Make no mistake; college football betting fans never forget about the Mountain West Conference anymore. Over the last few seasons, a few upstart schools haven’t simply dominated their own conference competition; they’ve vaulted into the national title discussion. Will schools like TCU finally earn the BCS’ full respect?
Here’s a look at the top sportsbook contenders in the MWC this season.
TCU (1 to 20)
The Horned Frogs are without a doubt the team to beat in the Mountain West. They were undefeated last year and boasted the nation’s top defense in 2009. In 2010, they return quarterback Andy Dalton and four of five starters on their O-line. With a ferocious “D” and competent offense, anything less than another conference title would be a failure for TCU this year.
Utah (10 to 1)
Utah has plenty going for it too and may have a chip on its shoulder as it plays in the MWC for one more year before trying its luck in the Pac-10. Jordan Wynn and Eddie Whide, not to mention a solid O-line, will pace the offense. The problem for Utah is defense; all the Utes’ linebackers are gone. Since they can’t keep opponents off the board like TCU can, they’re behind the eight ball.
BYU (12 to 1)
Sigh. It was fun while it lasted for BYU, wasn’t it? 2009 was thrilling as can be for the Cougars – especially when they earned the MWC major sports betting respect with wins over Oklahoma and Oregon State. But it’s tough to imagine a repeat of their 11-2 record when they have new faces at all their offensive skill positions.
Air Force (20 to 1)
Could Air Force step up and become the MWC’s No. 3 team? It fits the defensive bill, having finished fifth in the country against the pass last season. But I’m not sure Tim Jefferson has the support to carry this offense – even though the triple option is exciting.
The MWC is heavy at the top and weak at the bottom, which is why only four teams get mentioned as contenders here. If any other team would challenge them, I’d guess it would be Wyoming. But TCU looks like a great pick to repeat. BYU will take a step back; Air Force is still a project. Utah isn’t a complete enough team on both sides of the ball. That leaves the Horned Frogs to dominate again.