CFB Game Of The Week: #8 BYU vs. #9 Texas Tech
The undefeated #8 BYU Cougars face a pivotal road test against #9 Texas Tech. This game could very well have playoff implications and is a must win for both teams.
Let’s break down how BYU’s gritty run-heavy attack matches up against Texas Tech’s explosive offense. Read everything about the game below before you get your college football picks in.
#8 BYU vs. #9 Texas Tech Betting Props
Experts currently have Texas Tech as a 10.5 point favorite to beat BYU. ESPN FPI is currently giving Tech a 61% chance to win this game.
Texas Tech Props
- ATS: -10.5(-110)
- Moneyline: -370
- Points: Over 52.5(-105)
BYU
- ATS: +10.5(+110)
- Moneyline: +293
- Points: Under 52.5(-110)
Texas Tech’s Keys To Victory
Historically, Texas Tech runs a high-powered offense and this year, their offense has them in playoff contention. The Red Raiders offense is currently 3rd in the nation with 40.6 PPG.
They also got some good news that starting QB Behren Morton is back after sitting out two games with an injury. Morton has been slashing secondaries and has had help from RBs Cameron Dickey and J’Koby Williams hitting big runs.
The team’s receiver core has over 21 catches each, which makes them an incredibly balanced offense. BYU is coming into this game with a banged up secondary that will have problems against the Tech offense.
All Texas Tech has to do is keep their high-powered offense pushing forward and put up points. With Morton back behind center, we could see this game easily go over 50 points.
However, the Tech defense will have to make some stops. If BYU gets their running game going, the score might be too close for comfort.
BYU’s Keys To Victory
The undefeated Cougars are coming off a bye and are looking to be rejuvenated for this game True freshman QB Bear Bachmeier is currently the highest-graded freshman QB in the nation.
He’s earned over 2000 offensive yards and currently holds a nice 78.9 QB rating. However, the tempo of the offense relies heavily on running back Preston Rex.
BYU’s best games this year were when Rex ran the ball well and helped the Cougars control the clock. They will need Rex on his A game in order to keep the dangerous Texas Tech offense off the field.
What makes this even more critical is that both of BYU’s starting safeties are questionable to play. The longer the defense is on the field, the Red Raiders will target BYU’s backup safeties.
Who’s Going to Win?
With Texas Tech playing at home and BYU’s injury issues, it’s hard not to bet on TTU. This has all the makings of a statement game for the Red Raiders.
This game could easily go over 50 points as Tech will look to show out. We’re taking the over 52.5 points and the moneyline on Texas Tech to win this pivotal game.
