Stephen Nover's Early Monday Discount Bowl Casher
(NCAAF) LA Chargers vs. Memphis, 12/22/2014 9:00 AM, Score: 48 - 55
Total: 55.50 | -110.00 Over
Result: Loss
Look for defense to rule here. Memphis gives up just 17.1 points per game, which is fifth-best in the nation. The Tigers have a strong defensive front seven and are opportunistic with 27 takeaways.

The Tigers' defense really came on holding their six opponents to an average of 13.3 points per game. The under has cashed 19 of the past 27 times Memphis has played an opponent with a winning record.

BYU lost its star quarterback, Taysom Hill and best running back Jamaal Williams to injuries. Hill's replacement, Christian Stewart, is a pocket passer. Stewart picked up his play late in the season, but note that the Cougars finished the regular season taking on three weak defensive teams - UNLV, Savannah State and Cal. They are stepping way up in class defensively here.

Under Bronco Mendenhall, the Cougars also are worthy of respect defensively. Mendenhall is particularly dangerous with ample time to prepare. The under has cashed in six of BYU's last eight bowl games under Mendenhall.

The Cougars have picked things up defensively, too, holding their last four opponents to an average of less than 17 points per game.