The College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals have ignited significant betting action among bookmakers and bettors alike, with the matchup between Ole Miss and Georgia drawing the most attention. According to Joey Feazel, head of football trading at Caesars Sports, this clash is poised to have the largest impact on betting lines and outcomes.
Fans and bettors are eagerly anticipating four exciting matchups scheduled for New Year’s Eve and January 1, 2024. Each game presents unique dynamics and betting opportunities that are capturing the interest of the betting community.
Ohio State vs. Miami: A Clash of Strengths
The contest between Ohio State and Miami is particularly intriguing. Ohio State, with a record of 12-1, boasts a strong spread-covering performance at 10-2-1 this season. They head into the quarterfinals well-rested after receiving a bye. Miami, ranked 10th, impressed in the first round with a defensive victory over Texas A&M, winning 10-3 as a 3-point underdog.
Initially, Ohio State opened as a 7.5-point favorite for the Cotton Bowl, a line that swiftly moved to -10 by December 20. Currently, just hours before the kickoff at 19:30 ET, the line has settled at -9.5, indicating a mix of two-way action with bettors either taking Miami on the moneyline or laying the points with Ohio State. Feazel noted, “The need here is gonna be Ohio State to win and not cover.”
The total points line has also generated interest. Sharp bettors are pushing the total down, while the public remains enthusiastic about betting on the over. Feazel explained, “There was sharp money on Under 43.5, 42.5, and 41.5. The strength of these two teams is their defenses.” As of 13:00 ET, the total sits at a low of 40.5.
Oregon vs. Texas Tech: A Battle of Offensive Powerhouses
In another notable matchup, Oregon faces Texas Tech after a strong performance in the first round, defeating James Madison 51-34. Although Oregon did not cover as 21-point favorites, their offense remains formidable. Caesars initially opened Oregon as a 1-point favorite, with the line climbing to -2.5 by January 1.
Feazel pointed out that sharp money is favoring Oregon, with expectations that they hold a significant edge over Texas Tech. The total has also seen movement, dropping from 52.5 to 51.5. “There’s slight sharp action on Under 52.5. Texas Tech has a very stingy defense,” Feazel remarked.
College football betting expert Paul Stone expressed particular interest in this matchup, noting the impressive rankings of both teams in scoring and total defense. He favors Texas Tech to cover the spread at +2.5, citing their strong performances in crucial games this season.
Indiana vs. Alabama: A Clash of Titans
The Rose Bowl features a compelling showdown between Indiana and Alabama. Indiana, the No. 1 seed, makes its second consecutive appearance in the CFP after a remarkable turnaround. They opened as a 6-point favorite, quickly moving to -7 due to sharp betting action. Alabama, coming off a close victory over Oklahoma, is drawing interest as an underdog.
Feazel indicated that there is significant betting on Alabama’s moneyline, particularly given their attractive odds at +200. “Bettors are also laying Indiana -7 on the spread,” he noted, suggesting that the ideal scenario for bookmakers would be an Indiana win coupled with an Alabama cover.
Georgia vs. Ole Miss: The Main Attraction
The quarterfinals conclude with a highly anticipated matchup between SEC rivals Georgia and Ole Miss. After a strong showing against Tulane, Ole Miss enters this game with momentum. The line opened with Georgia as a 6-point favorite, fluctuating between -6 and -7 over recent days.
Feazel observed, “There’s a little sharp action on Ole Miss +7 and +6.5. But the public is all over Georgia. It’s one-way traffic on the Bulldogs.” The betting on Georgia extends beyond just this game, with many placing futures bets on their chances to advance deeper into the playoffs.
The stakes are high, and the betting landscape is dynamic as the CFP quarterfinals approach. With each game offering unique challenges and opportunities, bookmakers are keenly monitoring the action and its potential impacts on their operations. As these games unfold, the excitement surrounding college football betting continues to grow.
