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Minnesota vs. UCLA is a Week 7 matchup between two teams that have struggled to start the year. The UCLA Bruins (1-4) will host the Minnesota Golden Gophers (3-3) on Saturday, Oct. 12 at 9 p.m. ET. It should be a close game between two flawed teams.
The Golden Gophers are coming off a 24-17 win over USC. Although the Trojans are no longer ranked, winning against a team that was ranked earlier this season is impressive for Minnesota. It had previously lost two games in a row.
UCLA has not won since the first week of the season, losing four games in a row. However, the Bruins' schedule has not been forgiving as all four games have come against ranked opponents, including Indiana, LSU, Oregon and Penn State last Saturday.
Minnesota vs. UCLA prediction for Week 7
Just looking at the records of these two teams, you would think that Minnesota is an overwhelming favorite to win. However, when you look closer, the Bruins' schedule makes it hard to evaluate the team. Not many teams would perform well if they needed to play four ranked opponents in a row.
Minnesota is a team that has put together some solid efforts on offense, but nothing spectacular. The Golden Gophers have only put up more than 30 points once this season (48 points against Rhode Island).
However, they have done a very good job on defense. They have two shutout wins over Rhode Island and Nevada in Weeks 2 and 3. Additionally, they have only allowed more than 20 points twice (31 against Iowa and 27 against Michigan). So, if Minnesota is going to win this week, it will be because of its defense.
UCLA has been one of the worst offensive teams in college football, but playing against four ranked opponents has kept some of the games competitive. It has not scored more than 17 points in a game yet this year.
However, the defense has done a decent job against some of the best teams in the country. Last week, it allowed only 27 points to No. 4 ranked Penn State.
Prediction: Minnesota to win a close, low-scoring game
Minnesota vs. UCLA point spread prediction
The point spread is set at -5.5 points in Minnesota's favor. So, if our prediction is right, you should bet on UCLA to cover the spread.
Minnesota vs. UCLA betting tips
Tip #1: Bet on UCLA to cover the spread (-110).
Tip #2: Bet over the point total over 40.5 points (-105).
Tip #3: Bet on Minnesota's side of the money line (-204).
What time is the Minnesota vs. UCLA game?
The Minnesota vs. UCLA game will start at 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, Oct. 12. The game will be broadcast live on BTN. However, fans without cable TV can stream the game on FuboTV or SlingTV. Regional restrictions may apply for streaming services.
