Clemson-LSU prop bets: Take the over on Joe Burrow’s passing yards, count on Trump being shown on TV
January is the equivalent of Christmas for sports bettors, which is opportune, because most of us need to patch up our bank accounts following the holiday season. The College Football Playoff championship game takes place with Monday — just in time to recoup any losses from NFL Divisional Round weekend — and there are a litany of prop bets to make. The LSU-Clemson matchup promises to be a classic, or at the least, a scintillating duel between the two best quarterback prospects in the nation, Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence.
Five of the best prop bets for the game are below, along with recommended selections. They are curated from Newsweek.
LSU is favored by -5.5
LSU is favored to win the game by more than a field goal, which would be an incredible accomplishment, since Trevor Lawrence is undefeated in his collegiate career. Even if you think LSU is primed for victory, it is risky to bet against Lawrence, who is fresh off an MVP performance in the Fiesta Bowl.
Clemson has two of the last three championships, while LSU is looking for its first win since 2007. The LSU Tigers may appear to own the momentum, and Burrow, who threw 55 touchdown passes with a passer-rating of 204.60, will likely enjoy a great game. But going against the Clemson Tiger’s resume is foolish. Bet on the continuation of Dabo Swinney’s mini-dynasty.
Verdict: Bet Clemson
Joe Burrow passing yards: 365.5
This is another example of where it is wise to bet on talent. While Clemson has surrendered an average of just 138.5 passing yards this season, Burrow has averaged 372 yards per contest. Against top 35 defenses, Burrow’s total falls to 341.6 — just below his average.
Clemson may stop Burrow in the game’s final moments, but until then, expect the reigning Heisman trophy to get his. Defenses can hope to contain somebody like Burrows, but they can’t count on stopping him.
Verdict: Bet the over
Trevor Lawrence passing yards: 295.5
While Lawrence is arguably the best quarterback prospect of his generation, he doesn’t always light up the stat sheet. He’s averaged 245.1 passing yards per game this season, falling below the over-under total. LSU’s defense has also only allowed just three quarterbacks to reach 295 yards throwing.
If anybody is going to break the pattern, it would probably be Lawrence. But once again, go with the recent history. Clemson will score, but Lawrence’s yard totals will not be eye-popping.
Verdict: Bet the under
President Donald Trump being shown on TV: 1/3 odds
It is a sure bet President Donald Trump will be on TV Monday. While ESPN usually wants to steer away from politics, it is hard to not show the President at least once, especially this one. Bet on Trump’s camera shot, and take home the easy money.
Verdict: Bet on Trump’s cameo
LSU famous fans: Odds on OBJ, Jarvis Landry and Shaq appearing on TV
The Vegas oddsmakers say Landry and OBJ are 5/6 to be shown on the telecast, while Shaq is sitting at 1/2 odds. Since all three are likely to be shown, go with Shaq. He is synonymous with the LSU Athletic Department, and the odds are lower, so you can make more money.
Verdict: Bet Shaq over OBJ or Landry