CFB Week 4 Best Bets
Top Matchups and Predictions
Week 4 of the college football season features several intriguing matchups with potential playoff implications. Here are a few games that demand your attention⁚
- #6 Ohio State at #9 Notre Dame (Neutral Site)⁚ This clash of powerhouse programs is a must-watch. Ohio State boasts a dynamic offense, while Notre Dame relies on a stingy defense. Expect a close, hard-fought battle.
- #18 Wisconsin at #12 Notre Dame (Neutral Site)⁚ Another top-25 matchup at Soldier Field٫ this game pits two of the nation’s best defenses against each other. Points will be at a premium in this defensive slugfest.
- #4 Michigan at Maryland⁚ Michigan, fresh off a dominant win, faces a tricky road test against a Maryland team capable of pulling off an upset. Look for Michigan to rely on their strong running game.
- Colorado at Oregon⁚ Colorado has been one of the season’s early surprises, while Oregon aims to rebound after a tough loss. This Pac-12 matchup could be a high-scoring affair.
- Florida State at Clemson⁚ Clemson looks to maintain its dominance in the ACC against a resurgent Florida State squad. Expect a raucous atmosphere in Death Valley for this conference clash.
These are just a few of the exciting games on tap for Week 4. Be sure to check out the full schedule and make your picks for what promises to be another thrilling weekend of college football action.
Expert Picks Against the Spread
Week 4 presents some interesting opportunities for those who like to dabble in the art of picking games against the spread. Here are a few expert picks to consider⁚
- Maryland (+17) vs. #4 Michigan⁚ While Michigan is a heavy favorite, the Terrapins have enough offensive firepower to keep it within the spread at home. Michigan’s offense has looked sluggish at times, and Maryland could capitalize.
- Mississippi (-21.5) vs. Georgia Tech⁚ Lane Kiffin’s high-octane offense should have no problem putting up points against a struggling Georgia Tech defense. Look for the Rebels to cover the spread comfortably.
- Baylor (+17) vs. #3 Texas⁚ Texas is riding high٫ but Baylor has the defensive capability to slow them down. This line feels inflated٫ making Baylor an intriguing underdog pick to cover the spread.
- Missouri (-1.5) vs. Memphis⁚ Missouri has been a pleasant surprise this season٫ while Memphis has struggled. Look for the Tigers to continue their winning ways and cover the spread at home.
- Oregon (-16.5) First-Half Spread vs. Colorado⁚ Oregon’s offense is explosive and should come out firing against a Colorado defense that has been susceptible to giving up early points;
Remember, betting against the spread always carries inherent risks. These picks are based on expert analysis and early-season trends but should not be considered guarantees. Do your research, consider all factors, and bet responsibly.
Over/Under Picks
Week 4 offers a mixed bag of high-scoring and defensive slugfests, making for some intriguing Over/Under betting opportunities. Here are a few expert picks for those looking to capitalize⁚
- Clemson vs. NC State Under 48⁚ Both teams boast strong defenses, and points could be at a premium in this ACC showdown. Expect a tightly contested, low-scoring affair.
- Georgia Southern vs. Ball State Over 53.5⁚ Both teams have shown a propensity for offensive outbursts, and their defenses can be porous. Expect a high-scoring, back-and-forth contest.
- Ohio State vs. Notre Dame Over 54.5⁚ While both teams possess strong defenses٫ the offensive firepower on display is undeniable. Look for a few explosive plays to push this game over the total.
- Texas A&M vs. Auburn Under 49.5⁚ Both teams have struggled offensively at times this season, and their defenses have shown signs of life. Expect a defensive struggle, keeping the total under the projected line.
- Utah vs. Arizona State Over 56.5⁚ Utah’s offense can put up points in a hurry, and Arizona State’s defense has struggled to contain opponents. Look for the Utes to lead the way in a high-scoring matchup.
Over/Under betting requires careful consideration of offensive and defensive matchups, along with potential game scripts. Analyze the matchups, factor in playing styles, and bet accordingly.
Best Value Bets
Week 4 presents some intriguing value opportunities for savvy bettors willing to look beyond the marquee matchups. Here are a few potential gems⁚
- Missouri (+1.5) vs. Memphis⁚ Missouri’s offense has shown signs of life, and they have the home-field advantage. Getting points against a Memphis team that has struggled on the road presents excellent value.
- Duke (+7) vs. Notre Dame⁚ Duke is for real this year٫ boasting a balanced attack and a stingy defense. Getting a touchdown against a Notre Dame team still trying to find its offensive footing is a tempting proposition.
- Washington State (+3) vs. Utah⁚ Washington State’s defense has been surprisingly stout, and they’ll be fired up for this Pac-12 showdown. Getting points at home against a Utah team prone to inconsistency makes for a solid value bet.
- Texas Tech (+9.5) vs. Texas⁚ Texas Tech’s high-powered offense could pose problems for a Texas defense that has shown vulnerabilities. Getting nearly double-digit points against a rival in a game that could turn into a shootout offers significant value.
- Troy (+17.5) vs. Ole Miss⁚ Troy is a well-coached team capable of controlling the clock and keeping things close. Getting a significant point cushion against an Ole Miss team known for occasional lapses in focus is worth considering.
Remember, value bets often involve backing underdogs or identifying lines that don’t accurately reflect a team’s true potential. Careful research and a keen eye for mismatches can lead to profitable wagers.
Upset Alerts
Week 4 offers prime opportunities for those seeking potential upsets that could shake up the rankings. Here are a few games where the underdog might just have a fighting chance⁚
- Maryland (+17) at No. 4 Michigan⁚ Maryland’s potent offense, led by quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa, could test a Michigan defense adjusting to new coordinator Jesse Minter. While a road upset is a tall order, Maryland has the firepower to keep it closer than expected.
- California (+4) at Washington⁚ California’s defense has been a revelation٫ leading the nation in fewest points allowed. Traveling to a Washington team relying heavily on a young quarterback could spell trouble for the Huskies.
- Wake Forest (+3.5) at Virginia⁚ Wake Forest’s veteran quarterback Sam Hartman, facing his former team, will be motivated to deliver a statement performance. The Demon Deacons’ experience could be the difference-maker in a tightly contested ACC matchup.
- Georgia Southern (+6.5) at Ball State⁚ Georgia Southern’s triple-option attack can be a nightmare to prepare for, and they’ve had an extra week to get ready. Ball State’s defense could struggle to contain the Eagles’ unique offensive scheme.
- UTSA (+10.5) at Texas State⁚ UTSA٫ a perennial Conference USA contender٫ boasts a dynamic offense capable of putting up points in bunches. Texas State٫ while improved٫ might struggle to keep pace with the Roadrunners’ offensive firepower.
Upsets are never a certainty, but these matchups present intriguing possibilities for underdogs to defy expectations; Keep a close eye on these games, as they could provide some thrilling surprises.