After nearly two years of the college football betting world being dominated by Alabama, it seems as though the Crimson Tide’s run at the top is finally over, at least for now. The defending national champions were replaced at the top of the polls by Ohio State, which moved up from number two. The Buckeyes’ first game as the top-seeded team in the country comes this weekend at Wisconsin, and it is fitting that it will be played against perhaps the toughest opponent on their season schedule this year, in number-18 Wisconsin.Ohio State Buckeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers
Saturday October 16, 2010 – 7:00 PM ET
Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, Wisconsin
Online Sports Betting Odds: N/A
The Badgers are off to a near-perfect start to their season, winning five of their first six games, their only loss coming at the open of the month at number-24 Michigan State. While the loss to a Big Ten opponent will hurt their standing within the conference, it was a tough road game and close final score, two things that have weighed heavily in them still being ranked so high.
NCAA Football Betting Preview: Ohio State
After weeks of sitting tight behind Alabama despite destroying most of the opponents that they faced, the Buckeyes finally get their chance in the spotlight with recognition as the best team in the country. It’s fitting that the best team also has the best player, and that is the case with Ohio State, who boasts early Heisman trophy-favorite quarterback Terrelle Pryor. Pryor has thrown for over 1,300 yards and 15 touchdowns, while also registering 100-yard rushing performances in three of six starts this year. While Pryor has dominated opposing defenses, the Buckeyes have had some quality efforts from their own defenders, and are ranked sixth in the country in scoring defense. Wisconsin represent one of two ranked opponents left on Ohio State’s schedule, which makes this a game the team undoubtedly already had circled.
NCAA Football Betting Preview: Nebraska
The Badgers started the Northbet season absolutely on fire, and it was no secret as to why. Running backs John Clay and James White have both averaged over six yards per carry this season, with White’s 7.7 average mark among the most notable in college football. Nebraska is ranked 11th in the country rushing the ball, but will have a tough time getting back to the ground game against Ohio State. This match up is the first of two for the Badgers against ranked opponents, with a trip to number-15 Iowa on the horizon.
The Match Up: Ohio State @ Wisconsin
The Buckeyes worked as hard as any other team to get their number-one ranking, and will be in no hurry to relent it. A relatively easy schedule that includes only two ranked opponents will make it less of a challenge for Ohio State to get to the BCS Championship game, so expect for them to have this one and a trip to number-15 Iowa at the end of the year as the two games that are must-wins
NCAA Football Betting Pick: Ohio State
