Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 1/3/2025 7:30 PM EST

We have your Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Minnesota Golden Gophers hit the road to face the Virginia Tech Hokies.

Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Minnesota Golden Gophers -200 (FanDuel) / Virginia Tech Hokies +164 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: 5.5 - Minnesota Golden Gophers -108 (DraftKings) / Virginia Tech Hokies -112 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 42.5 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -110 (Caesars)

Game Info

Date: 1/3/2025
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, NC)
TV: ESPN

Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies Preview

The Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Virginia Tech Hokies are set to clash in the Duke's Mayo Bowl, a matchup that promises to be intriguing given the current dynamics of both teams. The game, scheduled for January 3, 2025, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, will be broadcast on ESPN, providing a national stage for these two programs.

Minnesota enters the bowl game with a 7-5 record, having demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the season. Under the leadership of head coach P.J. Fleck, the Golden Gophers have been formidable, especially in bowl games, boasting a perfect 5-0 record under Fleck's tenure. This season, they have secured significant victories against ranked opponents such as No. 11 USC and No. 24 Illinois, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level. The Gophers' defense has been particularly impressive, leading the Big Ten in limiting opponent scoring to just 49.8 points per game, while their offense, led by quarterback Max Brosmer and running back Darius Taylor, has been efficient and effective.

On the other hand, the Virginia Tech Hokies have had a tumultuous season, finishing with a 6-6 record. The Hokies have faced significant challenges, particularly with a slew of players entering the transfer portal, which has impacted their roster depth and stability. Despite these setbacks, Virginia Tech has managed to secure bowl eligibility for the second consecutive year under head coach Brent Pry, who remains undefeated in bowl games following a decisive victory over No. 23 Tulane in the Military Bowl last year. The Hokies' offense, spearheaded by running back Bhayshul Tuten, has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been elusive.

As the two teams prepare to face off, the Golden Gophers are favored, largely due to their more stable roster and recent form. However, the Hokies will be eager to prove their mettle and capitalize on the opportunity to play close to home, with a supportive crowd expected to don maroon and orange in Charlotte. This matchup will not only test the resilience of Virginia Tech amidst their roster changes but also challenge Minnesota to maintain their bowl game dominance.

Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies Pick: Virginia Tech Hokies Moneyline

In this intriguing matchup between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Virginia Tech Hokies, the pick leans towards the Virginia Tech Hokies on the moneyline. Despite the Hokies entering the game as underdogs, there are compelling reasons to believe they can secure a victory in the Duke's Mayo Bowl.

Virginia Tech has shown resilience throughout a challenging season, finishing with a 6-6 record and earning bowl eligibility for the second consecutive year under head coach Brent Pry. Pry's track record in bowl games is impeccable, as he remains undefeated following a commanding win against No. 23 Tulane in the Military Bowl last year. This experience and success in postseason play could provide the Hokies with a psychological edge.

Moreover, the Hokies will be playing close to home in Charlotte, North Carolina, which is expected to draw a supportive crowd clad in maroon and orange. This home-field advantage could play a crucial role in boosting the team's morale and performance on game day.

While the Hokies have faced significant roster challenges due to numerous players entering the transfer portal, they still possess talented individuals capable of making a difference. Running back Bhayshul Tuten has been a standout performer, and his ability to break through defenses could be pivotal against Minnesota's formidable defense.

On the other hand, Minnesota, despite their impressive 7-5 record and strong performances against ranked opponents, may find it challenging to maintain their bowl game dominance against a determined Virginia Tech squad. The Golden Gophers' defense, while effective, will need to contend with the Hokies' offensive threats, and any lapses could be costly.

Ultimately, the combination of Virginia Tech's bowl game experience, the proximity of the game to their home base, and the potential for standout performances from key players make the Hokies a compelling pick on the moneyline. This game presents an opportunity for Virginia Tech to showcase their resilience and capitalize on the support of their fans, potentially leading to a memorable victory in the Duke's Mayo Bowl.

Minnesota Golden Gophers at Virginia Tech Hokies Top Player Prop Picks

Bhayshul Tuten Over 75.5 Rushing Yards - Rushing Yards -110 (Caesars)

Bhayshul Tuten has been a standout performer for the Virginia Tech Hokies, and his ability to break through defenses will be crucial in this matchup against Minnesota. Despite the Hokies' challenges with roster changes, Tuten's consistent performance has been a bright spot. Given Minnesota's strong defensive record, Tuten will need to be at his best, but his talent and determination make the over on 75.5 rushing yards a compelling pick. Playing close to home in Charlotte, Tuten will have the support of a crowd eager to see him excel, providing an additional boost to his performance.

Max Brosmer Over 1.5 Passing Touchdowns - Passing Touchdowns -115 (DraftKings)

Max Brosmer has been an efficient and effective leader for the Minnesota Golden Gophers' offense, and his ability to find the end zone through the air will be pivotal in this bowl game. With Minnesota's offense showcasing its prowess against ranked opponents throughout the season, Brosmer's connection with his receivers is expected to be a key factor. The Hokies' defense, while resilient, has faced challenges with player departures, potentially opening opportunities for Brosmer to exploit. The over on 1.5 passing touchdowns is a strong pick, considering Brosmer's track record and the Gophers' offensive capabilities.

Darius Taylor Over 85.5 Rushing Yards - Rushing Yards -105 (FanDuel)

Darius Taylor has been a cornerstone of Minnesota's offensive strategy, and his rushing ability will be a focal point in the Duke's Mayo Bowl. The Gophers have relied on Taylor's consistency to drive their ground game, and his performance against Virginia Tech's defense will be crucial. With the Hokies dealing with roster instability, Taylor has the potential to surpass the 85.5 rushing yards mark. His role in Minnesota's offensive scheme, combined with the Gophers' need to establish a strong running game, makes the over on this prop a favorable choice.