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Life was pretty good last week (4-1) and that brings my overall record for the season to a tidy (22-11-2) overall record. I initially thought the Beavers would put up a fight against Utah, but instead they had their worst home loss in over 20 years (yikes). They return to action this weekend against Cal (another very elite defensive team) and I am not optimistic about their chances. In personal news, I am officially an Oregon residence again. I keep spotting Oregon State logos on cars and jackets and I get super pumped before realizing it’s not that uncommon in the Portland area. Anyways, onto this week’s picks.
*Picks in italics, odds courtesy of FanDuel.
#1 - Cal (-10.5) vs. Oregon State
Don’t be angry at me for picking against the Beavs. They are a much-improved team from a season ago, but they do not do well against teams with great defenses and just okay offenses (see this past weekend for reference). Obviously I don’t think this is going to 40+ point blowout, but I do think Cal will finish with a comfortable 14-point win or so.
#2 - ASU (+13.5) vs. Utah
This line feels like an overreaction to Utah’s blowout win over Oregon State. The Beavers were playing without Jermar Jefferson, Trevon Bradford, Avery Roberts etc etc. Speaking of Trevon Bradford he is officially red shirting this season. Herm Edwards and the Sun Devils will keep this game close.
#3 - Colorado (+13.5) vs. Washington State
This seems like a lot of respect for a struggling Washington State team. I’m taking the free points in this game. C’mon Colorado and Ralphie Report, don’t let me down!
#4 - Florida State (+2.5) vs. Wake Forest
It might not be smart to trust Willie Taggart to go on the road here and steal a game as a slight underdog, but I’m picking the Seminoles anyways. They just have better athletes than Wake Forest, now the coaching staff needs to put them in a position to succeed.
#5 - Michigan (+7.5) vs. Penn State
Has Michigan turned the corner after a rough start to the season? I think so, Penn State is good but I don’t think they are legit national title contenders-type good. Look for Michigan to make this an exciting game. Wow, another road underdog with a coach I don’t particularly like. This week’s pick could really back-fire on me!
I checked these odds on FanDuel Sports Book earlier this week. I’m not totally sure what day it is, but as always go Beavs!