Washington Huskies (14-0) vs. Michigan Wolverines (14-0)
Washington Huskies vs. Michigan Wolverines – The stage is set for a monumental clash in the NCAAF as the undefeated Washington Huskies face off against the equally unblemished Michigan Wolverines in the quest for the winning CFP National Championship picks. This high-stakes encounter is scheduled for Monday, January 8, 2024, promising an epic showdown at the NRG Stadium, televised on ESPN. Both teams enter the fray with impeccable 14-0 records, a testament to their season-long dominance and unwavering pursuit of glory.
Washington Huskies vs. Michigan Wolverines Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 8, 2024, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | NRG Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Michael Penix Jr. QB vs. J.J. McCarthy QB
Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is coming off a record-breaking season where he threw for 4,648 passing yards with 92 yards being his longest pass. He racked up an outstanding 66.7% completion percentage with 35 touchdown passes compared to only 9 interceptions. Penix had 10 sacks for -71 sack yards and an elite 163.5 passer rating. He excels at throwing deep balls and stretching the field with his strong arm. His accuracy and decision making will be vital against a stingy Michigan defense.
Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign, throwing for 2,851 yards while completing 73.2% of his passes. McCarthy takes exceptional care of the football with only 4 interceptions and was sacked 18 times for -149 yards this season. He brings outstanding field vision, patience, and pinpoint accuracy throwing to all levels. McCarthy doesn’t have elite arm strength but makes very quick reads and gets the ball out fast into the hands of his playmakers.
Huskies’ Offensive Firepower: Penix, Johnson, Odunze
Michael Penix Jr. leads Washington’s offense, supported by players like Dillon Johnson and Rome Odunze. Johnson’s 1162 yards rushing on 222 attempts with 16 touchdowns provide a dynamic ground game; Rome Odunze’s 1553 yards on 87 receptions add depth. Together these multifaceted offensive approaches could give Washington an edge against Michigan Wolverines defense.
Wolverines’ Balanced Attack: McCarthy, Corum, Wilson
Michigan provides a balanced approach in their attack, featuring quarterback McCarthy’s air attack complimented by Blake Corum’s ground game (who has run 1111 yards and 25 touchdowns!). Wide receiver Roman Wilson is another reliable target for McCarthy; together these attacks present significant challenge to Washington Huskies’ defense.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Michigan Wolverines -195, Over/Under: 56.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Michigan Wolverines, with a -195 moneyline and a spread of -4.5. The over/under is set at 56.5, suggesting expectations of a high-scoring game.
Washington Huskies Betting Trends
Washington are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.
Huskies are 10-0 SU in their last 10 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington’s last 9 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Washington are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing as the underdog.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
Michigan are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games.
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Michigan’s last 10 games.
Michigan are 10-0 SU in their last 10 games.
Michigan are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 games against an opponent in the Pac-12 conference.
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Michigan’s last 16 games played in January.
Michigan are 14-0 SU in their last 14 games when playing as the favourite.
Washington Huskies vs. Michigan Wolverines Betting Picks
Given the trends and the strengths of both teams, this matchup promises to be a close and high-scoring affair. Washington’s underdog status and ATS trends make them an appealing pick for the spread. Michigan’s tendency to go OVER in high-profile games suggests the total score might exceed expectations.
The key to this game will lie in the quarterback duel. Penix’s ability to exploit Michigan’s defensive weaknesses, combined with Washington’s robust ATS record when underdogs, makes them a compelling pick against the spread. However, Michigan’s overall balance and January scoring trends cannot be overlooked. This game might come down to which defense can make a crucial stop or force a turnover.
For those exploring legal betting sites, consider the Michigan moneyline for a safer bet, while Washington against the spread offers value. The over on the total points seems likely, given both teams’ potent offenses and historical trends. Remember, always engage in responsible gambling and enjoy what promises to be a classic National Championship showdown.
Receiving Yards Prop: Michigan 31, Washington 27.
