Forget the Chargers’ brutal 0-2 start against the spread and straight up, because after losing their first two games as touchdown favorites, Jim Harbaugh is about to empty the playbook. That desperation makes them our perfect underdog pick right now. There’s almost zero appetite to bet the Bolts, and as someone who hasn’t been burned by them yet, that underrated underdog role is exactly what we’re looking for. Desperation is a powerful motivator.
College Football Chaos: Talent, Penalties, and Tough Trenches
Over in college ball, Clemson is in a tough spot, traveling cross-country on a short week to face a feisty Cal squad. Sophomore Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, or JKS for short, is an electric play maker with a rocket arm. He’s primed for a big day against that Clemson secondary, so you gotta give Cal the points here. Then there’s the madness in The Swamp. The public didn’t want Ole Miss at home last week, but now they’re lining up to bet them against Florida. The Gators’ defense is much improved, but Jon Sumrall had to be furious about their 16 penalties last week. We’re drinking the juice on Ole Miss moneyline, no need to lay three points.
Penn State’s facing their first real test of the season, and no offense to Marshall, Temple, or Buffalo, but Wisconsin is bringing the toughest challenge in the trenches. The Badgers might have found something at quarterback with Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph, and wise guys historically love fading Matt Campbell as a double-digit favorite. Ten points looks incredibly enticing when the total is only 44. A 7-0 Wisconsin start would be absolutely lovely.
NFL Desperation and Defensive Clashes
Speaking of teams at 0-2 SU and ATS, meet the Buccaneers. They just took a loss from the lowly Cleveland Browns. You can bet that locker room isn’t feeling great right now. We’ve also got games brewing where you can expect some ugly football. Seriously, don’t be surprised when one of these conservative head coaches punts from the opponent’s 40-yard line or kicks a field goal on 4th and 2. It’s gonna be a grinder. As retired Vegas bookmaker Ed Salmons said, “the line is telling you who’s going to cover this game.”
So, get ready to see if desperation pays off for the Chargers, if JKS can light up the Tigers, and if Wisconsin can pull off a stunner. It’s going to be a wild ride this week.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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