Temple Owl vs. Oklahoma Sooners – As the college football season kicks off, the Temple Owls face a formidable challenge against the Oklahoma Sooners in a Week 1 clash set for Friday. Last season, the Owls struggled, ending with a 3-9 record, while the Sooners boasted a robust 10-3 finish. This upcoming game, set in the historic Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and broadcasted on ESPN, is highly anticipated by fans and bettors alike, making it a prime target for NCAAF expert free picks.
Temple Owl vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Date & Time: Friday, August 30, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET
Location: Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium
TV: ESPN
Temple Owl vs. Oklahoma Sooners Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Temple | +5000 | +39.5 (-110) | 61.5 over (-108) |
| Oklahoma | -10000 | -39.5 (-110) | 61.5 under (-115) |
Temple Owl Analysis
The offensive line of the Temple Owls has been weak as quarterback Quincy Patterson could only complete 41.7 percent of his passing attempts, and even so, over several games, he could only total 185 yards. That was chock full the offensive line with seven sacks and just a 3.8 yards completion per pass attempt. Though running back Joquez Smith rushed for 325 yards while registering 4.6 yards per carry, expectations abound as to the level of play yet to be tapped and the support of the offensive line.
Surprising, however, is the level of improvement that can be sustained as far as defense goes – quite needless to say, it’s the most grueling aspect of the Owls campaign. The records of their last season reflect a team that was mainly on the defensive end, especially during the road matches in which they have recorded no win for the last 14 efforts. Chinks in the armor, such as poor defensive schemes or lack of effort to tackle more competent offensive units such as Oklahoma, have to be patched up relative quick.
Oklahoma Sooners Analysis
With Jackson Arnold taking charge under center, the Sooners look quite organized in the offensive setup. Last season, Arnold had a completion percentage of 63.8 with 563 yards through the pass. Gavin Sawchuk has been impressive on the ground as a running back where he gained 744 rushing yards with 9 touchdowns. He is definitely one of the assets to Oklahoma’s offense. While wide receiver Nic Anderson also posted impressive numbers of 798 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, obviously, any defense would find it difficult against such players.
Similar to their offensive performance in their last home matches, the defense even more improved and made a perfect record of 7-0 at home in the last format of fixtures. It will be important to use such strategies against teams like Temple and their horrendous away record. Offensively, there are concerns, particularly regarding the ability to cover speedy receivers, and this should be sorted out. Otherwise, it will be exploited.
Temple Owl vs. Oklahoma Sooners Against the Spread
As regards Temple’s betting trends, there is little confidence, be it a home or an away game, with a 2-7 ATS record over the last 9 games, especially awful an 0-14 SU in the last 14 away games. On the other hand, like the die-hard fans who believe in miracles, there might be a miracle of a 6-0 ATS record in August games. However, Oklahoma has just been mediocre against the spread of late (2-5 ATS in their last 7). However, when it comes to winning the game, they are tenacious, as seen by them anyway, going 10-3 SU in the last 13 games.
Temple Owl vs. Oklahoma Sooners Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Oklahoma Sooners (-10000). While the odds are steep, the Sooners’ dominant home record and superior roster make them the overwhelming favorites.
Spread: Oklahoma Sooners -39.5 (-110). Despite the large spread, Oklahoma’s offensive firepower and Temple’s road woes suggest the Sooners can cover.
Total: Under 61.5 (-115). Given the potential for Oklahoma to dominate and possibly restrict Temple’s scoring, the under seems like a prudent choice.
Predicted Score: Oklahoma Sooners 48, Temple Owl 7
In conclusion, while the moneyline offers little value due to extreme odds, the spread and total provide viable betting opportunities. For those looking to place a bet, focusing on Oklahoma to cover and the total going under might be the most reliable picks to consider, especially through a trusted Canadian online sportsbook. This game, while seemingly predictable, will still be a crucial indicator of both teams’ potential in the 2024 season.
