BYU (10-2-0) at Colorado (9-3-0)
- When: Dec 28 2024, 7:30 PM
- Where: Alamodome, San Antonio, TX
- Where to watch: ABC
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
BYU (#17) @ Colorado (#23)
Moneyline
BYU (#17) +145
Colorado (#23) -170
BYU (#17) @ Colorado (#23)
Point Spread
BYU (#17) 3.0 (-105)
Colorado (#23) -3.0 (-115)
BYU (#17) @ Colorado (#23)
Total
Over 54.5 (-110)
Under 54.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
BYU: Jake Retzlaff 2745 Yds
Colorado: Shedeur Sanders 3926 Yds
Team Stats
| BYU | Colorado | |
| 10-2 | Record | 9-3 |
| 5-1 | Away | 4-2 |
| 7-4-1 | ATS | 9-3-0 |
| 9-3-0 | O/U | 6-5-1 |
Game Preview
No. 17 BYU and No. 23 Colorado meet on Saturday night in the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, offering a rare intra-conference bowl matchup between two Big 12 rivals who did not face each other during the regular season. With Colorado favored by 3.0 points and the total set at 54.5, this game presents intriguing opportunities for bettors.
BYU Cougars: A Season of Redemption
The Cougars (10-2) started the season with a 9-0 run, climbing as high as No. 6 in the CFP rankings. However, back-to-back losses to Kansas and eventual Big 12 champion Arizona State derailed their hopes of a conference championship and playoff appearance. Despite the late-season setbacks, BYU has shown resilience, turning around last year’s 5-7 record.
Quarterback Jake Retzlaff has been a key part of BYU’s success, throwing for 2,796 yards and 20 touchdowns. His top target, Chase Roberts, leads the team with 843 receiving yards and four touchdowns, while Darius Lassiter adds 679 yards and four scores. However, Lassiter will miss the first half of the Alamo Bowl due to an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, which could impact BYU’s early offensive rhythm.
Betting Angle: BYU’s ability to cover depends on how quickly they can adjust without Lassiter and whether Retzlaff can maintain his efficiency against a strong Colorado defense.
Colorado Buffaloes: Star Power and Momentum
The Buffaloes (9-3) have been one of the most exciting teams in college football, thanks to the dynamic duo of Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Sanders has been nothing short of exceptional, completing 74.2% of his passes for 3,926 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions. Meanwhile, Hunter has dominated on both sides of the ball, with 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 receiving touchdowns, alongside four interceptions and 11 passes defended as a cornerback.
Hunter and Sanders, projected top-three NFL Draft picks, are expected to play in the Alamo Bowl, adding significant firepower to Colorado’s offense. Complementing them are receivers LaJohntay Wester (880 yards, 10 touchdowns) and Will Sheppard (617 yards, six touchdowns). Freshman Drelon Miller has also emerged late in the season, adding depth to Colorado’s already potent offense.
Betting Angle: With their star players in action and a balanced attack, Colorado’s high-powered offense makes them strong candidates to cover the spread, especially with BYU’s defense showing vulnerabilities.
Key Matchups:
– Shedeur Sanders vs. BYU Secondary:
Sanders’ precision and ability to spread the ball will test BYU’s defense, particularly with multiple elite receiving options at his disposal.
– Jake Retzlaff vs. Colorado Defense:
Retzlaff must find ways to exploit Colorado’s defense early, especially with Lassiter out for the first half.
– Travis Hunter’s Dual Impact:
Hunter’s ability to dominate both offensively and defensively will be a game-changer, as BYU must account for him on every snap.
Predictions and Best Bets:
– Spread: Colorado -3.0
With their star players active and offensive depth, the Buffaloes should have enough firepower to outpace BYU and cover the spread.
– Total: Over 54.5
Both teams boast strong offenses, and Colorado’s explosive playmakers should help push the game past the total.
– Player Prop to Watch: Shedeur Sanders Over 300.5 Passing Yards
Sanders has been dominant all season, and his elite accuracy and weapons make this a favorable spot for another big performance.
Conclusion:
The Alamo Bowl features two teams with contrasting strengths and storylines. Colorado’s star-studded roster, led by Sanders and Hunter, gives them the edge in firepower and consistency. While BYU has had a remarkable season, the absence of Lassiter in the first half and Colorado’s balanced attack may prove too much to overcome. Bettors should back Colorado to cover and lean toward the over in what promises to be a high-scoring, entertaining showdown.
Alamo Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Colorado 32-27
Expert Pick: Colorado -3 (-115) & Over 54½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357
- Alamo Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
