Week 12 brought several close games between top teams and a few season-defining comebacks. The Gamecocks blew a huge first-half lead that nearly wrecked the Aggies’ playoff hopes, while USC kept itself in the rankings with a big comeback win over Iowa.
The rankings also saw a few new additions as the top teams from smaller conferences start to sneak into the back end of the polls. The playoff picture is beginning to take shape as we head into the final weeks of the regular season, so how these conference leaders finish will have a major impact on the playoff bracket.
Let’s take a look at how things shook out this week.
Biggest Games and Upsets of the Week
Texas A&M 31, South Carolina 30
In what might be the comeback of the year, the Aggies overcame a 27-point first-half deficit, pitching a 28-0 second half to win 31-30. At halftime, it looked hopeless, but Marcel Reed threw for over 400 yards and willed Texas A&M to victory, keeping their undefeated season alive.
Oklahoma 23, Alabama 21
The Sooners knew their playoff hopes depended on running the table and came up big in Tuscaloosa. Oklahoma won by two despite minimal offensive production. John Mateer scored one rushing touchdown, while the rest of the points came from three field goals and an 87-yard interception return. Alabama’s offense outgained the Sooners, but critical mistakes proved costly.
USC 26, Iowa 21
In a battle between a low-end Top 25 team and a Top 25 hopeful, USC erased an 11-point halftime deficit, scoring 16 unanswered in the second half. The Trojans move up slightly in the standings, while Iowa drops out of the Top 25 altogether after back-to-back one-score losses to ranked teams.
AP Top 25 Risers and Fallers
Risers
#8 Oklahoma (up 3): The Sooners take advantage of a huge opportunity and move back into the Top 10 after their win over Alabama.
#21 James Madison (up 3): The top Sun Belt team climbs closer to the Top 20, sitting at 9-1 and keeping its hopes alive for a Group of 5 CFP berth.
#22 North Texas (previously unranked): The top American Conference team finally breaks into the rankings after sitting just outside for several weeks.
Fallers
Louisville (unranked): The Cardinals have fallen back to earth, dropping out of the rankings after a one-point loss to Clemson
#17 Texas (down 7): The Longhorns were improving, but their offense couldn’t keep up with powerhouse Georgia.
#10 Alabama (down 6): A crushing loss to Oklahoma drops the Tide to 10th overall and fifth among SEC teams.
Betting Strategy: Adjusting After Week 12
Be Ready for Upsets
This is the time of year when teams with nothing to lose play spoiler. Watch for top-ranked programs that are starting to show cracks, and look for underdogs with moneyline or spread value.
Focus on Value with Fringe Top 25 Teams
Teams like James Madison, North Texas, or Tulane can present great betting value depending on the matchup. Keep an eye on those lines and exploit spots where the market is undervaluing them.
Start Prepping for Playoffs
Playoff season is coming fast, and it’s time for bettors to get ready. Study who’s in contention and how they’ve looked lately. Doing your homework now will put you in a strong position when the major bowl and playoff games arrive.
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