Troy 2018 Betting Preview: Defense Still Stellar, But Offense Could Struggle

Troy 2018 Betting Preview: Defense Still Stellar, But Offense Could Struggle article feature image
Credit:

Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports. Pictured: AJ Smiley

Troy 2018 Betting Odds

  • To win the National Title: +999999
  • To win the Sun Belt: +300
  • To win the Sun Belt East: N/A
  • Win Total: 7.5 (over -135, under +105)

Always shop for the best line.


Troy 2018 Schedule, Betting Odds

The Action Network Projected Wins: 7.6

Bet To Watch

Troy Under 7.5 +105

A number of red flags came up for Troy throughout my offseason research. Troy's 2nd Order win total was -2.2 for 2017, indicating there was some extreme luck that contributed to the Trojans' 11-2 record. Another reason for concern is their returning production rank of 117th overall. Brandon Silvers departs as quarterback, which leaves a bonanza of inexperienced guys trying to take over the role. Troy's longtime offensive coordinator Kenny Edenfield also left for the same gig at South Alabama, so there might not be much offensive continuity.


>> Follow Collin Wilson in The Action Network App to get free alerts on all his college football bets during the season.


Defensively, the talented havoc players that tortured LSU and upset the Tigers remain, but six starters and plenty of depth have moved on. Plus, Troy's season could start with a string of losses: The Trojans host Group of 5 powerhouse Boise State to the start the year, then visit Nebraska and new head coach Scott Frost two weeks later. The Trojans will be favored in a number of Sun Belt games, but the visit to Appalachian State will be of critical importance.

The Sun Belt has been broken into two divisions (East and West), which is fantastic news for Arkansas State. Not so much for Troy and Appalachian, which State must compete in the East division to make the inaugural Sun Belt Championship Game. We will take under 7.5 (+105), and Troy coach Neil Brown should win Coach of the Year honors if this ticket does not cash.

What else you need to know about Troy

Troy has not covered against South Alabama since 2013, and two of the past three seasons have resulted in an underdog win for the Jags. The teams face each other coming off bye weeks in 2018, but look for South Alabama to have the advantage because it hired Troy's offensive coordinator.

More College Football Betting Previews

Click here for betting previews on all 130 teams.

How would you rate this article?

This site contains commercial content. We may be compensated for the links provided on this page. The content on this page is for informational purposes only. Action Network makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information given or the outcome of any game or event.