As college football kicks off, one of the intriguing matchups in Week 1 features the Nebraska Cornhuskers taking on the UTEP Miners. This game is set for Saturday, August 31st, at 3:30 PM Eastern Time and will be broadcast on Fox. Nebraska enters the game with high expectations under coach Matt Rhule, while UTEP is looking to make a statement in Scotty Walden’s first season.

Where to Watch and Game Time

Date: Saturday, August 31st
Time: 3:30 PM Eastern Time
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
TV Channel: Fox

Betting Odds and Analysis

The Line

Nebraska is currently a 27-point favorite according to BetUS. Understanding the betting spread is crucial for anyone interested in wagering. A spread bet on Nebraska means they must win by more than 27 points to cover the spread. Conversely, a bet on UTEP means they must either win outright or lose by fewer than 27 points.

The Total

The market total for this game is set at 49.5 points. The betting total or over/under refers to the combined number of points scored by both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the actual total will be over or under this number.

The Moneyline

While specific moneyline odds were not provided, a moneyline bet involves picking the winner of the game outright. The odds reflect the likelihood of each team winning. Betting on the favorite, Nebraska, would yield a smaller payout compared to betting on the underdog, UTEP.

In-Depth Game Analysis

Let’s delve into the details of this matchup using the provided graphic and additional context.

Team Overview

• Nebraska Cornhuskers
  • Coach: Matt Rhule
  • Overall 247 Talent: 29
  • Power Rating: 37
  • Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 13
• UTEP Miners
  • Coach: Scotty Walden
  • Overall 247 Talent: 128
  • Power Rating: 119
  • Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 123

Offensive and Defensive Comparisons

Nebraska

• Offensive Coordinator: Marcus Satterfield
  • Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 30
  • Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 91
• Defensive Coordinator: Tony White
  • Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 18
  • Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 15

UTEP

• Offensive Coordinators: Jake Brown / Ryan Stanchek
  • Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 123
  • Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 128
• Defensive Coordinators: J.J. Clark / Kelvin Sigler
  • Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 114
  • Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 119

Key Points to Watch

1. Nebraska’s New-Look Offense Nebraska is introducing a five-star freshman quarterback, Dylan Raiola, in his first collegiate start. The Cornhuskers’ offense, under Marcus Satterfield, aims to be significantly improved from last season.
2. UTEP’s Potential for Upset UTEP has several offensive starters from Austin Peay, where they averaged 34 points per game last season. Coach Scotty Walden’s familiarity with these players could provide a strategic advantage.
3. Defensive Strengths Nebraska’s defense was strong last season, and with Tony White at the helm, they are expected to maintain, if not improve, their performance. UTEP’s defensive line, praised by Walden, will be tested against Nebraska’s offense.
4. Experience vs. Talent Nebraska has a high overall talent ranking and a significant amount of returning production. UTEP, on the other hand, has less talent but brings back a considerable amount of experience, which could level the playing field.
5. Coaching Matchup This game features two coaches in different stages of their tenures. Matt Rhule is in his second year at Nebraska, looking to solidify his program. Scotty Walden, in his first year at UTEP, aims to make a strong impression.

Betting Picks and Predictions

Considering the spread and total, this game presents some interesting betting opportunities:

• Spread: Nebraska is favored by 27 points. Given their talent and defensive strength, betting on Nebraska to cover the spread might be a good choice, especially if they aim to make a statement early in the season.
• Total: The total is set at 49.5 points. With Nebraska’s potentially explosive offense and UTEP’s experienced but less talented team, betting the over could be a prudent option.
• Moneyline: Nebraska is the favorite to win outright. However, UTEP’s potential for surprise plays makes them a viable underdog bet for those looking to take a risk.

Conclusion

This matchup between Nebraska and UTEP promises to be an exciting start to the college football season. Nebraska’s talent and defensive prowess make them the favorite, but UTEP’s experience and strategic coaching could make this a closer game than expected. As fans and bettors prepare for this game, understanding the nuances of the spread, total, and moneyline bets will enhance the experience.

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Prepare for an exciting start to the college football season with this intriguing matchup!