Baylor Bears vs
Utah Running UtesPredictions & Preview

Utah Favored to Dominate Baylor in BIG12 Match-up at Rice-Eccles Stadium After Impressive Week 1 Wins

The upcoming BIG12 match-up between the 1-0 Baylor Bears and the 1-0 Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium is highly anticipated as both teams enter the game following dominant wins over FCS opponents in week 1. Utah will look to continue their success against Baylor after defeating them 20-13 last season. The current line favors Utah by 14.5 points with a total of 54.5. Kick-off is scheduled for 1:30 PM MST on Saturday, September 7.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Bears +505 | Running Utes -671
• Spread: Bears +14.5 (-110) | Running Utes -14.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 54.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Utah will win straight-up is 87%.

Baylor vs Utah Stats

Baylor Bears

The Baylor Bears, under Head Coach Dave Aranda, have experienced a recent decline in performance after winning the BIG12 conference Championship in 2021. Following a disappointing season, the team made changes to the offensive coaching staff and signed dual-threat QB Dequan Finn to improve their offense. In their first game of the season against Tarleton State, the Bears showed promising signs with a 45-3 victory, covering the spread and displaying a strong defensive performance. Despite some turnovers, Finn showcased his talent with a notable 40-yard touchdown run. The team's running game and passing game both showed potential, with multiple receivers making contributions. Coach Aranda sees the win as a fresh start for Baylor and is optimistic about the team's future. Currently, Baylor is ranked 116 in power ranking with a 0 ranking in offense and defense, and holds a 1-0 record this season.

Utah Running Utes Analysis

Upon the return of QB Cameron Rising, Utah Football has regained its hype after a disappointing season in 2023. The team is ranked 16th in the preseason and has high hopes for a run towards the College Football Playoffs. In their first game against Southern Utah Thunderbirds, Utah dominated with a 49-0 victory. Rising threw 5 touchdowns and 254 yards, showcasing the team's offensive firepower. The defense, ranked in the top-20 nationally, remains a strong aspect of the program with the return of most starters. Head Coach Kyle Whittingham brings stability and experience to the team with his 19 years at the university. With a power ranking of 66 and impressive offensive and defensive stats, Utah is considered a favorite to win the BIG12 in their second season in the conference.

Utah Favored to Dominate Baylor in Home Matchup, Betting Odds in Their Favor

Last season, Utah achieved a notable road victory against Baylor with a final score of 14-7, surpassing the 7-point spread. This season, Baylor will travel to Salt Lake City to compete against Utah, a team known for their strong home performance. Prior to a loss last season against Oregon, Utah had an impressive 18-game home win streak. The team then secured two more home wins against ASU and Colorado. During Cam Rising's 2022 season, Utah was favored by double digits in 7 games and successfully covered each of them, including 5 home games. Baylor's offense faced challenges in their season opener against Tarleton and will encounter a tough test against Utah's defense. Utah's offense is expected to shine in this match, showcasing their prowess and living up to expectations. Given Baylor's struggles in road games last season, particularly against Kansas State and TCU, the upcoming game is likely to follow a similar pattern. In this scenario, it is advisable to bet on Utah with a 14-point advantage.

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