Last Updated on January 1, 2011 4:45 pm by drew
Gator Bowl Odds
JACKSONVILLE, FL (TheSpread) – Michigan is playing in its first bowl game under coach Rich Rodriguez when it takes on No. 21 Mississippi State in the 2011 Gator Bowl.
Michigan is 7-5 on the season and just 3-9 against the point spread odds while Mississippi State is 8-4 on the year and 6-5 against the spread. Trends show that Michigan is 6-0 against the point spread odds in their last 6 non-conference games while Mississippi State is 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a cover.
Oddsmakers from online sportsbook Sportsbook.com have given Mississippi State point spread odds of -3.5 against Michigan. The over/under total has been set at 59.5 points. (View Matchup)
Opening odds had Mississippi State favored by 6 points but the spread has quickly dropped back to 3.5 points. The over/under total opened at 58.5 points and that climbed up to 60 before falling back to 59.5.
Michigan got off to a 5-0 start but went just 2-5 in conference play. The Wolverines have an overwhelming offense as they average 34.3 points and 500.9 yards per game, including 251.5 rushing yards per contest. On defense, Michigan has struggled allowing 33.8 points and 447.9 yards per game. Denard Robinson is leading the team with 2,316 passing yards and 16 touchdowns while rushing for 1,643 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Mississippi State lost two of their final three games to end the season, but the Bulldogs had all four losses come against ranked opponents. The Bulldogs average 27.1 points and 394.3 yards per game on offense, including 215.8 rushing yards per game. The defense is giving up just 20.3 points and 358.1 yards per game. Vick Ballard has rushed for 892 yards and 16 touchdowns to lead the team.
In terms of injuries, Michigan quarterback Tate Forcier is not expected to play due to eligibility issues while Mississippi State receiver Chad Bumphis is doubtful with a collarbone injury.
Over 17,500 public bets have been placed on this game with Mississippi State getting 52% of the wagers with point spread odds of -3.5 against Michigan.
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