Good morning! Buckle up because we’re diving into the wild world of sports and betting, and trust me, it’s no walk in the park.
While You Were Sleeping: A TNF twofer
Last night’s game between the Bears and Panthers? Let’s not sugarcoat it—it wasn’t a football masterpiece. We’re talking five field goals, a dozen punts, a mere 57 percent completion rate for passes, and just one offensive touchdown. If you’re feeling queasy, you’re not alone.
But hold on! The aftermath is where things get interesting:
With Chicago’s win, Carolina finds itself at a dismal 1-8, tied for the worst record in the league with Arizona. And guess what? The Bears are holding Carolina’s 2024 first-round pick. If it turns out to be the number one overall pick, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
And speaking of tough pills, is it too soon to question if Bryce Young, Carolina’s 2023 No. 1 pick, was worth all those assets? Nine games into his career and he’s steering a struggling ship. Ranked 31st in QBR, it’s hard not to draw comparisons with C.J. Stroud, picked just one spot later by Houston and already shining like a superstar. (More on that later.)
The silver lining? The Bears are cheering, and so is our man Robert Mays. Catch his live reaction with Nate Tice to last night’s game—it’s worth your time.
The Good Bets: We’re into over/unders this week
Now, let’s talk bets. Picture this: your picks are aging like a bottle of wine left open on the countertop for two days. They seem fine at a distance, but take a sip, and you’ll wish you hadn’t. Still, optimism is key, right?
In college football:
- No. 3 Michigan and No. 10 Penn State UNDER 45.5. Michigan might be in turmoil off the field, but I’m convinced they’re the best team. I won’t risk the -4.5, but points should be at a premium.
- Miami and No. 4 Florida State OVER 49.5. Austin Mock is all in on this one, and so am I. Seminoles will score, and the Hurricanes will pick up the slack on the road to 50. Smash it.
Feeling bold? Iowa is part of a modern totals record low: 28.5 against Rutgers. It’s absurd, and the under feels like a lock.
In the NFL:
- Saints and Vikings UNDER 41. Outside of two games, the Saints’ offense has been abysmal. Vikings are still on backup duty. Defenses will shine.
- Lions (-3) at Chargers. Chargers might have crushed the Jets, but L.A. should still be concerned. Detroit is good and coming off a bye. Lions by a touchdown.
Pulse record overall: 19-21-1
News to Know
- NWSL hits the jackpot with a $60 million per year media rights package. Huge leap in viewership with broadcasts on ESPN, CBS Sports, Prime Video, and Scripps Sports.
- NC State’s starting QB redshirts, and questions arise. Coach Doeren is surprised as his QB bails on the season to preserve eligibility.
- Connor Bedard’s four-point game makes history, and three former New Mexico State basketball players face felony charges in hazing incidents.
- Andre Iguodala takes on the role of acting executive director of the National Basketball Players Association.
- Good news for USMNT fans: Christian Pulisic avoids serious injury in the AC Milan vs. PSG match.
Real Hoopers: The Midwest Thrives
Two standout results from last night:
- Pacers secure a 126-124 win over the Bucks, even without Damian Lillard. A massive victory for the early-season darlings in Indy.
- Caitlin Clark’s 44-point spectacle leads No. 3 Iowa to an 80-76 victory over No. 8 Virginia Tech in women’s college basketball. With Clark around, Iowa can take on anyone.
There you have it—your morning sports roundup served with a side of betting drama. Stay tuned for more action and unexpected twists in the world of sports!
