West Virginia vs North Carolina Prediction NCAAF Picks 12/27
- Lm Tipster
- Dec 27, 2023, 9:57:53 AM
© Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports
NCAAF Predictions: Duke's Mayo Bowl - North Carolina vs. West Virginia
Get ready for an exciting matchup in the Duke's Mayo Bowl as the North Carolina Tar Heels take on the West Virginia Mountaineers on December 27, 2023, at 3:30 PM in Bank of America Stadium. Dive into the detailed analysis of this clash:
Game Information
The Duke's Mayo Bowl is set to kick off at 3:30 PM in Bank of America Stadium, with a game-time temperature of 57 degrees in Charlotte, NC. ESPN/ESPN+ will provide coverage. North Carolina, with an 8-4 overall record, faces West Virginia, also standing at 8-4. The point spread favors West Virginia at -6.5, with an Over/Under of 56.5 points.
Team Stats and Leaders
North Carolina Tar Heels
Quarterback D. Maye, with 3,608 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions, won't be available for the game as he enters the NFL draft. This absence, along with the start of less-experienced quarterback Conner Harell, may pose challenges for the Tar Heels. Running back O. Hampton has rushed for 1,442 yards and 15 touchdowns, while receiver D. Walker leads in receptions with 699 yards and 7 touchdowns.
West Virginia Mountaineers
Quarterback G. Greene has contributed 2,178 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions for the Mountaineers. Running back C. Donaldson Jr. has rushed for 798 yards and 11 touchdowns, and receiver D. Carter leads in receptions with 501 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Recent Performance
North Carolina Tar Heels
North Carolina suffered a recent loss to NCSU, and the absence of star quarterback D. Maye raises concerns about their offensive capabilities. Despite a strong performance against Duke, they face challenges against West Virginia's defense.
West Virginia Mountaineers
West Virginia enters the Duke's Mayo Bowl with confidence after winning against Baylor and Cincinnati. Despite a loss to Oklahoma, their overall performance, including wins against UCF and BYU, showcases their offensive prowess.
Prediction:
West Virginia is poised to secure victory and cover the -6.5 points spread in the Duke's Mayo Bowl. The absence of star quarterback D. Maye for North Carolina, coupled with the inexperience of Conner Harell, may significantly impact the Tar Heels' offensive rhythm. West Virginia's balanced offense, led by quarterback G. Greene and running back C. Donaldson Jr., is well-equipped to exploit North Carolina's defensive vulnerabilities. Expect West Virginia to capitalize on the situation, securing a decisive win and covering the spread.
