Fresno State vs Michigan: Prediction, Picks and Best Bets for College Football Week 1

In the opening week of college football, the Fresno State Bulldogs will face off against the Michigan Wolverines in what promises to be an intriguing matchup.

Michigan, the reigning national champions, are expected to face some challenges this season due to significant roster changes and turnover. Despite these uncertainties, the Wolverines are heavily favored in this matchup, while Fresno State comes in as a considerable underdog.

Steve Merill runs through the game in depth – check out the full video below. For more expert picks from Steve Merill, check out his hot picks page.

Game Overview

The Michigan Wolverines, coming off a dominant national championship run, enter this season with several question marks.

The departure of key players and head coach Jim Harbaugh’s absence have led many to believe that Michigan may not replicate last year’s success. However, this perceived decline might serve as motivation for the Wolverines, making them a dangerous opponent in their season opener.

Fresno State, on the other hand, is a team with offensive potential, led by a returning quarterback and experienced players.

However, their lack of a strong running game could make them one-dimensional against Michigan’s stout run defense. This could spell trouble for the Bulldogs, especially if they become too reliant on their passing game.

Team Analysis

Michigan Wolverines

Michigan is favored by 21 points, a reflection of their overall talent and the expectation that they will handle Fresno State with relative ease. The Wolverines’ defense has been a cornerstone of their success, particularly against the run. While their offense might start slowly due to the offseason changes, Michigan is expected to pull away as the game progresses, covering the spread.

Fresno State Bulldogs

Fresno State comes into this game as a 21-point underdog with a +900 moneyline, indicating the long odds of an upset.

Although they possess a capable offense, their lack of a running game could hinder their ability to challenge Michigan effectively. Historically, Fresno has struggled when stepping up in competition, which suggests they might not be ready to handle a team of Michigan’s caliber.

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Prediction and Best Bet

Given Michigan’s motivation to prove doubters wrong and Fresno State’s potential struggles against a top-tier defense, the Wolverines are likely to dominate this game.

The analyst’s pick from the video is to bet on Michigan -21 points. Despite some early offensive sluggishness, Michigan is expected to cover the spread, especially considering their preparation and focus for this home opener.

This game is a classic example of an elite team aiming to make a statement against a lower-ranked opponent. While Fresno State may have talent, they are unlikely to keep pace with a motivated Michigan squad looking to silence critics and start their season strong.

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