It wasn’t exactly pretty, but Ohio State got by Navy in its season opener, and even got lucky with a cover as 14-point favorites.
This week, the Buckeyes are favored by almost two touchdowns again, this time for an ACC/Big Ten showdown with Virginia Tech on Saturday night at the Horseshoe in Columbus.
Point spread: Buckeyes opened as 12-point favorites; the total was 47 in midweek wagering at Ohio Stadium, according to sportsbooks monitored by Odds Shark. (Line updates and matchup report)
Odds Shark computer prediction: 32.9-27.5 Buckeyes
Why the Virginia Tech Hokies can cover the spread
The Hokies opened their season last Saturday with a 34-9 victory over William & Mary. Tech led 17-6 at the half and 27-9 after three quarters, out-gained the Tribe 488-193, held the ball for almost 33 minutes and covered the spread as 23-point favorites.
Junior QB Michael Brewer, making his first college start, completed 23 of 30 throws for 251 yards, complimenting a Hokies ground attack that accounted for 222 yards. Virginia Tech returned 14 starters this year, nine on offense, including four along the offensive line.
Finally, the Hokies were dogged on the road twice last year; they won both those games outright.
Why the Ohio State Buckeyes can cover the spread
The Buckeyes outlasted the Midshipmen last Saturday in Baltimore 34-17, scoring two late touchdowns to cover as two-touchdown chalk.
Redshirt freshman quarterback JT Barrett, playing in…
Continue Reading: Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Odds: Analysis, Prediction
