Karpuc: NCAAF Week 9 Expert Picks Featuring Miami-FSU Over
Week 9 Picks
Coming off a 6-4 record last week, I look to improve as we head into Week 9. This week is highlighted by a pair of top-25 matchups. The first is in the ACC as No. 24 Miami travels to Tallahassee to take on No. 17 Florida State. The other is in the Big 12 as No. 23 Kansas makes the trip to Waco to face No. 18 Baylor. I'll share my thoughts on those games and provide picks for every FBS game this week below. So, let's get started!
Miami at Florida State Over
This is the highest total on the board in Week 9, and for good reason. Both Miami and Florida State have offenses that have shown the ability to put up points in bunches. Miami is averaging 41.3 points per game, while Florida State is averaging 38.0 points per game. Both teams also have defenses that have struggled at times this season. Miami is allowing 29.3 points per game, while Florida State is allowing 32.1 points per game. I expect this game to be a shootout with plenty of points scored by both teams. Over 63.5 is my pick.
Other Notable Games
No. 23 Kansas at No. 18 Baylor: This is a big game in the Big 12 race. Kansas is coming off a big win over Oklahoma, while Baylor is coming off a bye week. Both teams have high-powered offenses, so I expect this game to be a shootout. I'm taking Kansas +7.5.
No. 13 Utah at Arizona State: Utah is the clear favorite in this game, but Arizona State has been playing well at home this season. The Sun Devils are 3-0 at home this season, and they have a chance to make a statement against a ranked opponent. I'm taking Arizona State +19.
No. 20 Texas A&M at South Carolina: Texas A&M is coming off a big win over Mississippi State, while South Carolina is coming off a bye week. The Aggies have a lot of talent on their team, but they have been inconsistent this season. I'm taking South Carolina +14.