[metabet_core_odds_compare query=”ncaaf/maryland” size=”300×250″ site_id=”atsio” css=”float:right; margin-left:10px”]It is great to have the Big Ten back in action and two teams looking to bounce back from opening weekend losses will play on Friday, October 30, 2020, when then the Minnesota Golden Gophers (0-1) visit the Maryland Terrapins (0-1). The Big Ten is playing a conference only schedule this season and a 0-2 start will already end one of these team’s year. This game will air live on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. EST.
After their first game, the Minnesota offense is averaging 24.0 points per game and 326.0 yards per game, 197.0 through the air and 129.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Golden Gophers are allowing 49.0 points and 478.0 yards, 225.0 passing and 253.0 rushing.
The Maryland offense is averaging just 3.0 points per game and 207.0 yards per game, 143.0 through the air and 64.0 on the ground. Defensively, the Terrapins are allowing 43.0 points and 537.0 yards, 212.0 passing and 325.0 rushing.
Below is my pick for the Minnesota Golden Gophers and Maryland Terrapins. All odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook.
Minnesota Golden Gophers (-20.5) at Maryland Terrapins: O/U 60.5 (-114/-107)
Last time out, Minnesota hosted the then #18 Michigan Wolverines and suffered a 49-24 blowout defeat. Minnesota jumped out to a 7-0 lead, but that was the only time they would lead all night as Michigan led 21-10 after the first quarter and 35-17 at the half. The Golden Gophers got the game within 11 midways through the third, but Michigan scored the final 14 points to finish off the blowout. Running back Mohamed Ibrahim carried the ball 26 times for 140 yards and two touchdowns, while star wide receiver Rashod Bateman hauled in nine balls for 101 yards.
Maryland visited the Northwestern Wildcats and got blown right out of Evanston as Northwestern won 43-3. The Terrapins started off well, jumping to a 3-0 lead, but it all went downhill from there as Northwestern scored the final 43 points and cruised to an opening weekend win. Maryland used two quarterbacks and threw for just 143 yards, and three interceptions, in the game.
Series History: Minnesota won the meeting last season, but Maryland leads the all-time series 3-2.
Football Picks: Both teams looked as bad as you could in week one, but I am going to back Minnesota -20.5 on the road in this one.
2020 CFB Picks Results: 21-14