Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers NCAAF ReliaQuest Bowl Betting Picks and Prediction for Monday, January 1, 2024

Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers – The excitement of college football continues as the Wisconsin Badgers face off against the LSU Tigers in the NCAAF ReliaQuest Bowl. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly seeking free NCAAF bowl picks for this captivating matchup. The Badgers, holding a 7-5 record, are set to clash with the 9-3 Tigers on the first day of the new year, promising a thrilling start to 2024.

Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers

Date & Time: Monday, January 1, 2024, at 12:00 PM ET

Location: Raymond James Stadium

TV: ESP2

Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers Betting Odds

TeamMoneylineSpreadTotal
Wisconsin+290+10 (-112)56 over (-110)
LSU-360-10 (-108)56 under (-110)

Wisconsin Badgers Analysis

Wisconsin Badgers’ offense has been an uneven mix of steady play and missed opportunities this year. Quarterback Tanner Mordecai has been key in their passing game with 177 completions for 1687 yards at 64.6% completion rate; however, his 6 yard per pass attempt and only 6 passing touchdowns is proof. Running back Braelon Allen has been Wisconsin’s lynchpin on offense; with 984 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns highlighted his importance when combined with their ground game’s inability to find gaps and tight spaces he provides another important form of attack when the passing game has faltered.

Defensively, Wisconsin has struggled at times this season. Although they have displayed flashes of brilliance at times, consistency remains an issue when facing more aggressive offenses. Their performance against SEC teams, highlighted by an atrocious 2-4 ATS record against them, is cause for alarm; especially given that pass defense has often allowed significant yardage on third down conversions compared to their SEC counterparts. To increase their chances against LSU and increase chances against them in general Wisconsin must focus on improving their tackling efficiency and pass defense while also addressing their major weaknesses associated with big plays allowing.

LSU Tigers Analysis

LSU Tigers’ offense has been an impressive force this season, featuring numerous explosive plays and consistent scoring. Garrett Nussmeier may not boast eye-catching stats – his completion percentage and total passing yards may only total 51.5% and 196 – but his impactful performances and clutch plays when needed have made him one of the centerpieces of their offense. But wide receiver Malik Nabers stands out. Nabers has amassed 1546 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns this season, showing his ability to turn any reception into a significant gain. With Wisconsin struggling in its secondary, his deep threat capabilities will be crucial against them. Logan Diggs has also played a vital role, with 652 rushing yards and seven scores already.

Defense for LSU has been solid and versatile; their record of 6-1 against the spread (ATS) over their last 7 games attests to this fact. Defense has been particularly effective at restricting opponent offenses’ scoring opportunities, an important aspect given their high-scoring nature of play. But facing Wisconsin with their strong running game will put their run defense to the test. The Tigers must focus on controlling the line of scrimmage and limiting Allen’s impact on the ground, while remaining disciplined as penalties have hindered their defensive efforts at times. Their secondary, while untested so far this season, will need to remain alert against Wisconsin’s passing attack, especially when Wisconsin seeks to make up ground quickly.

Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers Against the Spread

The trends clearly favor LSU, as the Tigers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 while Wisconsin is just 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games against SEC opponents. Additionally, LSU is 6-0 ATS in their previous 6 games as the favorite.

However, the total has gone UNDER in 4 of Wisconsin’s last 5 games, while the over has hit in 15 of LSU’s last 16 matchups. The Tigers’ explosive offense could have the upper hand there.

Wisconsin Badgers vs. LSU Tigers Free Pick

Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:

Moneyline: LSU Tigers (-360). LSU holds the edge at quarterback and their defense matches up well against a one-dimensional Wisconsin offens

Spread: LSU Tigers -10 (-108). Lay the 10 points on the favored Tigers. Logan Diggs should also help LSU control the clock and pace of play.

Total: Over 56 (-110). Given LSU’s tendency for high-scoring games and their offensive capabilities, the total going over seems likely.

Predicted Score: LSU Tigers 38, Wisconsin Badgers 24

The most reliable pick for this game seems to be betting on the LSU Tigers to cover the spread. Their consistent performance against the spread and their ability to score heavily make them a solid choice. For those interested in live betting in Canada, keeping an eye on the game’s tempo and scoring trends as the game progresses could offer valuable opportunities.