CFB Early 3-Play Multi-Pack - Saturday
- Handicapper
- Jim Feist
- League
- NCAAF
- Competition
- UCLA vs Indiana
- Release Date
- 10/25/2025 02:16 AM
- Event Date
- 10/25/2025 12:10 PM
- Bet Type
- Point Spread
- Pick
-
Ucla +26.5 (-112)
(DraftKings)
- Outcome
- Loss
- Analysis
- Indiana comes in 7-0, ranked No. 2 nationally, with a high-powered offense and a defense that suffocates opponents. Their offense generates about 7.24 yards per play and allows just 4.48 - both very strong marks. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza is completing over 72 % of his passes, has thrown 21 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions to date. On the flip side, UCLA has been in a resurgence. After starting 0-4, they’ve won three straight under interim coach Tim Skipper. In that span they’re averaging about 33 points per game and gaining around 422 yards total.
Here’s why I’m backing UCLA to cover. First, they’re playing with momentum. The coaching change injected some life, and quarterback Nico Iamaleava has shown dual-threat chops (10 passing TDs, 4 rushing TDs) and a 65.2 % completion rate. Second, Indiana, while elite, has a heavy burden: maintaining perfection and avoiding looking past a team that’s suddenly dangerous. There is psychological value in the underdog that’s “back” and on a roll. Third, the line is steep: Indiana favored by about 25.5 points. That kind of number invites risk.
What must happen for UCLA to cover: they need to start fast, avoid turnovers, and lean on their improved run game (they’ve averaged about 233 rushing yards during the three-game win streak). , They must also force Indiana into uncharacteristic mistakes-Indiana hasn’t been great at giving up many chances. But the Bruins’ recent uptick in yards allowed dropped by about 115 yards per game since the coaching change. So there is evidence of improvement.
In short: I expect Indiana still wins, but I believe the Bruins cover. I'll take the generous points with UCLA here on Saturday.
Jim's Play: 131. UCLA
