Jim Feist

The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons are set to face the Northern Kentucky Norse in a Horizon League matchup on Wednesday at Truist Arena in Highland Heights, Kentucky. The Mastodons are averaging 82.7 points per game, ranking them third in the Horizon League. They have a field goal percentage of 47.5% and a three-point shooting percentage of 38.2%. Their free-throw percentage stands at 72.7%. Defense: Defensively, Purdue Fort Wayne allows 72.7 points per game. They average 27.1 rebounds and 8.2 turnovers per game, indicating a need for improvement on the boards and ball security. Sophomore guard Jalen Jackson leads the team with averages of 18.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. The Norse average 71.3 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 45.8% and a three-point shooting percentage of 36.5%. Their free-throw percentage is 70.4%. Northern Kentucky allows 70.4 points per game. They average 32.9 rebounds and 13.2 turnovers per game, indicating a stronger presence on the boards but a higher turnover rate compared to their opponent. Junior guard Trey Robinson leads the team with averages of 15.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, providing versatility on both ends of the court. Fort Wayne should give the host all they can handle here on Wednesday. I'll take the Mastodons plus the points.

The College Football Playoff quarterfinals feature a Peach Bowl matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Arizona State Sun Devils on January 1, 2025. The Longhorns have demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, with a strong emphasis on the running game. In their recent 38-24 victory over Clemson, Texas amassed 292 rushing yards on 48 carries, highlighting their ground game prowess. Defying preseason expectations, the Sun Devils have been one of the best bets in college football this season, boasting an 11-2 record against the spread (ATS). Their offense is spearheaded by running back Cam Skattebo, who has rushed for 1,568 yards at an impressive 6.0 yards per carry, scoring 19 touchdowns. Quarterback Sam Leavitt complements the ground attack, having passed for 2,663 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only five interceptions, showcasing efficiency and ball security. Texas's success is closely tied to its ability to run the football. Arizona State's defense ranks 16th nationally in Expected Points Added (EPA) per rush, indicating a formidable challenge for the Longhorns' ground game. Skattebo's rushing threat could open opportunities for Leavitt in the passing game. Texas's secondary has been among the nation's best, suggesting that Arizona State will need to establish the run to facilitate play-action passes and keep the Longhorns' defense off balance. Arizona State has been impressive, covering the spread in 11 out of 13 games this season, making them one of the top teams ATS nationally. In contrast, Texas has covered the spread in only four of its last ten games. The total points line is set at 52.5. Both teams feature solid defenses and offenses that may prioritize the run, potentially influencing the game's scoring dynamics. Arizona State has no pressure since no one has expected much from them. I like them plus the double digits here on Wednesday. Play Arizona State.

The Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) are set to face the Oregon Ducks (13-0) in the Rose Bowl, a College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, on January 1, 2025, at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. The Buckeyes boast a high-powered offense, averaging 42.3 points per game. Quarterback Will Howard leads the passing attack, complemented by a strong rushing duo in TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Ohio State's defense allows an average of 20.8 points per game. The unit has shown vulnerability against efficient rushing attacks, which could be a focal point against Oregon's balanced offense. Led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks average 38.7 points per game. Gabriel's experience and leadership have been pivotal in orchestrating Oregon's offense, which effectively balances the run and pass.Oregon's defense is formidable, allowing just 17.5 points per game. The unit excels in pass defense, holding opponents to a 54.2% completion rate, and has been effective in generating turnovers. Earlier this season, on October 12, Oregon edged out Ohio State in a nail-biting, down-to-the-wire thriller, securing a 32-31 victory at Autzen Stadium. It marked Oregon's first Big Ten matchup of the season and was a historic win for the Ducks, who had been 0-19 against top-2 ranked opponents heading into the game. This Rose Bowl matchup features two powerhouse programs with dynamic offenses and resilient defenses. Ohio State seeks to avenge their narrow regular-season loss to Oregon, while the Ducks aim to maintain their undefeated record and advance in the CFP. Very even matched game here on Wednesday, but I don't see the Ducks beating this Ohio State team twice in one season. I'll take Ohio State.

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish (12-1) are set to face the Georgia Bulldogs (11-2) in the Allstate Sugar Bowl, a College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, on January 1, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Quarterback Riley Leonard leads the Irish with over 1,900 passing yards and 700 rushing yards this season, making him one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation. His 15 rushing touchdowns rank fifth among quarterbacks nationally. Notre Dame's defense has been formidable, allowing just 17.5 points per game. The unit excels in limiting opponents' passing efficiency and has been effective in generating turnovers. The Bulldogs average 33.1 points per game, accumulating over 415 total yards per contest. With starting quarterback Carson Beck sidelined due to injury, backup Gunner Stockton is expected to make his first career start in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia's defense allows 20.3 points per game, showcasing strength in both pass and rush defense. The unit has been adept at pressuring quarterbacks and disrupting offensive rhythms. With limited collegiate experience, Stockton faces a stern test against a disciplined Notre Dame defense. His performance under pressure will be pivotal for Georgia's offensive success. This Sugar Bowl matchup features two storied programs with rich histories. Notre Dame enters the game with momentum, riding an 11-game winning streak and led by Dodd Coach of the Year, Marcus Freeman. Georgia, despite the setback of losing their starting quarterback, boasts a resilient defense and a strong running game. Georgia will need to make some adjustments to their game plan. Expect more controlled, short passes and a heavy dose of running in this game. I'll take Georgia though to prevail as about a pick'em or one point favorite. Play Georgia.

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish (12-1) are set to face the Georgia Bulldogs (11-2) in the Allstate Sugar Bowl, a College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, on January 1, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Quarterback Riley Leonard leads the Irish with over 1,900 passing yards and 700 rushing yards this season, making him one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation. His 15 rushing touchdowns rank fifth among quarterbacks nationally. Notre Dame's defense has been formidable, allowing just 17.5 points per game. The unit excels in limiting opponents' passing efficiency and has been effective in generating turnovers. The Bulldogs average 33.1 points per game, accumulating over 415 total yards per contest. With starting quarterback Carson Beck sidelined due to injury, backup Gunner Stockton is expected to make his first career start in the Sugar Bowl. Georgia's defense allows 20.3 points per game, showcasing strength in both pass and rush defense. The unit has been adept at pressuring quarterbacks and disrupting offensive rhythms. With limited collegiate experience, Stockton faces a stern test against a disciplined Notre Dame defense. His performance under pressure will be pivotal for Georgia's offensive success. This Sugar Bowl matchup features two storied programs with rich histories. Notre Dame enters the game with momentum, riding an 11-game winning streak and led by Dodd Coach of the Year, Marcus Freeman. Georgia, despite the setback of losing their starting quarterback, boasts a resilient defense and a strong running game. I don't see this game scoring a lot of points with Beck out for Georgia and an unexperienced QB making his first start. I look for this game to go UNDER.

The Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) are set to face the Oregon Ducks (13-0) in the Rose Bowl, a College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal, on January 1, 2025, at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California. The Buckeyes boast a high-powered offense, averaging 42.3 points per game. Quarterback Will Howard leads the passing attack, complemented by a strong rushing duo in TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Ohio State's defense allows an average of 20.8 points per game. The unit has shown vulnerability against efficient rushing attacks, which could be a focal point against Oregon's balanced offense. Led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks average 38.7 points per game. Gabriel's experience and leadership have been pivotal in orchestrating Oregon's offense, which effectively balances the run and pass.Oregon's defense is formidable, allowing just 17.5 points per game. The unit excels in pass defense, holding opponents to a 54.2% completion rate, and has been effective in generating turnovers. Earlier this season, on October 12, Oregon edged out Ohio State in a nail-biting, down-to-the-wire thriller, securing a 32-31 victory at Autzen Stadium. It marked Oregon's first Big Ten matchup of the season and was a historic win for the Ducks, who had been 0-19 against top-2 ranked opponents heading into the game. This Rose Bowl matchup features two powerhouse programs with dynamic offenses and resilient defenses. Ohio State seeks to avenge their narrow regular-season loss to Oregon, while the Ducks aim to maintain their undefeated record and advance in the CFP. Both offenses should get plenty of scoring chances here on Wednesday. As such, I'll take the over and look for a repeat of the first meeting.