Wisconsin Badgers (7-5) vs. LSU Tigers (9-3)
Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers 1/1/24 – The New Year kicks off with a compelling showdown in the NCAAF ReliaQuest Bowl, featuring the Wisconsin Badgers and the LSU Tigers. Set for January 1, 2024, this match-up presents an intriguing clash of styles and talents. The Badgers, standing at 7-5, face off against the 9-3 Tigers in what promises to be a showcase of raw college football talent. Fans and bettors alike are eager for insights, making this game a focal point for the best NCAAF bowl picks and tips.
Wisconsin enters this contest with mixed performances. Braelon Allen has been at the core of Wisconsin’s offensive strategy with 984 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns under his belt; wide receiver Will Pauling provides another reliable target with 694 receiving yards whose rapport with quarterback Tanner Mordecai could prove key in breaking down Tiger defenses.
LSU boasts an impressive record, thanks to Logan Diggs and Malik Nabers’ performances. Diggs has been a force on the ground, amassing 652 rushing yards and seven touchdowns; his ability to maintain momentum will be key against Wisconsin’s defense. Nabers, an outstanding wide receiver, has proven his worth as he amassed 1546 receiving yards – his playmaking abilities will challenge Wisconsin’s secondary.
Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers 1/1/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024 at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Tanner Mordecai QB vs. Garrett Nussmeier QB
Tanner Mordecai has completed 177 passes on 274 attempts (64.6%) for 1,687 yards, 6 touchdowns and 4 picks, resulting in a mediocre 120.6 passer rating. While he protects the football, Wisconsin needs him to take more chances downfield to move the chains. Mordecai excels throwing outside the numbers but can struggle when forced to throw over the middle. His decision making is subpar under pressure.
Garrett Nussmeier has been impressive in limited action. He has completed 51.5% of his passes but has made some big throws, averaging 5.9 yards per attempt with 1 touchdown and no interceptions for a strong 111.4 rating. Nussmeier displays quality arm strength and excels throwing the deep ball. However, he is still quite raw and can be rattled by heavy pressure. Better decision making will come with more experience.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: LSU Tigers -360, Total Odds: 56
The betting odds lean heavily towards LSU, with a significant spread suggesting confidence in their ability to control the game. The total odds set at 56 points indicate expectations of a high-scoring affair, perhaps driven by LSU’s offensive prowess.
Wisconsin Badgers Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER 4 of 5 Wisconsin games. The Badgers methodical offense has limited scoring opportunities. This trend suggests another low-scoring grind awaits. Wisconsin is 2-4 against the spread (ATS) in its last 6 games against Southeastern Conference foes. While talented, the Badgers tend to struggle when facing elite SEC athletes. Still, this stat indicates Wisconsin could cover the 10 point spread.
LSU Tigers Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 15 of LSU’s last 16 contests. The Tigers defense continues to allow opponents to light up the scoreboard every week. Expect another high-scoring affair. LSU is 6-0 ATS in its last 6 games as the favorite. The Tigers have covered several large spreads behind its powerful offense. LSU is trustworthy laying points.
Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers 1/1/24 Betting Picks
The analysis points towards a game where LSU’s offensive strength will likely overpower Wisconsin’s mixed performances. The Tigers’ ability to consistently cover spreads and push for high-scoring games gives them the edge in this premium matchup tips. However, Wisconsin’s potential to keep the game tight, especially with Allen and Pauling in good form, should not be underestimated.
Considering the trends and performances, the better pick seems to be LSU, especially with their strong record as favorites and their propensity to push the total OVER. Prop bets on individual player performances, particularly on LSU’s Nabers and Wisconsin’s Allen, might offer additional value. For the over/under, leaning towards the OVER seems prudent given LSU’s offensive track record.
Free Pick and Prediction: LSU Tigers 35, Wisconsin Badgers 22