Bowl Season Heats Up: Two Underdogs Worth Your Attention
Central Michigan is poised for a potential upset against Northwestern with their strong rushing game, while the Browns could exploit a potentially unmotivated Steelers team missing key players.
Bowl season is here, delivering college football and NFL action daily through the new year. With the College Football Playoff paused until New Year's Eve, there's plenty of competition to keep fans engaged.
Central Michigan vs. Northwestern
Central Michigan enters the GameAbove Sports Bowl as a double-digit underdog against Northwestern, but the Chippewas have tangible advantages worth noting.
The motivational edge belongs decisively to Central Michigan. Coming from the smaller MAC conference and facing a Big Ten opponent, this game carries significant meaning for the Chippewas—a significance that may not extend to Northwestern.
Central Michigan's rushing attack tells the story. The team averages 165.5 rushing yards per game, a formula that keeps games competitive for underdogs and controls pace. Northwestern, meanwhile, struggles offensively. The Wildcats were held to under 20 points in six of their 12 games this season.
With an expected total of just 43.5 points, a low-scoring grind plays directly into Central Michigan's hands. The Chippewas can stay close and manufacture an upset.
PICK: Central Michigan (+10.5) to lose by fewer than 10.5 points or win outright
Steelers @ Browns
Mike Tomlin's Pittsburgh Steelers have clinched another winning season and are gunning for the AFC North title. A victory Sunday over Cleveland would seal the division.
But complications loom. If Green Bay beats Baltimore on Saturday, Pittsburgh clinches the division before taking the field, potentially draining motivation from a team with nothing left to play for.
Cleveland, meanwhile, relishes the spoiler role. The Browns have been scrappy at home and just covered as double-digit underdogs against Buffalo, losing 23-20.
The Steelers face another disadvantage: wide receiver DK Metcalf is suspended for an incident with a fan last Sunday, stripping Pittsburgh of its best receiver.
Expect a game decided at the margins. If the Steelers' clinching scenario plays out, motivation becomes the critical variable—and the Browns have it.
PICK: Browns (+4.5) to lose by fewer than 4.5 points or win outright
Will Hill is a betting analyst and contributor on the Bear Bets Podcast with over a decade of sports betting experience. He has hosted on VSiN and the Goldboys Network.
