Prop bets for the SEC’s fourth Saturday:
LORENZO NUNEZ’S NUMBERS IN FIRST START FOR GAMECOCKS
Options — Less than 100 yards total offense, 1 TD; Between 101-150 yds, 2 TD; More than 151 yards, 3 TD
Projection: For the first time in his illustrious coaching career, Steve Spurrier’s starting a true freshman quarterback on Saturday against UCF, four-star Lorenzo Nunez. Nunez spelled former walk-on Perry Orth last week at Georgia and showed promise at times as a run-pass threat. Looking for a spark offensively, Spurrier said he has trimmed the playbook to cater to Nunez’s strengths in the zone read scheme and hopes he can play well against the Knights. Many have compared Nunez’s skill set to former South Carolina quarterback Connor Shaw and believe he can become a leader on a struggling unit. Considering the matchup, I think Nunez will play well and account for at least two touchdowns.
NUMBER OF PASSES THROWN BY AUBURN’S SEAN WHITE
Options — Less than 15; Between 16-20; Between 21-25; More than 25
Projection: Gus Malzahn’s quarterback switch this week begs the question — is Auburn still a threat to win the SEC West? An 0-2 start in league play would be fatal to those hopes in a division loaded with several Top 15 teams. Redshirt freshman Sean White makes his first start against Mississippi State and a Manny Diaz-coached defense that is sure turn it up a notch from a pressure perspective. The Tigers’ run-based offense is going to look a bit different with White under center and unless Auburn establishing an early rhythm with Peyton Barber in the backfield, moving the football (and keeping up with Dak Prescott) will fall on the rookie. This game should feature several big plays and a lot of points. We’re taking the over.
JALEN HURD’S RUSHING YARDS AGAINST FLORIDA
Options — Less than 100; Between 101-125; More than 126
Projection: If Tennessee’s going to snap its lengthy losing skid against Florida this weekend and re-establish some of the momentum it had heading into the season, the Vols must flourish offensively. Running back Jalen Hurd has rushed for 300 yards over his first three starts this season and would’ve had his third consecutive 100-yard game last week if the score hadn’t gotten out of hand early against Western Carolina. Florida’s playing without Treon Harris — the guy who crushed Tennessee’s heart last fall in Knoxville — and starting cornerback Jalen Tabor. The opportunity’s there for the Vols and Hurd’s a guy who could take advantage. Florida’s giving up an SEC-low 55.3 rushing yards per game this season, so I’m taking the under. If Tennessee can’t run the football, the Gators will have the edge for the outcome as well.
