Bet Underdog UTEP for Outright Win vs Sam Houston

UTEP: Lost Momentum

In the loss to New Mexico State, UTEP could not get much going. The Miners had 304 yards compared to 439 by New Mexico State, who rushed for 253. The game went into halftime tied at seven but got blown open in the third quarter. After a showing like that, the Miners are underdogs in college football lines for this upcoming game.

The one positive part of that loss was running back Deion Hankins, who rushed 120 yards on 16 carries. That can translate into this week’s matchup with Sam Houston, who allow 177.4 rushing yards per game. However, the Miners won’t be able to get much through the air, with backup quarterback Cade McConnell completing 15 of 32 passes last week for 179 yards last week.

UTEP’s potential to establish the run is one reason why college football picks could side with the Miners, but another is how they performed two weeks ago. The Miners’ offense had success against Florida International, winning 27-14 and putting up 441 yards, with Hankins and McConnell leading the way. However, whatever momentum UTEP had after that win went away against New Mexico State. Facing a winless Sam Houston could help get some of it back.

Sam Houston Can’t Run

One of the biggest problems that have led to this 0-7 season for Sam Houston has been the inability to run the ball. The Bearkats are averaging 74.3 rushing yards per game and 2.6 per carry. On top of that, they are without a running back with over 175 total yards on the season, and no one has rushed for over 100 in a single game.

Keegan Shoemaker and Noah Smith combine for the @BearkatsFB TD!

We’re in for a good finish on @CBSSportsNet! pic.twitter.com/dcjBMKkhfq

— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) October 19, 2023

Without any running game, it has made it very difficult for college football betting to back the Bearkats, but somehow they find themselves as favorites against UTEP. Part of that could be because quarterback Keegan Shoemaker has gradually started to find a rhythm. The offense will need to rely on his arm without any other way of moving the ball consistently. He attempted 47 passes last week, completing 31 for 306 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. His play has been reliable enough, passing for over 250 yards and two touchdowns in four straight games.

However, UTEP’s pass defense has been solid, allowing 202.4 passing yards per game. Shoemaker must unlock that for Sam Houston to have any chance this week.

UTEP vs Sam Houston Best Bet

This game depends on which offense shows up for UTEP. If the Miners play like they did two weeks ago, they should have a real chance of winning the game, especially if Hankins can have another good game running the ball. Furthermore, the Miners have the defense to slow down Shoemaker, with the Bearkats’ offense having few options afterward.

With UTEP being a potential upset win, it might be worth trying to fit them in college football parlay picks this week to increase the value.

College Football Best Bet: UTEP +150

UTEP vs Sam Houston Game Information

• Game: UTEP (2-5) vs. Sam Houston (0-7)
• Location: Elliott T. Bowers Stadium, Huntsville, TX
• Day/Time: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 8:00 p.m. ET
• UTEP vs Sam Houston Live Stream: ESPN

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