Ohio State Buckeyes vs Utah Utes Point Spread Picks

ROSE BOWL - Ohio State had high hopes of playing for another national championship, but it got thumped in the Big Ten title game by Michigan, 42-27. The defensive problems that dogged the unit back in September have resurfaced, including giving up 31 points and 481 yards to Purdue three games ago. Utah is delighted to be in its first Rose Bowl after crushing No. 3 Oregon twice, 38-7 and 38-10, including in the Pac 12 championship. They've won all three games against Top 20 teams, including a 35-21 win over No. 18 Arizona State. The Utes are 50-27 ATS away from home against winning teams and 47-22-2 ATS as a dog. Utah is #12 in total 'D,' #20 in rush defense, #46 on third down, and #20 in points allowed (20.9 per game). The offense averages 5.6 yards per carry, providing balance for QB Cameron Rising (18 TDs, five INTs), who has been sacked only five times. Utah has won 11 of 14 bowl games under coach Kyle Whittingham and is 14-5 ATS after a victory, also covering six of eight against the Big Ten. Play Utah.