This Thursday's College Football Action

Given that this is a Thursday and there is a smaller slate of games, I figured I'd give some brief analysis to my picks for these games.  I will be betting all matches, but do not view any as impeccably strong plays.


NHL


Flyers (-130) Money Line - I happen to be betting this game due to an continuous wager with a friend that takes place anytime that the Flyers and Caps meet.  Both teams have been strong so far this season, with the Caps coming in undefeated, while the Flyers suffered one overtime loss at the hands of their former captain, Mike Richards.


In a game of very evenly matched teams, I give this edge to Philly based off the energy that will be in the air in the Wachovia Center for this early season match between two teams separated by a stretch of I-95.


Pick: Flyers
Outcome: L


NCAA Football


UCF -16 vs. UAB - This game is not one that I am crazy given the spread.  UAB, despite being 0-6, has managed to stay in some games against teams that are clearly better than them.  Mississippi State, Troy, and East Carolina all serve as examples.  Yet, this team is severely lacking in talent, and Bryan Ellis, one of their best players has been below average this year.


Central Florida has a star in quarterback Jeff Godfrey, but Godfrey has yet to truly have a breakout game this year.  Perhaps this will be the one, under the Thursday Night Lights.




Pick: UCF -16
Outcome: L




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Arizona -3 vs. UCLA - UCLA is coming in with a winning record in Pac 12 play, while Arizona, a team I had pegged for a Top 25 finish has struggled.  UCLA has shined in the running game, with Johnathan Franklin leading the way.  However, their wins have come against Oregon State and Washington State, though Washington State is much improved from years past.


That said, Arizona comes into this game with a new coach, which will hopefully infuse a needed spark in their defense, which currently ranks 117th in the country in scoring defense.  Also positive is the fact that UCLA has struggled against top-tier quarterbacks.  Nick Foles has led a pretty good offense for Arizona.  If the defense can catch up, this should be a win for the Wildcats.  IF is, of course, the big question.  I like Arizona to cover the spread here in a close game.




Pick: Arizona -3
Outcome: W


Standings
NHL: 0-1
NCAA Football: 1-1
NFL: 0-0