Colorado Buffaloes vs. Washington State Cougars 11/17/23 – As the NCAAF season heats up, the Week 12 matchup between the Colorado Buffaloes and the Washington State Cougars on November 17, 2023, is drawing significant attention, not just among college football enthusiasts but also on Canadian top betting websites. Both teams, with identical records of 4-6, are set to clash at Clarence D. Martin Stadium, promising an intriguing battle as they seek to improve their standings.
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Washington State Cougars
Date & Time: Friday, November 17 at 10:30 PM ET
Location: Clarence D. Martin Stadium
TV: FS1
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Washington State Cougars 11/17/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Colorado | +160 | +4.5 (-115) | 64.5 over (-115) |
| Washington State | -225 | -4.5 (-115) | 64.5 under (-108) |
Colorado Buffaloes Analysis
Shedeur Sanders leads an exciting Colorado Buffaloes offense that features both dynamic playmaking and defensive resilience. His impressive statistics include 3144 passing yards and 69.5% completion rate; these indicate his effectiveness at leading their offensive charge. His 26 touchdown passes attest to Sanders’ talent at finding the end zone, while his relationship with primary receiver Xavier Weaver (867 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns) has been instrumental to Colorado’s offensive strategy. However, the Buffaloes have been significantly limited by an offensive line’s inability to adequately protect quarterback JT Daniels resulting in 48 sacks this season – this protection issue could prove pivotal against Washington State’s aggressive defensive schemes in their next match-up.
Defensively, Colorado can improve upon their recent 2-13 SU record on the road over their last 15 games, especially since Washington Cougars could exploit this weakness against Colorado if they choose to do so; Colorado needs to tighten up their defense, especially against passing plays, for any chance at success against this opponent.
Washington State Cougars Analysis
Washington State’s offense led by quarterback Cameron Ward is in many ways similar to their opponent’s offensive lineup. Ward has amassed 3,127 yards and 20 touchdowns through this season alone – showing his ability as an effective passer and leader on the field. Ward achieved an admirable completion percentage of 67.2%; however, like Sanders he has come under considerable pressure having been sacked 31 times during the season. Pass Protection will be key in their game against Colorado. Lincoln Victor has been outstanding, racking up 723 yards and four touchdowns as an integral component to Ward’s playmaking ability. Unfortunately, Nakia Watson’s 210 rushing yards suggest their running game may need improvement; without stronger run support available from Nakia Watson it could become predictable quickly.
Defensively, Washington State has shown some weaknesses, particularly in their conference play, where they are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games. Their defense against the pass and the run will be crucial in determining the outcome of this matchup.
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Washington State Cougars Against the Spread
The Buffaloes have a strong record ATS in their recent games (4-1-1 in their last 6), but they’ve struggled against Washington State historically, going 1-4 ATS in their last 5 encounters. Colorado’s tendency to go over the total in most of their recent games contrasts with Washington State’s recent trend of staying under.
Washington State, conversely, has been struggling ATS (1-5 in their last 6 games) and is currently on a six-game losing streak SU. However, they have a more favorable ATS record at home (11-5 in their last 16 games), which could play a vital role in this matchup.
Colorado Buffaloes vs. Washington State Cougars Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Washington State -225
Despite their recent struggles, the Cougars have a slight edge, especially playing at home where they’ve historically performed better ATS.
Spread: Colorado +4.5 (-115)
Colorado’s recent ATS performance and the close nature of this matchup suggest they will cover the spread.
Total: 64.5 under (-108).
Given the recent under trends for Washington State and their defensive capabilities, the total is more likely to stay under.
Predicted Score: Washington State Cougars 31, Colorado Buffaloes 28
In conclusion, while this game promises to be closely contested, Washington State’s home advantage and slightly better overall performance this season make them the safer bet. However, Colorado’s ability to cover the spread cannot be underestimated. For NCAAF picks and prediction, the most reliable pick would be Washington State on the Moneyline, with Colorado likely covering the spread in a lower-scoring affair than the total suggests.
