Utah Utes vs. Colorado Buffaloes NCAA Football Betting Preview (11/16/2024)

Utah Utes vs. Colorado Buffaloes NCAA Football Betting Preview (11-16-2024)

At the onset, the Utah Utes were favored to win the Big 12 Conference in the preseason future markets. But with the loss of QB Cam Rising, the Utes have fallen off the map. Utah fired its offensive coordinator with no great effect. Next, they suffered a humiliating College Football odds loss at rebuilding Houston last month. Last week against the hated rival BYU Cougars Utah lost in a highly controversial fashion. BYU got a late field goal after disputed calls by the officials. Now, Utah faces the vastly improved Colorado Buffaloes and head coach Deion Sanders.

Utah Utes vs. Colorado Buffaloes NCAA Football Betting Information

Date and Time:Saturday, November 16, 2024, noon ET
Location:Folsom Field, Boulder, CO
TV Coverage:FOX
Odds at SBG Sportsbook
TeamSpreadTotalML
Utah+11 -11046½ -110+345
Colorado-11 -11046½ -110-440
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Utah Utes Team Overview

Last game, the Utah Utes lost 22-21 against the BYU Cougars as 3-point home dogs. The game went over the sportsbook total of 41. Utah has a record of 4-5 straight up, 3-6 against the spread, and 2-6-1 over/under the total. Utah ranks 92nd for total offense, 80th for passing, 74th for rushing, and 105th for scoring. Defensively they rank 14th overall, 18th against the pass, 48th against the rush, and 11th for points allowed. Also, Utah ranks 119th for fewest turnovers lost and 65th for takeaways.

Utah’s narrow loss to 9th-ranked BYU featured dramatic swings, standout plays, and a late-game controversy. Despite Utah’s valiant effort to end their losing streak, the Utes fell short. It was their fifth consecutive loss after starting the season strong at 4-0.

Brandon Rose’s 20-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brant Kuithe showcased his potential and gave Utah a 7-3 lead. However, BYU responded immediately, as Keelan Marion electrified fans with a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Next, Rose continued to orchestrate Utah’s offense effectively. In a carefully balanced 12-play drive, he found Kuithe again. Specifically, for a 1-yard rushing touchdown that restored Utah’s lead, 14-10. Utah’s offense continued to click as Rose connected with running back Micah Bernard for a 7-yard touchdown pass.

Utah’s halftime lead reflected the team’s renewed offensive energy, driven largely by Rose’s maturity and connection with Kuithe. However, Kuithe’s injury-related exit in the third quarter marked a turning point, forcing Utah to lean heavily on its defense.

Utah’s defense held strong, limiting BYU to nine points throughout the second half until the final moments. Next, controversy struck in the final minutes. Utah defensive tackle Junior Tafuna appeared to have secured the win by sacking BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff on fourth down. However, a holding penalty against Utah nullified the play, extending BYU’s drive. BYU capitalized on the opportunity. Finally, Ferrin kicked a 44-yard field goal with only four seconds left to edge Utah.

Colorado Buffaloes Team Overview

Last game, the Colorado Buffaloes won 41-27 against the Texas Tech Red Raiders as 4.5-point road favorites. The game went over the total of 62. CU has a record of 7-2 straight up, 7-2 against the spread, and 5-3-1 over/under the total. Colorado ranks 59th for total offense, 8th for passing, 133rd for rushing, and 36th for scoring. Defensively they rank 68th overall, 65th against the pass, 72nd against the rush, and 51st for points allowed. Also, Colorado ranks 32nd for fewest turnovers lost and 74th for takeaways.

Utah at Colorado SBG Free Picks

Utah has lost considerable College Football odds credibility this season. Colorado is an impressive surprise. However, Utah will be getting an enhanced price as the contrarian plays against the casual sector.

Utah at Colorado SBG Best Bet: Utah Utes.