Shannons Weekend Sixer: NFL and College Picks That Bring the Heat

Shannons Weekend Sixer: NFL and College Picks That Bring the Heat

Get ready, because this football weekend is about to bring the heat! We’ve got underdogs, epic matchups, and more scoring than a night in Vegas (just without the hangover). Let’s dive right in—here’s your weekend six-pack!

College Football Picks for Saturday, Oct 12:

Kansas State (-3.5) vs. Nevada
Kansas State rolls into this matchup with a well rounded squad that can dominate both sides of the ball. Led by veteran QB Avery Johnson, the Wildcats have the firepower to control the game right from the kickoff. They’ve been efficient on offense, averaging 31 points per game this season. With a balanced attack and the ability to control the clock, K State definitely has the upper hand here… unless they forget which way the end zone is.

Penn State vs. USC Under 51
This total feels a bit high for a few reasons. First off, Penn State’s defense has been solid. Their secondary has effectively shut down opposing passing games, making life challenging for USC QB Miller Moss. This Penn State defense is quick, aggressive, and specifically built to handle USC’s dynamic offense.

On the flip side, Penn State’s offense, led by QB Drew Allar, takes a more methodical approach. They rely heavily on a strong run game featuring Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen while focusing on controlling the clock. USC’s defense has shown some vulnerabilities, but they’ve tightened up recently. Expect long drives that chew up the clock, keeping this game well under the 51-point total so don’t blink.

Oregon State (-3) vs. Nevada
Oregon State has quietly been one of the best teams in the Pac-12 this season, showcasing a balanced attack that should give them the edge in this matchup. With QB Gevani McCoy leading the charge, the Beavers have found their offensive rhythm, effectively mixing the pass and run. Their defense has also been solid, with a front seven that excels against the run. The Wolf Pack have not seen a defense like this one so far this season.

Meanwhile, Nevada is coming into this game with a struggling defense and an offense that has had difficulty moving the ball consistently. Unless they decide to take a nap on the field, look for Oregon State to control the tempo from start to finish and cover the 3-point spread comfortably.

NFL Picks for Sunday, Oct 13:

Titans vs. Colts (+3)
The Titans head into a crucial AFC South matchup at home against the Colts. With Jonathan Taylor’s ankle injury casting doubt over his full participation, the Colts will lean heavily on their backup running game. If Richardson plays, it will be a game time decision. He has been inconsistent, he’s shown flashes of brilliance that could keep this game tight. We will still roll with Colts and  Joe Flacco if he comes into play in place of Richardson. Joe Flacco basically saved the Browns’ season with a sensational late-season run in which he led Cleveland to victory in four of his five starts, which helped punch the Browns’ ticket to the postseason. Titans QB Will Levis, back from a shoulder issue, still has question marks, but Tennessee’s run game and stout defense should give them an edge. However, given the divisional intensity, the Colts at +3 seems like a safer bet because, you know in the AFC South anything can happen!

Ravens vs. Commanders (+6.5)
The Baltimore Ravens visit the Washington Commanders in a matchup that could be more competitive than the spread suggests. Lamar Jackson is playing at an elite level, and the Ravens’ offense has been clicking. However, the Commanders, led by Jayden Daniels, are not to be overlooked. Daniels has shown promise, and if he can connect with his playmakers, Washington could keep this game within the spread. Given the Ravens’ occasional struggles to finish off opponents, grabbing the Commanders at +6.5 could pay off.

Texans (-7) vs. Patriots
Texans -7 against the New England Patriots this Sunday. The Texans have shown improvement each game this season, driven by rookie QB C.J. Stroud. Stroud’s ability to stretch the field, combined with a solid squad that includes RB Dameon Pierce, should take advantage of the Patriots defense that has struggled against high-powered offenses. In addition the Texans have Cam Akers as well, a capable run or receiving threat out of the backfield. The Texans will be without Nico Collins but still have Stephon Diggs and other weapons. Meanwhile, New England is starting a rookie QB, Drake Maye, in his first ever NFL start. Jacoby Brissett will grab a seat on the bench and see what the rookie can do? Honestly, New England has been a mess, dealing with inconsistencies on both sides of the ball. With home-field advantage and their offensive momentum, the Texans are well-positioned to secure the W and cover the spread. I have them winning this one by 10.

Bonus Pick

David Montgomery Over 57.5 Rushing Yards
David Montgomery is going to be on his horse against the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday. The Lions offensive line has been one of the best in the league, creating fire running lanes for Montgomery. Given his running style, he should plow through Cowboys defense that has shown issues in stopping the run this season. In 4 games so far he has averaged over 67 yards rushing per game. Montgomery has a high probability to hit the over on 57.5-yard vs this Dallas D..

There you go! Your 6-pack of picks plus bonus player prop for an exciting weekend of college and NFL action. From underdogs to totals, we’ve covered it all. Get your munchies and a brew and enjoy your weekend. Wishing you all GOOD LUCK!