West Virginia Mountaineers(4-0) -6.5, O/U 56 vs. South Florida Bulls (3-0), 8:00 p.m. Eastern Friday, September 28, 2007 on ESPN.
by Jerald of Predictem.com
The West Virginia Mountaineers will meet the South Florida Bulls in what is arguably the biggest game of the weekend. The Mountaineers come into this game off an impressive 48-7 win against East Carolina. The Bulls defeated North Carolina last week by a score of 37-10.
West Virginia will be looking for revenge after last years upset by South Florida (19-24) ruined the Mountaineers hopes of a National Title.
West Virginia is led by Junior QB Patrick White who is a dual threat QB who has completed 71% of his passes this season for 617 yards, 6 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. He has also rushed for 286 yards and 6 touchdowns. RB Steve Slaton leads the ground attack with 502 yards and 9 touchdowns.
South Florida is led by Sophomore QB Matt Grothe who has completed 60.4% of his passes for 652 yards, 4 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. RB Mike Ford is the leading rusher with 170 yards (5.2 yards per carry) and 4 touchdowns.
West Virginia ranks 10th in total offense with an average of 357.0 yards rushing (7.21 yards per rush) and 168.0 yards passing per game. They rank 9th in scoring offense averaging 47.2 points per game. The Bulls offense ranks 71st in total offense averaging 154.7 yards rushing (3.39 yards per carry) and 218.7 yards passing. South Florida ranks 50th in scoring offense averaging 30.3 points per game.
The Mountaineers defense ranks 16th in total defense giving up an average of 87.0 yards rushing (2.56 yards per carry) and 186.2 yards passing per game. They rank 20th in scoring defense giving up an average of 17.0 points per game. South Florida ranks 7th in total defense giving up 79.0 yards rushing (2.37 yards per carry) and 158.7 yards passing. They rank 13th in scoring defense giving up 15.3 points per game.
The Sagarin PREDICTOR ratings at USAToday.com rank the Mountaineers 6th at 88.15. South Florida ranks 22nd at 82.10.
West Virginia opened up as a 7 point favorite with a total of 61 at most online sportsbooks. The line has dropped to West Virginia -6.5 and the total has dropped to 56. At the time of this writing, the public was backing the West Virginia 68%-32% which is a good sign for Bulls bettors!
The Predictem Pick:
South Florida is a very well coached team with a strong defense. They will try to slow down this game with a strong running attack. We like the home team dog to cover in this game. Take the points!
West Virginia 24 South Florida 21
