UMass has had totals of 70 and 71 1/2 in its last two games. Cashing an over on the Minutemen still isn't a problem. There has been a combined 100 points scored in each of their two past games. In fact, the Over has won in six of UMass' seven games this season and in 21 of its last 28 games. 

Mix a passing offense with maybe the worst defense in the country and presto an instant Over. The Minutemen are surrendering 49.3 points per game to FBS foes this season. The oddsmaker can't set a total high enough on UMass. 

Expect Coastal Carolina to do its part in making this Over work. The Chanticleers rank in the bottom-25 in yards allowed and points given up at 35.3. Their defense is wearing down surrendering 45 points to Troy and Louisiana-Monroe during their past two games. UMass' offense should have a lot of pep and game-planning from the sharp offensive mind of its coach, Mark Whipple, after having a bye last week. 

The Over has cashed in Coastal Carolina's last seven nonconference matchups. 

The Chanticleers have rushed for at least 272 yards in four of their last five games. They have a very good running back, Marcus Outlaw. The Minutemen can't stop the run ranking 128th in rush defense. 

Still, I didn't decide to play this total Over until finding out that Coastal Carolina senior quarterback Kilton Anderson is expected to start after missing the last two games because of an ankle injury sustained against Louisiana Lafayette on Sept. 22. The Chanticleer offense averages 37 points per game when Anderson is behind center.