San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/20/2024 10:00 PM EST

We have your San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars prop betting and game preview needs covered as the San Jose State Spartans hit the road to face the Washington State Cougars.

San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: San Jose State Spartans +375 (FanDuel) / Washington State Cougars -450 (ESPN BET)
Best Spread Odds: -11.5 - San Jose State Spartans -105 (FanDuel) / Washington State Cougars -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 55.5 - Under -110 (Caesars) / Over -110 (Caesars)

Game Info

Date: 9/20/2024
Time: 10:00 PM EST
Location: Gesa Field (Pullman, WA)
TV: The CW Network

San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars Preview

The San Jose State Spartans are set to face the Washington State Cougars in what promises to be an intriguing matchup. Both teams enter the game with a perfect 3-0 record, but the paths they've taken to get here have been quite different. The Spartans have quietly exceeded expectations, showcasing a potent offense led by quarterback Emmett Brown, who has already amassed nearly 1,000 passing yards and nine touchdowns in just three games. His primary target, wide receiver Nick Nash, has been nothing short of spectacular, with six touchdowns and a standout 17-reception performance against Kennesaw State.

On the other side, the Cougars are riding high after a thrilling victory over their in-state rivals, the Washington Huskies, in the Apple Cup. Despite their success, Washington State's performance metrics suggest some vulnerabilities. They rank 85th in offensive success rate and 76th in defensive success rate, indicating potential areas of concern. Quarterback John Mateer has been instrumental in their early success, but the Cougars have also benefited from turnover luck, particularly in their win against Texas Tech.

This game presents a classic 'trap' scenario for Washington State, sandwiched between their emotional win over Washington and an upcoming road game against Boise State. San Jose State, with its dynamic offense, could capitalize on any complacency from the Cougars. The Spartans' ability to strike early and put pressure on the scoreboard will be crucial, especially if Nash continues his impressive form. As both teams look to maintain their unbeaten records, this matchup at Gesa Field promises to be a compelling contest under the Friday night lights.

San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars Pick: Total Points Under

As we delve into the matchup between the San Jose State Spartans and the Washington State Cougars, the case for betting on the total points under 55.5 becomes compelling. Both teams have demonstrated strong defensive capabilities, which could play a significant role in keeping the score lower than expected. Washington State, despite their 3-0 start, has shown vulnerabilities in their offensive success rate, ranking 85th, and their defensive success rate, ranking 76th. These metrics suggest that while they have been winning, their games have not been high-scoring affairs, relying instead on key defensive plays and turnover luck, as seen in their victory over Texas Tech.

On the other hand, San Jose State's offense, led by quarterback Emmett Brown and standout wide receiver Nick Nash, has been impressive. However, the Spartans' ability to maintain their offensive output against a Power Five opponent like Washington State remains to be seen. The Cougars' defense, although not statistically dominant, has been opportunistic, which could stifle the Spartans' scoring opportunities.

Moreover, the situational dynamics of this game favor a lower-scoring contest. Washington State is coming off an emotionally charged win against their in-state rivals, the Washington Huskies, and may experience a natural letdown, especially with a challenging road game against Boise State looming. This 'trap' game scenario often leads to more conservative play-calling and a focus on controlling the game tempo, which can result in fewer points scored.

Given these factors, the under 55.5 points appears to be a prudent choice. Both teams have the potential to score, but the combination of defensive strengths, situational factors, and the potential for a more methodical pace of play suggests that this matchup could end up being a tighter, lower-scoring affair than the odds might initially indicate.

San Jose State Spartans at Washington State Cougars Top Player Prop Picks

Nick Nash Over 6.5 Receptions -110 (FanDuel)

Nick Nash has been a standout performer for the San Jose State Spartans, and his role as the primary target for quarterback Emmett Brown is undeniable. With a remarkable 17-reception performance against Kennesaw State, Nash has proven his ability to consistently get open and make plays. Given Washington State's vulnerabilities in defensive success rate, ranking 76th, Nash is poised to exploit any lapses in coverage. The Cougars' defense, while opportunistic, has not been statistically dominant, which bodes well for Nash to continue his impressive form. Expect Nash to be heavily targeted once again, making the over on 6.5 receptions a strong play.

Emmett Brown Over 250.5 Passing Yards -115 (Caesars)

Emmett Brown has been the driving force behind San Jose State's potent offense, amassing nearly 1,000 passing yards in just three games. His connection with Nick Nash and the Spartans' ability to stretch the field vertically have been key to their success. Facing a Washington State defense that ranks 85th in offensive success rate allowed, Brown is well-positioned to continue his aerial assault. The Cougars have shown susceptibility to big plays, and with Brown's current form, surpassing 250.5 passing yards seems likely. This matchup presents an opportunity for Brown to showcase his skills against a Power Five opponent, making the over on his passing yards an enticing proposition.

John Mateer Under 1.5 Passing Touchdowns +120 (BetMGM)

While John Mateer has been instrumental in Washington State's early success, the Cougars' offense has not been prolific in terms of scoring through the air. With a ranking of 85th in offensive success rate, the Cougars have relied more on opportunistic plays and turnover luck rather than consistent offensive execution. San Jose State's defense, though not heavily highlighted, has the potential to limit Mateer's effectiveness, especially if the Spartans can apply pressure and force the Cougars into a more conservative game plan. Given the situational dynamics of this game, including the potential for a 'trap' scenario, Mateer may find it challenging to throw multiple touchdowns, making the under on 1.5 passing touchdowns a value play.