A clear difference exists between Northwestern, Stanford, and the rest of college football. Both schools have been consistent betting on college football winners as well as elite academic institutions. It is fitting that the Wildcats and Cardinal will square off in college football’s opening weekend. After all, they share the same DNA and cultural standards that set them apart from the rest. Northwestern made the Big Ten Conference championship game last year. In the same way, Stanford made the Pac 12 Conference title game in 2017. Both teams enter the new season with serious question marks.
Northwestern Wildcats vs. #25 Stanford Cardinal
| Date and Time: | August 31, 2019, 4 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto, California |
| Northwestern vs. Stanford TV Coverage: | FOX |
NCAA Football Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwestern | +6½ (-110) | 48 (-110) | +205 |  |
| Stanford | -6½ (-110) | 48 (-110) | -245 | |
| ||||
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Stanford Cardinal Overview
Last year Northwestern had a, betting on college football record of 9-5 straight up and 7-5-2 vs. the odds. Over Unders for the Wildcats were a 7-7 split. Despite national metrics of 108th for total offense and 63rd for defense NU found away. By contrast, Stanford was 9-4 straight up, 7-5-1 vs. the line with seven overs. The Cardinal was a lackluster 85th for total offense and 78th for defense. Stanford Head coach David Shaw decided to adjust his offense for 2019. To illuminate there will be less emphasis on power running than in the past.
Given ‘em Fitz!
Namely, Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald is known as “the perfect fit.” Fitzgerald was an All-American linebacker for the Cats back in the mid-1990s. “Fitz” has made sports betting history at his alma mater with three ten-win seasons since 2012. However, his dream of returning Northwestern to the Rose Bowl where he played remains elusive. Offensive production remains a perpetual problem. Clemson transfer and five-star recruit Hunter Johnson will take over at quarterback. Johnson will bring more raw ability than departed starter Clayton Thorson.
Shaw Blinks?
Of major concern at Stanford is the change in offensive philosophy. Shaw and the Cardinal have had great success with “Neanderball.” Switching to a less physical offense has long-time observers wondering if the coach has blinked. More emphatically a bad season will bring out the howling wolves. Quarterback KJ Costello’s strong performance last year inspires hope. Costello posted a 155 rating with 3540 yards, 65% completions, and 29 touchdowns.
Northwestern vs. Stanford Betting Trends:
The Wildcats are:
- 12-1 against the spread as a road dog
- 2-3 under the total getting points away from home
- Covered the spread in the only previous meeting with Stanford
- Under the total in the previous matchup with the Cardinal
- 5-0 against the line as a road dog of seven points or less
- 2-4 under the total as a dog of seven points or less away from home
The Cardinal are:
- 5-9 with the odds as a home favorite
- 3-6 under the total laying points at Stanford Stadium
- 2-4 vs. the spread as home chalk of seven or fewer points
- 5-2 over the total when laying seven points or less at home
Northwestern Wildcats vs. Stanford Cardinal Betting on College Football Picks
As mentioned earlier Northwestern is a strong betting on college football dog value. Additionally, Stanford’s record as home chalk does not inspire confidence.
Northwestern vs. Stanford Betting on College Football Pick: Northwestern Wildcats
Northwestern vs. Stanford Betting on College Football Score Prediction: Northwestern 17, Stanford 16
Catch recent comments from Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald!