Texas Longhorns (12-1) vs. Washington Huskies (13-0)
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies – The NCAAF College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Sugar Bowl presents a captivating showdown as the Texas Longhorns, with an impressive 12-1 record, face the undefeated Washington Huskies. Set for Monday, at the Caesars Superdome and televised on ESPN, this matchup is a focal point for college football enthusiasts and bettors alike. As the teams prepare for this monumental clash, USA sportsbook online platforms are buzzing with predictions and analyses, setting the stage for a truly epic battle.
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024, at 8:45 PM ET |
| Where: | Caesars Superdome |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Quinn Ewers QB vs. Michael Penix Jr. QB
Texas freshman QB Quinn Ewers has rapidly developed into an elite passer in his first year as a starter, completing 70.7% of his throws for over 3,100 yards and 21 touchdowns against just 6 picks. His quick release and ability to change arm angles allow him to zip tight-window throws before defenses can react. Ewers excels at looking off safeties and can be lethal off play-action, with the arm talent to attack any area of the field. He’ll need to avoid the occasional careless mistake against this disciplined Washington defense.
On the other side, Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. makes a strong case for the Heisman Trophy, leading the nation with 4,200+ passing yards and 33 touchdowns while completing 66% of his attempts. His rare accuracy, touch, and ability to quickly process reads have powered the Huskies’ aerial attack. Penix shows excellent poise and consistently makes good decisions with the football. His rapid release allows him to exploit the smallest of passing windows. The Texas secondary will have its hands full containing Penix’s precision passing and timing-based attack.
Longhorns Pack Powerful Offensive Punch
CJ Baxter has been an essential cog in Texas’ offensive approach with 595 yards rushed on 129 attempts for an average of 4.6 per carry and four touchdowns scored on his runs. His consistent play has balanced out their offensive strategy. Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell has emerged as a primary target, amassing 51 receptions for 813 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns – an average of 15.9 yards per catch and significant plays that provide constant threats for defenses to counter.
Stingy Huskies Defense Anchors Team
Washington’s primary running back Dillon Johnson has been outstanding, amassing 1113 yards from 201 rushes at an average 5.5 yard per carry and 14 touchdowns – an invaluable contribution to Washington’s ground game. Rome Odunze has been an incredible game-changer, catching 81 passes for 1428 yards at an average 17.6 yard per catch and tallying 13 touchdowns. Odunze will prove indispensable against Texas’ secondary.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Texas Longhorns -170, Over/Under: 63
The odds favor the Texas Longhorns, reflecting their balanced attack and strong season performance. The high over/under suggests expectations of an offensive showdown, aligning with both teams’ scoring prowess.
Texas Longhorns Betting Trends
Texas are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.
Longhorns are 7-0 SU in their last 7 games.
Texas are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against an opponent in the Pac-12 conference.
Texas are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games played in January.
Longhorns are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing as the favourite.
Washington Huskies Betting Trends
Washington are 10-0 SU in their last 10 games.
Huskies are 2-6 SU in their last 8 games against an opponent in the Big 12 conference.
Washington are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing as the underdog.
Texas Longhorns vs. Washington Huskies Betting Picks
This playoff semifinal is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams showcasing powerful offenses. Texas, as the favorite, looks strong on paper, but Washington’s undefeated record and performance as underdogs make them an intriguing pick, especially on NCAAF bowl best free picks sites.
The over/under betting market seems particularly attractive, given the offensive capabilities of both teams. Prop bets focusing on quarterback performances and key skill position players could provide additional betting opportunities.
Receiving Yards Prop: Texas 35, Washington 31.
