Ohio vs Wyoming Prediction: Arizona Bowl Odds and Picks

Ohio and Wyoming will meet up in Tucson this afternoon for the Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl. The matchup marks just the third time these two have squared off in program history, with the Bobcats 0-2 in the first two matchups.

It's been a slightly disappointing campaign for Ohio, considering it lost the MAC Championship to Toledo. Nevertheless, when the Bobcats take the field today, they'll be looking to reach double-digit wins — a significant milestone for the program.

Wyoming's season has been one of streaks, winning three of its first four games but ending the season with two consecutive losses. The Cowboys will be looking to end this season on a high note with a win here.

Based on the bowl game odds, what's the best bet for this matchup? Find out in our free college football picks for Ohio vs. Wyoming on December 30.

Ohio vs Wyoming best odds

Ohio vs Wyoming picks and predictions

One of these teams has a significant advantage here over the other. That team is Ohio, and I'm rolling with it as my best bet as I don't think the Cowboys can keep up offensively. 

The Bobcats had one of the most efficient offenses in the country this season, despite some massive adversity. They led the MAC in scoring with 31.9 points per game and the MAC in total offense with just over 420 yards per game. Then, QB and MAC Offensive Player of the Year Kurtis Rourke went down with a season-ending injury, and CJ Harris took over, forcing the offense to adapt.

Instead of the deep passing aerial attack, the Bobcat offense became an intermediate passing team with a mobile threat behind center. Ironically enough, that's made them a more difficult matchup for Wyoming.

As we noted above, Wyoming lost its last two games. In fairness to the Cowboys, those were two of the more difficult teams on its schedule. What was striking about those games, though, is how each team found success on intermediate passing routes. Fresno State used it to set up three short rushing touchdowns, and Boise State used it to convert some critical third downs in its win.

This feels like a place where Ohio can have success. Wyoming gave up the fourth most passing plays of 20 yards in the Mountain West, and while we don't have a ton of data on it, quarterback CJ Harris definitely has some success in this area.

The other part of this is Harris' using his feet, as the last mobile pivot that Wyoming faced was Taylen Green of Boise State. He ran for a touchdown and 5.2 yards per carry against them. Before that, it was Chevan Cordeiro of San Jose State. He didn't get a ton of yards, but his rushes were crucial, as two of them ended in scores.

Harris is poised to take advantage of Wyoming's issues with QBs that can take off. He's rushed for over four yards per carry in two of his last three starts, including a three-touchdown, 65-yard effort against Bowling Green in Week 13.

On the other side of the ball, Wyoming won't be consistent enough. After a host of injuries, the Cowboys will start a redshirt freshman at tailback. They will also struggle if Wyoming is forced to put the ball in the air, as QB Andrew Peasley doesn't impress much.

Peasley has thrown for over 200 yards just once this season, which came all the way back in September. In addition, he's shown some careless traits with the ball, having thrown eight interceptions on the season, which is one fewer than the number of TDs he's thrown. 

My best bet: Ohio moneyline (-125 at DraftKings)

Ohio vs Wyoming spread analysis

I've watched a ton of Wyoming football this season as I've found myself betting on its games. Unfortunately, it really failed my eye test.

I mentioned at the onset that the Cowboys want to run, and while Ohio's defense gives up yards, it can create havoc at the point of attack. Its defense has posted a havoc rating of 19%, which is impressive given its defensive issues. This feels like a game where if Ohio could force a few turnovers and get Wyoming playing from behind, we could be in for a rout. 

Ohio has been one of the best ATS teams in the country this season, going 8-1 ATS in its last nine games. This coach and program generally peak at the end of the season, and that's just another reason we feel confident backing the Bobcats on the moneyline.

Ohio vs Wyoming Over/Under analysis

There's a high degree of unpredictability on what you'll get from these offenses. I alluded to seeing a path where the Bobcats could get up a few scores via turnovers. If it indeed happens, that's a game flow conducive to the Under, as Ohio will want to keep things on the ground with its young QB. I'd rather see if that scenario is taking place before making a play on a side.

These two teams have dueling trends which makes this handicap even more difficult. Ohio's offense has been high-powered all season, as the total has gone Over in five of its last six games against a team with a winning record.

Meanwhile, Wyoming has been a great Under team, cashing the Under in five straight contests. 

Ohio vs Wyoming betting trend to know

Ohio is 5-1 ATS in its last six December games. Find more NCAA betting trends for Ohio vs. Wyoming.

Ohio vs Wyoming game info

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