Georgia Tech vs. UCF NCAAF – The Gasparilla Bowl is set to light up the NCAAF landscape with a compelling matchup between the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the UCF Knights, both holding a 6-6 record. This showdown, scheduled for Friday at Raymond James Stadium and broadcasted on ESPN, is not just a testament to the teams’ resilience but also a golden opportunity for bettors looking for that NCAAF bowl winning pick.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights
Date & Time: Friday, December 22, 2023 at 6:30 PM ET
Location: Raymond James Stadium
TV: ESPN
Georgia Tech vs. UCF NCAAF Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Georgia Tech | +165 | +4.5 (-113) | 67.5 over (-110) |
| UCF | -190 | -4.5 (-107) | 67.5 under (-110) |
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Analysis
The Georgia Tech offense is led by quarterback Haynes King, who has passed for 2755 yards, 26 touchdowns and 15 interceptions this season. King has shown the ability to push the ball downfield, averaging 7.8 yards per pass attempt, while also showing some mobility outside the pocket. His top target is wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr., who has used his speed and route running to rack up 47 receptions for 706 yards and 6 touchdowns. Singleton should be able to exploit holes in the UCF secondary. On the ground, running back Jamal Haynes has rushed for 931 yards on 156 carries with 7 scores. Haynes hits holes quick and has breakaway capabilities in space.
As a unit, the Yellow Jackets are averaging 33.6 points per contest. However, they struggle with turnovers at times. Georgia Tech has solid playmakers, both through the air and on the ground. If King limits mistakes, the offense should be able to put up points on the Knights defense. Look for offensive coordinator Chip Long to get Singleton and Haynes involved early.
Georgia Tech’s defense has shown some inconsistency. To be competitive against UCF’s potency offense, Georgia Tech will need to focus on refining their defensive strategies by minimizing big plays and creating turnovers – two key components in their defensive strategy.
UCF Knights Analysis
Quarterback John Rhys Plumlee leads the prolific Knights offense, passing for 2073 yards with 13 touchdowns and rushing for 841 yards and 11 more scores. Plumlee is a threat with his arm and legs, able to evade pressure and create big plays downfield. Running back RJ Harvey has been a force this season, racking up 1296 rushing yards on 211 carries with 16 touchdowns. Harvey has great vision and burst as a runner. Top receiver Javon Baker provides a dynamic weapon on the outside, recording 43 catches for 966 yards and 6 touchdowns. His combination of size, wingspan, and speed makes him difficult to cover.
While the offense has excelled, the UCF defense has been vulnerable, allowing 29.1 points per contest. The Knights rank 84th nationally in total defense. The secondary has struggled in coverage, while the front seven has issues getting off blocks against the run game. For UCF to cover as favorites, the defense must come up with some key stops against the capable Georgia Tech offense.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights Against the Spread
The Yellow Jackets are 4-1 against the spread (ATS) over their last 5 games. Georgia Tech has gone over the total in 5 of its last 6 matchups. The team is 5-1 ATS over its past 6 games as an underdog. The total has gone under in 4 of the Yellow Jackets’ last 5 December tilts.
Meanwhile, the Knights have struggled to cover spreads recently, going 5-11 ATS over their past 16 contests. The under has hit in 5 of UCF’s last 6 outings. The team is just 3-6 straight up in its last 9 games overall. In its past 6 meetings with ACC foes, UCF is 1-5 ATS.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. UCF Knights Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: UCF Knights (-190). Considering their overall performance and home-field advantage, the Knights are the safer pick.
Spread: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets +4.5 (-113). Georgia Tech has shown they can keep games close, making them a good pick against the spread.
Total: Over 67.5 (-110). Given both teams’ offensive capabilities, a high-scoring game is likely.
Predicted Score: UCF Knights 38, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 31
In summary, while the UCF Knights are favored to win, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets could very well cover the spread in what seems to be a high-scoring affair. For bettors, especially those using the best betting sites in Canada, this game offers a mix of strategic betting options. Remember, analyzing team trends and key player performances is essential for informed betting decisions. Enjoy the game and happy betting!
