{"id":25396,"date":"2023-12-31T14:01:10","date_gmt":"2023-12-31T19:01:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/?p=25396"},"modified":"2023-12-31T14:01:12","modified_gmt":"2023-12-31T19:01:12","slug":"reliaquest-bowl-free-picks-lsu-vs-wisconsin-best-bets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/college-football-bowl-games\/reliaquest-bowl-free-picks-lsu-vs-wisconsin-best-bets\/","title":{"rendered":"LSU vs Wisconsin Free Picks :  ReliaQuest Bowl Best Bets, #1 Predictions 1\/1"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>LSU Tigers vs Wisconsin Badgers Best Bets<\/strong> : ReliaQuest Bowl Analysis &amp; Massive Predictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Ronacesports\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Football content contributor Ron Marmalefsky<\/a>\u00a0offers reliable betting picks on The ReliaQuest Bowl being played on January 1st, between LSU and Wisconsin. What are his takeaways and things to watch when considering betting?  Find top predictions here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>LSU had one of the most dynamic offenses we\u2019ve seen, maybe since Joe Burrow was around<\/strong>.\u00a0 That\u2019s two good ones for the Tigers, under two different coaching staffs.\u00a0 Luke Fickell\u2019s 1<sup>st<\/sup> year at Wisconsin was not a rousing success, but his plan is to build something sustainable.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That sounds funny, given that Wisconsin has been solid for years, but Fickell is changing the way they operate, especially offensively.\u00a0 <strong>Are these two teams thinking well beyond this crossroads bowl encounter?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/free-sports-picks\/college-football\">college football best bets<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/college-football-bowl-games\/\">bowl game coverage<\/a> this postseason. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Customers Get 15% Off ALL Premium Expert Bowl Game Picks &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\/college-football\">Get Started Now<\/a>!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/a.slack-edge.com\/production-standard-emoji-assets\/14.0\/google-medium\/1f6d2@2x.png\" alt=\":shopping_trolley:\">&nbsp;All FIRST TIME customers will receive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\/college-football\">15% OFF anything<\/a> and everything in their cart on their first purchase! There is no cap or limit, including from daily to long-term, and the discount is automatic with no coupon code needed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-text-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\/college-football\"><strong>Get 15% Off All Premium Bowl Picks<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Predictions and Best Bets:  LSU Overview <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>LSU\u2019s offensive numbers were scary<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 They averaged over 46 points per game, 6.25-212 rush yards per game, and passed for over 4,000 yards.\u00a0 Jayden Daniels couldn\u2019t be stopped, with a 40-4 touchdown to interception ratio, a completion figure of over 72%, and an incredible rush stat line of 1,134 yards, with an 8.4 per-carry average and ten rushing touchdowns.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He\u2019s gone, replaced by Garrett Nussmeier, a more traditional QB.\u00a0 He could be fine passing the ball but the loss of having a dual threat QB will be felt.\u00a0 The million-dollar question is whether future NFL WR\u2019s Nabors and Thomas will suit up.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They combined for over 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns.\u00a0 If not, WR production will dip significantly.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can LSU&#8217;s Defense Hold Fast?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As for the defense, LSU has work still left to do.\u00a0 The mediocre 4.45 rush defense of 2022 gave way to a 5.0 per carry figure this season.\u00a0 The 57% pass defense got much worse, up to 63.5%.\u00a0 Wisconsin is hardly a dynamic offensive team, but LSU is unlikely to suddenly get this defense right.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So far, only one defensive starter, a CB is in the portal.\u00a0 LSU\u2019s sack ratio was 26-22.\u00a0 Kicking was at 12-15.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Video Picks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"epyt-video-wrapper\"><div  style=\"display: block; margin: 0px auto;\"  id=\"_ytid_60185\"  width=\"870\" height=\"489\"  data-origwidth=\"870\" data-origheight=\"489\" data-facadesrc=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PPgoHrDH2ZE?enablejsapi=1&#038;origin=https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com&#038;autoplay=0&#038;cc_load_policy=1&#038;cc_lang_pref=&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;loop=0&#038;rel=0&#038;fs=1&#038;playsinline=0&#038;autohide=2&#038;hl=en_US&#038;theme=dark&#038;color=red&#038;controls=1&#038;disablekb=0&#038;\" class=\"__youtube_prefs__ epyt-facade  epyt-is-override  no-lazyload\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-spai-excluded=\"true\" class=\"epyt-facade-poster skip-lazy\" loading=\"lazy\"  alt=\"Wisconsin Badgers vs LSU Tigers Prediction and Picks - ReliaQuest Bowl Picks\"  src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/PPgoHrDH2ZE\/maxresdefault.jpg\"  \/><button class=\"epyt-facade-play\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg data-no-lazy=\"1\" height=\"100%\" version=\"1.1\" viewBox=\"0 0 68 48\" width=\"100%\"><path class=\"ytp-large-play-button-bg\" d=\"M66.52,7.74c-0.78-2.93-2.49-5.41-5.42-6.19C55.79,.13,34,0,34,0S12.21,.13,6.9,1.55 C3.97,2.33,2.27,4.81,1.48,7.74C0.06,13.05,0,24,0,24s0.06,10.95,1.48,16.26c0.78,2.93,2.49,5.41,5.42,6.19 C12.21,47.87,34,48,34,48s21.79-0.13,27.1-1.55c2.93-0.78,4.64-3.26,5.42-6.19C67.94,34.95,68,24,68,24S67.94,13.05,66.52,7.74z\" fill=\"#f00\"><\/path><path d=\"M 45,24 27,14 27,34\" fill=\"#fff\"><\/path><\/svg><\/button><\/div><\/div><span itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"http:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><meta itemprop=\"embedUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PPgoHrDH2ZE\"><meta itemprop=\"name\" content=\"Wisconsin Badgers vs LSU Tigers Prediction and Picks - ReliaQuest Bowl Picks\"><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"If you are looking for a ReliaQuest Bowl betting preview with picks and predictions for the match-up between the Wisconsin Badgers and LSU Tigers, we have you covered! Our college football handicapping experts discuss this matchup from a sports betting perspective, sharing their picks and predictions vs. the current odds. #collegefootballprediction #collegefootballpicks #cfbpicks ReliaQuest Bowl Betting Preview: Wisconsin Badgers vs LSU Tigers | 1\/1\/24 \ud83c\udfc8 Brace yourselves for an electrifying showdown at the ReliaQuest Bowl, where the Wisconsin Badgers take on the LSU Tigers in a clash of titans! \ud83d\udd25 \ud83d\udd25 Matchup Overview: It&#039;s gridiron action at its finest as the Badgers from Wisconsin go head-to-head against the Tigers from LSU in a battle for supremacy at the ReliaQuest Bowl. The stage is set for an unforgettable matchup between these two powerhouse teams. \ud83d\udccd Location: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL adds a touch of excitement to the college football postseason, providing the perfect venue for this thrilling matchup. \ud83d\udcfa How to Watch: Don&#039;t miss a single play! Tune in to ESPN2 at 12pm ET to catch the action live. Check your local listings to ensure you&#039;re front and center for the Wisconsin vs. LSU showdown. \ud83d\udcc8 Current Spread &amp; Total: Stay on top of the latest betting odds! As of now, the spread and total for this matchup stand at LSU -10 and 55.5, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle on the field. \ud83e\udd1d Team Hashtags: Show your team spirit on social media using official Twitter hashtags: Wisconsin Badgers: #OnWisconsin LSU Tigers: #GeauxTigers \ud83d\udd17 Connect with the Teams: Stay in the loop with the latest updates, player insights, and exclusive content by following &#064;BadgerFootball and &#064;LSUfootball on Twitter. Get ready for an epic clash between the Wisconsin Badgers and LSU Tigers at the ReliaQuest Bowl! Which team will emerge victorious in this gridiron battle? Tune in to find out! \ud83c\udfc8\ud83d\udd12 #ReliaQuestBowl #WisconsinvsLSU #CollegeFootball \ud83d\udc4d Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to WagerTalk TV; \ud83d\udd14 CLICK the Bell and never miss an episode! \ud83c\udfc8 More Free College Football Picks: https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/free-sports-picks\/college-football \ud83e\udd11 Free Sports Picks: https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/free-sports-picks \ud83d\udcca Live Odds: https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/odds \ud83d\uddde\ufe0f News: https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news \ud83d\udc4d Stay connected with WagerTalk \ud83d\udcfa YouTube: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/tv \ud83d\udc4d Facebook: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/fb \ud83d\udc26 Twitter: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/tw \ud83d\udcf8 Instagram: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/ig \ud83d\udcf0 Reddit: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/rd \u2764\ufe0f iHeart Radio: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/iheart \ud83c\udf4e Apple Podcasts: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/ap \ud83d\udccc Pinterest: https:\/\/wt.buzz\/pin\"><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/PPgoHrDH2ZE\/0.jpg\"><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT5M49S\"><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2023-12-31T15:00:20Z\"><\/span>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Picks:  Wisconsin Strengths and Weaknesses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that the Badgers were better by record this year, going 7-5.\u00a0 The offense remained strong when running the ball, but lead RB Allen is gone.\u00a0 The next two on the depth chart are projected to rush for about 4.25 per carry, so the Badgers will be decent, but not electric if I\u2019m right.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that they have a QB who can run as well, and might in fact lead them in rushing in this game.\u00a0 Tanner Mordecai did damage passing the ball at SMU, but here his numbers were way down.\u00a0 He completed 177 passes for just 1,688 yards, throwing just six touchdown passes.\u00a0 He stretched the field with three 33 touchdown passes at SMU in 2022.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I think he\u2019ll have a solid completion % here (projecting 23 of 35), but he may not stretch the field, especially with two of his WR\u2019s missing this game.\u00a0 Both Dike and Bell easily had the best per-catch yardage on the team and will be missed.\u00a0 In 2021 and 2022, Wisconsin allowed 2.7 and then 3.35 per carry, adjusted for sacks and kneel downs as per my formula.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The surprise this year is allowing 4.25 per carry, and an average of 50 more yards.\u00a0 There are some health issues with LSU\u2019s RB\u2019s, but I expect the Tigers to win the overall battle on the ground.\u00a0 The pass defense was at 60%, exactly on my August projection.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That number is a few percentage points higher if you take out the bad QB\u2019s faced with Rutgers, Iowa and Minnesota (combined to go 40-80).\u00a0 This is another LSU edge, but not a big one unless their top two WR\u2019s play.\u00a0 Like with LSU, one CB will not play.\u00a0 Kicking was at 14-17.\u00a0 The sack ratio was 29-18.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"509\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Wisconsin.png\" alt=\"reliaquest bowl\" class=\"wp-image-2142\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Wisconsin.png 1000w, https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Wisconsin-300x153.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Wisconsin-768x391.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Best Bets &#8211; The Keys to The Game: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Will Wisconsin slow down LSU\u2019s offense with the Tigers losing their dual threat Heisman Trophy QB?\u00a0 If LSU\u2019s top WR\u2019s play, how does Wisconsin defend them?\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They faced only one comparable QB and elite WR (Ohio State, WR Harrison) and did hold the Buckeye\u2019s to 24 points.\u00a0 Despite the loss of RB Allen, do we trust LSU to stop Wisconsin\u2019s rush attack?\u00a0 Can Mordecai match his projected passing numbers AND use his legs to keep LSU off balance?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl &#8211; The Free Picks &amp; Predictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At the top of this preview, I noted that this game might not be that important to either team.\u00a0 LSU is auditioning many of their underclassmen to see if they are ready to step up.\u00a0 For Wisconsin, this would be a signature win over the big, bad SEC, but they have bigger plans than just reaching win #8.\u00a0 Obviously, LSU would be much more heavily favored with Daniels at QB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Pick: ReliaQuest Bowl Prediction!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>I might be on Wisconsin\u2019s side IF I hear that LSU\u2019s two WR\u2019s are not playing<\/strong>.\u00a0 Under that scenario, Wisconsin could limit big plays, hoping that their QB does enough to keep the below average LSU defense off balance.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bowl game wagering is all about timing this year.\u00a0 Make sure you follow the local news reporters and keep an eye on any late breaking news.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NCAAF Bowl Coverage: WagerTalk Has It All<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for even more college football coverage?  Wagertalk will be provided bowl game predictions and previews for each CFB bowl game &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/college-football-bowl-games\/\">find it here each day<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WagerTalk&#8217;s Live Bowl Game Odds Screen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>WagerTalk\u2019s college football <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/odds?sport=L2&amp;cb=0.4228145318819374\">live odds screen<\/a> features up-to-the-minute lines from a variety of offshore and domestic sports books. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Track college football moneylines, spreads and betting percentages for all bowl games and monitor your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncaa.com\/news\/football\/article\/2023-12-03\/2023-24-college-football-bowl-game-schedule-scores-tv-channels-times\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NCAAF<\/a> bowl games picks, including moneyline, spread bets, and totals betting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>**************************************************<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">Looking for more free sports picks and sports betting tips?<\/span> Go beyond the anytime touchdown scorer picks!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\"><strong>Latest Betting Odds and Public Action<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/wt.buzz\/odds\" data-schema-attribute=\"\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vegas lines<\/a> updated in real time, including who the public is betting on<\/span> and anytime touchdown scorer odds. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">Last Minute Handicapping Advice<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">: Check out our extensive library of <\/span><a style=\"font-size: 12pt;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/sports-betting-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">handicapping tips<\/a><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\"> and advice from professional Vegas handicappers (we also recommend taking the time to look over our <\/span><a style=\"font-size: 12pt;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/videos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sports betting tips video library<\/a><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">Want an expert opinion?<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\"> Check out the latest <\/span><a style=\"font-size: 12pt;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/free-sports-picks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\">Free Sports Picks<\/a><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\"> and <\/span><a style=\"font-size: 12pt;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Best Bets<\/a><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\"> from our team of expert sports handicappers.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em><strong>Make sure to bookmark all the above!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>LSU Tigers vs Wisconsin Badgers Best Bets : ReliaQuest Bowl Analysis &amp; Massive Predictions Football content contributor Ron Marmalefsky\u00a0offers reliable betting picks on The ReliaQuest Bowl being played on January 1st, between LSU and Wisconsin. What are his takeaways and things to watch when considering betting? Find top predictions here. LSU had one of the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":46,"featured_media":23669,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2044],"tags":[8,5239,7916,7915,8096,8097,1088,5152,5151,11,8098],"class_list":["post-25396","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-college-football-bowl-games","tag-college-football","tag-college-football-best-bets","tag-college-football-bowl-game-betting-advice","tag-college-football-bowl-game-preview","tag-college-football-bowl-games","tag-college-football-bowl-picks","tag-college-football-picks","tag-free-college-football-picks","tag-free-ncaaf-picks","tag-ncaaf","tag-ncaaf-predictions"],"basic_html":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>LSU Tigers vs Wisconsin Badgers Best Bets<\/strong> : ReliaQuest Bowl Analysis &amp; Massive Predictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Ronacesports\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Football content contributor Ron Marmalefsky<\/a>\u00a0offers reliable betting picks on The ReliaQuest Bowl being played on January 1st, between LSU and Wisconsin. What are his takeaways and things to watch when considering betting?  Find top predictions here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><strong>LSU had one of the most dynamic offenses we\u2019ve seen, maybe since Joe Burrow was around<\/strong>.\u00a0 That\u2019s two good ones for the Tigers, under two different coaching staffs.\u00a0 Luke Fickell\u2019s 1<sup>st<\/sup> year at Wisconsin was not a rousing success, but his plan is to build something sustainable.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>That sounds funny, given that Wisconsin has been solid for years, but Fickell is changing the way they operate, especially offensively.\u00a0 <strong>Are these two teams thinking well beyond this crossroads bowl encounter?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Find free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/free-sports-picks\/college-football\">college football best bets<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/college-football-bowl-games\/\">bowl game coverage<\/a> this postseason. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">New Customers Get 15% Off ALL Premium Expert Bowl Game Picks - <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\/college-football\">Get Started Now<\/a>!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/a.slack-edge.com\/production-standard-emoji-assets\/14.0\/google-medium\/1f6d2@2x.png\" alt=\":shopping_trolley:\">&nbsp;All FIRST TIME customers will receive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/picks\/college-football\">15% OFF anything<\/a> and everything in their cart on their first purchase! There is no cap or limit, including from daily to long-term, and the discount is automatic with no coupon code needed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Predictions and Best Bets:  LSU Overview <\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>LSU\u2019s offensive numbers were scary<\/em><\/strong>.\u00a0 They averaged over 46 points per game, 6.25-212 rush yards per game, and passed for over 4,000 yards.\u00a0 Jayden Daniels couldn\u2019t be stopped, with a 40-4 touchdown to interception ratio, a completion figure of over 72%, and an incredible rush stat line of 1,134 yards, with an 8.4 per-carry average and ten rushing touchdowns.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>He\u2019s gone, replaced by Garrett Nussmeier, a more traditional QB.\u00a0 He could be fine passing the ball but the loss of having a dual threat QB will be felt.\u00a0 The million-dollar question is whether future NFL WR\u2019s Nabors and Thomas will suit up.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>They combined for over 2,600 yards and 29 touchdowns.\u00a0 If not, WR production will dip significantly.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can LSU's Defense Hold Fast?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>As for the defense, LSU has work still left to do.\u00a0 The mediocre 4.45 rush defense of 2022 gave way to a 5.0 per carry figure this season.\u00a0 The 57% pass defense got much worse, up to 63.5%.\u00a0 Wisconsin is hardly a dynamic offensive team, but LSU is unlikely to suddenly get this defense right.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>So far, only one defensive starter, a CB is in the portal.\u00a0 LSU\u2019s sack ratio was 26-22.\u00a0 Kicking was at 12-15.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Video Picks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n<iframe src='https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PPgoHrDH2ZE?origin=https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com'><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Picks:  Wisconsin Strengths and Weaknesses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that the Badgers were better by record this year, going 7-5.\u00a0 The offense remained strong when running the ball, but lead RB Allen is gone.\u00a0 The next two on the depth chart are projected to rush for about 4.25 per carry, so the Badgers will be decent, but not electric if I\u2019m right.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that they have a QB who can run as well, and might in fact lead them in rushing in this game.\u00a0 Tanner Mordecai did damage passing the ball at SMU, but here his numbers were way down.\u00a0 He completed 177 passes for just 1,688 yards, throwing just six touchdown passes.\u00a0 He stretched the field with three 33 touchdown passes at SMU in 2022.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>I think he\u2019ll have a solid completion % here (projecting 23 of 35), but he may not stretch the field, especially with two of his WR\u2019s missing this game.\u00a0 Both Dike and Bell easily had the best per-catch yardage on the team and will be missed.\u00a0 In 2021 and 2022, Wisconsin allowed 2.7 and then 3.35 per carry, adjusted for sacks and kneel downs as per my formula.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>The surprise this year is allowing 4.25 per carry, and an average of 50 more yards.\u00a0 There are some health issues with LSU\u2019s RB\u2019s, but I expect the Tigers to win the overall battle on the ground.\u00a0 The pass defense was at 60%, exactly on my August projection.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>That number is a few percentage points higher if you take out the bad QB\u2019s faced with Rutgers, Iowa and Minnesota (combined to go 40-80).\u00a0 This is another LSU edge, but not a big one unless their top two WR\u2019s play.\u00a0 Like with LSU, one CB will not play.\u00a0 Kicking was at 14-17.\u00a0 The sack ratio was 29-18.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Wisconsin.png\" alt=\"reliaquest bowl\" class=\"wp-image-2142\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl Best Bets - The Keys to The Game: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Will Wisconsin slow down LSU\u2019s offense with the Tigers losing their dual threat Heisman Trophy QB?\u00a0 If LSU\u2019s top WR\u2019s play, how does Wisconsin defend them?\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>They faced only one comparable QB and elite WR (Ohio State, WR Harrison) and did hold the Buckeye\u2019s to 24 points.\u00a0 Despite the loss of RB Allen, do we trust LSU to stop Wisconsin\u2019s rush attack?\u00a0 Can Mordecai match his projected passing numbers AND use his legs to keep LSU off balance?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ReliaQuest Bowl - The Free Picks &amp; Predictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>At the top of this preview, I noted that this game might not be that important to either team.\u00a0 LSU is auditioning many of their underclassmen to see if they are ready to step up.\u00a0 For Wisconsin, this would be a signature win over the big, bad SEC, but they have bigger plans than just reaching win #8.\u00a0 Obviously, LSU would be much more heavily favored with Daniels at QB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Pick: ReliaQuest Bowl Prediction!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><strong>I might be on Wisconsin\u2019s side IF I hear that LSU\u2019s two WR\u2019s are not playing<\/strong>.\u00a0 Under that scenario, Wisconsin could limit big plays, hoping that their QB does enough to keep the below average LSU defense off balance.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Bowl game wagering is all about timing this year.\u00a0 Make sure you follow the local news reporters and keep an eye on any late breaking news.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NCAAF Bowl Coverage: WagerTalk Has It All<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for even more college football coverage?  Wagertalk will be provided bowl game predictions and previews for each CFB bowl game - <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/college-football-bowl-games\/\">find it here each day<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">WagerTalk's Live Bowl Game Odds Screen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>WagerTalk\u2019s college football <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/odds?sport=L2&amp;cb=0.4228145318819374\">live odds screen<\/a> features up-to-the-minute lines from a variety of offshore and domestic sports books. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Track college football moneylines, spreads and betting percentages for all bowl games and monitor your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncaa.com\/news\/football\/article\/2023-12-03\/2023-24-college-football-bowl-game-schedule-scores-tv-channels-times\">NCAAF<\/a> bowl games picks, including moneyline, spread bets, and totals betting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>**************************************************<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-size: 12pt;\">Looking for more free sports picks and sports betting tips?<\/span> Go beyond the anytime touchdown scorer picks!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<ul>\n\n\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em><strong>Make sure to bookmark all the above!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p> <\/p>\n","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25396","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/46"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25396"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25396\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":25399,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25396\/revisions\/25399"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23669"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25396"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25396"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wagertalk.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25396"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}