My first thought was to fade Vandy, it didn't matter who they were playing. But the more I look at this game, it does matter. Temple isn't as bad as you may think. So I'm not really fading Vandy as much as I'm taking Temple.
A few reasons why I'm going against Vandy.
1. Yes, a new coaching staff. Losing Franklin will hurt this program.
2. New QB. The 1st start at home, the kid will have butterflies. Not having last years top 2 WRs back isn't going to help the passing game.
3. They will have to rely more on their running game. This is not your typical SEC o-line. They are just as big as Temple's o-line.
4. Only 4 Def. starters returning.
5. Looking a head to next week? They play Mississippi on Sept.6th. I'm sure Vandy hasn't forgotten about that game last year.
Reasons for liking Temple.
1. Matt Rhule. The Temple coach is a former PSU linebacker. Which means he is tough and expects his players to be tough also.
2. They were 2-10 last year. Seven of those loses were by 10pts or less. Rhule will have his players going 100% for all 4qrts. That's what you want from a team that is catching 14pts.
3. The Owls were 6-0 ATS last year as DD dogs. They ended the season with a 20pt win as a 8pt dog.
4. They have 8 starters coming back on "D". A good d-line & some very good linebackers. So if Vandy doesn't feel comfortable throwing the ball, which I don't think they will be. They will be forced to run. I don't see them running the ball up and down the field on Temple. I believe this calls for a low scoring game. Another reason why 14pts is nice to be getting.
5. P.J. Walker. The Temple QB is good. Last year he just kept getting better as the season went on. Against UCF he threw for 382yrds 4TDs and run for 41yrds. He can threw and run, not the type of QB you want to be facing with a new coaching staff, system & 4 returning starters on defense.
If I missed anything please feel free to chime in to help.
Im taking the Owls +14. But it wouldn't shock me to see an upset.
Good Luck Guys!!!