Two bowl-eligible teams with renewed momentum and standout stars face off as Colorado heads to Texas Tech this Saturday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Colorado -3 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Colorado vs. Texas Tech
Saturday, November 09, 2024 – 04:00 PM ET at Jones AT&T Stadium
Colorado Shines Against Cincinnati
Shedeur Sanders propelled Colorado to a 34-23 win over Cincinnati on October 26, clinching bowl eligibility. Sanders was in top form, completing 25 of 30 passes for 323 yards, including two touchdown throws to Travis Hunter. He even set a program record by completing his first 15 passes, all while shaking off the flu.
Hunter’s contributions were crucial, as he tallied nine receptions for 153 yards, with a key 34-yard touchdown catch just before halftime. On defense, Hunter broke up four passes, showcasing his dual-threat abilities and bolstering his Heisman candidacy.
This victory gives Colorado a shot at a bowl game over a full season for the first time since 2016, a significant step in Year 2 under Sanders. Colorado’s defense played a pivotal role in swinging momentum, stopping Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby on a 4th and 1 before halftime, setting up Sanders’ touchdown pass to Hunter for a 24-14 lead.
Texas Tech Edges Iowa State
Texas Tech also comes in hot, having narrowly defeated Iowa State 23-22. In a high-stakes drive, Behren Morton led the Red Raiders on a 71-yard push, with Tahj Brooks capping it off with a five-yard touchdown run with just 19 seconds left. This clutch victory prevented Iowa State from achieving its best season start.
Brooks continued his streak of 100-yard games, rushing 25 times for 122 yards, passing the 4,000-yard career milestone. Morton showed resilience, shaking off a shoulder injury to throw for 237 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Despite three false starts on their final drive, Morton converted a critical 4th and 7 to set up Brooks’ winning score, marking Texas Tech’s fourth straight year of bowl eligibility under coach Joey McGuire.
Keys to the Game
Sanders’ efficiency has been remarkable, and his connections with Hunter could give Texas Tech’s secondary a serious test. Sanders completed over 80% of his passes in his last game, and his mix of quick reads and deep shots has proven difficult for defenses to counter. If he continues this tempo, Colorado will have an opportunity to set the pace early.
Hunter’s dual-threat ability makes him a focal point in every matchup. His 153-yard game against Cincinnati underscores his impact on offense, while his presence in the secondary has helped Colorado’s defense limit big plays.
Texas Tech may have to adjust its coverage to limit Hunter’s production, which could open up passing opportunities for Colorado elsewhere. On defense, Hunter’s playmaking could disrupt Texas Tech’s offense, potentially forcing them into shorter, less risky passes.
Brooks has consistently gone over 100 yards each game, establishing himself as Texas Tech’s offensive anchor. If he can find his rhythm early, Texas Tech could slow down Colorado’s offense by controlling the clock. However, Colorado’s run defense showed grit in its last game, halting Cincinnati’s fourth-down attempt before halftime. Limiting Brooks could force Texas Tech to rely more on Morton’s passing game, increasing their vulnerability to turnovers.
Both teams have struggled with penalties and turnovers in recent games, making special teams and discipline crucial. Colorado’s defense could capitalize on Morton’s interception tendency, setting up Sanders and Hunter with favorable field positions. Meanwhile, Texas Tech’s tenacity under pressure shows they can execute in tight spots, which could be an asset if the game stays close late.
NCAAF Pick
Expect a competitive game through three quarters, with each team making the most of their opportunities and occasionally slipping up. Texas Tech’s run-first approach with Brooks will keep them within reach, but if Sanders and Hunter maintain their recent form, Colorado’s offensive precision could give them the edge.
Sanders’ poise and Hunter’s big-play capability on both sides of the ball may be too much for Texas Tech to keep in check.
NCAAF Pick: Colorado -3 (-110) at Bet365
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