2024 College Football bowl game picks, predictions: Back Memphis to win, cover. Bowl season presents one of the most challenging environments for betting in college football. Many teams’ motivations, roster changes, and depth chart configurations remain uncertain until game day.
Some players have entered the transfer portal, leaving their status unclear, while others remain on campus but will not participate in the bowl game. This lack of clarity means that key player absences often remain unknown until kickoff.
Additionally, coaching changes can complicate matters, with interim coaches stepping in during this critical time. These coaches may not be the ones leading the team in the following season, adding another layer of unpredictability.
With this context in mind, here are some recommended wagers for the early bowl season.
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No. 25 Memphis vs. West Virginia (9 p.m., Dec. 17, ESPN)
The Memphis Tigers exemplify a team eager to compete. As a Group of Five team facing a Power Five opponent, the stakes are high. Even if West Virginia isn’t a top-tier team, the significance of the matchup motivates Memphis players and coaching staff to aim for victory.
With minimal players in the transfer portal and a full roster following a recent victory against Tulane, Memphis is in a strong position. The team has demonstrated its postseason prowess, with impressive wins in its last three bowl appearances, including a 25-10 victory over Florida Atlantic and a 36-26 win against Iowa State last season.
On the other hand, the West Virginia Mountaineers finished their season at 6-6 and recently parted ways with head coach Neal Brown. Their last outing ended in a 52-15 defeat to Texas Tech, raising questions about their motivation for the upcoming bowl game against Memphis in Frisco, Texas.
With several players entering the portal and injuries affecting practice participation, the team’s focus appears to be on transitioning to next season rather than competing in the bowl game.
Given these factors, backing Memphis to win and cover the spread seems like a sound decision.
Notre Dame to win CFP
Before jumping to conclusions about this wager, it’s essential to clarify the reasoning behind it.
This bet isn’t based on the belief that Notre Dame is the best team in the postseason or a surefire title contender. Instead, it hinges on the specific matchup and circumstances.
In their opening playoff game, Notre Dame faces Indiana. The Fighting Irish possess superior talent, which should enable them to wear down the Hoosiers over four quarters. While covering the touchdown spread is plausible, the primary goal is simply to secure a win.
A victory would set up a matchup against Georgia, which will be without its starting quarterback. While some may view this as advantageous, it’s crucial to remember that the backup quarterback’s presence is indicative of the challenges the team might face.
DraftKings has already released a look-ahead line for this game, with Notre Dame favored. The question remains: can Georgia rally around Gunner Stockton for a playoff win? The answer is uncertain, especially given their struggles on offense without a reliable running game.
Thus, it’s clear that Notre Dame has a viable path to victory.
Should the Irish advance, they will likely face one of three teams—Penn State, Boise State, or SMU. A probable matchup against Penn State would make for a closely contested game, allowing for strategic betting opportunities with a +800 ticket in hand.
This wager represents a strategic option for Notre Dame fans as they navigate their path through the College Football Playoff.
