The young Stars netminder gives Dallas a distinct advantage in goal for this late-night Western Conference tilt.

The post Stars vs Kings Prediction, Odds & Starting Goalies for Wednesday Night Hockey (Dec. 4) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The Boston Bruins (13-11-3) head to the Windy City to take on the Chicago Blackhawks (8-15-2) in a Wednesday Night showdown on December 4, 2024. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 PM Eastern Time at the United Center, with national coverage provided by TNT.

The Bruins enter as road favorites at -150, while the over/under is set at 5.5 goals. Can the B’s pick up two points against a struggling Hawks team?

Here is our Bruins vs Blackhawks prediction for Wednesday Night Hockey.

Bruins vs Blackhawks Prediction

Give me the Under 5.5 goals in what should be a tight-checking Original Six battle. The Bruins boast a strong defensive structure, allowing just 3.04 goals per game (17th in the NHL). They’ve been particularly stingy against teams with poor offensive metrics, going 14-3 to the under when facing opponents averaging 3+ goals against this season.

David Pastrnak leads the Bruins’ attack with 24 points, while Brad Marchand (18 points) and Elias Lindholm (13 points) provide consistent support. However, the Bruins rank just 30th in scoring at 2.48 goals per game.

The Blackhawks counter with an anemic offense of their own, averaging a league-worst 2.44 goals per contest. Chicago has dropped three straight games, scoring a combined six goals in that span. Connor Bedard paces the Hawks with 19 points in his sophomore campaign.

Connor Bedard looks to the heavens after snapping a 12-game goal drought. The weight lifted off his shoulders. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Mt97F5N088

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) November 28, 2024

Between the pipes, Jeremy Swayman is expected to start for Boston. He’s been rock-solid lately, posting a .929 save percentage and 1.78 GAA over his last four outings. Chicago will likely counter with Petr Mrazek, who owns a .908 save percentage and 2.79 GAA on the season.

The Bruins’ top defensive pairing of Charlie McAvoy and Nikita Zadorov, who have combined for 7.5 defensive point shares, should be able to contain Chicago’s limited firepower. Boston ranks 17th in goals allowed per game (3.04).

While the Bruins are playing the second leg of a back-to-back after an intense overtime win in Detroit on Tuesday, their solid defense and goaltending advantage give them the edge. However, I don’t see either team filling the net much in this one.

The first squad to light the lamp likely takes the two points, but I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a scoreless period or two. Bank on a low-scoring affair in Chicago.

Wednesday Hockey Pick:

• Under 5.5 Goals (-115)

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Bruins vs Blackhawks Odds

The Bruins are currently favored to win, with the moneyline set at -150. This means a $150 bet on Boston would return a profit of $100 if they get the victory. The Blackhawks are underdogs at +130.

Boston is listed at -1.5 (+165) on the puck line, while Chicago is +1.5 (-200). A Bruins puck line bet would require them to win by 2+ goals for a $165 profit on a $100 wager. The Hawks puck line would cash if they win or lose by a single goal.

The game total is set at 5.5 goals, with the under favored at -115 and the over at -105. Oddsmakers see a low-scoring contest, which aligns with the teams’ recent offensive struggles and solid goaltending.

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Odds as of December 4, 2024 at ESPN Bet. Browse the available NHL betting apps for Wednesday Night Hockey.

BOS-CHI H2H History

The B’s have owned this matchup lately, winning eight of the last 10 meetings dating back to 2019. Boston has also won six of the last seven overall.

Recent Results

Digging into the trends, the Bruins have won two straight as very heavy betting favorites in this rivalry, outscoring Chicago 6-1 in those contests. The under has cashed in three of the last five meetings overall.

While the Bruins are playing the second leg of a back-to-back after an intense OT win in Detroit on Tuesday, their commitment to team defense and structure should travel well. Chicago’s power play ranks 10th at 23.5% but will be tested against Boston’s 19th-ranked penalty kill (79.2%).

The post Bruins vs Blackhawks Prediction, Odds & H2H Trends (Wednesday, Dec. 4) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The Edmonton Oilers (13-9-2) roll into Sin City to battle the Vegas Golden Knights (15-7-3) in a Tuesday night showdown on December 3, 2024. The puck drops at 10:00 PM Eastern Time at T-Mobile Arena, with streaming coverage available on ESPN+ and Hulu.

The Oilers enter as slight road favorites at -135, while the over/under is set at a lofty 6.5 goals. Will Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl’s offensive firepower overwhelm the Golden Knights in Vegas tonight? Let’s break down the matchup and find out.

Here is our Oilers vs Golden Knights prediction for Tuesday’s Pacific Division clash.

Oilers vs Golden Knights Prediction

I’m riding with the over 6.5 goals in what should be a high-octane, back-and-forth affair in Vegas. Both the Oilers and Golden Knights boast explosive offenses filled with superstar talent that can light the lamp in bunches. Vegas ranks 7th in goals per game (3.60), while Edmonton isn’t far behind at 17th (3.00).

The Oilers are led by the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid (12G, 19A) and Leon Draisaitl (17G, 15A), who sit 1st and 2nd in team scoring. When these two are clicking, Edmonton’s offense is nearly impossible to contain, as evidenced by their 14 goals over the last three games.

The Oilers’ power play is also due for positive regression, currently converting at just 17.7% (23rd) despite immense talent. It’s only a matter of time before they become of the NHL’s elite special teams units once again.

"I don't think it's a lack of confidence in our power-play group. We know what we have, it's just a matter of time 'til we get it going."

Evan Bouchard on the #Oilers power play this season.@Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/GwYa8wFpyQ

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) October 21, 2024

On the other side, the Golden Knights have a deep attack with Jack Eichel (8G, 28A) leading the way. Vegas’ power play has been lethal, ranking 5th at 27.4%. However, their penalty kill is suspect at 78.2% (21st), which the Oilers should exploit.

As mentioned in the starting goalies section further below, neither tendy in this game owns a commendable save percentage. With both teams capable of filling the net and neither goaltender instilling much confidence  – I’m expecting a shootout at T-Mobile Arena.

An alternate bet to consider is the “McDavid’s Magic in Vegas” Same Game Parlay at +474. McDavid has been on fire and relishes playing on the big stage. This could be a great way to spice up your betting slip.

Tuesday Hockey Picks:

• Over 6.5 Goals ( -105 at ESPN Bet )
• “McDavid’s Magic in Vegas” Same Game Parlay ( +474 at ESPN Bet )
  • Connor McDavid Over 0.5 Goals
  • Connor McDavid Over 0.5 Assists
  • Oilers -1.5 Game Spread

Oilers vs Golden Knights Odds

The Oilers are currently favored to win, with the moneyline set at -135. This means a $135 bet on Edmonton would return a profit of $100 if they triumph. The Golden Knights are +115 home underdogs, offering a potential return of $115 on a $100 wager.

Edmonton is listed at -1.5 (+170) on the puck line, while Vegas is +1.5 (-215). An Oilers puck line bet would require them to win by 2+ goals for a solid payout. The Golden Knights puck line bet would cash if they win outright or lose by a single tally.

The total for this contest is set at a healthy 6.5 goals, with the over at -105 and the under at -115. This elevated number indicates oddsmakers envision a barnburner between these high-powered offenses.

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Odds as of December 3, 2024 at ESPN Sportsbook. Grab an ESPN Bet promo to wager on Oilers vs Golden Knights tonight.

Projected Starting Goalies

The likely goalie matchup will be Stuart Skinner (8-6-2, 3.09 GAA, .887 Sv%) for the Oilers against Adin Hill (10-4-2, 2.85 GAA, .894 Sv%) for the Golden Knights.

Neither netminder has dazzled this season, with both sporting save percentages under .900 and goals-against averages near 3.00. In a game featuring elite offensive talents like McDavid, Draisaitl, and Eichel, Skinner and Hill could be in for a long night between the pipes.

With suspect goaltending on both ends and no shortage of scoring punch, the recipe is there for a potential over bonanza in Vegas. At -105 odds, the over 6.5 goals is my best bet, but don’t forget about that “McDavid’s Magic” parlay for a potential bigger payout.

The post Oilers vs Golden Knights Prediction, Odds & Starting Goalies – Tuesday Night Hockey appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The Detroit Red Wings (10-11-3) head to Beantown to battle the Boston Bruins (12-11-3) in an Original Six showdown on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Puck drop is slated for 7:00 PM Eastern Time at TD Garden, with streaming coverage available on ESPN+ and Hulu.

The Bruins enter as sizeable home favorites at -175, while the over/under is listed at 6 goals. Can the surging B’s continue their strong play under interim coach Joe Sacco and earn a key divisional win? Let’s take a closer look.

Here is our Red Wings vs Bruins prediction for Tuesday night.

Red Wings vs Bruins Prediction

I’m backing the Bruins to get it done at home. Boston has won four of their last six overall and appears to be figuring things out after a rocky start cost coach Jim Montgomery his job. The B’s depth and experience gives them the edge in this matchup.

David Pastrnak paces the Bruins attack with nine goals, while veteran Brad Marchand has dished out nine assists. Charlie Coyle has also contributed with four goals in his last five home appearances.

While Boston ranks just 30th in scoring (2.46 goals per game), they draw a favorable matchup against a struggling Red Wings defense allowing 3.17 goals against on average. Detroit has particularly scuffled on the road, going just 2-4 in their last six away from Little Caesars Arena.

The Red Wings will also be without star winger Patrick Kane, who remains sidelined on IR with an undisclosed injury. His absence puts even more pressure on Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond to carry the offense.

INJURY UPDATE: Per The Detroit Red Wings, F Patrick Kane has been placed on IR retroactive to 11/23/24. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/3y7Pt0Hti6

— Locked On Red Wings Podcast (@LO_RedWings) December 3, 2024

Between the pipes, the Bruins hold the advantage. The tandem of Jeremy Swayman (.892 SV%, 3.09 GAA) and Joonas Korpisalo (.907 SV%, 2.45 GAA, 2 SO) has rounded into form lately, combining for a stingy 2.00 GAA and .918 SV% over the last five games.

Meanwhile, the Red Wings face major question marks in net with Ville Husso (.818 SV%, 4.90 GAA) struggling mightily. Alex Lyon and Cam Talbot are both unavailable due to injury.

On the backend, the Bruins’ top pair of Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm, who have combined for 6.3 defensive point shares, matches up well against Detroit’s top scorers like Larkin and Raymond. As a team, Boston ranks a respectable 17th in goals allowed (3.08 per game).

While the Red Wings have some dangerous offensive weapons and have played better lately, the Bruins are the pick here. Boston is deeper, has a rest advantage, and much better goaltending. They’ve also dominated this rivalry in Boston (16-3 past 19 meetings). Take the B’s on the 60-minute line.

Tuesday Hockey Picks:

• Bruins Three-Way Line (-125)

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Red Wings vs Bruins Odds

The Bruins are solid -175 moneyline favorites, meaning a $175 bet would profit $100 if they win. The Red Wings are +245 underdogs – a $100 wager would return $245 if they pull the upset.

Boston is +140 to cover -1.5 goals, while Detroit is favored to stay within that margin at -167. Based on the juice, oddsmakers predict a close game that the Bruins win by 1-2 goals.

The total is set at 6 goals, with even -110 odds on both sides. With two bottom-10 offenses and some key injuries, bookmakers envision a lower-scoring, tight-checking affair. The rivals have actually trended towards the over, lately, however (7 of last 10 head-to-head have featured 6+ goals).

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Odds as of December 3, 2024 at BetMGM Sportsbook. Compare the latest NHL betting odds for Red Wings vs Bruins.

DET-BOS H2H History

The Bruins lead the all-time series against the Red Wings with a 135-130-19 record. Boston has won three of the last five meetings overall, including the most recent matchup 2-1 on Nov. 23, 2024.

Recent Results

When favored recently, the Bruins are 3-0 against the Red Wings, winning in regulation each time. The over has hit in three of the last four meetings, with the lone under coming in the most recent meeting.

The Bruins are playing some of their best hockey of the season right now, winners of four of six since Sacco took over. The offense has come alive lately, too, scoring six goals in two of their last three outings. Don’t expect that to faze a surging Boston squad though.

Detroit has competed admirably and played .500 hockey over their last 10 games. They’ve overachieved a bit based on underlying metrics, however, as the Red Wings rank bottom-10 in expected goals for (xGF), high-danger chances for (HDCF), and scoring chances for (SCF) at 5v5. Without a full complement of goalies, those flaws could get exposed.

The post Red Wings vs Bruins Prediction, Pick & Odds (Tuesday, Dec. 3) appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

After an unbelievable college football rivalry week that saw Michigan upset Ohio State 13-10, opening the door for Penn State, the matchups are set for all the conference championship games.

The top matchup pits Georgia as an underdog against Texas in the SEC Championship. The table below lists the spread, moneyline, and total for every 2024 CFB conference championship game, along with the date and time.

Under the table, find my favorite conference championship lines to target at this early stage. Games are listed in chronological order.

2024 CFB Conference Championship Game Odds

The tightest spread on the board is in the MAC, where Miami (OH) is favored by just 1 point over rival Ohio. In the Big Ten, Oregon lays a field goal to Penn State, while Army is giving 4 points to Tulane in the American.

The most notable spread, however, is in the SEC Championship Game. Georgia enters as a slight underdog against Texas in the SEC Championship odds. The Bulldogs dominated the Longhorns in the regular season and are 8-4 ATS as an underdog under Kirby Smart.

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Odds as of Nov. 30 on DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook.

Georgia vs Texas Odds & Early Prediction

In what’s likely the best matchup of all the 2024 CFB conference championship games, Georgia battles Texas in Atlanta. The Bulldogs enter as small underdogs in this rematch of their early-season meeting. Back then, the Dawgs stunned the then No. 1-ranked Longhorns by a 30-15 score in Austin.

UGA’s defense was utterly dominant in the first meeting. They recorded seven sacks and forced four turnovers, which the offense converted into 17 points. Running back Trevor Etienne scored three TDs, with two set up by cornerback Daylen Everette’s takeaways.

Georgia solidified their place in the championship with a wild eight-overtime win over Georgia Tech. The Longhorns, meanwhile, secured their SEC Championship berth by fending off Texas A&M to win in their regular-season finale.

Prior to this game, Texas led the all-time series 4-1, including a 28-21 win in the 2019 Sugar Bowl. The Longhorns got a wake-up call with the loss against UGA, but it’s hard to argue they’ve deserved to be favored for the rematch.

I like the Dawgs here to reclaim the SEC Championship after falling to Bama last year. UGA sacked the Texas quarterbacks seven times in their first game and clearly won the battle in the trenches. Carson Beck also threw three picks in that game, which I don’t see happening again. The score wasn’t reflective of how dominant UGA truly was.

• Georgia vs Texas Pick: UGA ML (+104)

Penn State vs Oregon Odds & Early Prediction

Oregon (12-0, 8-4 ATS) has been the class of the Big Ten all season long. The Ducks have emerged as the clear favorite to win the conference in their first year as a member. They capped off their regular season with a dominant 49-21 win over rival Washington, showcasing their offensive firepower and elite defense.

Penn State (11-1, 9-3 ATS) has been on a roll of its own, covering the spread in four straight games. The Nittany Lions punctuated their regular season with a 44-7 drubbing of Maryland. They outgained the Terrapins 412-194 in total yardage.

See you in Indy. #WeAre x @B1GFootball pic.twitter.com/glT5306J7J

— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) November 30, 2024

The Nittany Lions’ offense has found new life down the stretch behind quarterback Drew Allar and dynamic tight end Tyler Warren. Since losing to Ohio State, Penn State is averaging 39.5 points over their last four games.

While PSU is catching fire at the right time, James Franklin’s track record in big games can’t be ignored. The veteran coach holds a troubling 1-13 record against teams ranked in the top five of the AP poll.

This Oregon team feels like a team of destiny, and I trust Dillon Gabriel much more than I trust Drew Allar. The Nittany Lions faced one elite team this season — Ohio State. In that game, they couldn’t generate any explosive plays and mustered just 270 yards of offense.

• Penn State vs Oregon pick: Oregon -3 (-110)

Clemson vs SMU Odds & Early Prediction

Clemson (9-3, 7-1) is back in the ACC Championship Game for the 10th time in program history after getting an assist from Syracuse in Week 14. The Orange rallied from a 21-0 deficit to stun Miami, 42-38, opening the door for the Tigers to reach Charlotte.

It was a fortunate turn of events for Clemson after stumbling in their regular-season finale against rival South Carolina. The 17-14 loss snapped a seven-game winning streak. It also likely ended any chance of the Tigers earning a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff.

We’re not done yet. pic.twitter.com/651A8kTECB

— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) December 1, 2024

SMU (11-1, 8-0) had already wrapped up its spot in the title game. Still, they put an exclamation point on a stellar regular season with a 38-6 rout of Cal. The Mustangs have been a revelation in their first year in the ACC, with their only blemish coming in a Week 2 loss to BYU.

Quarterback Kevin Jennings has blossomed into a star under head coach Rhett Lashlee. He’s thrown for 3,215 yards and 32 touchdowns against just five interceptions. SMU’s high-powered offense averages 40.2 points per game and will test a Clemson defense that has been stout most of the year.

The Tigers counter with their own game-changing quarterback in Cade Klubnik, who has accounted for 36 total touchdowns. Clemson has the talent to win if Klubnik can avoid the critical mistakes that plagued him against South Carolina.

In a toss-up between two evenly matched teams, I’m rolling with the Mustangs to take the W. SMU’s offense should make just enough plays to outduel the Tigers and clinch a spot in the playoff.

• Clemson vs SMU Pick: SMU ML (-120)

The post College Football Conference Championship Odds – Georgia vs Texas, Penn State vs Oregon & More appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.

The San Francisco 49ers (5-6) visit the red-hot Buffalo Bills (9-2) on Sunday Night Football in a Week 13 clash between early Super Bowl favorites now heading in opposite directions.

The Bills have won six straight, including an impressive 30-21 victory over Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs before their Week 12 bye. Meanwhile, the injury-plagued Niners are reeling from back-to-back losses, mustering just 10 points in a 38-10 defeat at Green Bay — their worst loss under Kyle Shanahan.

Here’s our 49ers vs Bills prediction and the latest odds for Sunday Night Football.

San Francisco 49ers vs Buffalo Bills Odds

The San Francisco 49ers vs Buffalo Bills odds show Buffalo as 6-point home favorites, translating to a 69.2% implied probability. The Bills need to win by a touchdown or more to cover the spread.

This line opened with the Bills as 6.5-point favorites before ticking down to 6 at some sportsbooks. With the 49ers earning sharp money, the line movement indicates respected bettors believe San Francisco is undervalued. The total opened at 46.5 points and has steadily fallen to 44.5 due to concerns over potential winter weather impacting the offenses.

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Odds as of November 29, 2024 at FanDuel Sportsbook. Access the latest NFL betting odds here.

49ers Betting Outlook

Injuries have derailed the 49ers’ 2024 season, but Kyle Shanahan’s squad has remained competitive in the daunting NFC West. Despite losing Trent Williams and Nick Bosa, San Francisco still boasts the NFL’s 5th-ranked defense in yards allowed.

Kyle Shanahan on critics: “When it comes to grading myself, I’m not gonna grade myself. I’m gonna work as hard as I can. I’m the same guy right now that I’ve always been. We’ve gotta overcome some things that we’re in right now and I believe we can.” pic.twitter.com/QobkNukVnV

— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) November 27, 2024

Quarterback Brock Purdy is expected to play after missing Week 12 with a shoulder injury. The 49ers managed just 10 points with journeyman Brandon Allen under center in a 38-10 loss to the Packers, their worst defeat under Shanahan. Getting Purdy back would provide a major boost to an offense averaging just 8.5 PPG over the last two weeks.

Star running back Christian McCaffrey returned from a foot injury in Week 10 but has yet to regain his All-Pro form. The dynamic playmaker has totaled just 149 rushing yards and 132 receiving yards without a touchdown in three games. Establishing the run and controlling the clock will be critical against Buffalo’s explosive offense.

Bills Betting Outlook

The Bills have been the NFL’s hottest team since mid-October, rattling off six straight victories. NFL MVP favorite Josh Allen has been magnificent, completing 64% of his passes for 2,543 yards and 18 touchdowns against just five interceptions.

Just Josh Allen doing Josh Allen things.@ECMCBuffalo | #BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/OkMQkJvHfF

— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) November 30, 2024

Buffalo’s offense ranks 3rd in scoring at 29.1 PPG and should get a boost with the returns of receivers Amari Cooper and Keon Coleman from injury. The Bills have scored 30+ points in all five home games this season.

Defensively, the Bills have been stout against the run, allowing just 119.1 yards per game (13th). They’ll need to contain McCaffrey and force Purdy to beat them through the air in potentially inclement weather. Buffalo’s secondary has been vulnerable at times, yielding 210 passing yards per game (12th).

49ers vs Bills Prediction

While the Bills have been rolling, I believe this spread is an overreaction to the 49ers’ blowout loss in Green Bay. San Francisco was missing several key starters in that game, including Purdy, Williams, and Bosa. With Purdy trending towards playing and the Niners getting healthier, I expect a much more competitive contest.

Furthermore, the 49ers have excelled in cold-weather games under Shanahan. In three night games with temperatures below 40 degrees, San Francisco has covered the spread each time as an underdog. With snow and freezing conditions in the forecast, the elements could help neutralize Buffalo’s passing attack.

The spread has already moved from 49ers +6.5 to +6 at some books, a sign that respected money is backing San Francisco. I’ll gladly take the points with a desperate 49ers squad in a tough environment. Shanahan is too good of a coach to let his team get blown out in back-to-back weeks.

While I don’t love either side of the total, the Under is enticing given the weather concerns and San Francisco’s offensive struggles. However, I’ll stick with the 49ers as my best bet to cover the inflated spread in a closer-than-expected game. Let’s back Jimmy G’s former squad to keep things competitive in Orchard Park.

SNF Picks & Prediction:

• 49ers +6 (-110)

The post San Francisco 49ers vs Buffalo Bills Prediction, Pick & Odds for Sunday Night Football appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.