After a tougher-than-expected win over Idaho, Oregon now faces a more formidable test as they host Boise State on Saturday, looking to extend their nation-leading non-conference home winning streak to 34 games.
Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Boise State +19.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Boise State vs. Oregon
Saturday, September 07, 2024 – 10:00 PM ET at Autzen Stadium
Oregon Has Never Beaten Boise State
Historically, the Ducks have struggled against Boise State, going 0-3 in their previous meetings.
Both teams opened the season with victories—Boise State outlasted Georgia Southern 56-45, while Oregon grinded out a 24-14 win over Idaho. Boise State’s offensive onslaught was led by Ashton Jeanty, who ran for 267 yards and six touchdowns, contributing to the team’s 651 total yards. However, they also allowed Georgia Southern to score 45 points, raising concerns about their defense.
Oregon’s win over Idaho wasn’t without issues either, as they led by just three points in the fourth quarter. Despite struggling to reach the end zone, quarterback Dillon Gabriel impressed with 380 passing yards, completing 41 of 49 passes for two touchdowns—setting records for an Oregon QB debut.
Boise State and Oregon Have Plenty of Question Marks
Both teams entered the season with high expectations, but questions loom as they head into this matchup.
Boise State dominated offensively, averaging 9.9 yards per play, but their defense showed vulnerabilities, allowing 322 passing yards and 27 first downs to Georgia Southern. That said, Boise State managed to contain the Eagles’ rushing game, which could bode well against an Oregon team that’s still sorting out its offensive line issues.
On the other side, Oregon moved the ball effectively but was plagued by penalties and a failure to capitalize in the red zone, resulting in an underwhelming victory over an FCS opponent. Their offensive line also allowed three sacks, highlighting some early season weaknesses.
NCAAF Pick
If Boise State can maintain their defensive discipline and Jeanty continues his stellar play, they could make this game competitive. While the spread initially favored Oregon by three touchdowns, I lean towards Boise State covering the +19.5 spread.
Although Oregon has the edge in talent, a strong Boise State showing, coupled with the Ducks potentially easing up in the fourth quarter, might keep the game closer than expected.
NCAAF Pick: Boise State +19.5 (-110) at Bet365
*21+ Seek help with a gambling addiction at 1-800-Gambler
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
