Wyoming Cowboys vs. San Jose State Spartans Pick: San Jose State -4.5

Ottawa finally put an end to our losing streak Thursday night, and we're looking to build on that win as we head into the weekend. Friday takes us to San José, where the Spartans welcome a Wyoming team that hasn't had much to celebrate offensively this season. We're backing San José State -4.5 at -110.

Wyoming's 28–0 shutout loss last weekend was ugly, but it wasn't exactly out of character. The Cowboys are averaging just 14.2 points per game, and quarterback Tyler Hughes has thrown six interceptions against only two touchdown passes. Moving the football has been difficult enough. Holding onto it has become another problem entirely.

San José State has a couple of weapons capable of making Wyoming's night even longer. Quarterback Luke Weaver has already thrown 11 touchdown passes, while running back Jabari Bates has piled up 487 rushing yards through five games. That ground attack could be particularly troublesome for a Cowboys defense allowing nearly 191 rushing yards per contest. If Bates starts finding room between the tackles, Wyoming will have a difficult time accounting for both him and Weaver.

The Spartans have had their own uneven performances. They managed just 10 points against Fresno State and needed a late touchdown to escape Hawaii with a 20–16 victory. Those games are a reminder that San José State still has plenty to clean up, particularly when it comes to finishing drives.

Friday offers a favorable opportunity to do exactly that. Wyoming has struggled to generate offense, and its defense has been vulnerable against the run. San José State has the advantage of playing at home, a productive backfield and a passing attack that gives the Cowboys more than one problem to solve.

We like the Spartans to make the most of that matchup and keep our winning momentum going into the weekend.

SLS Daily Pick: San José State Spartans -4.5 (-110). Playable at -115 or better.