Clemson -5.5 (8*)
(NCAAF) Clemson vs. Louisville,
Point Spread: -5.50 | -101.00 Clemson (Away)
Result: Loss
The Louisville Cardinals are coming off a shocking home loss to the unranked Houston Cougars last Saturday, and I expect their struggles to continue as they host Clemson on Thursday night. The Tigers lost their star quarterback in last year's meeting, but still won that game by a score of 23-17. I expect Clemson to win and cover in a blowout.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Quarterbacks - Deshaun Watson has returned after missing most of last season with a knee injury, and he's completed 77% of his passes for 442 yards and five TDs in the first two weeks. Louisville turned to their third string quarterback last week, after Lamar Jackson and Reggie Bonnafon failed to impress. Needless to say, the Cardinals quarterback situation is a complete mess.

2. Previous History - The Cardinals have failed to cover the spread in six straight home games, while the Tigers are 6-0 ATS in their last six games in September.

3. X-Factor - Clemson ranked 1st in the country in total defense in 2014, allowing opponents to average just 260 yards per game.

Selection: This is a play on the Clemson Tigers (8*)