Week 5 Opening Line Analysis and Betting Predictions

In this report, I will analyze the opening lines of selected games and offer a brief analysis of my initial leaning. Despite not winning all our bets last weekend, we also didn’t suffer any losses, finishing 2-0-1 ATS.As a sports betting writer, I’m disappointed with the upcoming dissolution of the Pac-12 after this season. However, I’m also intrigued by the potential first-round playoff game between Oregon and Colorado in next season’s expanded playoff format. But before that dream scenario, Colorado must face nightmares, beginning with hosting USC this weekend. USC has a statistically better offense than the team that recently scored 42 points against Colorado. This game will test Colorado’s resilience, as we find out more about their character in the face of adversity. Similarly, Notre Dame, who lost a heartbreaker to Ohio State, now faces Duke, a surprise team in the ACC.

Here are the opening lines for the selected games:

No. 8 USC vs. Colorado (+24.5/73.5) Sat. Noon EST

I’m not sure why this game has a Noon EST kickoff, but USC supporters shouldn’t be overly concerned. The Big Ten, USC’s future conference, has eight teams in the Eastern Time Zone, and Fox frequently schedules marquee games at noon (EST). Colorado’s recent Cinderella season will likely come to an end when they face the nation’s highest-powered offense. I don’t have a side bet for this matchup, but I’m leaning towards the UNDER, as Colorado may continue struggling to move the ball while USC’s head coach is less likely to run up the score as Oregon’s coach did. PICK: UNDER 73.5

Virginia vs. Boston College (-3/55.5) Sat. 2:00 PM EST

Virginia has been the feel-good story of the year after enduring a tragedy last season. However, they haven’t performed well away from their home stadium this season, making them a profitable team to bet against. Boston College has a history of success against Virginia and is favored in this game. PICK: Boston College -3

No. 2 Michigan vs. Nebraska (+18/41) Sat. 3:30 PM EST

With Michigan’s head coach back on the sidelines, the team will likely focus on winning with style. Nebraska has seen an improvement in scoring since making a change at QB. We anticipate a higher-scoring game in this Big Ten matchup. PICK: OVER 41

Illinois vs. Purdue (-2.5/53.5) Sat. 3:30 PM EST

Illinois’ QB has shown potential but struggles with interceptions. The team’s defense has also shown signs of improvement. The line may shift closer to a pick’em by kickoff, so take advantage of the current line and bet on Illinois to cover. PICK: Illinois +2.5

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