2017 Cotton Bowl Classic Odds & Predictions – USC Trojans vs Ohio State Buckeyes Picks: Way back before the College Football Playoff, this would have been a Rose Bowl matchup between the fifth-ranked, Big Ten champion Ohio State Buckeyes and the eighth-ranked, Pac-12 champion USC Trojans.
Both teams can make a strong argument that they should be playing in the playoffs this year instead of the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on December 29, but while this isn’t a playoff game, it is still a marquee matchup in a big game between two of the most storied programs in college football history.
The Buckeyes are led by dual-threat quarterback J.T. Barrett and explosive running back J.K. Dobbins, and the Ohio State offense is averaging 42.5 points per game and more than 500 yards. Defensively, the Buckeyes boast one of the deepest defensive lines in the country, and the unit is allowing just under 20 points per game and less than 300 yards.
USC is headlined by quarterback Sam Darnold, who might end up being the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft. Running back Ronald Jones II has quietly had an impressive season in his own right, running for 1,486 yards and 18 touchdowns. Overall, USC is averaging 34.5 points per game and just under 500 yards of offense. The Trojans have been hit and miss on the defensive end, but much like last year, Darnold and company seem to be playing their best football down the stretch of the season.
Needless to say, there is plenty of star power on both sides of the ball for both teams in this one. Darnold is probably the best pro prospect for either team, but Ohio State’s top-to-bottom balance and depth has them listed as 7.5-point favorites in the Cotton Bowl. You can bet on these college football bowl predictions and all college bowl games by opening up a sportsbook account at top-rated Bovada Sportsbook. You will get a 50% BONUS on your 1st deposit up to $250 FREE to use for betting.
2017 Cotton Bowl Classic Odds & Predictions: USC Trojans vs Ohio State Buckeyes Picks
The Trojans Win If:
If USC is going to win this matchup, they need to establish some balance on offense early. Darnold is a star, but if the Trojans become too pass-happy on offense, the Ohio State pass rush is going to feast. For his part, Darnold needs to be smart with the football. He has been turnover prone at times this year, and if he is careless in this one, the Buckeyes’ explosive offense will capitalize. Defensively, the Trojans have to tackle in space and force Barrett to beat them with throws down the field. The Buckeyes count on their speedy playmakers turning quick, short plays into big ones. If USC can take those plays away, Ohio State’s offense becomes a lot less effective.
The Buckeyes Win If:
For Ohio State to come out on top, they need their defensive line to dominate. USC’s offensive line has been average, and if the Buckeyes can shut down the run on early downs, they should be able to generate all kinds of pressure on Darnold. If OSU makes life miserable for Darnold, everything else will fall into place. It also starts up front on offense for the Buckeyes. When they get Dobbins rolling early, it opens up all kinds of options for Barrett as both a runner and a passer and it makes their offense borderline unstoppable. As long as Ohio State avoids becoming too dependent on Barrett, they should be able to put up points in this one.
Bottom Line:
USC hasn’t gotten enough credit this season, but while the Trojans have an edge at quarterback with Darnold, the Buckeyes have more talent overall, especially on defense. As I mentioned already, USC’s offensive line play has left a lot to be desired, and I think the Buckeyes will be able to get enough pressure on Darnold to keep him from finding a rhythm. Granted, there is a chance that Ohio State could experience a bit of a letdown after being left out of the College Football Playoff, but the last time a talented Ohio State team was left out, Urban Meyer’s bunch went out and roasted Notre Dame. I expect a similarly strong showing from the Buckeyes this time around.
Prediction: Ohio State Buckeyes (-7.5) Cover the Spread
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