Welcome to Rivalry Week in college football! In this betting guide, we'll preview the iconic Texas vs. Texas A&M matchup. Get all the info you need below. Best of luck and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Even with Texas A&M's unexpected loss last week against Auburn, oddsmakers are still expecting a close game against Texas. The line opened at Texas -4.5, but that was adjusted up to Texas -6 after the Aggies loss in 4 overtimes against the Tigers on the road.
There hasn't been a ton of movement on this game total. The number opened up at 48 on Sunday afternoon and that's where some online sports betting apps still have it priced. There are a couple of shops in the market that are dealing 48.5, so search for those if you're interested in betting on the Under!
Texas has been on a mission since its humbling loss to Georgia a few weeks back. The Longhorns have won four in a row and three of those games were double-digit victories for the boys in burnt orange. However, this team just barely managed to squeak by Vandy on the road.
Quinn Ewers would be in the Heisman Trophy conversation if not for an early season injury. The former Ohio State transfer has really matured over the last couple of years. Ewers has thrown for 2,089 yards and 26 TDs to lead this Longhorns offense.
Texas's offense gets most of the pub, but not enough people realize how good its defense has been this season. The Horns lead the country in yards per play allowed and yards per pass allowed. They also rank 11th in sack rate, so that's something A&M better prepare for.
A lot of folks may write A&M off after their heartbreaking loss to Auburn, but this squad can still earn a spot in the SEC Title Game if they upset Texas. New head coach Mike Elko will have the Aggies ready to rock at home, where the home-field advantage of the 12th man is always an asset.
The Aggies offense has looked totally different since Marcel Reed took over the reins during their win over LSU. Reed is a dual-threat QB who has thrown for 1,426 yards and 12 TDs this season. Don't forget about RB Le'Veon Moss either, who has run for 765 yards and 10 TDs.
A&M's defense is a little tough to figure out. They do a good job of stopping the run and getting off the field on 3rd down. However, their secondary has looked suspect on several occasions this year.
I just can't resist the home dog in this spot. The Aggies overtime loss moved this line 1.5 points off the look-ahead number of +4.5. That may seem like an overly simplistic way to find value, but it has served me well for over two decades.
Texas is a good team, but I'm not too sold on them being an elite team. The Horns have beaten lesser opponents into submission, but Georgia exposed a lot of their weaknesses. I think the Horns will win, but not by much. Give me the Aggies plus the points!
Prediction: Texas 24 - Texas A&M 21