North Carolina was a big ratings draw this season mostly so people could get a glimpse of Drake Maye, their star QB who is expected to go within the top 5 in the NFL draft. Maye will of course not be playing in this game as he preps for his pro career, so West Virginia has a great chance to complete their season turnaround and get a big win as TD favorites at the 2023 Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
Before Betting on North Carolina vs West Virginia
Maye lived up to the hype this season, throwing for 3,608 yards with 24 TDs. When the Tar Heels started 6-0 and got up to #10 in the country there was even some talk about this team contending for a College Football Playoff spot, but losses in four of their last six games has this team instead limping into a December 27th bowl game.
With Maye opting out, UNC turns to freshman Conner Harrell who has attempted just 6 passes in his career in Chapel Hill. Harrell has a great chance to prove that although Maye is talented, this is a system offense where anybody can put up big numbers.
While Duke may be disappointed to be playing in the Mayo Bowl after getting as high as #10 in the rankings this season, West Virginia is likely ecstatic to be here. The Mountaineers were picked to finish last in the Big 12 this year, but they put together an 8-4 season.
While North Carolina will likely still try to throw the ball even with their backup QB, there’s no doubt what West Virginia’s game plan is and that’s to run the football early and often. WVU had three players tally at least 700 yards on the ground this year and ranked 3rd in the nation with 234.3 ypg on the ground.
2023 Duke’s Mayo Bowl Offshore Betting Odds
| Offshore Sportsbook | Moneyline | Total | Point Spread |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | UNC (3.12) | WVU (1.40) | 56.5 | UNC +7 (1.87) | WVU -7 (1.95) |
| MyBookie | UNC (3.00) | WVU (1.40) | 54 | UNC +6.5 (1.92) | WVU -6.5 (1.90) |
| BetUS | UNC (3.04) | WVU (1.40) | 55.5 | UNC +7 (1.83) | WVU -7 (2.00) |
| SportsBetting.ag | UNC (3.12) | WVU (1.40) | 56.5 | UNC +7 (1.87) | WVU -7 (1.95) |
| XBet | UNC (3.00) | WVU (1.40) | 54 | UNC +6.5 (1.92) | WVU -6.5 (1.90) |
2023 Duke’s Mayo Bowl Prediction & Pick
UNC likely is disappointed about playing in the Mayo Bowl and is missing their star player. West Virginia can run the football all day and wants to put a bow on an unexpectedly successful season. Mountaineers look solid here.
