Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-6) vs. UCF Knights (6-6)
Georgia Tech vs. UCF December 22, 2023 – In an exciting NCAAF Gasparilla Bowl showdown, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the UCF Knights, both holding 6-6 records, are set to clash on Friday, December 22, 2023. This matchup at Raymond James Stadium is not just a contest for bowl victory but also a platform for rising stars to shine. Fans and bettors are eagerly searching for NCAAF bowl expert picks to gauge the potential outcomes of this evenly poised game.
Georgia Tech vs. UCF December 22, 2023 Game Info
When: | Friday, December 22, 2023, at 6:30 PM ET |
Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
TV: | ESPN |
Stream: | Sofascore |
Haynes King QB vs. John Rhys Plumlee QB
Haynes King has put together a solid season for the Yellow Jackets, completing 61.9% of his passes for 2,755 yards with 26 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. He’s shown the ability to push the ball downfield, averaging 7.8 yards per attempt. However, he has struggled with turnovers at times. His decision-making and composure under pressure will be key in this game.
John Rhys Plumlee has been productive in his first year as a starter for UCF, throwing for 2,073 yards while completing 63.9% of his passes. He brings an added dynamic as a runner, with 10 rushing touchdowns on the year. Plumlee excels at extending plays with his legs, but can be streaky as a passer. Avoiding costly turnovers will be vital for the Knights’ hopes.
Explosive Georgia Tech Offense Seeks Success Against Porous UCF Defense
The Yellow Jackets boast one of the most explosive offenses in the ACC, led by running back Jamal Haynes. Haynes has rushed for 931 yards and 7 touchdowns while averaging 6 yards per carry. Georgia Tech will look to establish the run early and hit some deep shots off play-action with Eric Singleton Jr, who is averaging 15 yards per catch. UCF has struggled defensively, allowing over 400 yards per game. For the Knights to have a chance, they must limit explosive plays.
Stout Georgia Tech Defense Faces Dual-Threat Plumlee
The Yellow Jackets defense has held tough this season, holding opponents under 25 points per game. They have defended the run well, allowing just 141 rushing yards per contest. Containing the dynamic Plumlee and running back RJ Harvey will be critical. Harvey leads a UCF rushing attack that averages 177 yards per game and has scored 25 touchdowns on the ground. Plumlee’s mobility puts stress on the entire defense. Georgia Tech must play disciplined, assignment football to slow down the Knights.
NCAAF Betting Odds: UCF Knights -190, Over/Under: 67.5
The betting odds favor the UCF Knights, with a moneyline of -190, and an over/under set at a high 67.5 points, anticipating a potentially high-scoring affair.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Betting Trends
Georgia Tech are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Georgia Tech’s last 6 games.
Georgia Tech are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against an opponent in the American Athletic Conference conference.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Georgia Tech’s last 5 games played in December.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Georgia Tech’s last 5 games played on a Friday.
Georgia Tech are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing as the underdog.
UCF Knights Betting Trends
Central Florida are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Central Florida’s last 6 games.
Central Florida are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games.
Central Florida are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Atlantic Coast conference.
Central Florida are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games played on a Friday.
Central Florida are 12-5 SU in their last 17 games when playing as the favourite.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights Betting Picks
This game poses an intriguing matchup, with Georgia Tech’s high-scoring potential clashing with UCF’s more measured and efficient play. Georgia Tech’s Haynes King must manage his aggression to avoid turnovers, while UCF’s John Rhys Plumlee should focus on exploiting the Yellow Jackets’ defensive gaps.
Given the betting trends and team dynamics, UCF seems to have a slight edge, especially considering their stronger performance as favorites. For those looking at USA top sportsbook options, UCF might be a safer bet, but Georgia Tech’s potential for an upset, especially with their high-scoring offense, should not be ignored.