2024 College football bowl game betting guide: Tips, trends to follow - ESPN

The 2024 college football bowl season is finally here and bettors are gearing up for an exciting and potentially profitable stretch of games. With over 36 bowl games spread across several weeks, this unique period offers a wealth of opportunities.

Unlike the regular season, bowl games present distinct challenges and advantages, from increased public betting action to geographical factors that can significantly impact outcomes. Understanding these nuances is crucial for those looking to make informed wagers during this high-stakes finale to the college football year.

Bowl games vary significantly in importance, from crucial College Football Playoff games to less meaningful, let's call them, exhibition matches. It's essential to assess each team's motivation level and player availability. Key factors to consider include:

For some schools, reaching a bowl game for the first time in program history is a monumental achievement. This can create immense excitement and motivation for players and fans alike. Teams that haven't made a bowl game in many years may view their appearance as a sign of program resurgence.

Teams that lost in their previous bowl game may be extra motivated to secure a win and redeem themselves. For programs on an upward trajectory, a bowl win can solidify their progress and build momentum for the future. Teams that have had exceptional regular seasons may view their bowl game as a chance to cap off a historic year. Bowl games can serve as a final hurrah for outgoing coaches or a first impression for incoming ones.

In 2023, Virginia Tech played their first bowl game against Tulane in the Military Bowl, marking their first bowl win since 2016 with a decisive 41-20 victory; this was also the first winning