Covering the Spread, Week 2: The big "dogs" this week in college football

by InterMat

After last week's pitiful 1-3 record, there isn't much hope to recoup the losses from last week. Penn State's pummeling of Florida International was the only win as North Texas didn't cover like I thought they would, USC routed Idaho, but showed some mercy and Texas didn't come through against Arkansas State as favored.

Week two only features one Division I-A game with a spread over 30 points, which is usually the prerequisite for the Covering the Spread angle. So this week, it's the biggest four spreads and how the "dogs" will fare.

Last week, we went in-depth on why North Texas would cover -- and we got blasted out of the water. But I say again, if you're betting on these games, you really shouldn't be. I'm no expert and I'm sure as hell not a betting man.

In an effort to applaud those that do take homage to being the big "dog" ... we add a bonus game this week.

This Week's Top 4 Dogs

Florida State (-32) vs. UAB
I don't quite get this one. Florida State was exposed last week before making a modestly decent comeback against Clemson on Monday. Now, faced with a short week, do those doing the odds think Florida State is less dangerous against an inferior opponent who gave up 55 points to an unranked Michigan State team? Is Michigan State on par with Florida State. Can the Blazers hapless offense penetrate a mediocre 'Nole defense? Probably not. Florida State covers and gets into the win column after a disappointing loss to Clemson.
Pick: Florida State 49, UAB 14

Hawaii (-27.5) vs. Louisiana Tech
We might be lucky to see Hawaii's high-octane offense here on the East Coast as the Rainbow Warriors (or is it just Warriors now?) jaunt to the contiguous 48 for a conference game with Louisiana Tech. Yes, sports fans. In one of the most ultimate of misnomers, Hawaii travels nearly 4,000 miles for a conference game. Colt Brennan will put up big numbers with former NFL coach June Jones' offensive scheme. Hawaii's D is always suspect, because in the islands, 5-9 DB's are common, but hulking Samoans on the line are just as frequent. The Bulldogs didn't put up big numbers in defeating NAIA Central Arkansas 28-7 last week. Is a four-touchdown spot covered? I like this one for the favorite.
Pick: Hawaii 55, La. Tech 24

Ohio State (-29) vs. Akron
Two creampuffs in a row, well Youngstown State wasn't a creampuff in Division I-AA (spare me the FCS chatter). Akron did open its season with a win ... over Army. The Buckeyes should win this one comfortably and after yielding only six points to the Penguins last week, I like Ohio State to give the Zips a score that matches their mascot, but I'll give Akron slightly more credit than that.
Pick: Ohio State 41, Akron 10

Wisconsin (-25) vs. UNLV
Is UNLV for real after its win over Utah State? No. Is Wisconsin after it's win over Washington State? Yes. Will this game be ugly? Absolutely.
Wisconsin 45, UNLV 12

Bonus Dog

Maryland (-23.5) vs. Florida International
More or less for shits and giggles, the bonus pick this week might become a recurring FIU pick.
Maryland 34, FIU 7