NCAAF Trends and Indexes - Week 11 (11/9 - 11/13)

[Udog]

NCAAF


Friday, November 12

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Bettors Need to Know
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We got a mixed bag on Friday night, with one game featuring two of the worst teams in college football and the other with national title implications.

Ball State Cardinals at Buffalo Bulls (-3, 47)

Why Ball State covers

Beating 0-10 Akron doesn’t prove much, but the Cardinals’ come from behind overtime win might just give them enough confidence against another MAC cellar dweller. The game had a bit of a dramatic ending as well with TE David Schneider catching the winning TD. The freshman ranked at the bottom of the depth chart and was pretty much the last option for that game-winning play.

The statistics are ugly with both of these two teams - they rank in the bottom of nearly every category, so the key here for Ball State backers is momentum and attitude.

Buffalo goes into the contest on a four-game losing streak and has pretty much given up on the season, while Ball State got a jolt of confidence last week from an unlikely source.

Why Buffalo covers

Injuries. Ball State is one of the few teams in college football that hasn’t had a bye week yet and the schedule is taking its toll. It doesn’t help either that it is a short week for the Cardinals or that they had a double OT game.

"These guys are tired," Ball State head coach Parrish said. "We've had no open date. Most everybody's had an open date. We've been playing football since early August. At certain positions we've been wiped out."

Also home field advantage is huge in games of this nature with both teams on equal setting in terms of talent.

Notes on the Total

The over has hit in each of the two sides’ five matchups and this is the lowest total (46.5) in series history. Popular opinion is slightly in favor of the over, even though the line has moved from down 47.

Boise State Broncos at Idaho Vandals (+34.5, 63)


Why Boise State covers

Guess who the odd man out is in the national title picture again? With no playoff and no decent team left on the schedule, Boise’s last resort is to blow out the four remaining teams on its schedule. As much as people joke about it, it would be short sided to think that voters or the players themselves aren’t aware of the spread.

The Broncos look to come out strong against their instate rivals and the second ranked offense in points scored per game should have no problem putting up points against a defense that ranks 101st in the nation. Don't forget either that Idaho has given up 108 points in its last two games.

Why Idaho covers

The Broncos do not enjoy playing in the claustrophobia-inducing Kibbie Dome. Boise State president Bob Kustra even referred to the culture in Moscow, Idaho as "nasty" and "inebriated".

And while the Vandals have not beaten the Broncos since 1998, they have done well against the spread at home covering at the Kibbie Dome in their last two meetings.

Idaho looks to balance out the offense a bit more and this will work in backers favor as it has proved more effective in the past. In their blowout losses to Hawaii and Nevada, the Vandals had a 52 to 20 and a 41 to 19 pass/rush ratio.

Earlier in the year when they covered against Nebraska the rush to pass ratio was 39 to 38. More emphasis on the run should also take more time of the clock.

Notes on the Total

A couple books opened the total up at 61.5 but it has settled at 63.5 now at most places. The over has hit four times in the last five meetings in this contest.


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NCAAF


Friday, November 12

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ball St. Cardinals at Buffalo Bulls [ESPNU | 3:10 PM ET]

CARDINALS: Ball St. will be looking to win consecutive games for the 1st time this year. The Cardinals are 3-7 both SU and ATS overall this season. Ball St. is 3-2 ATS as the listed underdog this season, with today being the 1st time this year they will be a single digit underdog. The Cardinals have one of the worst passing games in the country, so they depend on their ground game. RB MiQuale Lewis will be counted on tonight to move put the ball in the endzone. The Cardinals are averaging just 22.3 PPG, 92nd in the nation. Ball St. has given up at least 30 PTS in each of their past 5 games. Ball St. was embarrassed last season at home, losing in blowout fashion to Buffalo. The Cardinals are 25-9 ATS in their last 34 road games. Ball St. is 13-6 ATS in their last 19 games played in November. The Cardinals are 17-8 ATS in their last 25 games following an ATS loss. Ball St. is 21-10 ATS in their last 31 games following a SU win. The Cardinals are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games on fieldturf. The Cardinals are 0-4 ATS against a team with a losing record.

Cardinals are 20-7 ATS last 27 games as a road underdog.
Under is 8-2-1 last 11 games as an underdog.

Key Injuries - LB Tony Martin (neck) is questionable.

Projected Score: 20

BULLS: (-3, O/U 46.5) Buffalo has had a season to forget, but there is reason for optimism. The Bulls play 2 of their final 3 games of the season at home. Buffalo only has 1 win this season against FBS opposition, and are 2-7 both SU and ATS this year. The Bulls have had the same exact result both SU and ATS in each game they've played this season. Buffalo can win this game tonight if they are able to muster up some offense. The Bulls have been held to 17 PTS or fewer in each of their last 4 games. Only 1 skill player has more than 500 YDS this year, and that's WR Marcus Rivers. Rivers has 43 receptions for 603 YDS with 4 TD's this year. Defensively, the Bulls are allowing 30.1 PPG, 88th best in the nation. The Bulls are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games against a team with a losing road record. Buffalo is 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games played in November. The Bulls are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS loss. Buffalo is 0-4 ATS in their last 4 conference games. The Bulls are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring less than 20 points in their previous game.

Bulls are 1-7 ATS last 8 games as a home favorite.
Over is 7-3 last 10 conference games.

Key Injuries - DL Terry Peden (knee) is questionable.

Projected Score: 21 (UNDER-Total of the Day)


Boise St. Broncos at Idaho Vandals [ESPN2 | 9:00 PM ET]

BRONCOS: (-34.5, O/U 63.5) Boise St. keeps winning in blowout fashion, yet they aren't climbing in the national polls. Everyone has an opinion on this Boise St. team, and that's what makes this such a compelling team. The Broncos have the opportunity to play in a primetime, standalone setting tonight. Boise St. is 2nd in the nation in both scoring offense and scoring defense respectively. The Broncos are averaging 47 PPG this year, while allowing just 12.6 PPG. QB Kellen Moore is a candidate for the Heisman Trophy this year, as he's thrown for 2,372 YDS and 21 TD's this year, while completing nearly 72% of his passes. Moore leads a balanced offense that is ranked in the top 15 both the rushing and passing game. Only 3 teams have scored more than 14 PTS against the Broncos this season. The Broncos are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a road favorite of 10.5 PTS or more. Boise St. is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU win. The Broncos are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 road games. Boise St. is 10-4 ATS in their last 14 conference games. The Broncos are 12-5 ATS in their last 17 Friday games.

Broncos are 13-3 ATS last 16 games as a road favorite.
Under is 5-0 last 5 road games against a team with a losing home record.

Key Injuries - WR Mitch Burroughs (ankle) is questionable.

Projected Score: 45

VANDALS: Idaho isn't playing very well as they enter their biggest game of the season. The Vandals get to take on their interstate big brother tonight in front of their home fans. Idaho is just 4-5 SU this year, and are coming off consecutive blowout losses. The Vandals are 4-5 both SU and ATS overall this year. Idaho has 2 home games remaining, with tonight's contest the showcase game of the season. QB Nathan Enderle is about to finish his career, and he has an NFL future. Enderle has thrown for more than 2,500 YDS this year, including 17 TD's. Enderle leads a passing offense that ranks 4th in the nation, averaging 330.8 YPG. As great as their offense is, they have the 5th worst rushing attack in the nation. In order for Idaho to keep this game close, they will have to improve quickly on defense. In their past 2 games combined, Idaho has allowed their opponents to score 108 PTS. The Vandals are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games as a home underdog. Idaho is 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a SU loss of more than 20 points. The Vandals are 7-22-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a SU loss. Idaho is 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a double-digit loss at home. The Vandals are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games played in November.

Vandals are 8-24 ATS last 32 conference games.
Over is 7-1 last 8 games as an underdog of 10.5 PTS or more.

Key Injuries - WR Daniel Hardy (arm) is out.

Projected Score: 17 (SIDE of the Day)


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NCAAF
Write-Up


Friday's games
Ball State won four of its last five games vs Buffalo; State won last two visits here, 55-25/44-35; favorites covered three of last four series games. Bulls lost four in row, seven of last eight games; they were outscored 63-7 in first half of last three games. Cardinals are 2-7 in last nine games- they beat winless Akron in OT of last game. Last six Ball State games all went over the total.

Boise State won its last 11 games vs Idaho, winning last six by average score of 57-20; with BCS polls looking like Broncos will get left outside national title picture, they have to win big. Boise won last five games by average score of 51-8 (4-1 vs spread)- they won road games 51-6, 59-0 and 48-0. Idaho lost last two games 45-10/63-17 and this is bitter rivalry, so this could get ugly.

Saturday's games
Highlighted games
Virginia beat Maryland last three years (20-9/31-0/18-17); underdogs are 4-1 vs spread in last five series games. Terps lost five of last six visits to Virginia- they've had two INTs in five of last six games, but are 1-3 on road, with only win 24-21 at 4-5 BC. Virginia is 2-5 vs I-A opponents, winning last two at home; they scored 48 points last week, but lost at Duke. Five of last six Virginia games went over the total.

Favorites are 5-2 vs spread in last seven Ga Tech-Miami games; Jackets won four of last five in seris, winning 41-23/30-23 in last two played at home. Tech is 2-1 as dog this year; they lost last two games, completing only 8-29 passes. Miami is 1-3 vs spread in last four games as a favorite; they won three of last four road games, but this is the first road start for freshman QB. Single digit home underdogs are 3-6 in ACC this year.

Underdog won SU in last five Iowa-Northwestern games, with Wildcats winning four of those five games; three of Hawkeyes' last five visits to Evanston were decided by 1 or 2 points. Northwestern is 0-6 vs spread in last six games, 0-2 as underdog, losing 35-27/35-21 as a dog. Iowa won five of last six games, but Indiana dropped winning TD pass in end zone in last minute last week. Big 11 home dogs are 8-5 vs spread.

Clemson lost five of last six visits to Florida State, with all five losses by 14+ points; 5-4 Tigers are 0-3 on road this year, with all three losses by six or less points- they're 1-2 as an underdog. Seminoles lost last couple games by 4-2 points, getting outscored 37-10 in second half; they failed to cover last three tries as the favorite. Under is 7-0-1 in Clemson games this season. ACC single digit home favorites are 5-6 vs spread.

Texas A&M is 11-2 in last 13 games vs Baylor; favorites covered last four series games. Aggies won/covered last three games, scoring average of 41 ppg (won by 35-18-14 points)- they're 3-2 as favorite. Baylor won five of last seven games, scoring 43.7 ppg in its three home wins vs I-A opponents, but Bears are just 1-3 as underdog. Big 12 home underdogs of 7 or less points are just 4-7 against the spread this season.

First place is on line in Gainesville, where South Carolina is 1-4 against spread in last five visits; they're 1-12 in last 13 games vs Florida, with 10 of those 12 losses by 10+ points. Gamecocks' losses this year are by 8-3-21 points. Gators lost last two home games (LSU/Miss State); they're 2-3 as home favorite. Single digit home favorites are 9-4 vs spread in SEC games this year. Five of Carolina's last six games went over total.

Last home game for 4-5 Notre Dame team that lost last two games; they are 1-1 as underdog this year. Three of their five losses are by 4 or less points. Utah is 6-1-1 as a favorite this year, but they got waxed 47-7 at home by unbeaten TCU last week. Over is 5-2 in Utah's last seven tilts. Irish allowed 589 rushing yards in last two games. MWC faves are 8-3 in non-conference games, 4-2 on road.

Lot of off-field distractions for Auburn team that lost last four games vs Georgia by 7-4-25-22 points; 10-0 Tigers are 5-1 vs spread in SEC play, but only two of their six league wins are by more than 8 points. Georgia is only 5-5, but only two of the five were by more than 7 points. Dawgs are scoring 37.2 ppg vs I-A opponents since WR Green became eligible. Auburn has 300+ rushing yards in last five games vs I-A opponents.

Trap game for high-powered Oregon squad that lost last three visits here; Ducks' 42-3 win LY was just their second in last six games vs Cal, but Bears are 3-4 in last seven games, with three losses by 21+ points- they are using backup QB who is junior, so not great prospect. Seven of eight Oregon games went over the total. Oregon is 4-0 on road, with wins by 48-13/42-31/43-23/53-32. Pac-10 double digit home dogs are 4-1-1.

Stanford won last four games, scoring 39.5 ppg; they're 5-2 vs spread as a favorite, 3-0 on road, winning on foreign soil by 35-0/37-14/41-0, but Cardinal lost last four visits to Tempe. Last four series games were all decided by 19+ points. Arizona State is 4-1-1 vs spread as an underdog; their losses this season are by 1-11-3-33-1 point. Pac-10 home dogs are 6-4-1. Four of last five Cardinal games went over the total.

Texas is a mess, losing three in row, five of last six games; they allowed 32.3 ppg in last three games, and were down 39-0 at one point to KState last week. All five Texas losses this year are by 7+ points. Oklahoma St. covered four of last five games; they're 3-0 on road, 2-0 as road favorite, with wins by 26-17-10 points. Big 12 home underdogs of less than seven points are 4-7 against the spread this season.

Virginia Tech won five of last six games vs North Carolina, losing LY as 15-point home favorites; Hokies won last seven games (6-1 vs spread), are 4-1 as home faves this season. North Carolina won six of last seven games, winning as 10-point dogs at Florida State last week after trailing I-AA WmMary in 4th quarter week before that. Single digit ACC home underdogs are 3-6 against the spread.

USC is 7-1 in last eight games vs Arizona, winning last four visits here; Trojans are just 2-3 in last five games, allowing 32+ points in four of the five- they're 3-1 on road (lost 37-35 at Stanford), with underdog covering three of those four games. Arizona was awful in 42-17 loss at Stanford last week; they covered only one of last five games as a favorite. Four of last five Wildcat games went over total.

Rest of the Card
-- Underdogs are 5-1-1 vs spread in last seven Cincinnati-West Virginia games; last three games were decided by 5 or less points. Bearcats won last two meetings, 24-21/26-23. West Virginia lost its last two games.
-- Central Florida won its last five games, scoring 41.4 ppg; they're 7-0 vs spread in last seven games, 3-1 as home fave this year. Southern Miss scored 41+ points in each of last five games (3-2, average total 75.8).
-- Rutgers is 5-3 in its last eight games vs Syracuse; all eight games were decided by 10+ points. Six of Knights' last seven games were decided by 5 or less points. Syracuse won last three road games, allowing 10 ppg.
-- Duke scored 34-55 points in winning last two games after 1-6 start; average total in their last three games is 73. BC has 12 takeaways in last four games (+6)- they allowed 10-13 points in winning last two games.
-- Michigan lost three of last four games (won 67-65 in OT last week); they failed to cover last four games as favorite. Purdue lost its last three games by total of 127-23. Five of last six Wolverine games went over.

-- Underdogs are 8-0 vs spread in Wisconsin games this year; Badgers are 0-6 as a favorite, with no wins by more than 20 poiunts. Indiana lost last two road games 38-10/43-13. Big 11 home faves of 11+ points are 4-2.
-- Illinois scored 43-44-65 points in last three games; their last three wins are all by 20+ points (2-1 as home fave). Minnesota lost last nine games, losing last two games 52-10/31-8. Over is 4-1 in last five Illini games.
-- Wake Forest lost last seven games (2-5 vs spread); they're 0-4 as road underdog this year, losing by 44-31-31-48 points. NC State's last three games were all decided by 4 or less points, or in OT.
-- Oklahoma lost two of last three games, but won last two home games by 52-0/43-10 scores. Texas Tech is 1-3 vs spread this year in the game following a win. Under is 3-1 in last four games for both teams.
-- Former Husker QB Turner Gill returns to Lincoln with Kansas squad that is 3-4 as underdog this year- they were losing 45-17 in 4th quarter last week, but rallied to win. Huskers are 5-3 as favorite, 2-2 at home.

-- Kentucky is 10-3 in last 13 games vs Vanderbilt, but last five wins in series were by 12 or less points. Vandy lost last four games by average score of 42-9. Favorite is 7-2 vs spread in Kentucky's 2010 games.
-- Alabama beat Mississippi State last two years, 31-3/32-7; Tide is 3-1 as home favorite this year, but 2-4 vs spread last six games. Miss State won last six games; their only losses? 17-14 to Auburn, 29-7 at LSU.
-- Colorado fired its coach this week; his son is the QB. Home side won last six Colorado-Iowa St games. Cyclones lost last four visits to Boulder by 4-17-5-34 points. 5-5 Iowa State is bowl eligible if they win here.
-- Western Michigan is 2-5 in last seven games, but wins were by 29-46 points; they're 1-1 as fave this year. Eastern Michigan is 1-6 vs spread in last seven games. Double digit MAC home favorites are 5-9 vs spread.
|-- Army is 3-1 on road; they lost rivalry game to Air Force last week, is playing Notre Dame in NYC next week. Kent St. is 1-3 as an underdog. MAC underdogs are 16-20 in non-conference games, 4-4 at home.

-- BYU is 0-4 on road, with all four losses by 15+ points; they won last three visits here by 3-21-10 points. Colorado State covered six of its last seven games. MWC single digit home underdogs are 4-1 vs spread.
-- Arkansas scored 42.8 ppg in last four games (3-1); they're 3-1 when a favorite this year. UTEP is 1-3 as an underdog this season. SEC non-conference home faves are 11-9 vs spread. C-USA road dogs are 7-8.
-- Marshall won its last two games, allowing 14.5 ppg, but only one of its three wins is by more than 4 points. Memphis is horrible, losing last five games by average score of 50-11. C-USA home faves are 13-7-1.
-- Navy won 76-35 at East Carolina last week; they're 2-3 as favorite in '10. MAC road dogs are 12-16 vs spread out of conference. Four of last five Navy games went over total. Central Michigan covered only one of its last six games (2-2 as underdog this year).
-- Rice won four of last six games vs Tulane, winning 28-20/42-17 in last two meetings, but Owls lost 41-14/64-27 in last two games; they're 1-2 as road dog this year. Tulane lost four of its last five games.

-- Missouri lost last two games, scoring 17 in both games; they're 2-1 as home fave this season. K-State's three losses this year are by 35-5-10 points (2-2 as a dog). Four of last five Mizzou games stayed under total.
-- Favorite is 8-4 vs spread in last 12 Penn St-Ohio St games; Penn State lost games by 21-21-20 points this year (1-2 as dog, 0-2 on road). Ohio State is 7-2 vs spread this year. Last four PSU games went over total.
-- Home side won all seven South Florida-Louisville games; Bulls lost all three visits here, by 24-20/31-8/41-9 scores. USF was held to 14 points or less in its three losses. Louisville is 3-0 as a favorite this season.
-- TCU won its last six games (4-1 vs spread in last five) by average of 39-4. San Diego State is 7-2, 2-0 as dog; their losses are both by three points (@ Mizzou, @ BYU). Six of last seven Aztec games went under.
-- New Mexico is 0-4 as road dog this year, losing by 43-9 average score. Air Force lost three of last four games (played TCU-Utah-Army in last three games); they're only 1-4 vs spread as a favorite this season.

-- Louisiana Tech lost its three road games by 32-20-29 points; they are 2-6 vs I-A foes, winning by 18-13 points. Six of eight Tech games went over the total. New Mexico State covered its last four games.
-- Washington State is 0-9 vs I-A teams, but covered five of last six, with only one loss by more than 20 points. Oregon State is 4-4, with one win by more than 7 points. Over is 6-2 in Beavers' games this season.
-- Ole Miss ran for 359 yards in 42-17 win over Tennessee LY; Rebels lost last three SEC games, allowing 37 ppg. Vols are 0-5 in SEC games, scoring 15.8 ppg. Seven of last eight Tennessee games went over total.
-- San Jose State is 0-7 vs I-A opponents, losing 48-0/33-18 in its home games. Utah State has two wins but is 0-5 of they score less than 27 pts. Five of last six Aggie games stayed under the total.

-- Houston beat Tulsa 46-45/70-30 last two years, but Cougars are using 3rd-string QB now- they're 2-3 in last five games, allowing 47-34-40 in losses. Tulsa won its last three games, covered its last five.
-- Nevada beat Fresno State last two years, 52-14/41-28; win at Fresno was their first in last five visits here. Wolf Pack covered one of last five as favorite. Bulldogs won last three games, scoring 33-33-40 points.
-- Wyoming lost as road favorite at woeful New Mexico last week. now visits banged-up UNLV squad that lost last five games by average score of 48-12. Cowboys lost last five games by average score of 36-19.
-- Arkansas State won three of last four games (4-0 vs spread); they are 3-0 as favorites this year, winning those games by 14-5-21 points. Last three ASU games went over. WKU covered last four as an underdog.

-- Underdogs are 8-0 vs spread in Troy games this year; Trojans are 0-6 as favorites, 0-3 at home, winning at home by 3-7-7 points. FIU is 3-1 in its last four games; they're 1-2 as a road underdog this season.
-- North Texas lost four of last five games; they're 2-1-1 as road dog this year. Middle Tennessee is 2-5 vs I-A teams, 2-3 as favorite, winning by 20-28 points. Six of seven MTSU games stayed under the total.
-- FAU allowed 12.5 ppg in winning its last two games; they're 0-2 this season as a favorite. ULL lost last five games, but covered last three as an underdog. Five of last seven FAU games stayed under total.
-- LSU beat Alabama last week, has Ole Miss/Arkansas on deck; Miles' teams play to level of opponent (led I-AA McNeese State 16-10 at half) so likely to take it easy on UL-Monroe squad that covered three of last four as an underdog, but did lose 52-3 at Auburn in early October.

[Udog]

NCAAF


Saturday, November 13

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Bettors Need to Know
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

South Carolina at Florida (-6.5, 51.5)

The Gators and Gamecocks play for the cheese in the SEC East with the winner of tonight’s game securing a spot in the SEC championship game. Let’s see how these co-division leaders come into the game.

THE MAN WITH A PLAN
Steve Spurrier preached to his team throughout the week leading up to USC’s game against then No. 1-ranked Alabama to give “fate” a chance.

He then went about devising a winning game plan. First, the Gamecocks forced a power-attack Alabama offense into being a passing team. Alabama rushed for 36 yards and attempted more passes (35) than it did running plays (29).

Spurrier also made sure star running back Marcus Lattimore would be a featured back in the contest. Lattimore carried the ball 23 times for 93 yards and two touchdowns, and reached the painted grass another time on a red zone reception.

While taking an even keel approach to Florida this week, you would never know the importance of the game from listening to Spurrier this week.

He admonished quarterback Stephen Garcia for referring to the game as “the biggest” in USC program history. To Spurrier, the game against Florida is simply the most important one on the schedule this week.

"No, that's not true," Spurrier said during the SEC coaches teleconference. "Please don't listen to Stephen when he talks all the time. He's speaking sometimes for Stephen.

“It is a big game. But beating the number one team in the country was a big win for us. Carolina has had a lot of big games. Unfortunately, we haven't won many of those big games. So, we're trying to do something different as far as starting some tradition. We have a chance, so we'll see how we perform."

He might not call all the plays like he once did and he isn’t likely to deliver a rah-rah pre-game speech to his team. But there is no doubt that Spurrier will have a solid game plan for USC to win on Saturday.

MORE LATTIMORE
Lattimore was hit on the knee and briefly left last Saturday's Arkansas game before he was finally pulled midway through the third quarter when the Razorbacks stormed ahead by three touchdowns.

"He's ready to go, he's 100 percent, let's go play," USC running backs coach Jay Graham said Wednesday. "He took all his reps, normal reps and everything, so he's ready to go."

It should be noted that Lattimore did not wear a brace during Wednesday's workout.

His presence is vital to the Gamecocks’ chance of success Saturday.
The I-formation with a fullback and tailback were staples of Spurrier's high-powered offenses at Florida, and the QBs often went under center. Today, most of the snaps are from the shotgun.

"We don't run the I-formation and the draw like we used to do," Spurrier said. "And we're not really built to be a passing team right now. We're a team that needs to run a little bit more than passing."

THREE-HEADED MONSTER
Florida's rebound from a devastating three-game losing streak has pleased head coach Urban Meyer.

The Gators installed a new three-quarterback system and seem to have gained new life following the bye week.

Quarterbacks John Brantley, Trey Burton and Jordan Reed have worked effectively the last two games, sparking the offense to 89 points on 930 yards.

"We've come a long way as a team from where we were three or four weeks ago," Meyer said. "I like our chemistry, I like our work ethic and I like our togetherness. That has put us in a position to play an exciting game on Saturday night."

When asked about Florida's new three-quarterback system, Spurrier said it reminded him of what the San Francisco 49ers did in the early 1960s with Billy Kilmer, John Brodie and a third QB.

"Other than that, I haven't seen three of them go at it," Spurrier said. "But I've certainly seen two of them go at it. They're all three good players. They all have their specialties. Coach Meyer is trying to maximize the talents of his team. So, I can certainly understand it."

RAINEY DAYS
Florida WR Chris Rainey’s arrest in September prior to the Tennessee game made headlines and tested a young team’s resiliency.

While critics called for Meyer to cut Rainey loose, he instead met with UF president Bernie Machen and athletic director Jeremy Foley to discuss Rainey’s future. They came up with certain requirements Rainey had to meet once his legal issues were clarified.

“Chris Rainey hit rock bottom. We all know that. We're not ashamed to say that,” Meyer said. “Chris is like a son to me. He hit rock bottom and he is coming up and going as fast as he possibly can right now.”

Rainey was re-instated to the team two weeks ago and his contributions have been huge. His ability to make big plays in a variety of ways is almost Percy Harvin-like.

In Florida’s 34-31 win over Georgia on October 30, Rainey rushed for 84 yards and a touchdown. He also returned six kickoffs for 148 yards. In Saturday’s win at Vanderbilt, Rainey blocked two punts – one led to a touchdown run by Mike Gillislee and the other was returned 42 yards for a touchdown by Solomon Patton – and caught four passes for a team-high 75 yards.

Rainey was named Southeastern Conference Special Teams Player of the Week on Monday for his performance at Vanderbilt.

Meyer has seen enough to be convinced Rainey has learned his lesson, yet he still remains cautious.

“It’s really encouraging to see some positives,’’ he said. “However, we’re not naïve enough to know we’ve [still] got a long way to go.’’

STAT WISE
• This game marks the 31st meeting in series history, with UF holding a 23-4-3 edge all-time, including 18-1 the last 19 meetings. Florida is 4-1 against the Gamecocks under head coach Urban Meyer.

• The Gators are looking to sweep their SEC East slate for the third consecutive season and 11th time since divisional play began in 1992.

• Under Meyer Florida is: 15-0 in games in which they block a punt; 48-1 in games in which it scores first and 19-8 in games in which both teams are ranked in the AP poll.

• Spurrier is 120-48-1 straight up and 100-67-2 against the spread as a college head coach in conference games. He is 48-29-1 straight up and 50-28 against the spread as a visitor in those games.

• South Carolina’s offense is ranked No. 52 in the nation, gaining 396 YPG. Its defense ranks No. 64, surrendering 370 PYG.

• Florida owns the nations 72nd ranked offense at 359 YPG. The Gators’ defense is rated No. 7 in the land, allowing 292 YPG.


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Udog]

NCAAF


Saturday, November 13

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Georgia Bulldogs at Auburn Tigers [3:30 PM ET]

BULLDOGS: Georgia has won 4 of their last 5 games, with their lone loss coming in OT to Florida. The Bulldogs are finally playing up to their preseason expectations, which makes them a dangerous team. Georgia is 5-5 SU, including just 1-3 SU on the road this year. The Bulldogs are 6-4 ATS overall this season. The Bulldogs are 0-3 ATS as the listed underdog this season. Offensively, the future is bright for Georgia. QB Aaron Murray is one of the best freshman QB's in the nation. Murray has thrown for more than 2,300 YDS this season, including 18 TD's. The Bulldogs are averaging 33.8 PPG this season, 26th best in the country. Georgia's defense has been underrated all season, allowing just 19.4 PPG this year. The Bulldogs have beaten the Tigers each of the previous 4 meetings. The Bulldogs are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall. The Bulldogs are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games played on grass. Georgia is 7-15-1 ATS in their last 23 conference games. The Bulldogs are 1-4 ATS against a team with a winning record. Georgia is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games as the listed underdog.

Bulldogs are 4-1 ATS last 5 games following a SU win of more than 20 points.
Over is 4-0 last 4 games against a team with a winning record.

Key Injuries - DT Kwame Geathers (ankle) is probable.

Projected Score: 27

TIGERS: (-8.5, O/U 66.5) As of press time, QB Cam Newton is still playing in this game. Assuming Newton plays this evening, the biggest questions are how will this team handle all the surrounding rumors? The Tigers are clearly playing for so much, between an SEC Championship, a BCS championship opportunity, and a Heisman Trophy campaign. Auburn is 10-0 SU and 6-0 in SEC play entering tonight. The Tigers will also be playing their final home of the regular season. Auburn is 6-4 ATS this year, including 5-2 ATS as a single digit favorite. Besides Newton, the Tigers have depended on RB Michael Dyer. Dyer has rushed for nearly 800 YDS and 5 TD's this season. Newton has totaled more than 3,000 YDS this season, including 34 TD's. In the SEC, that is simply amazing. Defensively, the Tigers are allowing opponents to averaging 24.3 PPG. The Tigers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss. Auburn is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a home favorite. The Tigers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a SU win of more than 20 points. The Tigers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games played in November.

Tigers are 6-1 ATS last 7 conference games.
Over is 11-4 last 15 games as a home favorite.

Key Injuries - WR Deangelo Benton (ankle) is questionable.

Projected Score: 30 (UNDER-Total of the Day)


Oklahoma St. Cowboys at Texas Longhorns [ABC | 8:00 PM ET]

COWBOYS: (-5.5, O/U 56) Oklahoma St. is 8-1 SU this season and ranked 10th in the nation. The Cowboys lone loss was to Nebraska, a 41-51 SU shootout. Not only are the Cowboys one of the best teams in the polls, but also from a betting standpoint. Oklahoma St. is now 7-2 ATS this year, one of the best marks in the nation. The Cowboys are 6-1 ATS as the listed favorite this year. Oklahoma St. has an explosive offense, as they are averaging 46.3 PPG, 3rd best in the nation. QB Brandon Weeden has come into the spotlight as being one of the best players in the country this year. Weeden has thrown for nearly 3,000 YDS and 26 TD's this year. RB Kendall Hunter has rushed for 1,240 YDS this year with 14 TD's this season. To finally beat Texas tonight, the Cowboys will have to play physical on defense tonight. Oklahoma St. has allowed opponents to score 28.4 PPG this year, not good enough for a top 10 team. The Cowboys are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games after scoring more than 40 points in their previous game. Oklahoma St. is 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall. The Cowboys are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU win. Oklahoma St. is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 conference games. The Cowboys are 14-6 ATS against a team with a losing record.

Cowboys are 19-6-1 ATS last 26 games as a road favorite.
Under is 16-5 last 21 road games.

Key Injuries - WR Hubert Anyiam (ankle) is questionable.

Projected Score: 34 (SIDE of the Day)

LONGHORNS: Texas is in the midst of a dismal season, and they are looking to avoid losing their 4th consecutive game tonight in front of their home crowd. Texas is 4-5 SU, and are in danger on not even qualifying for a bowl game. The Longhorns have only won 1 home this year, going 1-3 SU. The Longhorns will play each of their last 3 games at home this season. Texas will be playing their 1st game of the season as the home underdog. The Longhorns are 1-1 ATS as the listed underdog this year. QB Garrett Gilbert leads an offense that is averaging just 22.3 PPG, 91st in the nation. Gilbert has thrown for more than 2,000 YDS this year, but has twice as many INT's than TD's. Defensively, the Longhorns have allowed at least 30 PTS in each of their 2 last games. The Longhorns are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games following an ATS loss. Texas is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 conference games. The Longhorns are 2-8 ATS against a team with a winning record. Texas is 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games overall. The Longhorns are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games following a SU loss of more than 20 points.

Longhorns are 4-1 ATS last 5 games as a home underdog.
Under is 12-5 last 17 games against a team with a winning record.

Key Injuries - CB Aaron Williams (concussion) is questionable.

Projected Score: 21


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------