Notre Dame Fighting Irish Odds - Big expectations for Notre Dame
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish betting community is using fighting words describing head coach Charlie Weis. 10 wins in two seasons and a Hawaii Bowl isn’t going to cut it. But online betting sharps should take notice that the young Irish are getting better and with a manageable schedule, they could be big bowl hunting.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish odds: Irish will have to win some close games
- Golden Tate and Michael Floyd make up best receiving tandem in the nation
- Claussen ready to blossom
- Running game must improve if Irish are to be competitive
Part of the reason why the Notre Dame Fight Irish odds have dropped so low - and part of the reason why they are just 10-15 in the last two years - is because of a porous rushing attack. With a good offensive line, a develop stud in Claussen and a wealth of riches at the wide receiver position, no one is questioning the Irish’s ability to pass the ball. The issue, though, has been the team’s ability – or inability – to run the ball. The Irish averaged 2.1 yards per carry in 2007 and just 3.3 in 2008. That’s not enough to create a balanced attack. The good news for the Fighting Irish betting fans is that they worked extensively on getting Armando Allen – and the running game – going this spring.
On defense, the Irish were very vanilla last year due to a lack of star power, and they won’t stand out again this year. They’ll have a number of solid players, like linebackers Brian Smith and safety Kyle McCarthy, who notched over 110 tackles (first defensive back in school history to surpass 100 tackles), but the defensive line is thin, which could lead to a lot of problems for the Irish. If that’s the case, college football betting sharps should be a lot of overs since they’ll be in high-scoring games.
The sportsbook odds makers believe the Irish can win a bunch of games this year, and most of that faith is due to their schedule. Outside of their contest against USC, the Fighting Irish shouldn’t be overmatched in any game. As a matter of fact, the Fighting Irish odds should have them favored in a lot of games. Teams like Nevada, Michigan State, Boston College, Navy, Pittsburgh and Connecticut were bowl teams last year, but they all present winnable games for Notre Dame. With only four road games, including trips to Michigan and Purdue - who are weak Big 10 foes - the Irish could be looking at double-digit wins this year. Look for the pressure to come off of Weis in 2009 as he gets this team to a respectable bowl and quiet his critics.
For more analysis on sports betting and matchups, check out the BetOnline.com Betting Edge regularly throughout the season.
Blake walked onto his college football team and had a brief stint as an assistant coach after he graduated. He brings a sharp mind to the world of sports handicapping. Blake understands the nuances of the game that only someone who has played would understand. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
