The Exciting Week 8 College Football Schedule
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, college football fans are treated to one of the most thrilling weeks of the season: Week 8. With games scheduled from Tuesday through Saturday, this week promises a packed slate of action, highlighted by several ranked matchups that could have significant implications for the College Football Playoff picture.
A Packed Schedule
Week 8 is unique in its breadth, featuring at least two games every day from Tuesday through Saturday. This midweek action allows fans to indulge in college football excitement throughout the week, culminating in a particularly loaded Saturday. Among the standout matchups, No. 7 Alabama will visit No. 11 Tennessee, with Alabama favored by 2.5 points. Simultaneously, No. 24 Michigan will take on Illinois, where Michigan is a slight favorite at -1. Both games kick off in the 3:30 p.m. ET window, setting the stage for an afternoon of high-stakes football.
Primetime Showdown
As the sun sets, the spotlight will shine on a top-five showdown: No. 1 Texas hosting No. 5 Georgia. With Texas favored by 3.5 points, this game not only features the current top-ranked team but also the past four college football champions. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere will be electric as these two powerhouse programs clash under the lights.
Expert Insights from Bruce Marshall
Before placing any bets or making predictions, it’s wise to consult the insights of experts in the field. Legendary Vegas handicapper Bruce Marshall, known for his extensive experience and successful track record, has been analyzing the Week 8 matchups. With a remarkable 21-8 record on his official SportsLine college football spread picks, Marshall’s insights are invaluable for fans and bettors alike.
Marshall’s Tech Corner technique, which evaluates trends and the latest odds, provides a comprehensive look at each matchup. His expertise is not just theoretical; he has a rich background in sports journalism and has been a prominent figure in the betting community for decades. His work has appeared in major publications, and he has earned multiple handicapping titles, making his predictions worth considering.
Key Predictions for Week 8
One of Marshall’s top recommendations for Week 8 is for South Carolina to cover the spread as a +3 underdog against Oklahoma. Despite a rollercoaster season, the Gamecocks have shown resilience, including a dominant road win against Kentucky and close calls against formidable opponents like LSU and Alabama. Marshall notes that South Carolina has covered in its last three SEC road games and has a solid record as an underdog this season.
Marshall’s analysis highlights the alternating spread wins and losses for Oklahoma, which could play a crucial role in the outcome of this matchup. With the Sooners struggling to maintain consistency at home, South Carolina could capitalize on this trend.
Trends to Watch
As fans prepare for Week 8, it’s essential to keep an eye on the betting trends that could influence outcomes. Marshall has identified a notable 24-6 betting trend that bettors should be aware of this week. Understanding these trends can provide a strategic advantage when making picks, whether for casual enjoyment or serious betting.
The Full Week 8 Odds
The Week 8 college football odds are as follows:
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Tuesday, Oct. 15
- Troy at South Alabama (-11, 56.5)
- Kennesaw State at Middle Tennessee (-10, 50.5)
- Louisiana Tech at New Mexico State (+10.5, 48.5)
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Wednesday, Oct. 16
- Western Kentucky at Sam Houston State (-3, 55.5)
- FIU at UTEP (+5.5, 49)
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Thursday, Oct. 17
- Georgia State at Marshall (-9, 52)
- Boston College at Virginia Tech (-7, 49.5)
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Friday, Oct. 18
- Florida State at Duke (-3, 42.5)
- Oregon at Purdue (+27, 58.5)
- Oklahoma State at BYU (-9, 55.5)
- Fresno State at Nevada (+3, 51.5)
- Saturday, Oct. 19
- Virginia at Clemson (-21, 57.5)
- Miami at Louisville (+4, 61.5)
- Notre Dame at Georgia Tech (+8.5, 50)
- Alabama at Tennessee (+2.5, 56)
- Michigan at Illinois (+1, 43.5)
- LSU at Arkansas (+3, 57)
- Georgia at Texas (-3.5, 56)
- Vanderbilt at Kentucky (-12.5, 44.5)
- SMU at Stanford (+14.5, 55.5)
With so many intriguing matchups and expert insights available, Week 8 of college football promises to be a thrilling experience for fans and bettors alike. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or looking to make informed betting decisions, this week is sure to deliver excitement and drama on the gridiron.