Missouri Tigers (10-2) vs. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-1)
Missouri Tigers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes – The stage is set for a thrilling Cotton Bowl on December 29, 2023, as the Missouri Tigers, with an impressive 10-2 record, face off against the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes, who stand at 11-1. This matchup is a highlight for college football enthusiasts, drawing a lot of attention for NCAAF bowl latest free picks.
Missouri Tigers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 29, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | AT&T Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Brady Cook QB vs. Kyle McCord QB
Brady Cook heads into the Cotton Bowl looking to cap off an impressive year where he greatly improved Missouri’s passing attack. The junior displays polished mechanics and always keeps his eyes downfield, even when forced to leave the pocket. Cook exhibits the arm talent to attack all areas of the field but thrives most throwing timing-based intermediate routes. He also progressed mightily in his decision-making, cutting down mistakes compared to last season. However, Cook’s average arm strength leaves some deep balls floating, allowing aggressive defenses to close throwing windows.
Meanwhile, Ohio State’s Kyle McCord steps into the starting role boasting impressive physical tools and a year learning the system. The sophomore has a cannon arm, able to easily whistle passes outside the numbers. McCord also shows the ability to drop perfect deep balls into his receivers’ hands in stride. Additionally, he demonstrates poise maneuvering the pocket and keeping his form when throwing on the run. Despite his obvious talent, McCord’s lack of experience as a starter raises some questions about how he will perform under pressure in a big game environment. He must avoid relying too heavily on his playmaking wideouts and instead take what the defense gives him.
Missouri’s Multi-Faceted Offense
The Tigers’ offense provides challenges at every level, from quarterback Brady Cook’s dual-threat abilities to running back Cody Schrader’s punishing ground game to wideout Luther Burden III’s explosive playmaking. Cook efficiently operates the spread attack, while Schrader wears down defenses to allow for deadly play-action shots downfield to Burden. For Ohio State to slow this unit down, they must contain Cook in the pocket and limit Missouri’s rushing success.
Ohio State’s CFP-Level Defense
Conversely, the Buckeyes field a championship-caliber defense loaded with future NFL talent. The defensive line generates constant pressure, while the linebackers and secondary offer elite athleticism and coverage skills. This unit clamped down during the end of the season, holding explosive offenses like Michigan and USC under 30 points. Ohio State has the talent up front and on the back end to fluster Brady Cook while containing Missouri’s playmakers.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Ohio State Buckeyes -105, Over/Under: 49
The betting odds are closely matched, with Ohio State slightly favored. The over/under is set at 49, indicating expectations for a competitive scoring game.
Missouri Tigers Betting Trends
Missouri are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Missouri’s last 10 games.
Missouri are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games.
Tigers are 10-3 SU in their last 13 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Missouri are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games played in December.
Missouri are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games played on a Friday.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Ohio State’s last 9 games.
Ohio State are 11-1 SU in their last 12 games.
Buckeyes Ohio State are 2-7 SU in their last 9 games against an opponent in the Southeastern conference.
Ohio State are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games played in December.
Ohio State are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games played on a Friday.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Ohio State’s last 8 games when playing as the favourite.
Missouri Tigers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Picks
This matchup is tightly contested, but Ohio State’s overall performance gives them a slight edge. Missouri’s ability to score and compete in big games, however, should not be underestimated.
The prediction leans towards Ohio State, possibly covering the spread. The total points could hover around the set over/under, with a potential lean towards the OVER, given Missouri’s recent trends.
This prediction considers both teams’ form, betting trends, and key player performances. Bettors should check the latest odds and insights on Americas online sportsbook for informed betting decisions.
Receiving Yards Prop: Ohio State 28, Missouri 24.
