It felt like the only thing bettors wanted to do last season was find the next LSU. The issue is that too many people focused on teams that shared similarities to the Tigers quarter instead of what they were. And what they were was a really talented team with some notable question marks. When looking for the best long shot bet to win the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship, that is what you want to identify.
LSU went into the 2019 preseason with odds of +3300. Those who put on them to win it all came away a whole lot richer. Betting on the Tigers was risky, but it paid off. It didn’t work in 2020 with Alabama taking home the title. That’s how these things go.
Looking ahead to this season, Miami is the best long shot bet to win the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship. They currently sit at +6000 (odds courtesy of Fanduel Sportsbook) which are probably a little long when you look around the college football landscape. Penn State (+5000), Oregon (+4000) and Iowa State (+2000) all have less favorable odds than the Hurricanes despite having just as many question marks.
This isn’t to say Miami is a lock to have a good season let alone win the damn thing. They could easily finish with a losing record. But, when you factor in everything, the Hurricanes have to be considered the best long shot bet to win the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship.
More College Football: The absolute worst things from the 2020 season
Why is Miami the best long shot bet to win the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship?
It all starts with quarterback D’Eriq King. Despite tearing his ACL in Miami’s bowl game against Oklahoma State, he is likely to start the season opener against Alabama on September 4. It has been reported that he is far ahead of schedule in rehab with Head Coach Manny Diaz essentially confirming his availability.
King and Offensive Coordinator Rhett Lashlee enter their second year together, and this partnership could really flourish in 2021. The Hurricanes offense was impressive at times last season, but also sputtered in big games. It should be more consistent with King in the system for two years now. That being said, no one knows just how explosive the former Houston Cougar will be after a major knee injury.
The good news is that King is one of 19 starters returning to Miami. They are joined by several transfers, including Oklahoma wide receiver Charleston Rambo. Depth should be improved for the Hurricanes this season, although a few positions, such as linebacker, are a bit of a mystery.
Finally, Miami has a favorable schedule in 2021. The opener against Alabama is daunting but losing wouldn’t be the end of the world. And if the Hurricanes win, they’re playing with house money. The non-conference schedule includes contests versus Michigan State and Appalachian State at home.
The Hurricanes don’t face Clemson this year meaning an October 16 showdown at North Carolina is the toughest ACC game on its schedule. Apart from that, there is nothing particularly fearsome in conference play until the ACC Championship Game and a likely matchup with Dabo Swinney and company.
Final thoughts
Miami is the best long shot bet to win the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship. Their roster is solid, and the schedule is favorable. Much like LSU in 2019, the intangibles will determine the Hurricanes’ success. But at +6000, there is no reason not to throw down $10 on them to win it all.
