Utah vs. Northwestern 12/23/23 – The 68 Ventures Bowl brings an intriguing matchup between the Utah Utes and the Northwestern Wildcats. Set for December 23, 2023, this game pits two formidable teams with Utah holding an 8-4 record against Northwestern’s 7-5. The event, taking place at Allegiant Stadium and broadcast on ABC, promises to be a highlight in the NCAAF bowl season, with many awaiting a winning NCAAF bowl prediction.
Utah vs. Northwestern 12/23/23
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Allegiant Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | -6.5 -105 | o41.5 -110 | -240 |  |
| Northwestern | +6.5 -115 | u41.5 -110 | +200 | |
| ||||
Putting in the work 🔒 pic.twitter.com/abaFpQ670U
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) December 20, 2023
Bryson Barnes QB vs. Ben Bryant QB
Utah quarterback Bryson Barnes took over midseason after Cam Rising went down with an injury. While raw, Barnes has shown promise, completing 58.5% of his passes for 1,517 yards, 12 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. He’s a dual threat, using his legs to extend plays while learning on the job. Barnes has been shaky at times but has good arm strength and could exploit a Northwestern secondary that has been up and down this year. His decision making and handling of pressure will be key.
For Northwestern, quarterback Ben Bryant emerged as a steady, veteran presence. On the year, Bryant has completed 61.7% of his passes for 1,585 yards, 11 touchdowns and 6 picks. He has a quick release and generally makes good decisions, managing the game well with a run-first attack. Bryant’s accuracy is a plus but he can be turnover-prone against heavy pressure. Overall he gives the Wildcats stability under center.
Utah’s Offensive Playmakers
In the backfield, Utah leans on the physical running back Ja’Quinden Jackson. On the season, Jackson has amassed 742 yards and 4 scores on 4.8 yards per carry. His powerful style wears down defenses. Out wide, Devaughn Vele leads Utah’s receiving corps with 43 catches for 593 yards and 3 touchdowns. He has big play potential that Barnes will look to utilize. Together with Jackson’s running, the Utes have enough firepower to challenge Northwestern’s defense.
Northwestern Wildcats: A Display of Tactical Resilience
Northwestern counters with their own set of key players. Running back Cam Porter has been consistent in his performances, amassing 618 yards off of 156 attempts for an average 4-yard average per attempt; wide receiver Cam Johnson has been essential with 50 receptions for 684 yards resulting in 5 touchdowns and one long reception of 52 yards; both highlight his abilities to create game-changing plays.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Utah Utes -350, Over/Under: 42.5
The betting odds lean heavily in favor of the Utah Utes. Their -350 moneyline contrasts sharply with Northwestern’s +275, suggesting higher confidence in Utah’s chances. The over/under at 42.5 points indicates expectations of a moderately high-scoring game.
Trends
Utah Utes Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah’s last 7 games.
Utah are 14-6 SU in their last 20 games.
Utah are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Utes are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games played in December.
Utah are 15-5 SU in their last 20 games played on a Saturday.
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Utah’s last 11 games when playing as the favourite.
Northwestern Wildcats Betting Trends
Northwestern are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Northwestern’s last 7 games.
Northwestern are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
Northwestern are 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games against an opponent in the Pac-12 conference.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Northwestern’s last 8 games played in December.
Northwestern are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games played on a Saturday.
Utah Utes vs. Northwestern Wildcats Betting Picks
As we approach this eagerly anticipated matchup, the statistical edge seems to favor the Utah Utes. Their balanced offense and strong record in recent games make them a solid pick. However, Northwestern’s recent ATS record and their tactical resilience can’t be overlooked, especially with their performance against the spread on Saturdays.
For those betting on this game, considering Utah for the win seems the safer bet, but Northwestern’s ability to cover the spread makes them an attractive option for spread bets. The total points over/under is a tougher call, given both teams’ recent trends, but leaning towards the under might be advisable, considering Northwestern’s defensive capabilities. Place your bowl season bets through trusted sportsbook online sites for optimal security and rewards.
Score Prediction: Utah 28, Northwestern 17
