College football picks against the spread: Week 7 game predictions
We came out exactly even a week ago, going 5 for 5 in our college football predictions against the spread, coming out on the wrong side of the Red River Shootout, where we picked Texas to cover 5 points over OU, but we also got LSU over Missouri and Alabama over Texas A&M. Now we proceed to Week 7.
How are we doing? College Football HQ is 24-26 (.480) against the spread so far this season. Let's see what's ahead for Week 7.
Lines courtesy of SI Sportsbook
Oregon (+2.5) vs. Washington
Both these teams are college football's best and second-best total offensive attacks, but the Ducks present a more credible threat defensively, especially on third down, and average more than 2 yards more than the Huskies on the ground. Oregon is the more balanced team here. (Prediction)
LSU (-10.5) vs. Auburn
As popular as it is to trash LSU's passing defense, and it's all warranted, it should gain the upper hand against an Auburn aerial attack that is just not there right now. That said, Auburn plays tough at the line defensively and can get turnovers, but Jayden Daniels will have more opportunities to put points on the board. (Prediction)
USC (+2.5) vs. Notre Dame
USC's defense will ruin this team's season at some point like it did last year in the postseason, but the Trojans' pass rush is doing some positive work at the line and should find some angles against ND's protection. And while the Irish secondary will challenge USC's receivers, it won't for four full quarters. (Prediction)
Pick 'Em: Week 7 College Football Predictions
Texas A&M (+3.5) vs. Tennessee
A tough game to pin down on paper. A&M seems to be the more complete team thanks to its expert line defense, which allows 2.6 yards per carry, compared to over 7 yards in the air on average. The Vols' strength is running the ball, but they could struggle down the stretch against the Aggies' front.
And while Joe Milton can air it out, he won't have Bru McCoy after the receiver's injury two weeks ago. A&M can upset here, although Jimbo's 7-game road losing streak sticks out here. We project a Volunteer win by a field goal. (Prediction)
North Carolina (-3.5) vs. Miami
Don't let a giant coaching blunder distract you from the fact that Miami is actually a fairly efficient football team, thanks to the play of Tyler Van Dyke, a 73 percent passer who should find some lanes against the Tar Heels' second level. But with Drake Maye at home, an improved ground game, and a better overall defensive unit that ranks 30th in scoring is enough for Carolina to cover this narrow line.
UCLA (+3.5) vs. Oregon State
UCLA's defense is as advertised, especially in the front seven, and ranks 1st in college football by allowing just 3.7 yards per play total to opponents. It just grounded Washington State's superb air game and should gain the upper hand against Beavers quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, who has been inconsistent this year. UCLA is top 25 in rushing, an important strength to build on as quarterback Dante Moore finds his way.
Bet on Week 7 college football here
Whether your tailing or fading us this week, here's how to bet the games
Join FanDuel here to claim $200 worth of bonus bets after wagering just $5 on any game.
Claim $200 in Bonus Bets instantly when you Bet $5 with DraftKings.
Get $200 in Bonus Bets with Bet365 here when you Bet Just $1 on any college football game.
Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets with Points Bet right here.
Or get $1,500 paid back in bonus bets from BetMGM if you don’t win.
More college football from SI: Top 25 Rankings | Schedule | Teams