The big bout that all have been waiting for, the unbeaten USC Trojans (2-0) against the powerful Michigan Wolverines (2-1) NCAAF clash, will be the highlight of Week 4. This key matchup will take place during a chilly afternoon on Saturday, September 21, 2024, inside the massive Michigan Stadium, which has surely a great atmosphere. Such an encounter is both highly significant for the season of these two teams and presents superb opportunities for betting on NCAAF free picks today.
USC Trojans vs. Michigan Wolverines 9/21/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 3:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Michigan Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
USC Trojans (2-0) vs. Michigan Wolverines (2-1)
The USC Trojans have gone off to a stunning start, as their lauded overloaded completed 48-0 thrashing of the Utah State and a close 27-20 victory over LSU make their record unblemished. Woody Marks, who has as yet accumulated 171 rushing yards at a super 5.9 yards per rush and 3 rushing touchdowns, has become one of the best backs in the league. One of the key receiving members, Lake McRee, has contributed 137 yards from 9 catches. Such displays indicate a team that does more than win but wins the other teams in the physical contest.
On the other hand, owing to just one defeat against Texas, the Michigan Wolverines have stormed back to winning ways, with the most recent victory being a 28-18 against Arkansas State. Kalel Mullings leads their rushing offense and has a total run in 270 yards with an average of 7.5 yards every carry. In the passing aspect, tight end Colston Loveland has been quite rather dependable, with 19 catches for 187 yards. Such games reinforce Michigan’s strength in dictating pace and implementing their strategies, both of which are key ahead of this clash.
Miller Moss QB vs. Davis Warren QB
The season opener for USC has been good for Miller Moss, who has completed -72.7 % of his passes for 607 yards. Not only has he not been intercepted, but he employed a strategy that did not allow him to be so. The longest throw completion of that game was 41, so the ability to go deep exists. He has a quick release and is accurate about the money, which will be important to crack the Michigan defense.
In contrast, Davis Warren in Michigan started against similar opposition but could only pass for 444 yards & has a completion percentage of 66.7%. The bad news for him has been turnover, with 6 intercepted passes already, which can act against a USC team with fangs exposed looking for turnovers. Warren has been tasked with taking control of the game without turning the ball over, and his contribution will be very important on the way out, in this case setting up Michigan.
Another interesting dimension of this game will be the rivalry between Moss and Warren. While Warren seems to have a personal ax to grind, Moss’s targeting skills may be the strongest draw for the audience in a very promising high-tide matchup where quarterbacking may play a critical role in pace and outcome of the game.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Michigan Wolverines -10.5 (-110), Total Odds: 53.5
The odds reflect a belief in Michigan’s overall strength and depth, favoring them by 10.5 points and setting the game total at 53.5. These lines suggest expectations of a high-scoring affair, potentially driven by both teams’ offensive capabilities and Michigan’s aggressive home play.
USC Trojans Betting Trends
The Trojans have demonstrated strong against-the-spread (ATS) performance, going 4-1 in their last five games. However, their record of 0-8 ATS against Big Ten opponents looms large as a point of concern. Their ability to cover as underdogs in a hostile environment will test their resolve and could influence betting strategies.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
Michigan’s dominance at home is undeniable, with a 19-1 SU record in their last 20 games at Michigan Stadium. Their trend of games going UNDER in September also suggests a disciplined approach that could stymie the high-powered USC offense, a key factor for bettors to consider.
USC Trojans vs. Michigan Wolverines 9/21/24 Betting Picks
After exploring how the game works and the betting patterns in history, USC’s need to fight back and the offensive threats they pose flatters the odds even if they are up against Michigan who plays really well at home. The Trojans have proved that they can handle the heat, making them a good bet against the spread in this close contest.
For the smarter money move, consider the total going UNDER as both teams have implications that could lead to less scoring in important games. Also, look not for the wager that the quarterback of USC will perform on the expected levels as such will be some of the premium best picks for the sharp bettors to make.