Cal to Cover Fat Spread vs No. 8 Washington

However, California has played well so far, so it’s not a complete walkover.

Golden Bears Playing Tough

The California Golden Bears have done well with NCAAF score predictions after beating Idaho 31-17 and North Texas 58-21.

Their only loss was a 14-10 defeat to Auburn, which earned them some respect. However, the sportsbook isn’t giving them much respect against the might of Washington.

Cal is a despised outsider at +20½, which is a big line for a solid team. Whenever Washington starts the season well, it doesn’t always keep it going, so there is upside with the visitors.

The rushing attack is where California could excel. It averages 242 yards on the ground and could test the Washington defense, which allows more rushing yards than California.

We don’t think this game is as one-sided as bookmakers make it. Live betting odds could see California firm from its opening quote of +820.

Quarterback Showing Out

One of the NCAAF best bets today could be Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. firming for Heisman Trophy honors with odds of +500.

He owns 12 touchdowns and one interception, throwing for 1,332 yards. The Huskies are throwing the ball at will and it’s working.

They defeated Boise State, Tulsa, and Michigan State. Their win over the Spartans last week came on the road, and it couldn’t have been easier.

The 41-7 victory made everyone stand up and take notice, but we see this a lot from Washington, and losing two players to injury doesn’t help.

Matteo Mele and Davon Banks are out for the season, and losing starting center Mele is a big omission.

“Those are guys who poured a lot into their preparation to get ready to play, not just this season, but Matteo’s been doing it for many years here,” coach Kalen DeBoer said. “I feel super bad for the situation they have.”

Covering such a big betting online spread won’t be easy, so there is some trepidation with Washington.

California vs Washington Betting Lines

California vs Washington Head to Head

Washington has a 56-41-4 advantage over California.

The Huskies have won the last two meetings, including a 28-21 win last season, so that close contest adds weight to the college football betting line of +20½.

California vs Washington Game Information

• Game: California Golden Bears (2-1) at Washington Huskies (3-0)
• Date/Time: Saturday, Sept. 23, 10:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Husky Stadium, Seattle, WA
• California vs Washington Live Stream: ESPN

California vs Washington Game Weather Conditions

Clear conditions are expected.

California vs Washington Game Prediction

Predicted Score: Washington 34, California 20

Worth Betting the Moneyline?

We wouldn’t touch Washington at -1400, but we could nibble at California +820.

However, there is much less risk taking the Golden Bears with the points, so that’s what we’re going with.

College Football Pick: Washington -1400

Worth Betting ATS?

There is plenty of respect for Washington, but California is good enough to keep it close in the Pac-12 Conference rivalry game.

Losing a starting center can have a big impact, so Washington could be somewhat vulnerable. We’re happy to take the visitors with such a big start.

College Football Pick: California Golden Bears +20½ (-110)

Worth Betting on the Totals?

We see the game going under 59½. It should still be a high-scoring contest, but California should run the ball, which takes time off the clock.

If Washington doesn’t score quickly through the air, it could be a low-scoring first half.

College Football Pick: Under 59½ (-110)