What Are the Best ATS Bets for College Football Week 4's 3:30 PM Games?

As college football heats up in Week 4, the marquee matchups present exciting betting opportunities. The late afternoon slate features pivotal games, including Auburn's clash with Oklahoma and Nebraska hosting Michigan. With intense rivalries and significant implications for rankings, savvy bettors can find value in the lines, especially with Oregon's dominance over Oregon State in the spotlight.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from College Football Week 4

• Oregon is favoured heavily in their rivalry against Oregon State.
• Auburn faces Oklahoma in a critical Top 25 matchup.
• Nebraska is a home underdog against Michigan, presenting betting value.
• UConn, Duke, and Liberty also offer intriguing betting lines this week.
• Understanding team dynamics, injuries, and home-field advantages is crucial for bettors.

Oregon vs. Oregon State: A Rivalry Renewed

In the storied rivalry that was once dubbed "The Civil War," Oregon is set to face Oregon State in what could be a one-sided affair. The Ducks are currently positioned to dominate this matchup, particularly given Oregon State's struggles, sitting at 0-3. The Ducks have shown their prowess in recent years against the Beavers, and this year should be no different.

With Oregon State coming off a disheartening loss to Texas Tech, their season seems to be faltering. This adds further weight to Oregon's case as they look to secure a commanding win, especially as they prepare for a challenging matchup against No. 2 Penn State next week. The Ducks are expected to come out swinging, making the first half spread of Oregon -20.5 a compelling bet. Given the disparity in team strength, this line appears to be a strong value play.

Auburn Travels to Oklahoma: A Crucial Top 25 Showdown

The match between Auburn and Oklahoma is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the week. Both teams are ranked in the Top 25, with Auburn sitting at 22nd. The Tigers have been known for pulling off upsets against higher-ranked teams, especially in hostile environments. This year, they bring quarterback Jackson Arnold back to Norman, where he previously struggled as a starter for the Sooners.

Despite Auburn's undefeated start, Arnold's performance against ranked opponents has been inconsistent, raising questions about his ability to lead the team effectively against Oklahoma's formidable defence. Head Coach Brett Venables is well-versed in countering running quarterbacks, having faced tricky matchups last season. This gives Oklahoma a strategic advantage, making the Sooners -6.5 a favorable bet in this matchup.

Nebraska vs. Michigan: An Underdog's Chance

Another intriguing game features Nebraska hosting Michigan, with the Wolverines entering as 1.5-point favourites. This close line suggests a competitive environment, especially with Nebraska's home-field advantage. The atmosphere in Lincoln can be electrifying, often giving the Cornhuskers an edge in crucial moments.

Michigan will be relying on true freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, who has yet to prove himself on the road. Compounding the challenge for the Wolverines, they will be without Head Coach Sherrone Moore due to suspension. Nebraska's money line represents significant betting value, especially given their undefeated record and the factors at play for Michigan.

Bonus Betting Plays to Consider

In addition to the marquee matchups, several other games present betting opportunities worth considering:

UConn vs. Ball State

UConn is a hefty -20.5 favourite at home against Ball State. After two consecutive overtime losses, UConn needs a win to regain momentum. Their strength over a struggling Ball State team makes this line compelling, though bettors should monitor UConn's emotional recovery from recent defeats.

Duke vs. NC State

Duke opened as 3.5-point favourites but has seen the line shift down to -2.5. Despite NC State's perfect record, their wins have come against weaker opponents. With Duke playing at home, this could be a key moment for them to assert their dominance, making the Blue Devils a solid bet.

Liberty vs. James Madison

Liberty has had a rocky start to the season, but they are facing a JMU team that can be beaten. With one of the nation's best pass defences, Liberty stands to turn their season around. At +280 on the money line, they represent a tempting option for those willing to take a risk on an upset.

Conclusion: The Thrill of College Football Betting

This week's slate of college football games presents numerous opportunities for bettors. With high-stakes matchups and the potential for upsets, understanding team dynamics and leveraging home-field advantages can enhance betting strategies. As we dive deeper into the season, keeping an eye on player performances and coaching strategies will be essential for making informed bets. Will you take the plunge and place your bets this week? #CollegeFootball #BettingTips #NCAA

FAQs

What is the significance of the Oregon vs. Oregon State rivalry?

The Oregon vs. Oregon State rivalry, historically known as "The Civil War," is significant due to its long-standing competition and the intense emotions surrounding the match. It highlights regional pride and fan loyalty, often resulting in closely contested games.

Why is Auburn considered a potential upset team against Oklahoma?

Auburn has a history of pulling off upsets against higher-ranked teams, particularly in challenging away games. Their current undefeated status and the return of quarterback Jackson Arnold add to their competitive edge, despite concerns about his performance against strong opponents.

What factors should bettors consider when wagering on Nebraska vs. Michigan?

Bettors should consider Nebraska's home-field advantage, Michigan's reliance on a true freshman quarterback, and the absence of head coach Sherrone Moore. These factors create a dynamic environment that could favour the Cornhuskers as they seek to capitalize on Michigan's vulnerabilities.

What does the line shift in Duke vs. NC State suggest?

The line shift from Duke being 3.5-point favourites to -2.5 suggests that bettors may have concerns about Duke's ability to perform against NC State, despite their home advantage. This fluctuation often indicates public sentiment and betting trends that can influence game outcomes.

How can Liberty's pass defence impact their game against JMU?

Liberty's strong pass defence could disrupt JMU's offensive rhythm, potentially leading to turnovers or missed opportunities. If Liberty can contain JMU's passing game, they may secure a vital victory and turn their season around.