A reverse sweep was not the plan, but we’ll move ahead. Western Kentucky was a truly awful read on my end. The Hilltoppers defense was outclassed from the jump. The total in the other game ended up missing by a point, but hey, we’re gamblers. That happens!
It’s time to rebound, as we have another two-game slate on tap. Wednesday Night Football is a thing of beauty as Jacksonville State heads to Florida International and UTEP heads to Sam Houston State.
Week 9 Wednesday Night College Football Picks
Jacksonville State (-8) at Florida International (O/U 46)
Jacksonville State is coming off a win against the pre-season conference favorite Western Kentucky last week. That was arguably the biggest win in school history, and now they hit the road. They are eight-point favorites, which is the largest they have ever been favored by against another FBS team. Florida International was a team the media hated heading into the season but has already exceeded expectations. They will have the best player on the field in dual-threat QB Keyone Jenkins.
This offense is by no means elite, but they have some playmakers. Jacksonville State lives and dies by their defense, which is why we have a total in the 40’s. This is Jacksonville State’s first ever “let down spot,” and FIU has been competitive all season long. Give me the Panthers.
Keyone Jenkins and Kris Mitchell have ice in their veins making it look easy with the game on the line! 🥶@FIUFootball | @CBSSportsNet pic.twitter.com/WoxGjTQXda
— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) October 19, 2023
The Pick: Florida International +8
UTEP at Sam Houston State (-3) (O/U 36)
It may just be time for Sam Houston State to get that initial FBS win. They are favored for a SECOND straight week while being winless at 0-7. I said that last week may be their best chance to get that win. They ended up losing in overtime. At the time, FIU was the weakest opponent they had, but that will change with UTEP taking the short drive.
UTEP has two wins this season and has played a bit of a tougher schedule, but I do believe they are the inferior football team. UTEP will really struggle against this good Sam Houston Defense. Yes, I said this 0-7 team has a good defense. The offense is a struggle for the Bearkats, but I believe they will do enough on that side of the ball while relying on the defense to ultimately get that win.
The Pick: Sam Houston -160
