SELECT SCORE:
You have made it to the halfway point of a college football season. If you succeed in showing a profit, that’s a job well done. If not, you still have time for a turnaround, just be aware: what has happened in the initial part of the season doesn’t suggest that’s how the second half will go.
When betting on sports it is about making adjustments. Some are often minor, others are not. Let’s delve into how you can build your bankroll before betting on the bowl games and college football playoffs at the top-rated sportsbooks.
Understand The Schedule Differences
While most people comprehend conference play is different from playing at least three non-conference foes in the first half of the season, sometimes it’s just forgotten.
Though conferences are bigger and more bloated than ever, and you don’t and won’t face the same competition with the frequency you did before, word travels fast in those circles.
A team might be great against the run to start the season. However, once conference play started the opposing teams were stronger in the offensive line and the running backs had more speed, along with quickness. This squad’s inexperienced linebackers were covered up because the defensive line controlled the action.
Once conference play commenced, the yardage allowed and yard per carry jumped up. These are possible warning signs to watch for.
Follow Coaches Known for Improving Teams
College football coaches make a lot of money. For that money, they are expected to win a lot of games each season and, in many cases, being undefeated is the expectation by the alumni.
In recent years, the transfer portal and NIL money have turned the job into a year-round recruiting process, trying to improve your team, while holding on to your best assets. Those fortunate enough to remain at one school for a longer period of time or have success at a couple of university stops, generally have one aspect in common. Their teams improve from start to finish.
With all the changes in the sport, coaches almost annually have to assemble numerous moving parts to build a cohesive unit. Some stick to a process they believe in and can repeat it continuously. In these cases, almost every year, these outfits are playing their best football in November and football bettors know they can be trusted as favorites or underdogs.
The More Physical the Better
Each and every year, the teams that win the battle in the trenches on both sides of the ball are those who are winning in the late season. That’s not to say this doesn’t happen before that, but with more on the line the stakes are raised, and having the proper mindset and belief can carry teams to victory.
That is why those who win the line of scrimmage have a better chance to produce victories. This can be in the form of running the ball down the opponent’s throat and taking away their will. Or, running effectively to set the pass and having an offensive line that keeps the quarterback’s uniform clean in the pocket.
The same goes for defense. Stopping the run and rushing the passer are always two methods that limit the other team from scoring and if you can be super physical in doing so, all the better.
That is not to say what is considered a more finesse offense cannot win. If a team has an electric passing offense with a whole batch of varied receivers that are seemingly impossible to control, those clubs can win frequently and beat point spreads.
Nonetheless, given the choices, having a more physical squad is the best way to go.
Pay Close Attention to Recent Games
There is nothing wrong with looking at a team’s complete body of work and season statistics. However, once you reach later October and November, take a more nuanced approach.
Utilize the same stats you have all season but hone in on those of the last three games. That can help you pinpoint any present strengths or weaknesses moving forward that could provide a vital edge for you to win more bets than others, just by being more thorough.
