The Louisiana Ragin Cajuns and Minnesota Golden Gophers face off on Saturday in a Week 5 college football showdown at TCF Bank Stadium.
PJ Fleck Has to Make Some Changes
For far too long PJ Fleck has played not to lose by controlling the game with tempo and far too often they take their foot off the gas. In the last game against Northwestern, it cost them, and it was the worst loss in the Fleck era. In the 4th quarter, Minnesota was outscored 21-0 in the 4th quarter and they ended up losing in overtime. The secondary for the defense is also clearly a huge issue for this team. Running back Darius Tyler is having a big season and he has rushed for 532 yards and four touchdowns.
Minnesota Betting Trends
- Minnesota has won 27 of its last 29 games against non-conference opponents.
- Minnesota has failed to cover the spread in each of its last five games.
- Minnesota has won the first half in 19 of its last 21 games against non-conference opponents.
- Each of Minnesota's last six games at Huntington Bank Stadium have gone UNDER the total points line.
Louisiana Needs Offense to be Good
Louisiana needs the offense to be good much like they have been the last couple of games. Two games ago against UAB, Louisiana was able to secure the 41-21 victory and in the last game against Buffalo they were able to secure the 45-38. Under center for Louisiana is Zeon Chriss and he completed 22 of his 49 passes for 249 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Louisiana is averaging 38.8 points while their defense is giving up 27.5 points per game.
Louisiana Betting Trends
- Louisiana has won each of its last three September games as a road underdog against non-AP-ranked teams.
- Louisiana has failed to cover the spread in six of its last seven road games in September.
- Louisiana has won the first half in 10 of its last 12 games against non-conference opponents.
- Five of Louisiana's last six games as an underdog against non-AP-ranked teams have gone UNDER the total points line.
Shane’s Free Pick
Fleck and the Gophers are going to want to make a statement here. The offense going to try and pile on here and this Louisana defense is an issue. Look for Minnesota to have no issue running up the score and that is going to be the difference as the Gophers are going to get the job done. Back Minnesota against the spread.