A multiple major handicapping-contest winner against top competition, The Wildcat returns. Including the 1997-2014 seasons in The Post, Cat’s record in print stands at 523-446 (54 percent) against the spread.
Thursday night
MINNESOTA (+16¹/₂) over Tcu: Denied a spot at the Final Four table in 2014 despite their spectacular season, the Horned Frogs have a point to prove — but the Gophers have quick revenge working after a better-than-it-looked 30-7 loss in Fort Worth, Texas, a year ago. This is potentially Minnesota’s most effective squad in ages, and Jerry Kill’s troops (not to mention a well-oiled fan base) will be stoked to make their bones in a home Thursday-nighter — fertile ground for substantial home underdogs who relish national TV exposure. Minnesota hangs tough, for one unit.
Saturday
Byu (+7) over NEBRASKA: Since Tom Osborne’s departure as athletic director, the Huskers, under former coach Bo Pelini, had broadly underperformed against market expectations when facing competitive teams at Memorial Stadium. Now, Mike Reilly’s at the reins in Lincoln, Neb., but culture change takes time. Bronco Mendenhall’s BYU team (led by quarterback Taysom Hill) remain well-stocked, and their clear-cut Notre Dame-esque independent ambitions serve as powerful motivation. Cougars pounce, for one unit.
2014 NCAA and NFL record: 22-22
To contact Cat about his comprehensive advisory service, write P. O. Box 739, Hightstown, N.J. 08520, or visit http://www.playbook.com.