Senior QB Anthony Gordon has stepped right into Mike Leach’s air raid system and has not missed a beat so far to start the year. He currently has almost 900 yards passing and nine touchdowns through the first two games although versus worse opponents than Houston. They are loaded at the receiver spot with 10 different people catching a pass versus New Mexico State. With the way Houston’s back end looked against Oklahoma they could be in for a long night.
Although Houston bounced back against Prairieview it should still be worrisome for them that they allowed 248 yards passing. Washington states top opponent so far New Mexico state currently sits at 118th in S&P+ D and they were able to put up 58 against them. Houston’s D isn’t much better currently sitting at 99th. Both teams like to move the ball fast so I’m expecting plenty of possessions and chances for this Washington State team to score. Washington states defense is no slouch either currently sitting 60th overall in efficiency.
Houston starting safety is also questionable and they are especially thin at CB (2 injuries) so with all of the weapons Washington state has I think they will be able to put up some points fairly easy. Dana Holgerson knows Mike reach his system however I just don’t think he has the weapons to stop it tonight. Houston will score some points but I don’t think they will be able to keep up with Washington state and Washington State defense should be able to stop them enough.
I love that the public is currently on Houston and the line has moved the opposite way, S&P+ also has this anywhere from 11 to 12 point spread so I think there is value with the 9.5.
The Pick(s):
Washington St. -9.5 1U
Washington St Team Total OVER 41.5 (-115) 2U
