The much-anticipated College Football Playoff quarterfinals are upon us, bringing a quartet of scintillating matchups that have fans and bettors alike buzzing with excitement. As the top teams in the nation prepare to battle it out on the gridiron, savvy sports bettors are scouring the lines for value plays and potential upsets. In this comprehensive betting guide, we dive deep into each quarterfinal game, analyzing the odds, matchups, and key factors to consider when placing your wagers.
Vrbo Fiesta Bowl: Penn State vs Boise State
The Nittany Lions enter as hefty 11-point favorites, but don’t sleep on the Broncos’ ability to keep this game competitive and high-scoring. Boise State’s star running back Ashton Jeanty has been a force all season, amassing a staggering 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns. His explosive playmaking could exploit Penn State’s vulnerability to strong rushing attacks.
However, Penn State boasts its own dynamic backfield duo in Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. With three top-50 players in explosive runs on the field, expect plenty of chunk plays that could send this game soaring over the modest 52.5-point total.
The explosive potential of both offenses – particularly in the running game – makes the over 52.5 points an attractive proposition.
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl: Texas vs Arizona State
Texas may be the marquee name, but 14 points is a lot to lay against a dangerous Arizona State squad. The Longhorns have struggled to pull away from opponents, with turnover-prone QB Quinn Ewers a potential liability against the Sun Devils’ ball-hawking secondary.
Meanwhile, Arizona State’s offense is a balanced attack led by efficient QB Sam Leavitt and versatile RB Cam Skattebo. This is the perfect spot for the unheralded Sun Devils to shine under the bright lights and prove the oddsmakers wrong.
The Sun Devils have the tools to not just cover the spread but potentially orchestrate an upset that could send shockwaves through the college football world.
Rose Bowl: Ohio State vs Oregon
A rematch of an early-season clash, the Buckeyes now find themselves as slight 2.5-point underdogs against the top-seeded Ducks. While Ohio State’s recent dominance is eye-catching, I won’t overreact to a single game. Oregon’s high-powered offense, led by QB Dillon Gabriel and a deep receiving corps, has been a model of consistency all year.
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning gets the edge over Ryan Day in the coaching matchup. His innovative schemes and ability to make in-game adjustments give the Ducks a distinct advantage. Stick with the team that’s been elite all season long.
For those who’ve believed in Oregon all season, including those who locked in the Ducks at +475 to win the national championship back in Week 10, there’s no reason to waver now.
Allstate Sugar Bowl: Georgia vs Notre Dame
The injury to Irish star DL Rylie Mills swings this matchup firmly in favor of the Bulldogs. Mills’ absence creates a gaping hole in Notre Dame’s run defense, one that Georgia RB Trevor Etienne is primed to exploit after his brilliant SEC title game performance.
Georgia may be rolling with backup QB Gunner Stockton, but a more conservative game plan and less pass rush pressure could be the recipe for a Bulldogs win and cover. It’s not the matchup Notre Dame wanted as their playoff dreams hang in the balance.
Facing a pedigreed team like Georgia without your best pass rusher is hard to overcome. I’ll go with numbers over feelings and back the Bulldogs.
The table is set for a thrilling start to the College Football Playoff. Whether you’re backing favorites or riding with underdogs, remember to always gamble responsibly and enjoy the unparalleled excitement that college football has to offer. Best of luck with your wagers!
