The California Golden Bears aim to rebound as they welcome the Miami Hurricanes on Saturday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Under 55 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Miami vs. California
Saturday, October 05, 2024 – 10:30 PM ET at California Memorial Stadium
Miami Rallies Late to Stun Virginia Tech
Miami pulled off a thrilling comeback victory over Virginia Tech, sealing a 38-34 win in their ACC opener. Down late, Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward delivered a one-yard touchdown strike to Isaiah Horton with just 1:57 left on the clock, putting Miami ahead for good.
However, the game ended with controversy as Hokies QB Kyron Drones seemed to connect with Da’Quan Felton for a 30-yard touchdown in traffic on the final play. Initially ruled a score, the call was overturned after review, confirming the Hurricanes’ victory.
The Hurricanes had to overcome multiple double-digit deficits throughout the game, with their last one coming at 34-24 with just over 12 minutes remaining. Turnovers plagued Miami, with Virginia Tech capitalizing on three of them to score 14 points, making it look like the Hokies were on the brink of an upset.
California’s Offensive Woes Against Florida State
In their first conference game as new ACC members, California fell short against Florida State, losing 14-9 on September 21. Despite out-gaining the Seminoles 410-284 in total yards, the Golden Bears failed to convert key opportunities in the red zone, scoring just two times on five trips inside the 20.
Special teams proved costly, as senior kicker Ryan Coe missed two crucial field goals from 36 and 38 yards, overshadowing a 51-yard effort that briefly gave Cal a 9-7 lead late in the third quarter.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza was effective between the 20s, throwing for 303 yards, completing 22 of 36 passes, but the Golden Bears couldn’t find the end zone when it mattered. Star running back Jaydn Ott, returning from injury, contributed 73 yards on 16 carries but was kept out of the end zone.
NCAAF Pick
While Cal managed to rack up 422 yards of total offense against Florida State, their inability to finish drives and repeated pre-snap penalties were major setbacks. With a bye week to regroup, the Golden Bears should be more disciplined on Saturday. However, Cal’s recent struggles to score make the Under an appealing option in this matchup. I can’t see them contributing much to the final score.
NCAAF Pick: Under 55 (-110) at Bet365
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