Category: Action

Sportsbooks Obligations to Bettors

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Last week, a good friend of mine traveled to Boston, MA to partake in the 2020 MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference (“Conference”). According to its official website, the conference’s goal “is to provide a forum for industry professionals (executives and leading researchers) and students to discuss the increasing role of analytics in the global sports industry” and it has attracted icons such as Mike Leach, Larry Fitzgerald, Daryl Morey and Matthew Berry among others. The conference has grown steadily over the years and is regarded as a “can’t-miss” event in the world of sports analytics.

In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Murphy v. NCAA gave states and other governmental bodies the right to authorize sports betting. This in turn led some state legislatures to draft legislation that would legalize sports betting in their states. As sports wagering has grown at an exponential rate in states where it is legal, there are more and more discussions on different policies that must be enacted in order to maintain fairness and integrity. With the Houston Astros scandal and sports betting being the talk of the Conference, a hypothetical was asked among the patrons: Do leagues have a responsibility to bettors when the integrity of the game is challenged? For example, should sportsbooks/leagues reimburse bettors who bet the Yankees to win the 2017 ALCS?

At first thought it sounds like a great idea. There is conclusive evidence that proves the Astros players knowingly cheated during the 2017 playoffs. Thus, any bettor who had the Red Sox, Yankees or Dodgers (the three teams the Astros beat that postseason) should be reimbursed. While the numbers undoubtedly say the Astros benefited from their illegal actions, are we 100% certain the Red Sox, Yankees or Dodgers would have beaten them if the Astros hadn’t cheated? To that, I believe there is still uncertainty which would make it impossible for sportsbooks to reimburse fans who bet against the Astros and I, myself, am a die-hard Yankees fan. Additionally, based on the evidence it looks as if the Astros cheated for the majority of the 2017 season. Are sportsbooks supposed to refund anyone who placed a bet on a game in which the Astros were participating in and won? What about the games in which the Astros lost? Do sportsbooks allow fans to keep their money over a game that was inherently ‘rigged’? Additionally, baseball in general has been tainted the past 20-30 years over player’s alleged steroid use and there are still many players who juice today. Steroid usage is strictly prohibited by Major League Baseball (“MLB”) and players who engage in the illegal activity would be “challenging the integrity of the game.” Would sportsbooks have to refund those fans who bet on MLB games in which there were players who were doping? When it’s all said and done it is a completely ridiculous notion due to the unpredictability of sports in general.

Sports have been entertaining the masses for years due to their randomness. In essence, sports are truly a game of chance. Yes, there are players and teams that are vastly more talented than others, however in the grand scheme of things anybody can beat anybody on any given day in the world of sports. Just look at all the monumental upsets that have happened just in the last 15 years. In 2008, the New York Giants (+14/+475) shocked the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl which cost the Patriots an undefeated season. In 2007, Appalachian State (+42.5) upset the Michigan Wolverines in the Big House which many consider to be the greatest upset this century. While there wasn’t foul play in either of these games, it goes to show that there are no sure bets in sports. Even the heaviest of favorites can fall prey to the underdog. Ultimately, sports are a game of chance and bettors are aware of this fact each time they enter a sportsbook to place a bet.

Lastly, sportsbooks are essentially just third-party vendors. They share no ties to the sports leagues in which they offer fans odds. Therefore, they have no duty to ensure fairness or integrity to the fans who place bets. Now, in a few years if leagues themselves ever wish to offer odds to fans then I believe they would need to ensure there is no foul play in their games. And if there was found to be any then there would need to be reimbursement options for fans who placed bets. Leagues can control what occurs in their games. Sportsbooks have no control because they have no direct relationship to any professional sports leagues. Until the leagues themselves offer fans odds, then bettors ought to understand there is a great risk in wagering on sports due to the unpredictability of athletic games and should assume all liability.

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God 3-7-20

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action, NCAA Basketball

Howdy everyone and welcome back to this week’s version of Picks from God. Well folks, it can’t get much worse than last week: Winless, 0-4, down 4 units, etc. The last 2 weeks the Picks are 1-7 and let me tell you the ego is hurting. I have friends telling me they read this stupid blog just so they know which picks not to take. Honestly, it’s just nice to know people take the time to read my hard work. I’m going to continue to give the people what they want as I have decided to start a biweekly podcast, “Highly Educated,” which will discuss sports gambling as well as the top stories around the sports world. You can thank me later. That being said, let’s get to this week’s picks.

*Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700.

Arkansas vs. Texas A&M +3.5: Although the Aggies didn’t cover last weekend at LSU, they really did look good last weekend in Baton Rouge and were within 5 points with around 5 minutes to play. However, a pair of missed free throws allowed the Tigers to go on a run which put the game out of reach. Coach Buzz Williams got his first signature as head coach with win on the road at Auburn on Wednesday and the Aggies will hope to keep the momentum going when Arkansas comes to Reed Arena Saturday. Boosted by a very weak non-conference schedule, the Razorbacks 19-11 record truly does not reflect how average of a basketball team they really are. They really struggle on the road as well and I think the Aggies have what it takes to not only cover, but potentially win the game as well.

Oklahoma State vs. Texas -3.5: It pains me to say this, but the Horns are playing great basketball as of late and are a true bubble team. After losing 4 straight midway through the season, Shaka Smart’s squad has reeled off 5 straight wins and play an average Cowboys team whom they beat by 12 on the road in Stillwater in January. The Longhorns defense has been really good of late and should limit an Oklahoma State offense that has struggled at times throughout the season. I like the Horns to continue the late season momentum and get their 20th win by covering on Saturday.

Louisville vs. Virginia -1: This is one of the most intriguing games on Saturday’s slate. Louisville is one of the most talented teams in the ACC while Virginia is the hottest team in the league. While some have them cutting down the nets in April, the Cardinals are 3-3 in their last 6 and are 0-3 in their last 3 road games. The Cavaliers will be celebrating their seniors Mamadi Diakite and Braxton Key who were both very influential in last year’s national championship run. After struggling early on, the Hoos are playing great basketball and have vaulted themselves into the discussion of teams that could make a run in the big dance. I like the Cavaliers pace of play at home which will slow down Louisville star Jordan Nwora. Take the Cavaliers on senior night.

North Carolina +11.5 vs. Duke: The last time these two teams met in Chapel Hill, the Dukies barely survived in overtime. This is a huge line especially for a rivalry game. While the Tar Heels still aren’t winning games, they’ve been managing to keep them very close thanks to the play of Cole Anthony. Duke has lost 2 of 3 and has looked vulnerable yet. I still think Duke is one of the most complete teams in the country and has to be amongst the favorites to win it all if Vernon Carey Jr. can stay out of foul trouble. That being said, in a rivalry game such as this 11.5 is just too big a number for me. The Tar Heels may be under .500 but they are better than people give them credit for. I like them to keep it close in front of the Cameron Crazies.

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God 2-29-20

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy everyone and welcome back to this week’s edition of Fade Fernando’s Picks from God. First off, I would like to apologize to everyone for last week’s mediocre picks. Sometimes you just have to let your bookie win. Secondly, this article will be short and to the point as I am writing this in the wee hours of the night. Who knew Baylor kids knew how to have a good time? Anywho, after checking the lines it is safe to say this isn’t exactly a friendly board. Nonetheless, as we begin this Lenten season here are 4 potential winners for Saturday February 29th.

Michigan State vs. Maryland -3: After coming into the season as national title contenders, Michigan State has fallen by the wayside. While they have plenty of talent led by Cassius Winston, they have yet to really find their groove this season. I don’t see them putting it altogether against a Maryland team that has been better than advertised. Anthony Cowan and Jalen Smith are studs who will pose matchup nightmares for the Spartans. Don’t over think this one. Take the home favorites.

St. Mary’s vs. Gonzaga -13: Last teams these two teams met at St. Mary’s it was a total bloodbath in favor of the Bulldogs. I don’t expect any different this time around. Gonzaga has played stellar basketball all season which has prompted many experts to believe they will earn a #1 seed come March. Yes, there was the recent slip-up against BYU. However, that game has me even more convinced coach Mark Few will have his team focused and ready to go against the Gaels. Bulldogs by 15.

Auburn +6.5 vs. Kentucky: This pick is gutsy solely due to the fact that we have no idea which Auburn Tigers team will take the floor. Will it be the team that beat these Wildcats at home by 9? Or will we see the team that got blown out by Florida while only scoring a measly 47 points? If it is the former then the Wildcats will be on upset watch. This Auburn is fantastic when they put it all together and I expect them to be sharp when its tip-off time at Rupp Arena. Coach Calipari has another strong squad again, but 6.5 is a lot of points in a battle of two top 15 teams. Take the road dogs to cover.

Texas A&M +11 vs. LSU: The Aggies were the only game I picked correctly last week and I’m taking them again on the road against the Tigers. While they ultimately lost (and didn’t cover) against Kentucky earlier this week, there were many bright spots in the game as they kept within striking distance. While the Ags don’t have enough firepower to win this game outright, I think they do enough to keep it close and cover the big spread.

* Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700.

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God 2/22/20

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy everyone and welcome back to another edition of Fade Fernando’s Picks from God. If you took my advice last week, you either made one dollar or hundreds depending on your unit size. Bottom line: you made my money. This week’s slate of college basketball isn’t as great, however we get a great matchup of top 5 teams as the 3rd ranked Kansas Jayhawks travel to absolute worst place on earth, Waco, TX, to take on the top ranked Baylor Bears. Time to make some money… here are the picks:

Tennessee +6.5 vs. Auburn: While the Volunteers haven’t been great this year and nearly lost their last game at home to underwhelming Vanderbilt, the Auburn Tigers have dropped two straight to unranked opponents thanks in large part to the loss of freshman phenom Isaac Okoro. The forward is likely out for tomorrow’s matchup which could spell trouble for the Tigers. Tennessee Forward John Fulkerson has been great of late and could have another big game with Okoro out. 6.5 is a big number and with the Tigers skidding as of late, I like the underdog here.

Mississippi State vs. Texas A&M +4.5: Yes, I am telling you to take Aggie Men’s Basketball. Early on it was free money to bet against the Ags. Now, however, it is a different story. The man Buzz Williams has turned this group of misfits into a respectable bunch who have some fairly solid road victories under their belts, including Wednesday’s 6 point win at Alabama, a game in which they were 11 point underdogs. Mississippi State is undoubtedly the far superior team in this matchup and all logic points to them as being the safe bet here. Having won 5 of their last 7, they come into this matchup with plenty of momentum. Yet, that old Reed Arena magic has me thinking the Aggies are going to make a game out of this and could absolutely pull off the upset. Take the home dogs in this one.

North Carolina +9 vs. Louisville: North Carolina can’t win a game if their lives depended on it and even Coach Roy Williams knows his team stinks. That being said, while they aren’t getting the victories they are keeping games close. The Tar Heels have looked like a completely new team with Cole Anthony back from injury and nearly knocked off those Dukies 2 weeks ago. Louisville does possess one of the best players in college basketball in Jordan Nwora and UNC’s defense will be put to the test. However, the Cardinals have been sputtering recently and a pesky UNC team could keep it close. While Louisville definitely wins the game, I think the Tar Heels keep it close enough to cover.

Kansas v. Baylor -2: It is incredibly difficult to beat a team twice in a season, especially an elite program like Kansas. This really does pain me to say this as I am no way, shape or form a Baylor fan, but this Bears team is cooking up something special in that God-forsaken place of Waco. Last week they fairly easily took down a very good West Virginia team and then on Tuesday took down OU in Norman. In a world of “one and done’s” in college hoops, it is refreshing to see a veteran group such as the Bears. This is the biggest game in Baylor Men’s Basketball history and those Baptists in the crowd at the Ferrell Center surely will not disappoint as the coffee flows freely through the student section. Give me the Bears in a close one. For a more in-depth look at this game, be sure to check out Brady Vaughan’s stellar preview.

* Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700.

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God: Valentine’s Day

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy to all the gamblers out there and a happy Valentine’s day. We all can agree this is probably the dumbest holiday there is (except New Years Eve), however to all you who have significant others, specifically girlfriends, this is the night they will be expecting a big dinner and a special gift. But who can afford all that? That’s why after reading this article, you head to the local sportsbook or get in contact with your bookie to make some picks that will help with some of those V-day expenses. Without further ado, here are Fade Fernando’s Picks from God, blessed by St. Valentine himself.

* Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700

U154.5 Buffalo v. Toledo:

This number started at 153.5 but the public has driven that number up a point over the last few hours. This is why we fade the public. In their last 4 games, the Rockets have averaged around 69.3 ppg. The Bulls have averaged a little over 70. Now, both teams are notoriously bad on defense (ranked in the bottom half of the NCAA), but 154 is a lot of points. The Rockets are 27th in the country in 3 pt. % so there is cause for concern if they get hot from downtown. But, with the way both of these offenses are performing I like the under in this MAC battle.

Davidson v. St. Bonaventure -4:

Davidson is terrible this year having lost to equally bad teams such as Wake Forest and Vanderbilt. Meanwhile, the Bonnies come into this game having won 5 in a row. While they aren’t a great shooting team, they play consistent defense which should bode well against a fairly bad Wildcats offense. Take the home favorite.

Monmouth +1 v. Canisius:

While I typically don’t like betting road teams in virtual PK games, the last time these two teams met Monmouth won handily 84-65. Both teams are coming off back to back losses as neither looks to be playing good basketball. That being said, I’m basing this pick off each team’s record as Monmouth is 13-10 whereas Canisius is 9-15. Take the road dog in this one.  

Fade Fernando’s Picks From God: Super Bowl Edition

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy everyone! It is Super Bowl Sunday here in the great states of America. In just under 2 hours, the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs will be battling it out for the Lombardi Trophy and I know the folks at home are eager to know just who will walk away victorious. Lucky for them, I have my famous Picks from God. Typically, I release 4 picks at a time. However, today I am going to keep it short and sweet as kickoff looms near.

* Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700.

1. San Francisco 49ers ML vs. Kansas City Chiefs

The 9ers come into the game as 1.5 underdogs because the whole world is obsessed with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense. No one believes old Richard Sherman can guard Tyreek Hill (which is probably true) and everyone has their doubts about QB Jimmy Garoppolo. However, this man was born for games like this. Jimmy G is known for delivering under pressure as evidenced by a TMZ article a couple years ago and I see no reason why he won’t come up big again (no pun intended). The Chiefs defense is better than people give them credit for but they are nothing to write home about. If the 9ers can control the clock with their powerful run game and keep Patty Mahomes off the field I really like their chances to win their 6th Super Bowl. This game will be a nail biter and should be much better than last year’s abysmal game.

2. U54 Total Points Scored

Yes, I am the schmuck who is going to bet the under. While I was in Vegas last weekend I met a local at the Caesars Sportsbook who probably wasn’t a sharp but I’d like to think he was. Anyways, he repeatedly told me he likes to bet ‘dogs and unders. Thus, I’m taking both today. I think both teams come out relatively slow offensively. The 9ers have done a great job all year of mixing up their defensive schemes as the game goes which I’d like to believe will keep Mahomes and company off balance offensively. Pair that with a run game that will chew up a ton of clock and I think we’re looking at a 28-24 9ers win which gives us the under. While in recent years (besides last year) the Super Bowl has gone over, I’m going to fade the public and advise people to take the under.

Trust The Coin

by Clayton Neider, posted in Action

Sports gambling is stupid, idiotic, and you will always lose money, but I freaking love it. Any new tactic or insight I can gain into the world of sports gambling is huge. What if I told you that winning bets and making money is simple? Flip a coin.

Gamblers love to think they have locks and that they are smarter than Vegas. The simple truth is that they are not. Every gambler when looking at spreads may think oooooo that spread looks good. This is music to the ears of any Sportsbook. The reality is that Vegas sets the spread to a mathematical 50/50. So if you think that a spread looks good and that a certain team will for sure cover, think again.

The reason for this topic is my experience in a NFL game Pick/em league this season. There were 10 people in it and we picked 5 games a week. Every Wednesday night our commissioner sent the spreads for every NFL game that week. We would then choose 5 of those games to bet the spread. This allowed us to choose spreads that we thought looked “good”. I started out really hot leading the league in the first week. I felt good, I boasted and by Week 4 my pride had gotten the best of me. I was dead last.

I had no hope going into Week 6 and so instead of using my own knowledge I turned to a higher power, “THE COIN.” I thought that a coin couldn’t do any worse than me and so I would do coin flips for Week 6. I would flip a coin for each game to see if I would bet on it and then I would flip one to choose which team I took. In the first week I went 4-1. And from this point on I used “THE COIN” for the rest of the season. I wouldn’t do any research, any stat checking, or any other measures that I used to do. I would simply “Trust The Coin.”

Fast forward to Week 16 and I am on top by 2.5 games in prime position to win. I had only done coin flips for previous weeks. I was 10-14 with my own knowledge and with the coin I ended up going 36-22-3(3 pushes). The coin had given me a win percentage of 62%.

I ended up winning my league by a half a game with an exciting finish in Week 17. I won the league because of Jameis Winston’s pick 6. That shut out everyone else and I had won my league by flipping a coin.

The spread is truly a 50/50. Vegas does an amazing job at using data analytics and stats to come up with these spreads. It is crazy how close these spreads are time and time again. So many times I have just lost a bet by a point or two. There needs to be a good reason to take a certain team by the spread, otherwise it is just a coin flip. If you ever need/want gambling advice from me, I will say 3 words to you, “Trust The Coin”.

#MonopolyMoney

by Drew Davis, posted in Action

Are your friends big sports gamblers?  Always rattling off these ‘big parlays’ and ‘locks’ they have that always ended up winners?  Are you tired of hearing about it because you know that they truly aren’t in the black…as no gambler ever has been?  Well, you have come to the right place.  Do not let them fool you.  Better yet, don’t be a part of it at all!  Well, of course you still want some stake in the game…just not your cold hard cash…you’re smarter than gambling that away.

That’s why you gamble with and against them, without any physical assets on the line.  But, you know what’s better than proving cash payouts to these prestigious sports aristocrats?  Bragging rights.  #MonopolyMoney takes this old-school principle into full affect. After reading Jeremy’s bogus Pick’s from God, I have decided it is time to introduce #MonopolyMoney to the public. If you are looking for winners, you have come to the right place.

The key is to not waste your built up bragging rights status by making picks just to make picks.  No, #MonopolyMoney only makes picks whenever they see the best lines, the best value, and jumps on it…more times than not with their gut-feeling.  Nothing will drive your gambling-addict friends crazier than if you have bragging rights over them, even if…actually, especially if you don’t have stake in the games.  I’ve heard it stated that bragging rights can win you ‘beach-front property’ in their head.  And nothing could provide you any more satisfaction than that.  So, this article is for all the smart ‘gamblers’, the would-be gamblers, and hell…even real gamblers could benefit from listening to our sound advice sometimes right?

#MonopolyMoney Picks:

-Navy ML against Kansas St

-Buy half a point to get Alabama -6.5 against Michigan

-Baylor +5.5 against Georgia

-Wait to see if the line moves to LSU -6…if it does #MonopolyMoney would really be tempted to take Clemson +6…otherwise #MonopolyMoney is staying away from this thriller and enjoying the game with pizza and a local IPA instead

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God 12-31-19

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy folks and welcome back to another edition of Picks from God. Last week was a much better performance than the week prior as we went 3-1 (4-0 if the refs hadn’t hammered Clemson -2) and now sit at 5-7 (-2U). The next couple of days we have some great college football bowl matchups that have winners written all over them. The Lord has spoketh to me. Here are the Picks from God for 12/31/2019-1/2/19. Enjoy responsibly.

*Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700. Picks are in bold.

1. Florida State vs. Arizona State -4: The picture above tells you just about everything you need to know for this game. Yes, that picture was taken earlier this year and is not photoshopped. An FSU receiver actually lined up the wrong way for an offensive snap. That just about sums up the season for this Seminoles squad and gives me complete faith that Herm Edwards and the Sun Devils can take care of business today. Now is either team great? No, but FSU is just that terrible. Coach Willie Taggart was fired midway through the season and at this point I think the Noles would care to be just about anywhere but on a football field. Both teams will have star players who will be sitting out this bowl game due to potential NFL careers. I really liked what I saw from ASU true freshman quarterback Jayden Daniels against Oregon a few weeks ago and I think he has a big game against a very weak FSU secondary. Now you’ll hardly hear the Lord say this, but take the Devil’s side on this one.

2. Utah -7 vs. Texas: Don’t over think this one people. Utah is good and Texas is bad. Plain and simple. Let’s all remember that this is a Texas team, whom in the words of QB Sam Ehlinger, is happy to be 7-5. Yes, the game is in San Antonio, TX which is only a short drive from Austin. However, these longhorns are bad. The offense has struggled to establish the run this season which does not bode well as they will face the top run defense in the country. Thus, while Ehlinger has his moments, he will be forced to throw most of the game against a very stout Utes passing defense. While the Utes don’t have a powerful offensive attack, the Longhorns defense is simply terrible. Look for QB Tyler Huntley to have a big game. Give me the Utes and the points as Texas proves once again that is indeed not back.

Photo by Giphy

3. Georgia vs. Baylor -5.5: Anyone remember what happened last year when Georgia played in the Sugar Bowl? They got stomped by Texas which allowed everyone to think Texas was somehow back again. I really think the same thing happens this year. Matt Rhule is one of the best coaches in college football and this Baylor defense is the real deal. They should have a field day going up against one of the worst QB’s in the SEC, Jake Fromm. Baylor’s offense has had its share of struggles this season which doesn’t bode well going up against a very strong Georgia defense. However, Kirby Smart has yet to say which Bulldog players will miss the bowl game, but it sounds like the list could be incredibly long. In addition, I think Baylor has much more to play for as they look to prove that they can play with the big boys in the SEC. Meanwhile, Georgia once again had its heart broken at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and will have to settle for just another meaningless NY6 bowl. In Matt Rhule I trust. Give me the Bears.

Photo by Giphy

4. Indiana vs. Tennessee -2.5. If you had told Volunteer fans their team would be favored in a bowl game after the 5th week of the season they would have laughed at you. However, Tennessee has gone 6-1 over the last 7 games and head coach Jeremy Pruitt has Rocky Top feeling pretty optimistic these days. QB Jimmy Jarrett Guarantano and WR Jauan Jennings are a formidable duo and the Volunteer defense has established itself as one of the best in the SEC East. The Hoosiers are no slouch themselves and nearly upset Penn State a few weeks back. However, much like my Aggies they really haven’t beaten anyone good this year. Therefore, take the Volunteers who have been playing fantastic football over the last half of the season.

Please remember, I am not a professional gambler. So please do yourself a favor and fade me at all costs. In addition, if you do not have the funds or live in an area where gambling is prohibited by law, please do not gamble. As we conclude this week’s picks, let’s all remember Jeremiah 29:11. Good luck to everyone this week.

Fade Fernando’s Picks from God (12/27/19)

by Jeremy Fernando, posted in Action

Howdy folks and welcome back to this week’s edition of Picks from God. Last week we went 0-4 (-4U) which brings our total to 2-6 (-5U) all time. Yes, you read that right. I did not pick a single game correctly. It was an embarrassing week to say the least. Now before you start calling me names and ready to call your lawyers to sue me for such terrible advice, I want you to read the title of this blog. “Fade Fernando’s Picks From God.” Fade them. You are supposed to go against these picks people. Read the title. Anyways, let’s put the past behind us. In the week of our Lord’s birth, we have been blessed with 4 more picks. Enjoy responsibly.

* Grad School Sports reminds you to please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700.

1. USC vs. Iowa -2.5. This whole season, I have yet to be impressed with this Trojan team. Even their A.D. was less than pleased with the direction of this football program and was reluctant to bring back head coach Clay Helton. However, they do have one of the better offenses in college football led by QB Kedon Slovis and a trio of star receivers in Michael Pittman, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Tyler Vaughns. Meanwhile, the Iowa Hawkeyes will be looking to get to 10 wins on the season and bring with them one of the best defenses in the country. This Iowa team has played great football all season long and has won 3 straight games. Further, their 3 losses were all to teams within the top 25 and were by a combined 14 points. Even though the game is in California, I like the Haweyes to cover thanks to a phenomenal defense and an offense that will make just enough plays to cover the spread.

2. Notre Dame -3.5 vs. Iowa State: Around 2 months ago after their embarrassing loss to Michigan at The Big House, everyone wrote the Irish off. Since then, Notre Dame has reeled off 5 straight wins in which the offense has clicked on all cylinders. QB Ian Book has looked like a completely new player in the 2nd half of the season and should have his way against a Cyclone secondary that has its fair share of holes. Look for WR Chase Claypool to have a big day as well. Defensively, the Irish have looked strong as well since the nightmare in Ann Arbor. Although they are coming off a loss on the road to Kansas State, Iowa State has a very good offense and overall is a very solid team. However, I like the way the Irish have played down the stretch and believe they have the playmakers necessary to cover the spread on Saturday.

3. LSU -13.5 vs. Oklahoma: 13.5 is a massive line, especially for a playoff game. Doesn’t matter to me. This LSU team has done nothing but dominate their competition this year. They absolutely destroyed a Georgia team in what was basically a road game on the same weekend the Sooners struggled immensely against Baylor. Offensively, Joe Burrow and Co. will have their way against a Sooner defense with far too many holes. To make matters worse, they will be without their DE Ronnie Perkins and Safety Delarrin Turner-Yell. Yes, star RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire may not play for the Tigers, but Burrow has so many options to choose from that I believe the injury is indifferent. I think the Tigers defense gets it done against QB Jalen Hurts who they are more than familiar with. Further, their experience covering star-studded receivers like Jerry Jeudy should help when they matchup with CeeDee Lamb, arguably the best receiver in football. I like Coach O and LSU on Saturday. Geaux Tigahs! A full preview of the game can be found here: http://gradschoolsports.net/2019/12/24/college-football-playoffs-1-lsu-vs-4-ou-preview/

4. THE Ohio State University +2 vs. Clemson: And now we finally arrive to the game on everyone’s mind. The biggest game of the year so far between 2 heavyweights should not disappoint. These teams are truly mirror images of each other on paper with stars on both sides of the ball. Clemson being favored is astonishing to the public. The Tigers have been overlooked this whole year due to a multitude of different reasons including poor play early on and a very weak schedule. However, this is relatively the same Clemson team that gave Alabama its biggest loss in the Saban era last January. They can beat you on offense with stars like Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne and defense with Isaiah Simmons. However, they have not faced a team like OSU nor a player as dominating as Chase Young. Contrary to Clemson, OSU has played a challenging schedule and has thoroughly handled their competition. I think the OSU defense makes enough stops and the offense delivers when it counts to get them the win Saturday. I have ridden the Buckeye train the whole year this year and I refuse to abandon ship now. O-H-I-O! For a full preview of the game click here.

Please remember, I am not a professional gambler. So please do yourself a favor and fade me at all costs. In addition, if you do not have the funds or live in an area where gambling is prohibited by law, please do not gamble. As we conclude this week’s picks, lets all remember Jeremiah 29:11. Good luck to everyone this weekend.