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DraftKings’ Johnny Avello discusses McCarthy’s rise in Heisman odds, and how early money moved the line in the primetime matchup between Michigan State and Washington
When Michigan’s two dominant and well-liked college football teams collide on the weekend gridiron, a story of stark contrasts unfolds.
At DraftKings Sportsbook MI, Michigan Wolverine bettors eagerly anticipate their last early-season advantage as they prepare to host Connecticut, the nation’s fourth-ranked team. Michigan is a strong favorite, with a 47.5-point spread.
The focus of the game lies in the start of the J.J. McCarthy era, which was evident when DraftKings listed him on the Heisman odds board at +3000. Furthermore, there is interest in whether the Wolverines aim to surpass that score and/or exceed a total of 60 points.
When Michigan State visits Washington, it’s a unique situation for the Spartans. They are currently ranked as the 11th-best team in the nation, which is a rarity in this area.
Yes, you read correctly. The Spartans are, if we may be so bold, considered as underdogs.
Michigan State bettors will be instantly captivated by this news, and it will undoubtedly raise the team’s national profile. Make sure to tune in to watch the game on Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as it will be broadcasted on ABC.
According to Johnny Avello, the director of race and sportsbook operations for DraftKings, Michigan typically brings in more business for us than Michigan State. However, Avello believes that Michigan State will generate more revenue this week. He acknowledges that Michigan is a very strong football team but points out that their previous opponents, including Colorado State, Hawaii, and Connecticut, are not as formidable. Avello suggests that even if these three teams combined their best players, Michigan would still win by a significant margin of 40 points.
Michigan cruising, McCarthy seventh in Heisman odds
Last week, Avello informed Playinmichigan that bettors could assess the first half spread of Michigan -32 in their 56-10 victory over Hawaii and make a decision based on their preferences. Those who chose to follow that strategy were successful, as Michigan established an impressive 42-0 lead by halftime.
McCarthy’s coronation took place during that time.
He secured the starting role moving forward with an outstanding performance, completing 11 out of 12 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns.
He is also in tune with the books.
McCarthy, initially a longshot at +9000, was selected as DraftKings’ seventh pick with odds of +3000 in the race for college football’s top player. Although still considered a distant contender, McCarthy has the potential to climb up the ranks with impressive performances in upcoming games.
Here’s the current board:
Avello observed that he is the type of individual who excels both as a passer and a runner. However, he faces tough competition, such as Bryce Young, the current Heisman holder, who is exceptional. Caleb Williams from USC has also shown significant progress. What matters in the Heisman race are the statistics. If Michigan experiences a remarkable winning streak and this young player leads the team to success, that would be the key to his chances of being considered. Each year, there always seems to be someone like him who captures a lot of attention.
Michigan State an underdog in primetime ABC matchup at Washington
Washington is anticipated to give the Spartans a tough challenge.
“This game has experienced significant momentum,” stated Avello. “We initially set the odds at Michigan State -1, but it has now shifted to Washington -3. Although it’s a substantial change, I believe the bettors recognize Washington’s strong home performance historically, leading them to consider it as the favorable choice.”
According to Avello, it is not unusual for college football odds to experience significant fluctuations. Determining the talent disparity between college teams is a more challenging task compared to professional leagues.
The initial bettors serve as a signal to the bookmakers, indicating whether the betting line is accurately placed. In this particular situation, when Washington was given a point, it attracted the attention of the astute bettors, often referred to as the sharps or the sharks.
Avello pointed out that we were among the first to establish the odds for this match. Specifically, we set the line at Michigan State -1, which might result in a financial loss for us due to the overwhelming initial support for Washington. Even if some individuals wager a substantial amount, such as $5,000 (referred to as “five dimes”), it is important to show respect even to those betting smaller amounts, like $1,000 (referred to as “one dime”). By placing a bet of any size, they are indicating that we should adjust our odds accordingly.
Avello stated that the introduction of prop betting for college football in Michigan by DraftKings will be implemented gradually.
Avello mentioned that in professional football, if you offer a prop bet for anytime scoring, a player might score a touchdown. However, in college football, it’s likely that a prominent player could score two or three times. They are currently figuring out how to factor that in. Avello stated that they intend to introduce more prop bets and are actively working towards that goal.
Spartans supporters will consider these players as catalysts on the moneyline, regardless of whether they can place specific bets on them or not.
- Payton Thorne, the quarterback for the Spartans, has accumulated a total of 445 passing yards, throwing four touchdown passes and encountering three interceptions.
- Jalen Berger and Jarek Broussard are both impactful players, with Berger gaining 227 rushing yards and Broussard averaging an impressive 5.4 yards per carry.
- Keon Coleman (with 120 yards), Jayden Reed (with 107 yards), and Tre Mosley (with a team-high two touchdown receptions) provide the team with added depth in the receiver position.
The over-under for the game is set at 56.5, while Michigan State holds a moneyline of +135. This is quite rare to witness such odds for the nation’s 11th-ranked team. It looks like we are in for an exciting match.
