Cal vs Texas Tech Betting Odds, Analysis & Forecast - Independence Bowl 2023
On Saturday evening at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana, the California Golden Bears (6-6, 6-6 ATS) will take on the Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-6, 5-7 ATS) in the 2023 Independence Bowl. This will be just the second meeting between these two schools, with Texas Tech earning a 45-31 victory in their first encounter back in 2004.
As for the latest college football odds, Texas Tech is currently favored to win by 3 points, with a game total of 56.5. Here's a breakdown of the betting lines:
| Team | Point Spread | Moneyline | Total || ------------- | ----------- | --------- | ----- || Cal Golden Bears | 3 (-115) | 135 | O 56.5 (-110) || Texas Tech Red Raiders | -3 (-105) | -155 | U 56.5 (-110) |
Notably, the line in this game has remained stable, hovering around 2.5 or 3 points since it was first set. The total has moved slightly, dropping from 58.5 to 56.5.
With Texas Tech currently holding the -155 favorite status, they have an implied probability of 60.78% to emerge victorious in the 2023 Independence Bowl.
Key Trends for Cal and Texas Tech
Cal Golden Bears
Cal finished the regular season with a .500 record both overall and against the spread, going 4-5 in Pac 12 play and ending the year on a three-game winning streak. They have covered the spread in four of their last five games, and the over has hit in five of their last seven. Running back Jaydn Ott led the Pac 12 in rushing yards per game (114.5) and will play in Saturday's game. However, the defense struggled throughout the season, allowing 32.7 points and 282.5 passing yards per game.
3 (-115)
Texas Tech finished the season with a 6-6 record (5-7 ATS) and went 5-4 in Big 12 play. The team lost quarterback Tyler Shough and will be without their top two receivers for the bowl game. In spite of these losses, they are receiving 52% of the bets and 60% of the handle in this matchup. The Red Raiders averaged 26.8 points per game and allowed 27 points per game this season.
135
While there are no California online casinos where bets can be placed, the opportunity to travel to Arizona for a wager on Cal to cover may be worth considering.
O 56.5 (-110)
Experts predict that Texas Tech's improved talent and coaching stability, along with Cal's defensive rebuilding, could favor the Red Raiders in this matchup. However, Cal's offensive strength and Texas Tech's loss of key players could potentially make for a closer game than anticipated. As always, it is essential to consider various factors and make informed decisions when placing bets.
U 56.5 (-110)
Odds as of December 15, 2023, at ESPN Sportsbook. Claim the ESPN Bet promo code to bet on Cal vs. Texas Tech.
Texas Tech Red Raiders-3 (-105)
Historically, Cal has had significant football success, even being crowned "Western Champions" after a multi-team meet during a nationwide tour in the early 20th century. Recently, they have experienced a considerable shift, losing all five starters from their secondary following the 2024 season. Texas Tech, on the other hand, has been actively improving both their coaching staff and player personnel, aiming to build on their 8-5 record in the 2024 season. Their defensive line is considered one of the best in college football due to strategic offseason additions. For the 2023 Independence Bowl, Texas Tech is likely favored due to their roster strength and coaching stability, whereas Cal is in transition and adjusting to significant roster changes.
-155
- In the 2023 Independence Bowl, the Texas Tech Red Raiders, who are currently favored by 3 points, are predicted to emerge victorious with an implied probability of 60.78%, according to the moneyline odds.
- With the over hitting in five of the Cal Golden Bears' last seven games and running back Jaydn Ott leading the Pac 12 in rushing yards per game, experts suggest that Texas Tech's improved talent and coaching stability might not be enough to keep the total points under 56.5.
- Historically, the Cal Golden Bears have had significant football success, but their recent losses of key players and all five starters from their secondary following the 2024 season might make it challenging for them to compete against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, who have been actively strengthening their coaching staff and player personnel.
