The most anticipated matchup in college football can't get here soon enough, but we've already seen market opinions shift the numbers in a substantial way. Back in late January, you could bet Texas +4.5 at Ohio State at a favorable -105.
The most anticipated matchup in college football can’t get here soon enough, but we’ve already seen market opinions shift the numbers in a substantial way.
Back in late January, you could bet Texas +4.5 at Ohio State at a favorable -105.
Full disclosure: I did.
Currently, at BetMGM, Texas is +2.5, -110. The spread crossed both key and semi-key numbers. Not insignificant in a game where the two teams are considered somewhat evenly matched with the Buckeyes playing in a home stadium that most believe to convey a legitimate home field advantage that’s actually worth the traditional field goal or more.
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The team total number tells an interesting story. It opened at 51.5, but you can now find numbers as low as 47.5. An 8% total move across 51 and 48 (common key totals) is meaningful. Despite two potentially explosive offenses, larger bettors are increasingly anticipating a conservative defensive-oriented ball game.
Or they’re expecting one team to take control and limit their opponent to under 17 points. Either way, the total move isn’t screaming for a 34-31 shootout or a 41-14 blowout.
At one particular book, only 24% of bets are on the under, but that represents 56% of the money.
As for larger national interest, right now Texas and Ohio State are the most heavily bet teams in college football. Not only in this matchup, but in an aggregate of futures, win totals, and other games of the year.
Whether you love or hate the Longhorns and Buckeyes, they’re never ignored.
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Category: General Sports
