A very interesting game. It has been moved to the Superdome in New Orleans. Advantage LSU. The line is now up to LSU -14 1/2 in some Vegas shops. BYU has been a 9 point + dog just 9 times in the past 8 years. Their record...8-1 ATS. BYU loves to play them close, especially as a big road dog. Now BYU's offense was basically non-existent last week against FCS Portland State. It looked terrible. LSU's offense has looked terrible for years now. I expect some improvement from their offense, but not a lot to begin the season with. LSU also loses the services of LB Arden Key, who averaged 1.1 sacks per game to lead the SEC last season.
14 1/2 points is a lot to give, especially with a total of around 48, not real high to begin with. LSU should have enough offensive talent to grind out a win here. But even if they play a conservative game one and win 17-3, that still does not cover a 14 1/2 point spread. Take BYU and the points if you are going to play this game. I may pass on it. I do not like playing games with a lot of intangibles mixed in it and this is certainly one of those games.
14 1/2 points is a lot to give, especially with a total of around 48, not real high to begin with. LSU should have enough offensive talent to grind out a win here. But even if they play a conservative game one and win 17-3, that still does not cover a 14 1/2 point spread. Take BYU and the points if you are going to play this game. I may pass on it. I do not like playing games with a lot of intangibles mixed in it and this is certainly one of those games.