Sep 17, 2024
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Griffin Warner
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CFB Week 4 Betting: USC at Michigan
This Week 4 showdown between USC and Michigan has sparked excitement, especially with USC traveling to Michigan as six-point favorites. Both teams have seen their ups and downs this season, but the big storylines come from Michigan's offensive struggles and their reliance on defense to keep them in games. This article takes a deeper look into the key players, team stats, and the betting outlook for this crucial matchup.
Michigan's Big Gamble: A Quarterback Change
[Big East Ben (0:22 - 2:03)] highlights Michigan’s significant decision to bench Davis Warren and start Alex Orji, a highly touted five-star prospect. Michigan's offense has been weak all season, barely edging out Arkansas State and suffering a crushing defeat to Texas. Ben emphasizes that the switch to Orji is a desperate move, but one that Michigan hopes can salvage their season. Orji has thrown only six passes this season, one of which was intercepted, adding uncertainty to Michigan’s offensive outlook.
Ben also notes that Michigan’s defense will be the team’s cornerstone. The defense knows they need to step up, particularly against USC's potent offense led by quarterback Miller Moss. With Michigan’s offense still in question, the defense will have to carry the load and find ways to limit USC’s scoring.
USC’s Offensive Momentum
USC, on the other hand, enters the game with more confidence. [Griffin Warner (0:00 - 0:21)] explains that despite being on the road, USC is favored by six points, largely due to Michigan’s inconsistent performances. USC’s offense, which posted 27 points against LSU, has shown it can handle tough defenses. Warner is confident that USC will find ways to exploit Michigan's weaknesses, but the real question is how Michigan’s defense will respond.
Betting the Under
Both analysts favor the under on the total of 46.5 points. Ben emphasizes the strength of Michigan’s defense and the uncertainty surrounding Orji’s ability to lead the offense. With a defense-oriented game likely, the total points scored are expected to stay low. [Griffin Warner (2:03 - 2:12)] also backs the under, adding that Michigan’s lack of offensive production and USC’s reliance on their defense to keep Michigan at bay could result in a slow, low-scoring game.
The Key Battle: Michigan Defense vs. USC Offense
This game will be a classic battle of offense vs. defense. Michigan’s defense, which has been the team's strength, will be tested by USC’s explosive offense. With Michigan's season on the line, the defense will need to deliver a stellar performance. Ben believes that if Michigan can slow down Miller Moss and the Trojans, they might keep the game close enough for their offense to scrape by. However, USC's momentum gives them the edge.
Conclusion
The USC-Michigan clash is shaping up to be a critical game for both teams. Michigan’s quarterback switch and the defense’s need to step up make this a must-watch matchup. Both experts favor betting the under, with the total points expected to stay below 46.5. Michigan’s defense will need to rise to the occasion if they hope to hold off a powerful USC offense.
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Topics:
CFB