North Carolina vs. Appalachian State Prediction, Odds, Spread and Over/Under for College Football Week 1
By Josh Yourish
Appalachian State opens the season with a bit of a Power 5 gauntlet; beginning this week with the 1-0 North Carolina Tar Heels, followed by the Texas A&M Aggies up next. For now, they have to contend with Drake Maye and the Tar Heels, who beat Florida A&M 56-24 in their season opener.
The Mountaineers finished last year 10-4 with wins over Coastal Carolina and Miami, and return their starting quarterback, Chase Brice.
It’s the battle for North Carolina so let’s take a look at the odds from WynnBET:
North Carolina vs. Appalachian State Odds, Spread and Total
Appalachian State vs. North Carolina Betting Trends
- North Carolina went OVER in eight of 13 games
- App State went UNDER in eight of 14 games
North Carolina vs. Appalachian State Prediction and Pick
There was a lot of turnover for North Carolina’s offense from last season to now, but do have the benefit of playing an opening game against an FCS opponent in Florida A&M.
Drake Maye looked comfortable as the Tar Heels replacement for Sam Howell, throwing for 294 yards and five touchdowns, while completing 29 of 37 passes. He also ran for 55 yards on four carries. The running game was strong for UNC with Omarion Hampton leading the way. He carried the ball 14 times for 101 yards and two touchdowns.
App State lost their top three receivers from their No. 22 ranked offense last season, but brought back Chase Brice at QB, four of their five starters on the offensive line, and their top two rushers. The offense should be just as effective as they were in 2021.
The defense that was top 30 in the country last year, will not be the same. They lost a lot of talent and may struggle to gel together early in the year as they return just five starters. Their rushing defense was their bread and butter, and with several new faces, Maye could have success through the air this week.
The questions about UNC’s offense were mostly answered in Week 0 and if Maye looks good again this week they should continue to put up points. With App State's offense expected to remain their strength, back the offenses to prevail in Week 1.
PICK: Over 55 (-110)
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