Texas Longhorns (12-1) vs. Washington Huskies (13-0)
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies 1/1/24 – In a highly anticipated College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Sugar Bowl, the Texas Longhorns, with a formidable 12-1 record, are set to clash with the undefeated Washington Huskies. This high-stakes encounter on Monday, at the Caesars Superdome, is more than just a game; it’s a defining moment in the NCAAF season. Fans and bettors alike are scouring for the top NCAAF bowl free predictions to gauge who will emerge victorious in this epic battle.
CJ Baxter and Adonai Mitchell have been instrumental in the Longhorns’ success this season. Baxter, as the team’s leading running back, has accumulated 595 yards rushing with four touchdowns; his ability to break tackles and gain crucial yards will be essential when facing Washington’s defense. Mitchell, an outstanding wide receiver who has amassed 813 receiving yards with 10 touchdowns is an effective target in passing games.
Washington counters with an equally dynamic lineup. Dillon Johnson has been outstanding as their star running back with 1113 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns so far; wide receiver Rome Odunze has also been stellar, amassing 1428 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns that have presented Texas with significant challenges with his route-running abilities and speed.
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies 1/1/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024 at 8:45 PM ET |
| Where: | Caesars Superdome |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Quinn Ewers QB vs. Michael Penix Jr. QB
Quinn Ewers has regained the excellent form he showed as one of the top high school recruits in the country. After missing several games with injury, Ewers returned to throw for over 3000 yards and 21 touchdowns. He excels at pushing the ball downfield, averaging nine yards per attempt. His one weakness can be forcing too many risky throws, as evidenced by his six interceptions. Ewers keys an explosive Longhorns passing attack that perfectly complements Bijan Robinson’s elite rushing ability.
Michael Penix Jr. has been the breakout star of the 2022 season. After showing promise but struggling with injuries at Indiana, Penix has exploded as a downfield passer in Washington’s high-octane offense. He leads the nation in passing yards and touchdowns while completing 66 percent of his throws. Penix holds onto the ball too long at times, taking 10 sacks. But his arm strength and deep accuracy make Washington an absolute nightmare matchup. Penix will challenge Texas’ secondary from start to finish.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Texas Longhorns -170, Total Odds: 63
The betting odds favor Texas slightly, with a spread of -4 indicating confidence in their ability to win by more than a field goal. The total set at 63 points suggests expectations of a high-scoring affair.
Texas Longhorns Betting Trends
The Longhorns are 7-6 against the spread this season, showing some inconsistencies when favored. But they have covered in five of their last six overall. Texas also owns a 12-5 ATS record in their last 17 neutral site games. And they are solid 5-2 ATS as favorites this season. The Horns can struggle against elite passing offenses though, going just 3-7 ATS versus teams averaging 275+ passing yards per game over the last three seasons.
Washington Huskies Betting Trends
The Huskies are an impressive 11-2 against the spread this season, covering nearly every time they’ve been an underdog. They are also on an incredible 28-5 ATS run their last 33 games overall. Washington boasts one of the nation’s best passing offenses and a defense that forces turnovers. They are no fluke undefeated team. Their Pac-12 schedule has also prepared them well for this big stage. The Huskies are 20-7 ATS in their last 27 non-conference games.
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies 1/1/24 Betting Picks
This matchup presents a clash of two high-powered offenses, with both teams boasting exceptional quarterbacks and skill players. Texas, being slight favorites, has the edge, but Washington’s undefeated record and ability to rise as underdogs cannot be discounted.
For bettors, Texas seems like a solid pick, but the value in Washington’s underdog status is enticing. Prop bets on individual player performances could add excitement, and given both teams’ offensive prowess, betting on the OVER might be a strategic choice. With premium expert advice pointing towards a close and high-scoring game, this Sugar Bowl semifinal is expected to be a thrilling showcase of collegiate football at its best.
Free Pick and Prediction: Texas Longhorns 35, Washington Huskies 31