Utah Utes (8-4) vs. Northwestern Wildcats (7-5)
Utah Utes vs. Northwestern Wildcats 12/23/23 – Utah Utes with their 8-4 record will take on Northwestern Wildcats with 7-5 standing in an eagerly anticipated NCAAF Las Vegas Bowl showdown Saturday at Allegiant Stadium – promising an exciting primetime contest under ABC at 7:30 PM ET! Fans and bettors alike eagerly anticipate their latest free NCAAF bowl predictions; as this game not only symbolizes the culmination of hard work throughout a season but also offers insight into college football strategy.
Ja’Quinden Jackson has been instrumental in Utah Utes success, amassing 742 rushing yards and four touchdowns as an accomplished running back. His agility and ability to break tackles makes him an invaluable player on offense. Devaughn Vele also contributed significantly, recording 593 receiving yards and three touchdowns; showing himself to be both reliable and explosive playmaker.
Northwestern has their own special players on display; among them are running back Cam Porter (with 618 rushing yards and four touchdowns), wide receiver Cam Johnson (684 receiving yards, five touchdowns). Both standout players play key roles in Northwestern’s passing game and make significant plays that set it apart from rival teams.
Utah Utes vs. Northwestern Wildcats Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Allegiant Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Bryson Barnes QB vs. Ben Bryant QB
Utah quarterback Bryson Barnes has been steady if unspectacular this season, completing 58% of passes for over 1500 yards, 12 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. He protects the football and makes good decisions, keeping the Utes offense on schedule. Barnes is also dangerous on the ground, recording over 200 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability poses a challenge for defenses focused on stopping the run. However, Barnes has struggled with accuracy at times this year. If Northwestern can force him into long down and distances, the Utah offense could stall.
For Northwestern, Ben Bryant has been the model of efficiency with a 61% completion rate, nearly 1600 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and just 6 picks. He often opts for short, high percentage throws but can push the ball downfield when necessary. Bryant’s quick decision making and ability to avoid sacks has been crucial for the Wildcats offense. The key will be avoiding turnovers against Utah’s opportunistic defense. If Bryant can control the pace of the game and keep his offense on the field, Northwestern will have a chance to cover.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Utah Utes -350, Total Odds: 42.5
The betting odds favor the Utah Utes, with a moneyline of -350 and a spread of -9.5 points. This reflects the confidence in their ability to control the game. The total odds set at 42.5 points suggest a game with moderate scoring, in line with both teams’ recent performances.
Utah Utes Betting Trends
The Utes have been a strong bet lately, covering the spread in 6 of their last 8 overall. Utah is also 15-5 straight up in their last 20 games played on Saturday. When favored by over a touchdown, the Utes have gone under the total in 8 of their last 11 contests. This indicates that Utah’s defense remains stingy even against lesser opponents. Back the Under at 42.5 along with Utah to cover -9.5.
Northwestern Wildcats Betting Trends
Despite entering with a losing record, Northwestern has been hot against the spread, covering 6 straight games. The Wildcats are also 4-1 straight up in their last 5 contests as they’ve finished the season strong. In their last 9 games against the Pac-12 however, Northwestern is just 3-6 ATS. Northwestern has also gone Under in 6 of their last 8 games played in December. With two strong defenses, expect another lower-scoring battle.
Utah Utes vs. Northwestern Wildcats 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and trends, the Utah Utes seem to have a statistical advantage, particularly in terms of their SU and ATS records. However, the Wildcats’ recent ATS streak and their performance against Pac-12 teams indicate potential value in taking them with the points.
In terms of daily premium sports advice, considering the Utes for the win seems reasonable, but betting on the Wildcats to cover the spread could be a smart move. The over/under is a trickier bet, given the contrasting trends, but leaning towards the under might be prudent considering both teams’ recent history.
Free Pick and Prediction: Utah Utes 24, Northwestern Wildcats 17