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Indiana (2-0) at UCLA (1-0)
Date: Saturday, September 14
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: NBC
I just need a moment to take this all in.
Indiana — my Indiana — is headlining a prime-time game on a national network in front of the entire country. I could cry.
You might think I would automatically back my beloved Hoosiers, but that’s where you would be wrong. I’m striving to maintain more journalistic integrity than that.
The pick — Indiana-UCLA UNDER 46.5 points (-110, DraftKings)
As much as I want Indiana to shine on Saturday night in the Rose Bowl, this game screams "low scoring."
UCLA ranks 23rd in the country in opponent points per play at 0.17 after one game. Meanwhile, Indiana, albeit with an easier early schedule, ranks 12th in opponent points per play at 0.12. Both teams have produced strong performances on defense so far.
UCLA’s defensive prowess was on display against Hawaii in a 16-13 win in Honolulu, where the Bruins allowed only four yards per play. Additionally, they recorded 11 tackles for loss, which ranks fourth in the country on a per-game basis.
The Hoosiers have allowed only 10 total points over two games, having beaten FIU 31-7 and Western Illinois 77-3.
This will be the first significant test for either team. While it’s also the Big Ten opener for both squads, Indiana has faced smaller opponents, while UCLA has had only one game against Hawaii. Whatever success the Hoosiers offense has had, it will be tested against the strongest defense it has faced so far. Likewise, UCLA’s offense will face its toughest defense to date.
The Bruins have been uninspiring with quarterback Ethan Garbers, who threw two interceptions against Hawaii. They’ve also managed only 72 rushing yards.
With so many unknowns about these teams and the increase in competition, expect both to struggle offensively in their prime-time debuts.
Season record: 4-4, -0.20 units