“Bear Bets” are real wagers that Chris “The Bear” Fallica is actually making.
2024 College Football Week 5 predictions are here!
Just like last season, he will continue with weekly picks posts and a gambling show.
As always, he anticipates sharing his top football bets and insightful gambling nuggets (Bear Bytes) with everyone throughout the season.
For those eager to place a few bets on the significant games, he has valuable insights to offer.
Let’s aim for some enjoyment and, hopefully, a profit.
Here are his favorite wagers for Week 5.
Record
Last Week: 1-5
Season: 9-14
(All times ET)
Saturday, Sept. 28
Minnesota @ No. 12 Michigan (noon, FOX and FOX Sports app)
The Gophers struggled defensively, allowing 272 rushing yards against Iowa last week. Therefore, he is inclined to take Minnesota with the points against Michigan, a team that managed only 32 passing yards but rushed for 290 in their surprising win over USC. The uncertainty surrounding Colston Loveland’s availability could further hinder the Wolverines’ passing attack.
Maryland @ Indiana (noon, BTN)
He believes Indiana has potential, reminiscent of their previous unbeaten streak against top teams. With a scoring margin of +165, they rank just behind elite teams like Ole Miss and Texas. However, Maryland poses a significant challenge with their dynamic quarterback-receiver duo of Billy Edwards Jr. and Tai Felton. This matchup will test the Hoosiers’ defense.
Nebraska @ Purdue (noon, Peacock)
Despite reservations, he sees value in taking Purdue at home, especially considering their recent defensive struggles, allowing 104 points in the last two games.
No. 18 Iowa State @ Houston (7 p.m., FS1)
No. 19 Illinois @ No. 9 Penn State (7:30 p.m., NBC)
His journey through the Big Ten wraps up in State College, where the Nittany Lions are favored more than expected against the undefeated Fighting Illini. James Franklin has a remarkable record of 17-0-1 against the spread when favored between seven and 24 points since 2000. He anticipates that Penn State will effectively utilize their passing game, forcing Illinois to adapt to a trailing position, a scenario they have yet to face this season. Given the talent disparity, he expects the Nittany Lions to secure a decisive victory.
No. 8 Oregon @ UCLA (11 p.m., FOX and FOX Sports app)
Oregon enters this matchup with confidence after a week off, following their standout performance against Oregon State. If they build a significant lead, Dante Moore may see playing time, which could keep the offensive strategies diverse. UCLA has faced tough competition recently, and this game may prove to be another challenging chapter in their schedule.
UNDERDOGS TO PLAY ON THE MONEYLINE
Northern Illinois +230
UL Lafayette +140
North Carolina +125
Maryland +230
Auburn +130
Louisville +205
Minnesota +265
