While you were snoozing (or clubbing), the College Football Playoff race got jolted and Michigan State’s resume took a hit. Arizona, a 23-point underdog, took down Oregon in Eugene. Oh, and Michigan took another PR hit, given that it fired Arizona’s Rich Rodriguez to hire Brady Hoke.
On to the games …
North Texas (plus 12) at Indiana: Indiana, aka Team Schizophrenia, plays well every other week. So I suppose it’s time to take the Hoosiers.
Purdue (plus 8.5) at Illinois: Yes, these coaches are a combined 1-25 in Big Ten play. But, hey, someone has to beat the spread. I’ll take Wes Lunt & Co.
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Ohio State (minus 7) at Maryland: The Buckeyes are susceptible to the loooooooong ball. And Maryland has two QBs who can sling it. Go with the Terps.
Wisconsin (minus 7.5) at Northwestern: How’s this for amazing: The Wildcats entered the season 12-26 against the spread as a home favorite since 2001. Now they’re 12-28 (Cal, NIU). After entering the season 17-6 ATS since 2001 as a road underdog, NU thumped Penn State in State College. One more: The Wildcats are 9-1 ATS since 1988 when hosting Wisconsin. So don’t fight it. Take the Wildcats.
Michigan (plus 2) at Rutgers: Every week I write the same thing: Who on earth is betting on Michigan? Rutgers all the way.
Nebraska (plus 7) at Michigan State: MSU now has no quality victories (Jacksonville State, Eastern Michigan, Wyoming) or quality losses (Oregon). Sparty wins but the Huskers keep it close.
Last week: 4-5.
Season: 21-25-1.
Twitter @TeddyGreenstein