College Football Play of the Day for 10/22/11: USC

In one of college football's most storied rivalries, how about USC getting 9.5 points as they play Notre Dame.

USC is 5-1, but still a bit of an unknown to the public and those in Vegas.  Notre Dame is 4-2, with early season defeats to South Florida and Michigan.

Still, 9.5 is too many points.  USC is historically a preety good road team and are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 road games.

The Fighting Irish are 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games as a home favorite of 3.5-10.0.

I say take the points and the Trojans for a big win.

Sunday's NCAA Play of the Day: Notre Dame

The Fighting Irish

Notre Dame should be punching its ticket today for the Sweet 16 as they take on Florida State today.

Notre Dame has experience, they play hard and shoot well.  The are giving 5 today to the Seminoles and they will cover that.

Trends to consider:

The Fighting Irish are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games as a favorite of 0.5-6.5 and 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games as a favorite.

I like the coaching job Mike Brey has done this season at ND and I look for strong games from Ben Hansbrough and Tim Abromaitis.  Take the Irish to cover.

College Bowl Play of the Day: Sun Bowl

A heavyweight matchup in the Sun Bowl this year.

Notre Dame and Miami.  This would've been an Orange Bowl game for the National Championship about 20 or so years ago.  Both teams are looking to end 2010 on a good note, and winning this game should help preseason rankings for 2011.

Miami is favored by 3.

But I like Notre Dame. 

If the Irish line can protect quarterback Tommy Rees he could put up some numbers against the Hurricanes.  Jacory Harris is back starting at the QB position for Miami.  he's been erratic, but so has the rest of the team. 

The special teams could be the deciding factor today.  It's just great to see this rivalry rekindled. 

A couple trends to know: the Fighting Irish are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog and Miami is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games as a favorite.

Can't believe I'm actually saying take Notre Dame and the 3 pts.

Have a great New Year's Eve of Football!