North Carolina @ Rutgers o46.0 (-110) Football Odds - Thu September 11th ‘08 7:45p
Tonight’s edition of college football features a match-up between the ACC and the Big East as the North Carolina Tar Heels meet the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Rutgers Stadium in New Brunswick, NJ. The total is set at 46 and we are going to with the Over.

Last week Rutgers only scored seven points in a 24-7 home loss to Fresno State. A strong Bulldog offense amassed 206 yards on the ground and another 216 through the air and they took it to the Scarlet Knights in the second half. Rutgers played like it was their first game of the season, as senior quarterback Mike Teel threw two interceptions and the Ray Rice-less offense struggled to find a rhythm. Still, the Knights accumulated 369 yards of offense and Teel threw for 263 yards against an improved Fresno defense. I expect even more from them tonight as they now have their first game jitters out of the way.

The Tar Heels had a difficult time finding a groove in their first game too. They escaped with a narrow 35-27 home win over Football Championship Subdivision McNeese State. They allowed the Cowboys 391 yards of offense and 239 through the air. McNeese State also held the ball for 35:16 to Carolina’s 24:44. UNC produced 384 yards in their limited time with the ball and they rushed for 163 and a 5.6 yard per carry average. Wide receiver Brandon Tate salvaged the game for the Tar Heels with his special team’s heroics, scoring on an 82 yard punt return and accounting for 397 all-purpose yards.

Tonight’s game should feature a lot of passing, especially from the Scarlet Knights. They are transitioning to a more pass oriented attack with Rice gone, as the strength of their team are now Teel and a good group of receivers. While the Tar Heels defense is suppose to be improved, Rutgers should be able to move the ball through the air. And they’ve had ample time, as has UNC, to correct their first game mistakes since both teams are coming off bye weeks. The Tar Heels will be able to move the ball on the ground against Rutgers front too, and UNC should also have some nice field position to work with as their special teams are a notch above Rutgers. This game will certainly feature enough offense to get over the 46 point total.

Things to consider: The Over is 5-1 over the last five years when UNC is a road dog coming off a win. The Over is 5-1 the last five years with Rutgers coming off a bye week. Free Pick: Take the Over 46 -110

North Carolina vs. Rutgers Free College Football Betting Pick Courtesy of Matt Foust, an Expert Football Handicapper featured on Touthouse.com

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