Jakes Gambling Pit: Week 0

2022 Season Record: 59-41-5 (+7.4 Units) 59%

College Football is on the horizon, and I have you covered again for your betting needs.

Utep at Jacksonville State ML -110

The Gamecocks are home underdogs in their first game as an FBS member as Rich Rodriguez returns after a 9-2 campaign in 2022. Zion Webb is back for his 7th season of college, and is the dynamic veteran quarterback Rich Rod needs to earn some respect in the conference. Jax State will have a chip on their shoulder, and being at home will give them some extra juice. UTEP’s front should provide resistance but I see a late score led by Webb to lead the Gamecocks to a win. 

Ohio +2.5 at San Diego State

I love the Ohio Bobcats this year. They are my pick to win the MAC and will have a fun offense to watch. The only problem they can run into this weekend is Kurtis Rourke not being 100%. The Aztecs have a really good defensive front and can pose an issue for Rourke if he is shaking off some rust after ACL surgery. I would hold off and live-bet this game to see how Rourke looks. There is a chance Tim Albin may restrict Rourke to protect him before conference play. 

Hawaii at Vanderbilt -17.5

Last year Vandy demolished Hawaii on the island, and I think it’s going to be the same this year in Nashville. The Commodores were a win away from going bowling last season, and they will attempt to make another push in 2023. Vandy is more talented and they win big.

P.S. Vanderbilt is still building part of their stadium and will be shown a ton during the broadcast.

FIU at Louisiana Tech Over 58.5

This one is pretty simple for me. Both of these teams have questions on the defensive side of the ball, and their offenses should have some upside this season. La Tech is an 11-point favorite and there is a worry that if this turns int a route, the bulldogs may take the foot off the gas. However, I believe the Panthers will put up enough of a fight on offense to have this over hitting to begin the 4th quarter.