The Tennessee Volunteers have started the season red-hot and thoroughly dominated each of their opponents. This Saturday, they'll play host to the Kent State Golden Flashes, who have started their season in the opposite direction.
While the outcome of this game may be a foregone conclusion, there's still some value to be had in the betting market. Let's dive into the matchup and get to my Kent State vs Tennessee prediction for Saturday evening.
Kent State vs. Tennessee Pick
- My Prediction: Under 62.5
My Tennessee-Kent State best bet is on the under with the best line currently available at DraftKings, according to our live NCAAF odds page.
Kent State vs Tennessee Odds, Spread & Line
| Kent State Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+49.5 -110 | 62.5 -110 / -110 | +5000 |
| Tennessee Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-49.5 -110 | 62.5 -110 / -110 | -100000 |
- Spread: Kent State +49.5 · Tennessee -49.5
- Total: Over/Under 62.5
- Moneyline: Kent State +5000 · Tennessee -100000
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Preview
Kent State Golden Flashes Football
The Kent State Golden Flashes haven't given us much to write home about on the offensive side of the ball thus far. They come into this matchup averaging just three yards per play, which ranks 127th nationally.
They've had a balanced attack on offense but have really struggled in both facets. They're averaging an incredible 0.8 yards per carry and are 112th in completion percentage, as they've completed only half of the passes they've attempted.
Expectations aren't high for them against a Tennessee defense that's proven to be more stout than anticipated.
The Vols have shut down opposing running games, allowing just 1.4 yards per carry. To add to that, NC State's starting running back, Jordan Waters, had negative seven yards against them last week.
The only area where we will likely see the Golden Flashes move the ball is through the air. Tennessee is 106th in opponent completion percentage, but Kent State's passing attack is shaky, so that's also far from guaranteed.
Tennessee Volunteers Football
For the Vols, quarterback Nico Iamaleava has led this team's explosive start. The freshman was one of the top recruits in the nation, alongside Arch Manning.
However, Iamaleava has already displayed his talent fully. He flourished in last year's bowl game and has carried that success into this season. He's completed 74.5% of his passes and thrown five touchdown passes.
We should see him light it up against the Golden Flashes secondary. Kent State ranks 115th in completion percentage and 78th in yards per pass allowed.
While Iamaleava gets all the spotlight, the Vols will be able to break this game open on the ground. Kent State has been getting bullied at the line of scrimmage, allowing six yards per carry.
That number should make running back Dylan Sampson's eyes light up, as he's averaging eight yards a carry this season and has already scored a touchdown five times in two games.
It's clear that Tennessee should have no issue moving the ball and scoring points, but they may be sleepwalking early in this one as they could already looking ahead to next week.
How to Bet My Kent State vs. Tennessee Prediction
This total has settled in at 62.5, which is only a half-point higher than the number it opened at.
That's because it will be up to Tennessee to put points on the board in this one.
If the Vols come out focused — which is a big question mark considering the pressure of an SEC schedule looming — they could score as many points as they want.
However, it's more likely that they take their foot off the gas late, as they won't want to show much to their upcoming conference opponents.
With Kent State barely expected to get on the scoreboard, this one should stay under the total.
Pick: Under 62.5 (Play to 61)
How to Watch Kent State vs Tennessee: Start Time, Location, More
| Location: | Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, TN |
| Date: | Saturday, Sept. 14 |
| Kickoff Time: | 7:45 p.m. ET |
| TV / Streaming: | SEC Network |
College Football Betting Trends for Kent State vs. Tennessee
- 95% of the money is on Tennessee against the spread while only 50% of the bets are on the same side.
- 76% of the money is on the over while 27% of the bets are on the same side.
Tennessee-Kent State Weather
