Northwestern wasn’t expected to do much this season after firing storied coach Pat Fitzgerald in July amid hazing scandals in the program, but David Braun stepped up to lead the Wildcats to a 7-5 record in a remarkable turnaround. Utah (8-4) had another solid season, but you wonder how motivated they are for the Las Vegas Bowl after playing in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day the last two years.
Before Betting on Utah vs Northwestern
The Utes were 6-1 and eyeing another trip to the Pac-12 Championship Game, but they went into a tailspin down the stretch and lost three of their last five games. Utah was an underdog in each of those defeats, so maybe they sing a different tune as nearly a TD favorite over Northwestern on Saturday night.
When you win 28 games over the last three seasons you’re going to face some loss, and the Utes have at least three key players sitting out the Las Vegas Bowl as they prepare for the NFL draft. On top of that, QB Bryson Barnes is entering the transfer portal – but he will play on Saturday.
Braun did a great job in leading the Wildcats this season in the wake of Fitzgerald’s – who was also a star LB at the school – departure. Northwestern won three straight to close out the year and were 4-1 down the stretch so they come into the bowl game hot. Unfortunately, the Wildcats face a Utah defense that ranked 17th in the country in yards allowed (308.6) and were 5th best vs the run (84.3).
2023 Las Vegas Bowl Offshore Betting Odds
| Offshore Sportsbook | Moneyline | Total | Point Spread |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | UTAH (1.41) | NW (3.05) | 41.5 | UTAH -6 (1.91) | NW +6 (1.91) |
| MyBookie | UTAH (1.38) | NW (3.10) | 41.5 | UTAH -6 (1.93) | NW +6 (1.89) |
| BetUS | UTAH (1.42) | NW (2.95) | 42 | UTAH -6 (1.90) | NW +6 (1.90) |
| SportsBetting.ag | UTAH (1.41) | NW (3.05) | 41.5 | UTAH -6 (1.91) | NW +6 (1.91) |
| XBet | UTAH (1.38) | NW (3.10) | 41.5 | UTAH -6 (1.93) | NW +6 (1.89) |
2023 Las Vegas Bowl Prediction & Pick
Northwestern was 5-2 over their last 7 games of the regular season with both defeats coming by one score. The Wildcats can keep games close, and Utah’s motivation to play in the Las Vegas Bowl may be a bit
