deskgameNotre Dame led for the entirety of the first-round matchup with Indiana and briefly trailed by a field goal in the quarterfinal against Georgia. The Fighting Irish have been in control for most of the CFP and could find themselves in an uncomfortable position if Penn State maintains an early lead.
deskgameSetting the tone defensively is what Michigan does. The Wolverines allow a stingy 3.4 first-quarter points per game. The Alabama offense averages 8.8 first-quarter points, including 6.6 points on the road.
deskgameWatch for Texas’ defense to roll, leading to a Longhorns' victory and cover. If Arizona State’s offense is held in check, the under should also cash.
deskgameThe loser drops to the fifth-seed in the NFC and will open the playoffs on the road. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. EST Sunday.
deskgameNewcomers like freshman G Labaron Philon and Auburn transfer G Aden Holloway benefit from Sears’ playmaking abilities. The pair combine for nearly 30 points per game, and Holloway posted a career-high 26 points in Alabama’s latest win over South Dakota State.
