2024 CFP quarterfinals picks indicate Georgia is likely to win and cover against Notre Dame. As the college football playoffs narrow down to the Elite Eight, fans eagerly anticipate four thrilling quarterfinal matchups this week.
In this exciting lineup, the top-seeded Oregon Ducks find themselves in the role of underdog, while the No. 5 seed Texas Longhorns are favored by two touchdowns. With these dynamics in play, fans hope for competitive games as they search for potential winners in the quarterfinals.
TUESDAY, DEC. 31
No. 6 Penn State (-11, O/U 53) vs. No. 3 Boise State
Can any of the underdogs rise to the occasion? The No. 6 seed enters this matchup as a double-digit favorite, highlighting the questionable seeding in this tournament.
Boise State’s standout running back, Ashton Jeanty, had an impressive season, but he now faces a significant challenge against tougher competition. Earlier in the season, Boise State lost a close game to Oregon by just a field goal, showcasing their potential. Meanwhile, Penn State delivered a strong performance against SMU in Round 1, winning 38-10, though they only managed 325 yards and 18 first downs.
While Penn State is expected to advance, the prediction leans towards the under for the total points at 53. The Nittany Lions’ offense lacks explosiveness, and their solid defense should keep the score low.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1
No. 5 Texas (-13.5, O/U 52) vs. No. 4 Arizona State
Another significant point spread is on display here. Texas triumphed over Clemson by 14 points in the opening round, needing a crucial goal line stand to secure the cover.
In this matchup, the prediction favors taking the points with Arizona State. The Sun Devils possess a strong running game that could help control the clock, and they have shown decent run defense. This dynamic places pressure on Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has been inconsistent. Given the large margins of victory for favorites in the first round, this line may be slightly inflated.
No. 8 Ohio State (-2.5, O/U 55) vs. No. 1 Oregon
This matchup is a rematch of their October clash, where Oregon narrowly defeated Ohio State 32-31. The Ducks, having gone undefeated throughout the season, face a challenging draw against a formidable opponent in the quarterfinals.
While leaning towards Oregon for the win, the official wager rests on the Over. The first encounter saw both teams combine for nearly 500 yards of offense, averaging about seven yards per play. Oregon’s recent performance against Penn State, where they allowed significant yardage, suggests an exciting game ahead.
No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 2 Georgia (-2, O/U 44)
In this matchup, the conference champion Notre Dame may question whether they would have been better off losing their conference title game. Georgia faces a Notre Dame team that could be underrated, as critics often recall the Irish’s past struggles in crucial moments.
Is this Notre Dame team different? Perhaps. However, Georgia’s head coach Kirby Smart has had extra time to prepare, and the Bulldogs have faced a significantly tougher schedule than the Irish. This factor could play a crucial role in the outcome of the game.
