By Marc Lawrence
In the majority of cases, rest is considered advantageous for most college football teams, especially late in the season. An extra blow not only helps heal tired bodies but also gives coaches a chance to better study an opponent's game film in greater detail. However, rested teams during the opening month of the season tend to develop dichotic personalities.
RESTED TEAMS OFF A SEASON OPENING LOSS TEND TO STRUGGLE
A week of rest right out of the box in a new season, however, can either help or hinder a team depending on their previous effort and venue. In college football, teams in Game Two, playing off a LOSS with a week of rest, are just 56-70 ATS, including 28-43 ATS when on the road. This week we find North Carolina and Oregon State (both home) in this not-so-desirable role.
RESTED TEAMS OFF A SEASON OPENING WIN TEND TO PERFORM WELL
On the other side of the coin, college football teams in Game Two, playing off a WIN with a week of rest, are 114-84-4 ATS, with Boise State, Fresno State and Indiana are in this role this week.
When playing foes with wobbly defenses (allow 27 or more PPG on the season), these rested winners improve to 36-14 ATS. Boise State and Indiana fit the bill on Saturday. That's this week's wake-up call. You know what to do...