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As the nonconference season comes to a close for Michigan and Michigan State, both teams shift their focus towards Week 4 and the start of Big Ten Conference play.
After nearly a month of the season, the conference’s outlook remains relatively unchanged. However, as the B1G games pick up momentum, we can expect weekly shifts and changes in the upcoming weeks.
According to Michigan sportsbooks, what is the conference outlook for the Wolverines and the Spartans in terms of their current standings?
Are both options potentially valuable for sports bettors in Michigan?
Current Big Ten Odds
So far, only six teams in the conference have participated in one conference game each. However, none of these games have had a significant impact on the futures market.
Ohio State is still the top choice overall, with different odds. Michigan is clearly the second favorite, while Michigan State has become a much less likely contender.
In both College Football Rankings polls, the Buckeyes hold the third position while Michigan comes in at number four. Among the Big Ten teams, Penn State is the sole other representative ranked in both polls. As for the current Coaches poll, MSU secures the twenty-first spot.
Value in Michigan football Big Ten odds
Michigan has just completed a highly successful non-conference season, displaying their dominance. With a flawless record of 3-0, the Wolverines have outscored their opponents by an impressive margin of 166-17. However, it is worth noting that Michigan’s football team has yet to face any noteworthy opponents.
All three teams that the Wolverines are set to face, Colorado State, Hawaii, and UConn, currently reside in ESPN’s Bottom 10 rankings.
We have yet to discover the true potential of Michigan in a challenging game. However, it appears that it may take some time before we do so.
Michigan has a notably advantageous conference schedule as it comprises five home games, including visits from Penn State and MSU to Ann Arbor.
In 2022, Iowa, Indiana, and Rutgers have not demonstrated remarkable performances as road games.
The outcome of Michigan’s trip to Ohio State on Nov. 26 could potentially determine their chances of winning the Big Ten championship. Due to this factor, Michigan’s odds in the Big Ten appear to be quite promising.
Ohio State previously defeated Notre Dame when they held the No. 5 ranking, but the latter is currently unranked. The current standing of Ohio State remains uncertain.
Michigan State flying under the radar
If Michigan State hadn’t suffered a 39-28 loss against Washington last week, their odds would likely have been slightly better.
From the very beginning, the Spartans’ pass defense appeared outmatched as they allowed the Huskies to gain a whopping 397 yards.
Although MSU suffered a loss, they still have full control over their destiny in the Big Ten as they start their play this week against Minnesota.
In contrast to Michigan, MSU’s schedule presents a considerable challenge. The outcome of the first half of the season will provide valuable insight into the Spartans’ current standing.
- Sept. 24: vs. Minnesota
- Oct. 1: at Maryland
- On October 8th, there will be a match against Ohio State.
- Oct. 15: vs. Wisconsin
- Oct. 29: at Michigan
Is it probable that the Spartans will come out of these five games without any damage? Unlikely. However, MSU has surprised the Wolverines in recent times and has also achieved some notable victories over Ohio State.
Given the current circumstances, the probability of MSU’s success is quite low. However, with every victory, the odds of their triumph will increase. Therefore, it is possible that the current value of MSU may not be surpassed in the future.
What the public thinks
Currently, the majority of the public’s bets in the Big Ten are favoring the favorites on a national scale.
DraftKings Sportsbook MI reports that Ohio State has garnered 84.2% of the handle and 77.5% of the wagers, indicating a strong backing for them to secure the Big Ten title this season.
Michigan holds the second place, trailing behind, with 12.5% of the bets and slightly below 8% of the handle. Following closely behind is MSU, accounting for 2.5% of the wagers and 2.3% of the handle.
In the local area, bettors from within the state show slightly more support for the Spartans and Wolverines.
BetMGM Michigan reports that the Wolverines are the top choice among bettors for the Big Ten title within the state. They are receiving 35.7% of the total bets placed, as well as 32.8% of the overall betting amount in the market. Following closely behind, MSU holds the second position in terms of tickets, accounting for 29.6% of the wagers, and ranks third in handle with 18.9%.
According to BetMGM, Michigan State is currently considered the highest risk in winning the Big Ten, trailed by Michigan and Penn State.
What’s ahead for the Big Ten in Week 4
There are some interesting Big Ten matchups scheduled for Week 4 of the college football season.
- The Maryland versus No. 4 Michigan game will take place at noon and will be aired on FOX.
- The Minnesota vs. Michigan State game will kick off at 3:30 p.m. and will be broadcasted on BTN.
- The Wisconsin vs. No. 3 Ohio State game will be held at 7:30 p.m. and will be broadcasted on ABC.
Currently, both Michigan and Ohio State have emerged as favorites with a lead of over two touchdowns, whereas MSU finds itself as a slight underdog even on their home turf.
The U-M defense will face a formidable challenge from a Maryland offense that is expected to be their toughest opponent yet. The Terrapins have an impressive ranking of 19th in the nation for both total offense with 502 yards per game and passing yards with 311.7 yards per game.
MSU, having suffered defeat in the aerial game last weekend, will face a rigorous challenge in defending against Minnesota’s ground attack. The Gophers boast an impressive second rank in rushing yards nationwide, averaging 312.7 yards per game. Moreover, Minnesota’s defense has showcased remarkable strength by allowing the second fewest yards in the country, with an average of 170.3 yards per game.
The Ohio State team, with its nation-leading offense averaging 565.3 yards per game, will face off against the formidable Wisconsin defense, ranking 11th in yards allowed with only 246 yards per game.
