Week 1 of the college football season kicked off Thursday with a slew of games. It will continue Friday, Sept. 1, and into Saturday, when the top 25 finally takes the field. That includes the No. 12-ranked Tennessee Vols vs. Virginia Cavaliers. With the Vols’ first game of the season quickly approaching, we’re providing the best sports betting promos on the market and the odds for the Vols’ contest against the Cavaliers.
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Tennessee vs. Virginia Betting Preview
The Vols lost an extensive percentage of their offensive production in the NFL draft this year, but expectations are still high in Knoxville thanks to head coach Josh Heupel. In two seasons, he has revitalized Tennessee’s offensive attack and propelled the program back into the national spotlight. Despite having to replace his starting QB, best wide receiver, and offensive lineman from last year, the Vols are still as much as a -4500 favorite in Saturday’s contest against the Cavaliers.
The Over/Under for the game is 56.5 points, which is also a testament to the impact of Heupel’s offense. Last year, the Cavaliers averaged 16.7 points per game. Their recruiting class ranked 65th, and the only four-star commit is on the defensive side of the ball. Three-star transfer QB Tony Muskett is taking over under center for the Cavaliers, which should help them move the chains more effectively than last year. However, it is yet to be determined how well he will perform on the D1 level.
It’s highly unlikely the majority of the points will come from Virginia, which means Tennessee must do the heavy lifting if this one is to hit the Over. Joe Milton III will take over QB duties for Tennessee in Hendon Hooker’s absence. He finished 2022 strong, but replacing Hooker’s production is no easy feat. The Cavaliers aren’t the best test for his abilities, but the first game as the full-time starter from day one may produce challenges that could keep the game from hitting the Over, although it wouldn’t make the best wager.
Best Tennessee vs. Virginia Prop Bets
In addition to the Over/Under, there are a few other wagers to keep your eye on for the game. Here are some of the best prop bets we found for the contest.
Ramel Keyton over 0.5 Receiving Touchdowns (+146 on Caesars)
Ramel Keyton is entering his senior season for the Vols. With all the departures in their offseason, he is in line for a much bigger role in Tennessee’s offense, especially now that he has a starting role. Last year, Virginia allowed 361 passing yards per game despite only playing one ranked opponent. With increased targets against the caliber of opponent the Vols are up against, this is a low risk, high reward option to consider.
Alternate Total Points: Over 61.5 (+180 on FanDuel)
Milton III and the remodeled Vols’ offense must prove they can be electric on more than just paper this season. However, the Cavaliers are at the beginning of building a competitive program. They may not be as good as last year, but they should still be good enough to run up the points early and often against Virginia.
In 2022, the Vols scored 50-plus points six times, including the win over Alabama. That signals they aren’t likely to take their foot off the gas if they are on a roll. Taking the Vols’ offense under Heupel to put up points is a solid wager until proven otherwise given how productive he has gotten them to play under his tutelage.
