BYU's Controversial Victory & Weekly Picks Recap: Upset Predictions and Notable Performances

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
14/11/2024 23h41

### Controversial Call Propels BYU, Weekly Picks Recap, and Predictions

BYU’s thrilling victory over Utah late Saturday night in the Holy War was not without controversy. In the last minutes, an assistant from the referees played a pivotal role, stirring debate. Despite this, BYU maintained its perfect record, sparing the author from their worst picking week and finishing with a 4-5 record for straight-up winners, matching last week's performance. The season's record now stands at 63-36, though five consecutive upset picks have gone awry.

This week's picks highlight a potential bounce-back performance from LSU's Garrett Nussmeier against Florida's 90th-ranked pass defense. Despite recent struggles with five interceptions in back-to-back losses, Nussmeier is anticipated to throw for over 350 yards and score three touchdowns. LSU, currently 4.5-point favorites, are projected to win by two touchdowns.

Tulane ranks No. 25 in the CFP and could secure a spot in the AAC Championship Game with a win against Navy. Running back Makhi Hughes stands out with 1,209 rushing yards, fourth nationally. He is expected to rush for over 170 yards and score twice, helping Tulane win by six points as 7-point favorites.

San Jose State's Nick Nash, who leads in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown receptions, will take on Boise State's 110th ranked pass defense. While Boise State is favored by 13.5 points and has a strong track record against San Jose State, Nash is predicted to have a standout game with over 180 receiving yards and two touchdowns in a close loss.

Clemson faces Pittsburgh and needs a win to maintain hopes of reaching the College Football Playoff via the ACC title. With Pitt's quarterback situation uncertain, Clemson is expected to secure a win with Phil Mafah rushing for 120 yards and two scores.

Wisconsin hosts No. 1 Oregon, a team looking to start 11-0 for only the second time in its history. Despite Wisconsin's strong prime-time home record, Oregon is favored due to Wisconsin’s shortcomings against ranked opponents this season. Dillon Gabriel is forecasted to throw three touchdown passes, leading to a substantial Oregon victory.

The Volunteers face a formidable Georgia team and will need to overcome a seven-game losing streak. Georgia's defense aims to limit Dylan Sampson, while Tennessee's elite defense will try to pressure Georgia's quarterback, Carson Beck, who has struggled with interceptions and sacks.

In another potential upset, Kansas, buoyed by an impressive recent win, is tipped to defeat a higher-ranked opponent. Kansas' top rusher, Devin Neal, is expected to play a crucial role in this matchup.

Reflecting on last week's results, the choice of Michigan to upset Indiana failed, as did predictions for North Texas against Army. However, Colorado’s victory over Texas Tech and correct calls in SEC games, including Ole Miss’ upset and Alabama’s win, were notable successes. Despite some missteps, the prediction of BYU's tight defensive performance against Utah was spot on.

For detailed insights and further analysis, Manny Navarro, a seasoned sportswriter at The Athletic, continues to provide in-depth sports coverage.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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