In a highly anticipated matchup on the first full Saturday of the college football season, the Texas Tech Red Raiders are set to face off against the Wyoming Cowboys. The Red Raiders, who are considered a sleeper pick to win the Big 12 this season, are laying two touchdowns as they hit the road to take on the Cowboys. Despite Texas Tech's strong roster, Wyoming poses a challenge with their experienced team and a defense that could be the best in their conference.

Last season, the Cowboys proved their mettle as they finished tied for second in the Mountain West and earned a spot in a bowl game under the leadership of head coach Craig Bohl. Although they were one of the youngest teams in the country at the time, Wyoming now boasts 48 returning lettermen and 10 starters on defense. Their impressive rankings in overall returning production, defensive returning production, and offensive returning production highlight their potential to give the Red Raiders a run for their money.

The betting odds also reflect the belief that Wyoming can keep the game close, with a prediction of the Cowboys covering the 14-point spread. Texas Tech had a promising season in 2022 but struggled on the road, winning only one game away from home against a lackluster Iowa State team. With Wyoming's ability to turn this matchup into an ugly defensive battle, it seems likely that the Cowboys can keep the game within two touchdowns on their home turf.

Meanwhile, the Washington Huskies are generating significant hype after an impressive 11-2 record in head coach Kalen DeBoer's first season. This excitement reached new heights when Michael Penix Jr. announced his return for the 2023 campaign. While playoff aspirations may be premature, the Huskies possess a talented offense that averaged nearly 40 points per game last season. With Penix back under center and a strong receiving corps, Washington's offense is expected to remain dominant.

Looking ahead to their matchup against Boise State, the Huskies are favored by 14 points. Their success at home, going 5-2 against the spread last season, coupled with DeBoer's stellar record in non-conference games, suggests that Washington will get off to a fast start. The team's explosive offense, combined with the continuity of the coaching staff and numerous returning starters, gives them an advantage over the Broncos.

Boise State quarterback Taylen Green, the reigning Mountain West Freshman of the Year, may pose a threat to Washington's defense. However, the Huskies' experience and knowledge of their home atmosphere should help them contain Green and limit Boise State's offensive production. The Broncos' new offensive coordinator, Bush Hamdan, formerly of Washington, may provide insights about the Huskies' stadium, but his first game in this role could present challenges.

Ultimately, the prediction favors Washington to cover the 14-point spread, with the belief that their offense will outshine Boise State's efforts. Additionally, bettors may want to consider Washington exceeding their team total. The combination of Washington's offensive firepower, defensive improvement, and the home-field advantage makes it difficult to see Boise State overcoming the odds in this matchup.