Houston at Tulsa
These two teams have had quite the opposite start. Houston’s only quality opponent was a loss to Texas Tech (who just gave up 70 to Texas) and has rattled off three wins in a row. Tulsa suffered an embarrassing loss to UC-Davis then lost back-to-back games against Oklahoma State, and Ohio State before getting their first win against Arkansas State one of the worst teams in the Sun Belt this season. Tulsa will be looking to control the ball on the ground with Shamari Brooks at tailback. The Cougars will be trying to air it out with Clayton Tune in Dana Holgorsen’s offense.
Verdict: (Tulsa -4) This is a strange matchup. The Golden Hurricanes have the better defense, ground game, and it’s at home. That is enough for me to take Tulsa.
Tulsa 27- Houston 21
Iowa at Maryland
The Terrapins continue to be the team of mystery in the Big Ten. No one can quite figure out how good they really are. Iowa has shown spurts that they are a true contender in the Big Ten. Iowa’s offense is not flashy but they are able to get the job done with Linerbaum at center, Goodson in the backfield, and Petras at the helm. Maryland’s offense goes as far as Taulia Tagovailoa can take them. He does have help out wide with Dontay Demus and Rakim Jarret. Both defenses have been great, with Iowa having the edge playing some better competition. Iowa and Maryland have a common opponent in Kent State, where both games had similar scores.
Verdict (Iowa -3). Not going to lie this spread STINKS. Even though they are playing in Maryland on a Friday night, I still feel Iowa should be favored by more. I would personally stay away from this line. Looking at both teams, Iowa has a clear edge on defense. The corner duo is one of the best in the country and their defensive line is going to make it hard for Tagovailoa to get comfortable in the pocket. The brain says Hawkeyes by two scores, but the spread says otherwise.
Iowa 28- Maryland 17