LSU Tigers vs Miami Florida Hurricanes Point Spread Picks

This is a battle of Top 25 teams to open the season where the top-notch defenses will be ahead of the offenses. Miami's defense is fast and physical, anchored by one of the ACC's best linebacker units in juniors Shaq Quarterman, Michael Pinckney and Zach McCloud. Plus defensive ends Joe Jackson and Jonathan Garvin have high-round NFL talent. Miami is on a 9-2 run UNDER the total, as well as 45-21 UNDER in non-conference games. On offense, the Hurricanes have excellent balance with star WR Ahmmon Richards and speedy sophomores Jeff Thomas and Mike Harley, while running backs Travis Homer and DeeJay Dallas each averaged over 5.2 yards per carry last fall. They match up well with an LSU squad that has major concerns on offense. The Tigers have a new offensive coordinator and playbook. The entire backfield is uncertain and last year's starting QB Danny Etling is off to the NFL. Sophomore QB Myles Brennan steps in but threw just one TD pass with two picks in 2017. LSU has failed to cover four of its last five games against the ACC. At least the defense is more certain, led by junior inside linebacker Devin White, who led the SEC with 10.2 tackles per game. LSU is on a 20-8-2 UNDER the total, including 7-2 in September games, and 6-2-1 UNDER in non-conference tilts. Back Miami at this neutral site battle in a defensive duel. Play Miami and the UNDER.