College football picks against the spread: Bowl season, week 1

Dec 3, 2016; Laramie, WY, USA; San Diego State Aztecs cornerback Kyree Woods (27) and tight end Darryl Richardson (84) celebrates after game against the Wyoming Cowboys at the Mountain West Championship college football game at War Memorial Stadium. The Aztecs beat the Cowboys 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports /

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The college football bowl season is set to get underway, so here is a look at the best bets for opening week

We made it. The 2016 college football season is over when it comes to the “regular” slate, and it is officially time for bowl games. While, admittedly, the luster is off a bit in terms of actual importance, there is nothing like watching football at random times throughout the month of December, and bowl games are a great way to escape from the rigors of everyday life.

In this space, we will be taking on the games scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 17 and that means we have five opportunities to profit. Before we get to the games, though, let’s take a look at where we stand against the spread for the season.

Last Week: 5-5
Season: 72-66-1

New Mexico Bowl (2:00 pm ET, ESPN) – UTSA (+7) over New Mexico

When all else fails, take the underdog. Honestly, that is the entire analysis for this game, as it is a virtual home game for the Lobos against a team in UTSA that probably is not as good according to the advanced numbers. Still, a 7-point spread appears to be right, and my default setting is taking the points. Proceed with caution.

Las Vegas Bowl (3:30 pm ET, ABC) – San Diego State (+3.5) over Houston

I love the Las Vegas Bowl so much. Let me just get that out of the way now. Is there anything more beautiful than college football played down the street from the Strip? Anyway…

I like the Aztecs in the game. Houston is the more talented team and there is no question about that, but motivation issues have been prevalent for the Cougars throughout the season and I can’t see them being “up” for this game in a big way. Tom Herman is already in Austin, leaving Houston to contend with an interim coach, and that also swings the pendulum toward San Diego State for me.

Look for a steady diet of 2,000-yard rusher Donnel Pumphrey for SDSU and, if he can get loose, the Aztecs have a path to victory. Make no mistake, this isn’t a line I’d be rushing to the window to take advantage of because, well, Houston should probably be a three-point favorite. Still, I think the more motivated team is the right side and the Aztecs are wildly underrated nationally for every reason that you would expect.

Next: Cure Bowl

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