Baker Mayfield

There was much consternation within NCAA football over whether Alabama, which didn't even reach its conference final, should have earned a spot in the College Football Playoffs. The Crimson Tide were given the fourth available spot in the tournament, and almost immediately the traditional power soared to the top of the wagering pools picking which school will ultimately capture the NCAA title, a crown they've worn four times since 2009.

When it comes to the Heisman Trophy, it is clearly Baker Mayfield's award to lose. And while the actions of the Oklahoma Sooners quarterback sometimes cross the line, it's evident that his play on the field hasn't - so much so in fact that Bovada opted to take down its Heisman Trophy future bet, certain that Mayfield is going to become the sixth Oklahoma player to win the honor.

It's rivalry week in NCAA football and that means wherever you look, there are big-time games available for wagering. Some will impact the national championship race, while others will simply offer regional bragging rights for another year. But one thing you should remember when betting on rivalry games - you should throw the records and the odds out the window, because emotion often carries the day in these games.

First and 10, do it again. The age-old football cheer takes on a different meaning this week for three teams. Michigan State improved to 7-2 by shocking Penn State, and now they must travel to Columbus to face an Ohio State team that was crushed by Iowa. Miami and Wisconsin both posted solid wins to remain unbeaten but can they do it again this week against another tough opponent?