The College Football Playoff stage is set following another memorable season, and it includes a few surprise participants after a wild conference championship week.

Alabama-Cincinnati and Michigan-Georgia will meet in Cotton Bowl and Orange Bowl semifinals, with the Tide, Wolverines and Bearcats waiting until the final week to secure their spots. Alabama is the favorite in college football title odds. But as intriguing as these New Year’s Eve games are, we’re not here just for the CFP.

The four-team playoff has settled in nicely but can’t completely overshadow another glorious bowl season filled with some outstanding matchups and storylines for more college football betting action than you’ll know what to do with.

While it’s never too early to start breaking down the action, the still-recent trend of star players eyeing the NFL Draft opting out means we need to keep our eye on the news and stay vigilant throughout the entire month. A few of these teams might look completely different than they did all season. Here's a look at every game plus our college football picks ATS for every game.

College Football Playoff Bowl Games

Cotton Bowl: Cincinnati vs. Alabama

It’s time to answer a long-standing question of how an unbeaten like Cincinnati would fare against an SEC champion like Alabama in a playoff matchup. The Bearcats are definitely getting their money’s worth in this semifinal matchup for the first CFP appearance by a non-Power 5 school. Alabama is rolling and back to No. 1 coming off the blowout win over Georgia, and the Tide are sizable double-digit favorites.

Cincinnati does have the No. 2 secondary in the country to counter and Alabama will be without star receiver John Metchie, who suffered an ACL injury in the SEC title game. We’ll see how it all shakes out as this is the first time the Bearcats have ever been in a situation like this under Luke Fickell. Alabama is a huge favorite at betting sites, including at BetMGM, where new bettors can jump on the BetMGM bonus code and get a $1,000 risk-free first bet.

The ATS Pick: Alabama. Too much experience in these spots, too many weapons, too much potential for a “just happy to be here” showing from Cincinnati. Roll Tide.

NEW: Ontario Sports Betting Is Now Live!

Orange Bowl: Georgia vs. Michigan

Michigan has all the momentum entering this matchup after stunning Ohio State to end the regular season and getting it down with a blowout win over Iowa in the Big Ten championship game but are still underdogs on betting apps. The Bulldogs were humbled in their conference championship, suffering their first loss of the season in ugly fashion.

But Georgia is still the favorite, and these teams are similar, with an emphasis on winning in the trenches and grinding things out on offense. This could be the hardest-hitting bowl game of the year, and we’ll see if the Wolverines can continue to defy expectations with another victory over former No. 1 Georgia in Miami.

The ATS Pick: Georgia. Michigan has basically been “Georgia Lite” all season. Both teams want to do the same thing, but Georgia is just slightly better across the board. That will add up to a cover for the Bulldogs.

Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses Promo Code: BOOKIES

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 72 Times Today

Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

Other New Year’s Six Bowl Games

Peach Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Michigan State

Michigan State and Pittsburgh were surprise contenders throughout the entire season. The Panthers are coming off their first ACC title in school history, while the Spartans went 10-2 in Mel Tucker’s second season – with a victory over Michigan – despite a preseason over/under win total set at 4.5 at sportsbooks. This one has shootout written all over it.

The ATS Pick: Michigan State. We like the Spartans to grind out a cover in Atlanta.

Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Notre Dame

The Cowboys just lost a heartbreaker to Baylor in the Big 12 title game and saw their CFP chances slip away as a result. The Irish were on the bubble as well but couldn’t overcome a home loss to Cincinnati earlier this season. They also have a new coach in former defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman.

The players seem extremely fired up to start the Freeman era off right and won’t throw any memorials for former coach Brian Kelly. This should be a close matchup, and that’s evident in the small point spread at operators such as Caesars Sportsbook. There’s still no definitive word on Oklahoma State running back Jaylen Warren, who had 1,134 yards and 11 touchdowns this season before missing the Big 12 title game due to injury.

The ATS Pick: Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish players don’t appear to miss Brian Kelly one bit. We expect a strong debut showing from new coach Marcus Freeman against a Cowboys team that missed out on the CFP by a matter of inches.

If you are a new bettor looking to jump on this game, the Caesars Sportsbook promo code will match your first bet up to $1,001 with a free bet.

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 32 Times Today

OH only. 21+. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Bet amount of qualifying wager returned only if wager is settled as a loss. Maximum bet credit $1,000; must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Rose Bowl: Utah vs. Ohio State

The Buckeyes are a relatively small favorite at sites such as DraftKings Sportsbook, considering the way they dominated the Big Ten up until the last game of the season against Michigan. Now it’s a question of motivation for an Ohio State team that had made the CFP four times in its first seven years of existence.

They get a hungry Utes team that turned it on late in the season with six straight double-digit wins, including two over an Oregon team that beat Ohio State in Columbus. Utah has a great rushing attack, and the Buckeyes just gave up 297 yards on the ground against Michigan. We’re also seeing a surprising amount of interest at sportsbooks, with the majority of tickets on Utah and the points.

The ATS Pick: Utah. The Buckeyes were exposed in Ann Arbor earlier this year, while the Utes knocked off Oregon twice to spoil their CFP chances. Utah can run and the Wolverines already provided the blueprint against this Ohio State defense. We’re taking Utah and the points.

Sugar Bowl: Baylor vs. Ole Miss

Good matchup here in New Orleans and as close to a toss-up in college football betting as you can get for a New Year’s 6 game. The Bears are riding high off their first Big 12 title since 2014, while Ole Miss just capped only its second 10-win season since 2003.

Baylor backup quarterback Blake Shapen is 2-0 since taking over for injured starter Gerry Bohanon, including a three-touchdown day against Oklahoma State. It sounds like Bohanon could return against a Rebels team that gives up a lot on defense but features the No. 4-ranked offense. Conversely, Baylor wins with defense and has four straight victories without scoring more than 27 points in any of those games.

The ATS Pick: Baylor. Ole Miss’ offense slowed down significantly in November and hasn’t performed great against above-average defenses. The Bears have been underestimated all season and just play solid football across the board. The Rebels are more mistake-prone. We’re on Baylor.

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins + 3 Free Months of NBA League Pass

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 40 Times Today

Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Other College Football Bowl Games

Bahamas Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Toledo

The Rockets are a big favorite in college football odds in this one after a disappointing 7-5 season and third-place finish in the MAC West. Toledo did finish 8-4 against the spread, at least. The Blue Raiders became bowl eligible with a season-ending win at FAU and are looking for their first postseason win since 2017.

The ATS Pick: Toledo. The Blue Raiders are down to their third-string quarterback and Toledo has an excellent secondary. The Rockets also have more offensive firepower and should pull away in the second half.

Cure Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina

Picked to finish last in conference by pundits, Northern Illinois went out and won the MAC. The Huskies produced at the sportsbooks all season at 8-4 against the spread. The Chanticleers are still a double-digit favorite after a 10-win season, and the Huskies defense will have its hands full in Orlando – hence the total in the mid 60s.

The ATS Pick: Northern Illinois. The Huskies have defied expectations all season and will keep this one close with a ground-and-pound approach.

Boca Raton Bowl: Western Kentucky vs. Appalachian State

Appalachian State missed out on its fifth straight Sun Belt championship, but the Mountaineers posted another 10-win season and are slight favorites over the Hilltoppers and their prolific passing attack. These were two of the best teams all season against the spread, with Western Kentucky going 9-4 and Appalachian State going 8-5. Something has to give in Boca Raton.

The ATS Pick: Western Kentucky. It sounds like the Hilltoppers will be close to full strength and the Mountaineers offense might struggle to keep up. We like the dog here.

New Mexico Bowl: UTEP vs. Fresno State

Fresno State is a double-digit favorite here after finishing second in the Mountain West. An overwhelming number of early bets came in on UTEP and the points, despite a rough finish for the Miners losing four of their last five games. Fresno State also went 8-4 against the spread this season.

The ATS Pick: UTEP. Too many unknowns for the Bulldogs, who will have a new head coach and perhaps a new quarterback. We like the Miners and the points.

Bet $5, Get $200 In Bonus Bets Instantly!

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 9 Times Today

Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Independence Bowl: UAB vs. BYU

BYU is favored by a touchdown and enters with a five-game win streak. But the 10-2 Cougars finished just 5-7 against the spread, and most of the early money is on UAB and the points. The Blazers do have a strong defense and took 12-1 UTSA to the brink in a 34-31 Roadrunners win last month. This will be the first in-state bowl with Louisiana sports betting live.

The ATS Pick: UAB. This Blazers defense should keep BYU in check, and they’ve been highly productive on offense in recent weeks. UAB is the play.

LendingTree Bowl: Eastern Michigan vs. Liberty

Liberty is favored by more than a touchdown behind star quarterback Malik Willis, a potential first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. The Eagles defense will have its hands full, but Eastern looked very good at times throughout the regular season. Liberty also comes in riding a three-game losing streak, and the Flames have been held to 17 points or less in four consecutive games.

The ATS Pick: Liberty. It sounds like Flames quarterback Malik Willis will play in the bowl game and Liberty’s defense will contain the Eagles’ passing attack. We like Liberty.

Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl: Utah State vs. Oregon State

The Beavers looked like a darkhorse Pac-12 contender earlier this season, picking up wins over Washington and Utah. But they stumbled to the finish line at 7-5 both overall and ATS. Oregon State is a touchdown favorite over the Aggies, who just smoked San Diego State in the title game to win their first Mountain West championship in program history.

The ATS Pick: Utah State. Oregon State is without star linebacker Avery Roberts, and the Aggies’ offense was rolling at end of the year en route to a Mountain West conference title. Love the hook here and we’re on Utah State.

New Orleans Bowl: Louisiana vs. Marshall

Michael Desormeaux will coach the Cajuns after he was hired to replace Florida-bound Billy Napier. And he’s around a touchdown favorite with Louisiana for his first game. Louisiana was just 6-7 against the spread while compiling a 12-1 record, while Marshall checked in at 6-6 ATS.

The ATS Pick: Marshall. The Thundering Herd actually have the more prolific offense and former Louisiana coach Billy Napier is taking a lot of folks with him to Florida. We like Marshall.

Myrtle Beach Bowl: Old Dominion vs. Tulsa

The Hurricane are a sizeable favorite here in a matchup of 6-6 teams. The Monarchs could be a frisky underdog choice in your college football picks, given that they have won five straight to close out the regular season and finishing as one of the best cover teams in the nation at 9-3 against the spread. Tulsa also finished hot with three consecutive wins after dropping a 28-20 game to No. 4 Cincinnati in early November.

The ATS Pick: Old Dominion. The Monarchs were 9-3 against the spread this season and finished with five straight wins. This line should be a touchdown or less, and we’re on underdog Old Dominion.

Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Kent State vs. Wyoming

The total is approaching 60 here behind an electric Kent State offense, which matches up against a stout Cowboys defense. Wyoming is a slight favorite over the Golden Flashes, and the ticket splits are relatively even. But the majority of money is on Kent State to get it done and cover behind MAC Player of the Year, quarterback Dustin Crum.

The ATS Pick: Wyoming. The Cowboys defense is good enough to limit MAC Player of the Year Dustin Crum. Wyoming just needs to stay patient against a bad Kent State defense and will eventually pull away for the cover.

Frisco Bowl: UTSA vs. San Diego State

This should be one of the most competitive non-marquee bowl games all year, with the 12-1 Roadrunners taking on the 11-2 Aztecs. San Diego State was humbled during a 46-13 loss in the conference title game and checks in as a slight underdog. Both teams are strong on defense with less than 365 yards allowed per game. UTSA was the more prolific team at sportsbooks throughout the season, finishing 9-3 against the spread.

The ATS Pick: UTSA. The Aztecs don’t have any room for error against this UTSA offense, and the Monarchs went 9-3 against the spread this season. We expect a 10th cover in Frisco.

Armed Forces Bowl: Missouri vs. Army

Army is a slight favorite and gets a great matchup against the Tigers. Army runs for 300-plus yards per game, and Missouri has one of the worst rushing defenses in the nation, allowing an average of 228.8 yards on the ground. It’s no surprise to see all the early betting action on the Black Knights, and we’ll see if the line goes up as a result in the coming weeks.

The ATS Pick: Army. The Black Knights rack up nearly 300 yards per game on the ground and the Tigers have one of the worst rushing defenses in the country. Army gets it done.

Frisco Football Classic: North Texas vs. Miami (Ohio)

These teams are about as even as possible, with identical 6-6 records and similar stats across the board. The Redhawks are a slight favorite having lost three MAC games on the season by just four combined points. North Texas finished 9-3 ATS and won its final five games to become bowl eligible. So far, the majority of tickets are on Miami (Ohio), but the majority of money is on the underdog Mean Green.

The ATS Pick: Miami (Ohio). The RedHawks lost three MAC games by just four combined points this season and played better than the record indicates. This should be a cover for Miami (Ohio).

Gasparilla Bowl: UCF vs. Florida

UCF and Florida are set to meet for the first time since 2006 in what will be just the third-ever matchup between the state of Florida programs. It’s a shame Florida sports betting has been put on hold, as this one undoubtedly would have garnered some local action. Napier will get it going with the Gators after a brutally disappointing season, with Florida favored by slightly more than a touchdown. Both teams were terrible ATS – the Knights were 4-8 while the Gators were 3-9 – but roughly 90% of the money was on Florida shortly after this betting line was posted.

The ATS Pick: Florida. The Knights offense just isn’t what it used to be, and Florida should be able to hit a few big plays and pull away in the second half.

Hawaii Bowl: Memphis vs. Hawaii

Memphis edged Tulane in the finale to get that sixth win, and the Tigers are around a touchdown favorite for this one in Honolulu. Oddsmakers expect a high-scoring affair with the total close to 60. This is the Rainbows’ home turf but the majority of early bets are coming in on Memphis, which is just 1-5 in bowl games since 2015.

The ATS Pick: Memphis. The Rainbows are down several key contributors and will have a hard enough time slowing this Memphis passing attack as it is. We’re on the Tigers.

Camellia Bowl: Georgia State vs. Ball State

Two above-average defenses get the nod on Christmas Day, with the Panthers favored by more than a field goal and a total that’s holding strong around 50. While the records are similar, Georgia State was far better relative to expectations this year at 8-4 ATS. Ball State went 4-8 at sportsbooks during a season in which most figured they’d strongly contend for a second straight MAC championship.

The ATS Pick: Ball State. This game looks closer to a toss-up, with two strong defenses and inconsistent offenses. Give us the points in that situation. We’re on Ball State.

Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses Promo Code: BOOKIES

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 58 Times Today

Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

Quick Lane Bowl: Western Michigan vs. Nevada

This game is basically a toss-up and should be a fun one, with the over/under hovering above 60. The Broncos and Wolf Pack were both strong but inconsistent throughout the year, but Nevada impressed with an 8-3 record ATS. Maybe that’s why all the early betting action came in on the Wolf Pack when the line was posted.

The ATS Pick: Western Michigan. Nevada will be without departing head coach Jay Norvell, departing defensive coordinator Brian Ward and quarterback Carson Strong. We like the Broncos to cover in Detroit.

Military Bowl: Boston College vs. East Carolina

The Eagles are a slight favorite and getting almost all the attention from bettors ahead of this matchup at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. That’s despite back-to-back losses to Florida State and Wake Forest to finish the season 6-6 ATS. The Pirates were much better in that respect at 7-4-1 while winning four of five games to close out the conference schedule.

The ATS Pick: East Carolina. This is a close matchup but the Pirates played much better in November. They also went 7-4-1 ATS this season, and we’re on the underdog in this one.

Birmingham Bowl: Houston vs. Auburn

Auburn draws yet another intriguing postseason matchup against a lesser-respected foe – this time it’s a Houston squad that hung tough with Cincinnati in the AAC title game for a half before succumbing to the Bearcats. The Tigers are just a slight favorite after losing four straight to finish the season – including the final two without quarterback Bo Nix, who will miss this one due to injury. The Cougars play lockdown defense and scored 37.73 points per game, so Auburn could have its hands full despite the disparity in terms of conference clout. This promises to be a fun game, and if you are a new bettor, check out the latest DraftKings promo code to get a great sign-up deal before placing your wager.

The ATS Pick: Houston. Auburn has looked hopeless on offense since Bo Nix suffered a season-ending injury and this Cougars defense won’t give an inch. We love Houston +3.

First Responder Bowl: Air Force vs. Louisville

The Cardinals are ever-so-slightly favored against a tough Falcons squad that finished fifth in total defense. The total is still in the mid-50s, and Louisville quarterback Malik Hall has the skillset to test that secondary. While ticket distribution is split, the majority of money is on Air Force after the Falcons finished with three straight wins. Louisville will be asking a lot of its front seven against a Falcons offense that ran for 341.4 yards per game.

The ATS Pick: Air Force. This Falcons defense is fifth-best in the country, which just isn’t a good matchup for this Cardinals squad. We’re on Air Force.

Bet $5, Get $200 In Bonus Bets Instantly!

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 60 Times Today

Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Liberty Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Texas Tech

Mike Leach’s Bulldogs fared much better during his second season in Starkville, going 7-5 both overall and ATS. They’re favored by more than a touchdown against a Red Raiders squad that lost four of five to end the year and finished 6-5-1 ATS. The betting action has been mostly even on both sides, with oddsmakers expecting a shootout – the total was bet down around 1.5 points after opening at 60.5.

The ATS Pick: Mississippi State. The Bulldogs are going to air it out all night. That’s bad news for this Red Raiders secondary. We’re on Mississippi State.

Holiday Bowl: UCLA vs. North Carolina State

We’re looking at another toss-up game in the Holiday Bowl. Both teams can score and defend the run, so this definitely looks like anyone’s call. More bets came in on the Wolfpack in the early going with rumors of a return to Oregon swirling for UCLA coach Chip Kelly given the Ducks’ recent vacancy. The Bruins finished strong with three straight wins and went 8-4 ATS this season, while North Carolina State won four of five to close things out.

The ATS Pick: North Carolina State. The biggest mismatch here is the Wolfpack passing attack against an average Bruins secondary. North Carolina State will exploit it and secure the cover.

Guaranteed Rate Bowl: West Virginia vs. Minnesota

The Gophers just missed out on a Big Ten championship game appearance and will head to Phoenix feeling great about an upset win over Wisconsin in the season finale to keep the Badgers out of the title game in Indianapolis. Minnesota is a great defensive team and the Gophers just locked down coach P.J. Fleck with a seven-year contract extension. The Mountaineers trudged along at 6-6 and struggled offensively in big matchups – bettors are staying away here so far, with the majority of tickets and money on Minnesota. This will be the first bowl game in Arizona since Arizona sports betting went live.

The ATS Pick: West Virginia. The Gophers have an elite defense, but the offense just won’t hold up enough to cover the number against the Mountaineers.

Pinstripe Bowl: Maryland vs. Virginia Tech

Another toss-up game here for the afternoon tilt at Yankee Stadium. Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa had a historic season for the Terrapins, passing for 3,595 yards and 24 touchdowns. The Hokies do feature a stout secondary and the better overall defense in this matchup. Neither team was impressive at sportsbooks – the Terrapins went 4-8 ATS while Virginia Tech was 5-7. New York sports betting may not be available online in time for this game, but there are sure to be some early registration offers. Be sure to check out the FanDuel promo code to see the latest offers.

The ATS Pick: Virginia Tech. Maryland’s offense really struggles against above-average defenses. The Hokies have that and the ability to control the clock on offense. We’re on Virginia Tech.

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins + 3 Free Months of NBA League Pass

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 28 Times Today

Must be 21+ and present in OH. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Cheez-It Bowl: Clemson vs. Iowa State

This isn’t where anyone expected Clemson to be back in August, when the Tigers fell 10-3 to Georgia in the season opener and looked poised for a seventh straight ACC title. Offensive woes were common early this season and the Tigers finished 4-8 ATS, but Clemson has now won five straight while scoring at least 30 points in each. Iowa State’s defense should make things interesting and this one is currently a toss-up at sportsbooks, with the majority of tickets on Iowa State but the majority of money on Clemson.

The ATS Pick: Clemson. The Tigers really turned things around in the second half and Iowa State will be without several key contributors. Clemson gets it done.

Alamo Bowl: Oregon vs. Oklahoma

Both the Ducks and Sooners will be without the coaches the started the season with – Oregon’s Mario Cristobal is off to Miami and Oklahoma’s Lincoln Riley stunning the fan base by leaving for USC. So, that’s a wash and bettors can focus on the players, with the Ducks a slight favorite after dropping a pair of games to Utah to crush their CFP hopes. Three of Oklahoma’s defensive starters have already opted out, while Oregon defensive end and future first-round NFL draft pick Kayvon Thibodeaux will do the same. Lot of moving parts here, but bettors were very enthusiastic about Oklahoma early on.

The ATS Pick: Oregon. Utah definitely had the Ducks’ number at the end of the year, but this is a more favorable matchup. We’re on the Ducks and the points.

Duke’s Mayo Bowl: North Carolina vs. South Carolina

The Tar Heels are favored by more than a touchdown and getting all the attention from bettors ahead of the battle for the Carolinas. North Carolina has a prolific offense behind quarterback Sam Howell, who already confirmed he’s playing. The Gamecocks are the better defensive team and especially stingy against the pass, so we’ve got an intriguing strength-on-strength matchup out of the gate. North Carolina sports betting fans will be all over this one.

The ATS Pick: North Carolina. Sam Howell is in for the Tar Heels and while the Gamecocks have a great defense, the margin for error is just too small.

Music City Bowl: Tennessee vs. Purdue

Nobody wanted a part of the Boilermakers this year. Purdue provided the first loss for two top-3 opponents in Iowa and Michigan State, and the defense is nasty. Conversely, Tennessee can light up the scoreboard but struggles to get stops. The Vols are favored by just less than a touchdown with Purdue missing a few key players, including wideout David Bell and defensive end George Karlaftis. Expect a lot of action at Tennessee sports betting sites.

The ATS Pick: Purdue. This Vols defense is a mess and Purdue – which beat two top-three opponents this season – should have a field day against the secondary. Boiler up.

Las Vegas Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Arizona State

The Badgers were all set to take on Michigan in the Big Ten title game before an upset loss at Minnesota ended things on a down note. This is still an elite defense, and Arizona State’s potent rushing attack figures to be kept in check against the Badgers’ front seven. Wisconsin is favored by a touchdown after going 6-6 ATS this season, and oddsmakers expect a slugfest with the total in the low 40s.

The ATS Pick: Wisconsin. The Sun Devils are down two running backs and we expect the Badgers to impose their will in the trenches. Wisconsin gets it done in Las Vegas.

Gator Bowl: Wake Forest vs. Rutgers

Rutgers is stepping up on short notice here after Texas A&M pulled out of the game due to COVID-19 issues. That’s a much easier matchup on paper for a Wake Forest team that got smoked by Pittsburgh in the ACC title game.

While the line originally opened at A&M -4.5 and went up to -7.5, the Demon Deacons are now 14.5-point favorites for this reconfigured matchup. Roughly 80% of public spread tickets are currently on Wake Forest, while money is far more split with about 44% of spread money on Rutgers.

The ATS Pick: Wake Forest. We hated the Demon Deacons’ original matchup against A&M, but this one isn’t close. Rutgers’ defense is nearly as bad as Wake’s and the Knights won’t be able to keep pace in this track meet.

Sun Bowl: Washington State vs. Central Michigan

Washington State was originally an underdog against Miami in this one, but the Hurricanes are out and the Chippewas are in. Now the Cougars are around a touchdown favorite for the new matchup with Central Michigan, which needed an opponent after its scheduled game against Boise State in the Arizona Bowl was cancelled.

The Chippewas have won four straight and finished 7-5 ATS.

The ATS Pick: Central Michigan. The Chippewas are clearly down to play anyone, anywhere and freshman quarterback Daniel Richardson has improved every week. We’re taking the points here. Fire up Chips.

Outback Bowl: Penn State vs. Arkansas

Penn State is a small underedog after dropping its season-finale at Michigan State. At least the Nittany Lions don’t have to deal with the rumor mill anymore having signed James Franklin to a whopping 10-year extension. The Razorbacks are strong on offense and won four of five to end the year, taking Alabama to the brink in a 42-35 road loss. An overwhelming majority of the betting action is on Penn State.

The ATS Pick: Penn State. Arkansas’ offense has slowed in recent weeks and there’s stability in Happy Valley with James Franklin signing the huge extension. Penn State gets it done.

Citrus Bowl: Iowa vs. Kentucky

Iowa dusts itself off after a Big Ten beatdown in Indianapolis and enters Orlando as a slight underdog. These are both defensive-minded teams, but the Wildcats have had the far more productive offense all year. This is also a big emotions game for Kentucky coach and former Iowa graduate assistant Mark Stoops against his alma matter, and he’s had good news recently with no Wildcats expected to opt out.

The ATS Pick: Kentucky. The Hawkeyes haven’t shown up for big games all season. This is also a huge game for Kentucky coach and former Iowa grad assistant Mark Stoops. We love Kentucky here.

Texas Bowl: LSU vs. Kansas State

Nurse your New Year’s hangover with a little Texas Bowl action, where the Wildcats are the slightest of favorites for the Jan. 4 matchup. Both teams average around 27 points per game and won’t blow you away on offense, though the Tigers are the more productive passing squad. So far, the majority of bettors favor Kansas State to get it done in what is essentially a toss-up to bring bowl season to a close ahead of the national championship.

The ATS Pick: LSU. This is a very close matchup, but the Tigers have the better passing attack. That will be the biggest difference in Texas and we like the Bayou Bengals to cover.

Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses Promo Code: BOOKIES

Tap for Promo Activated! Visit site

Used 74 Times Today

Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in OH. In partnership with MGM Northfield Park. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

College Football 2021-22 Bowl Games Date, Time & TV Schedule

Friday, December 17

Noon: Bahamas Bowl: Middle Tennessee vs. Toledo, ESPN

6 p.m.: Cure Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina, ESPN2

Saturday, December 18

11 a.m.: Boca Raton Bowl: Western Kentucky vs. Appalachian State, ESPN

2:15 p.m.: New Mexico Bowl: UTEP vs. Fresno State, ESPN

3:30 p.m.: Independence Bowl: UAB vs. BYU, ABC

5:45 p.m.: LendingTree Bowl: Eastern Michigan vs. Liberty, ESPN

7:30 p.m.: Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl: Utah State vs. Oregon State, ABC

9:15 p.m.: New Orleans Bowl: Louisiana vs. Marshall, ESPN

Monday, December 20

2:30 p.m.: Myrtle Beach Bowl: Old Dominion vs. Tulsa, ESPN

Tuesday, December 21

3:30 p.m.: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: Kent State vs. Wyoming, ESPN

7:30 p.m.: Frisco Bowl: UTSA vs. San Diego State, ESPN

Wednesday, December 22

8 p.m.: Armed Forces Bowl: Missouri vs. Army, ESPN

Tuesday, December 23

3:30 p.m.: Frisco Football Classic: North Texas vs. Miami (Ohio), ESPN

7 p.m.: Gasparilla Bowl: UCF vs. Florida, ESPN

Friday, December 24

8 p.m.: Hawaii Bowl: Memphis vs. Hawaii, ESPN

Saturday, December 25

2:30 p.m.: Camellia Bowl: Georgia State vs. Ball State, ESPN

Monday, December 27

11 a.m.: Quick Lane Bowl: Western Michigan vs. Nevada, ESPN

2:30 p.m.: Military Bowl: Boston College vs. East Carolina, ESPN

Tuesday, December 28

12 p.m.: Birmingham Bowl: Houston vs. Auburn, ESPN

3:15 p.m.: First Responder Bowl: Air Force vs. Louisville, ESPN

6:45 p.m.: Liberty Bowl: Mississippi State vs. Texas Tech, ESPN

8 p.m.: Holiday Bowl: UCLA vs. North Carolina State, FOX

10:15 p.m.: Guaranteed Rate Bowl: West Virginia vs. Minnesota, ESPN

Wednesday, December 29

2:15 p.m.: Pinstripe Bowl: Maryland vs. Virginia Tech, ESPN

5:45 p.m.: Cheez-It Bowl: Clemson vs. Iowa State, ESPN

9:15 p.m.: Alamo Bowl: Oregon vs. Oklahoma, ESPN

Thursday, December 30

11:30 a.m.: Duke’s Mayo Bowl: North Carolina vs. South Carolina, ESPN

3 p.m.: Music City Bowl: Tennessee vs. Purdue, ESPN

7 p.m.: Peach Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Michigan State, ESPN

10:30 p.m.: Las Vegas Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Arizona State, ESPN

Friday, December 31

11 a.m.: Gator Bowl: Wake Forest vs. Rutgers, ESPN

12 p.m.: Sun Bowl: Washington State vs. Central Michigan, CBS

3:30 p.m.: CFP Semifinal Cotton Bowl: Cincinnati vs. Alabama, ESPN

7:30 p.m.: CFP Semifinal Orange Bowl: Georgia vs. Michigan, ESPN

Saturday, January 1

12 p.m.: Outback Bowl: Penn State vs. Arkansas, ESPN2

1 p.m.: Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma State vs. Notre Dame, ESPN

1 p.m.: Citrus Bowl: Iowa vs. Kentucky, ABC

5 p.m.: Rose Bowl: Utah vs. Ohio State, ESPN

8:45 p.m.: Sugar Bowl: Baylor vs. Ole Miss, ESPN

Tuesday, January 4

9 p.m.: Texas Bowl: LSU vs. Kansas State, ESPN

All times are ET