I decided to spread these out instead of making one long never ending thread. Today we look at LSU vs North Carolina in Atlanta in 9/4.
This is a critical game for both teams. For LSU, it has been a long two years for LSU Football, having suffered 9 losses during that time. Les Miles has made some of the worst clock management decisions in recent history, and may have cost his team a couple of games. He is definately on the hot seat. Many think that if Rich Rod fails at Michigan, Miles is ready to jump, if asked. That is a lot of baggage for a coach to carry. The fact that LSU loses 7 starters on defense does not help matters either. Last year, the defesne was the hilite of the team, allowing 16 or less points in 7 of their games. The defense will have to reduild in a hurry. The offense returns 6 starters, and aparently have their QB problems solved. This offense had problems scoring gainst quality opposition last season. On top of all this, there is a possible NCAA investigation looming.
North Carolina had major problems putting points on the board last season, and had a disappointing season. The offense does return 8 starters, including QB Yates, but this group must produce this season. This group scored 20 or less points in 6 games last season, and was limited to 12 or less in three of those. The defense was the bright spot for UNC, and returns all but 2 starters. Their LB corps may be the best in the nation. This group held opponents to 17 ppints or less 8 times last season. Butch Davis is looking to take the next step in the ACC.
From a wagering point of view, the under really stands out. LSU will be trying to retool their offense again. North Carolina will be trying to put more points on the board. But the bottom line is that both teams will be trying to win this game, because a loss kills most chances of a visit to the NC game. The UNC defense seems to be the standout unit on both squads, and UNC may play it close to the vest, especially since this is game 1. Look for a possible under play if the number does not drop too low.
Next Up. Purdue at Notre Dame on 9/4.
This is a critical game for both teams. For LSU, it has been a long two years for LSU Football, having suffered 9 losses during that time. Les Miles has made some of the worst clock management decisions in recent history, and may have cost his team a couple of games. He is definately on the hot seat. Many think that if Rich Rod fails at Michigan, Miles is ready to jump, if asked. That is a lot of baggage for a coach to carry. The fact that LSU loses 7 starters on defense does not help matters either. Last year, the defesne was the hilite of the team, allowing 16 or less points in 7 of their games. The defense will have to reduild in a hurry. The offense returns 6 starters, and aparently have their QB problems solved. This offense had problems scoring gainst quality opposition last season. On top of all this, there is a possible NCAA investigation looming.
North Carolina had major problems putting points on the board last season, and had a disappointing season. The offense does return 8 starters, including QB Yates, but this group must produce this season. This group scored 20 or less points in 6 games last season, and was limited to 12 or less in three of those. The defense was the bright spot for UNC, and returns all but 2 starters. Their LB corps may be the best in the nation. This group held opponents to 17 ppints or less 8 times last season. Butch Davis is looking to take the next step in the ACC.
From a wagering point of view, the under really stands out. LSU will be trying to retool their offense again. North Carolina will be trying to put more points on the board. But the bottom line is that both teams will be trying to win this game, because a loss kills most chances of a visit to the NC game. The UNC defense seems to be the standout unit on both squads, and UNC may play it close to the vest, especially since this is game 1. Look for a possible under play if the number does not drop too low.
Next Up. Purdue at Notre Dame on 9/4.
