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The college football season will officially get underway this Saturday for Week 0. There’s an intriguing matchup in Ireland and other fun matchups to get college football rolling. Here’s one of two bets you’ll want to consider for Week 0, with the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
For more of today’s betting analysis, check out:
NCAAF Pick: SMU -27 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
SMU vs. Nevada
Saturday, August 24, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at Mackay Stadium
Growing Pains For Nevada
Nevada has named Jeff Choate its new head coach. After earning just two wins last season, Nevada needed a change.
Choate coached Montana State from 2016-2020 but went to Texas to be the co-defensive coordinator for the Longhorns from 2021-2023.
Now he’s back to head coaching with Nevada.
The Wolf Pack landed several transfers but will likely use Brendon Lewis at quarterback. Lewis was the main starter last year and threw six interceptions with only two touchdowns. His QBR was 33.3, and he showed absolutely no consistency.
That said, the Wolf Pack’s defense looks improved. The entire lineup is filled with upperclassmen, compiled with transfers and guys who are returning from last season. Nevada could surprise defensively. But overall, expect some growing pains for Choate and his squad this season.
Another 10-Win Season For SMU Incoming
The SMU Mustangs finished last season with 11 wins. Preston Stone led SMU at quarterback, who contributed 3,197 yards passing with 28 touchdowns and six interceptions. Although he played more games, this stat line is much more encouraging than Lewis’.
In addition, Stone will play in the back of three graduate transfers on the offensive line. Ultimately, four of the five SMU starting offensive lineman group are returners from last season. They protected Stone well last season and should have that same success this year.
Beyond that, Jaylen Knighton was the lead running back last season after he added 745 yards on 136 carries. He averaged 5.5 yards a carry and recorded seven rushing touchdowns. He’s in line for a boost in his production and should be extremely good in this offense.
NCAAF COMPUTER PICK
Sometimes, it’s difficult to back a massive spread in Week 0. However, the Mustangs are led by many veterans who were a major portion of last year’s success.
Let’s take SMU -27 to close out Week 0.
NCAAF Pick: SMU -27 (-110) at Bet365
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*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.