Tuesday, Dec. 31 – Texas Bowl LSU vs Baylor (-1.5, T-60)
This game started with LSU -3 but that quickly changed when offensive linemen Will Campbell and Emery Jones will skip this game for the Tigers as they get set for the draft. Both could go in the first two rounds. And TE Mason Taylor will also not play, one of LSU’s main weapons. Baylor won its final six games with former LSU DC, head coach Dave Aranda. If LSU is motivated, they win this game.
THE PICK: LSU ML +100
Thursday, Jan. 2 – Gator Bowl No. 14 Ole Miss (-15) vs. Duke
This line is one of the largest during bowl season and it could change if Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart opts out. As of right now, he’s expected to play. Duke looks overmatched here despite going 5-2 ATS as an underdog. The Blue Devils could be jacked for the first half but expect the Rebels to pull away and give Lane Kiffin his third bowl victory after getting snubbed for the CFP.
THE PICK: Ole Miss -15
Friday, Jan. 3 – First Responder Bowl Texas State (-13.5, T-64) vs. North Texas
This line began at 7.5 but has ballooned to nearly two touchdowns as North Texas has almost 12 players who have opted out including starting QB Chandler Morris. Also missing, two receivers, tight end, center, left guard, right tackle, safety, and a couple of running backs. Without Morris, the Mean Green will turn to true freshman Drew Mestemaker. Texas State quarterback Jordan McCloud led the Sun Belt with 29 TD passes.
THE PICK: Texas State -13.5
Friday, Jan. 3 – Mayo Bowl Minnesota (-6.5, T-42.5) vs. Virginia Tech
Minnesota lost four of its five games by one score or less while Virginia Tech had five one-score losses. Based on that, we should see a close game right? Well, the Hokies have five players who have opted out and 8 players in the transfer portal. Minnesota is 5-0 S/U in bowl games under P.J. Fleck.
THE PICK Minnesota -6.5
Saturday, Jan. 4 – Bahamas Bowl Liberty vs Buffalo (-2, T-51)
This line opened Liberty -2.5 but starting quarterback Kaidon Salter signed with Colorado. The Flames are also without four other starters on offense and defense as Appalachian State transfer Ryan Burger gets the start. Buffalo is only missing its kicker and receiver Javien Cuff, otherwise much of the roster is intact.
THE PICK: Buffalo -2
