Bookmakers are gearing up for significant action as the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals approach, with the Ole Miss vs. Georgia matchup drawing particular attention. According to Joey Feazel, head of football trading at Caesars Sports, the Ole Miss-Georgia game is expected to have the largest impact on betting activities. As the quarterfinals unfold, insights into each game reveal shifting odds and the strategies of both bookmakers and bettors.
Ohio State vs. Miami: A Close Contest
In the Cotton Bowl, Ohio State enters as a strong contender against Miami. The Buckeyes, boasting a record of 12-1, suffered their only loss to Indiana in the Big Ten championship. With a notable spread-covering record of 10-2-1, they have garnered attention from bettors. Caesars Sports opened Ohio State as a 7.5-point favorite, quickly moving to -10 by December 20, before fluctuating to -9.5 just hours before the 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
Feazel noted that there is balanced action on this game, with bettors taking Miami on the moneyline while others are laying Ohio State -9.5. The total points line has also seen interest, with sharp bettors bringing it down from 43.5 to a low of 40.5.
Oregon and Texas Tech: A Battle of Strengths
In the Orange Bowl, Oregon faces Texas Tech, both of which have shown strong performances this season. Oregon, after a decisive 51-34 victory over James Madison, opened as a 1-point favorite and has since climbed to -2.5. Feazel indicated that sharp bettors have favored Oregon, but there is a significant amount of two-way action as both teams have loyal backers.
Paul Stone, a college football betting expert, highlighted the rarity of both teams ranking in the top 10 for scoring offense and defense. He expressed confidence in Texas Tech covering the +2.5 spread, citing their dominance in crucial games this season.
Indiana vs. Alabama: A Clash of Expectations
The Rose Bowl matchup between Indiana and Alabama has generated buzz, particularly because Indiana has emerged as a top contender this season. The Hoosiers, now the No. 1 seed, opened as 6-point favorites and moved to -7 due to substantial betting action. Alabama, coming off a strong performance against Oklahoma, has attracted bettors looking for value at +200 on the moneyline.
Feazel noted that many bettors are placing their confidence in Alabama to cover, while others are backing Indiana to win outright. This scenario mirrors the betting dynamics seen in the Ohio State vs. Miami game.
Georgia vs. Ole Miss: The Main Event
The highly anticipated Sugar Bowl features No. 3 Georgia and No. 6 Ole Miss, with Georgia opening as a 6-point favorite. The Bulldogs have seen significant backing, with bettors showing interest in both the spread and futures for the team. Feazel remarked on the overwhelming public support for Georgia, reminiscent of previous betting patterns seen in major NFL games.
As the quarterfinals unfold, bookmakers are acutely aware of the implications these matchups hold. The potential for significant payouts and the heavy betting on Georgia could create one of the largest betting nights in the CFP’s history. This betting frenzy represents not only the excitement of college football but also the financial stakes involved for both bettors and bookmakers alike.
As the games approach, fans and bettors alike are eager to see how these matchups will unfold, adding another layer of excitement to the College Football Playoff.
