In case you missed it, the Bayou Bets crew is holding their second annual College Bowl Pick ’Em, and we’re hoping you’re the big benefactor from our predictions.
Like we did last year, we started with $1,000 Bowl Bucks, and we’re making a play on each of the 42 bowl games this season. And when it’s over, we’ll take whatever money we have left and make a “Final Jeopardy” type pick in the National Championship Game in Inglewood, Calif., on Jan. 9, 2023.
Below are the picks from sports betting director Zach Ewing, along with staff writers Jim Derry, Spencer Urquhart and Gabe Henderson for the Orange Bowl, as it appeared in our original. You can also see.
NOTE:These predictions were originally based off of lines and spreads as of early afternoon on Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Caesars Sportsbook. Also listed are spreads as of late Thursday, Dec. 29.
COTTON BOWL
Tulane (11-2, +115) vs. USC (11-2, -135)
Where: Arlington, Texas
When/TV: Jan. 2, noon ESPN
Line/Total: USC -2, O/U 62
Zach Ewing: This line doesn't make sense, and usually, that means you go with what the oddsmakers (and the sharp bettors who are truly forming the line) are telling you. But with Caleb Williams playing and USC likely tired of hearing all month about how it was a fluke, here’s betting the Trojans use this as a springboard into a big 2023. The bet: USC -2 for $44.
Jim Derry: Something I would have never said until recently: I really want Tulane to win. It is a special moment for many of my Tulane friends, and I think this even tops the 13-0 season of 1998. However, USC in a “don’t care” bowl is still a major step up from anything the Wave has seen this season except for the win at K-State. Winning in Manhattan, Kan., in September is much different than beating a Heisman Trophy winner in January on a national stage. The bet: USC -2 for $55.
Spencer Urquhart: USC Heisman quarterback Caleb Williams says he plans to play in this one, so something doesn’t add up with this betting line. USC would be favored by more than two points if the oddsmakers thought Williams was playing, so I’ll bank on him sitting out and hope that Tulane’s running game takes over against USC’s weak defense. The bet: Tulane +2 for $22.
Gabe Henderson: I have a feeling in my gut that USC doesn’t care about this game in the slightest. I expect the Heisman Trophy winner, Caleb Williams, to be out, and Tulane is highly motivated in this historic year. Give me the Green Wave to cover. Have some faith this holiday season, people! The bet: Tulane +2 for $11.
WHERE WE STAND
Through Saturday (Dec. 31)
All picks and handicaps were made and written on or before Dec. 29, and lines were taken from Caesars Sportsbook as of Dec. 28. Staff writers were allowed to make a pick on the money line, spread, total or make no pick at all.
Canceled games or ties are considered no picks.
STARTING STACK FOR STAFFERS: $1,000 BOWL BUCKS
Zach Ewing: 27-11 overall, +$120 on Saturday, balance $1,405.
Gabe Henderson: 20-16 overall, +$28 on Saturday, balance $1,044.40.
Spencer Urquhart: 15-22 overall, +$103 on Saturday, balance $904.
Jim Derry: 15-21 overall, +$89.80 on Saturday, balance $836.80.