Florida Atlantic Owls vs. Florida Gators Odds & Game Pick (2021)

Sep 3, 2021 - 10:10 AM

It’s typical to see non-conference mismatches early in the season. This game between Florida and Florida Atlantic is no different. The Gators have a massive advantage over a Florida Atlantic team searching for an identity under coach Willie Taggart. 

Florida enters this season ranked 13th in the AP poll. They have a tough schedule that features Alabama, LSU, and Georgia later in the season. However, the Gators will start things off with what they hope is a tune-up against Florida Atlantic. 

The consensus odds for this game have Florida favored by 23.5 points. The over/under is set at 52.5 total points. 

Let’s cover all the betting angles of this Saturday evening showdown.

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Details

• Opening Line: Florida -23.5
• Over/Under: 52.5
• Location: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainsville, FL
• Kickoff: 7:30 ET

Overview 

Florida Atlantic is somewhat of a mystery heading into this game, and that’s not necessarily a good thing. The Owls are in flux at the moment, particularly on offense. There’s talent on that side of the ball, as transfer QB N’Kosi Perry (four-star recruit who played at Miami FL) will lead the way. South Florida transfer RB Johnny Ford gives the Owls a playmaker in the backfield as well. However, it remains to be seen how this team will mesh together. Going up against a legitimate Florida defense makes matters even tougher. 

Florida Atlantic’s defense was pretty good last season, as they only allowed 17.4 points per game last season, which ranked 10th nationally. Of course, that can be adjusted when considering their competition. Meanwhile, the Gators averaged nearly 40 points per contest last season, and QB Emory Jones seems like a great fit to take over for Kyle Trask. His dual-threat ability could be a problem for the Owls.

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Trends 

• Florida Atlantic is 1-4 ATS in their last five games.
• FAU lost their last three games of 2020.
• Florida lost their final three games of 2020 after starting the season 8-1.

Bottom Line 

Both teams have quality defenses, and I’m leaning towards both of them coming to play on Saturday. In addition, both offenses have several new faces in key spots, which could lead to a slow start to the season. 

There’s a chance Florida Atlantic keeps this one close by pinning their hopes on a tough defense. However, playing up in class against Florida could lead to a breaking point in the second half. Instead, let’s look under the total of 52.5 points in this matchup.

The Pick: Under 52.5

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