BYU vs. Utah Prediction: College Football Picks, Props and Best Bets (Nov. 7)

BYU vs Utah Picks in Summary

• Under 48.5 Points (-106)
• Bear Bachmeier Anytime Touchdown (-110)

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One of college football's fiercest rivalries takes center stage on Saturday as No. 3 Utah hosts No. 9 BYU in a massive Big 12 showdown at noon. The Utes enter the game with a perfect 8-0 record, while the Cougars are 7-1 and looking to strengthen their College Football Playoff résumé.

With both teams firmly in the national championship conversation, this year's Holy War carries enormous implications for the Big 12 title race and the playoff picture.

Let's break down the best bets for Utah vs. BYU.

All college football odds come from FanDuel Sportsbook and may change after this article is published.

BYU vs Utah Picks and Prediction

Under 48.5 Points (-106)

The under is this side of the total I want to be on for this rivalry matchup featuring two of the Big 12's better defensive units.

Utah has been particularly impressive defensively this season, surrendering just 15.9 points per game. The Utes rank sixth nationally in opponent passing efficiency and are allowing only 101.4 rushing yards per contest. That defensive production has been instrumental in their undefeated start.

Meanwhile, BYU has allowed just 18.8 points per game, giving the Cougars a similarly impressive defensive résumé. BYU has held four of its eight opponents to 17 points or fewer, including Iowa State and TCU in conference play.

Both offenses have shown the ability to put up points, but the defensive strength of these teams could make explosive plays harder to come by. Utah recently held Houston to 13 points in a 21-13 victory while BYU's last game was a 27-20 win over Arizona State.

With so much at stake in this rivalry clash, a physical, tightly contested matchup wouldn't be surprising. Both defenses have the personnel and production to limit scoring opportunities, making under 48.5 points the side I want to back.

Bear Bachmeier Anytime Touchdown (-110)

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier has been one of the nation's more productive dual-threat quarterbacks this season, and his rushing ability gives him a strong opportunity to find the end zone on Saturday.

Bachmeier has accumulated 336 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns through eight games, adding another touchdown as a receiver. He's averaging 42.0 rushing yards per contest and has scored a touchdown in five of his eight appearances.

The QB has also been a significant part of BYU's rushing attack, totaling 80 carries this season. His ability to generate offense with his legs becomes especially valuable near the goal line, where designed quarterback runs and read-option plays can create scoring opportunities.

Utah's defense is formidable, but Bachmeier's dual-threat ability gives BYU a lethal dimension offensively.

With eight total touchdowns scored and an established role in the running game, Bachmeier is an intriguing anytime touchdown option at close to even money.

College Football Betting FAQ

What are the most common college football bets?

The most common college football bets are the point spread, moneyline, and game total. Bettors can also wager on player props, team totals, alternate spreads, and futures such as conference champions or the national championship winner.

How does the point spread work in college football betting?

The point spread gives one team a handicap to create a more even betting market. If a team is listed at -7.5, it must win by at least eight points for a spread bet on that team to cash. A team listed at +7.5 can lose by seven points or fewer — or win outright — and still cover the spread.

What does over/under mean in college football?

An over/under, also called a game total, is a wager on the combined number of points scored by both teams. Bettors can choose whether the final score will finish over or under the sportsbook's posted total.

What should you consider before betting on college football?

Matchups, quarterback play, offensive and defensive efficiency, injuries, pace, home-field advantage, and coaching tendencies can all be important.

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The above author is a FanDuel employee and is not eligible to compete in public daily fantasy contests or place sports betting wagers on FanDuel. The advice provided by the author does not necessarily represent the views of FanDuel. Taking the author's advice will not guarantee a successful outcome. You should use your own judgment when participating in daily fantasy contests or placing sports wagers.