Justice Haynes from Michigan did not travel with his team for the upcoming bowl game but was anticipated to join them prior to the kickoff. His status remains uncertain as the team prepares for this critical matchup.
The college football bowl season is heating up, particularly as Utah faces Nebraska. This game is notable for having a 14-plus point differential, marking it as the only game on the slate with an expected total exceeding 50 points. As a result, scoring outcomes in this game may play a pivotal role in DFS strategies, with multiple players benefitting from potential offensive production.
Utah holds the highest expected scoring total at 32.75 points, despite the departure of head coach Kyle Whittingham to Michigan. The Utes have demonstrated a strong ground game this season, capitalizing on a Nebraska defense that has struggled against the run, conceding 4.8 rushing yards per attempt and an average of 171.3 rushing yards per game, along with 2.2 rushing touchdowns.
In projected scoring figures, Texas is next on the list with 27.75 points anticipated against Michigan, while Duke follows closely at 26.5. Vanderbilt and Ohio State round out the teams with predicted scores over 25 points, at 26.0 and 25.0 respectively.
On a bustling New Year’s Eve, the bowl season features numerous encounters, culminating in the Ohio State-Miami contest, which kicks off the CFP Quarterfinals. DraftKings is offering a variety of DFS contests, and enthusiasts have plenty of options to explore.
The college football landscape is not without its challenges, as injuries and absences affect several teams. For instance, Justice Haynes’ absence raises questions regarding Michigan’s depth, while others like Quintrevion Wisner and CJ Baxter from Texas are likely to miss their bowl game as they enter the transfer portal. Additionally, Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft and will also sit out.
In terms of DFS plays for the upcoming contests, players like Diego Pavia (Vanderbilt), Devon Dampier (Utah), and Jeff Sims (Arizona State) are highlighted as key selections based on their recent performances and matchups. Pavia will be significant for Vanderbilt against Iowa, while Dampier’s ability to both pass and rush could be crucial against Nebraska’s defense. With injuries depleting options at Arizona State, Sims presents a unique opportunity for output against Duke.
Overall, this bowl season offers a thrilling continuation to college football, with a mix of anticipated scoring, strategic roster choices in DFS formats, and ongoing player developments. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these games unfold and the effect on teams’ futures as they compete for bowl glory.