The premier sports handicapping experts of Covers-Experts.com take a look at some early betting news and notes for the first week of college football.

Tennessee-California

It’s of course a huge revenge game for the Golden Bears. Last year, the Volunteers crushed Cal in the season opener 35-18. Cal returns 16 starters, eight on one of the top offenses in the country.

UL Lafayette-South Carolina

South Carolina free safety Emanuel Cook, an All-SEC selection last year as a freshman, is suspended as is Gamecocks starting quarterback Blake Mitchell.

Washington State-Wisconsin

New Badgers quarterback Tyler Donovan has only two starts under his belt. However, he does have proven playmakers returning to help with his transition: tight ends Travis Beckum and Andy Crooks, tailback P.J. Hill and wideouts Paul Hubbard and Luke Swan.

Utah-Oregon State

The Utes were to return 10 starters on offense. On the other hand, offensive lineman Jason Boone was lost for the season. According to Stevie Vincent, “All reports are that Utah is much more prepared for the season then they were last year.” Vincent has replaced football handicapper Dr. Bob Stohl as the lead betting source for large betting syndicates.

Kansas State-Auburn

Moneyline bettors will want to note that Auburn is 11-1 in home night games this century, including four wins to nationally ranked teams. They’ve won 12-of-14 and 20 of their last 23 SU at home. However, note that Auburn must replace RB Kenny Irons and their all-time leading receiver Courtney Taylor. Returning players accounted for only 42.5 percent of their rushing yards last year and 55.6 percent of their receptions. Also four starters are gone from their offensive line.

Eastern Michigan-Pittsburgh

EMU was 1-11 last year and has lost 35 straight games straight up to BCS conference teams. Eastern Michigan though has a more proven QB as their starter Andy Schmitt started 7-of-12 games last year. Pittsburgh has a virgin QB Bill Stull and a rebuilt linebacking unit.

Marshall-Miami

Master college football handicapper Joe Duffy of GodsTips reports that new Miami coach Randy Shannon plans on playing both true and redshirt freshman. “That backdoor could be wide open” says Duffy of a potential pointspread cover for Marshall, while the Hurricanes are breaking in the new talent.

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