Below, I break down my favorite player prop bets for tonight’s primetime game between the Virginia Tech Hokies and the Pitt Panthers.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games all season, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
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VT vs. Pitt player props
Luke Reynolds 6+ receptions (-114)
Ethan Grunkemeyer has already completed 30 passes to Luke Reynolds through four games, and I expect this connection to crackle again on Friday. Pitt’s experienced defensive front arrives allowing just 53.3 rushing yards per game, and although the Panthers haven’t encountered this collection of offensive talent, they should make the Hokies earn their rushing production. Grunkemeyer will, as per usual, need the underneath routes.
And so: Reynolds. Virginia Tech can attack through its breakout tight end when Pitt crowds the running lanes. Six catches would clear this number and fall below Reynolds’ early-season average of 7.5, with his established involvement supplying the strongest foundation for this bet.
Given Pitt’s bulldog secondary, I prefer Reynolds’ reception line as opposed to any sort of yardage play. At -114, his place in the offense makes six receptions my favorite play on this board.
Cataurus Hicks 42+ receiving yards (-114)
Cataurus Hicks has 12 receptions for 252 yards on the season thus far, and has been Pitt’s most explosive outlet this season. Notably, this is happening that’s as QB Mason Heintschel spreads the wealth between a crowded receiving corps. Hicks’ 21.0-yard average per catch explains the appeal of this particular threshold: Hicks can reach 42 yards with two receptions matching his early average on that route tree, but I imagine it’ll take three or four looks tonight.
As far as Pitt’s potential to chuck up a few long ones Hicks’ way: Pitt has paired right tackle Ryan Baer (2,687 career snaps) with right guard BJ Williams (2,423), anchoring a starting five with 9,717 snaps between them. Experience alone won’t stop Virginia Tech’s newly rresurgent rush, but I trust that group to sort out pressure and give Heintschel time to find Hicks downfield.
The concern is his share of the passing game. Bryce Yates and Censere Lee each have more receptions on the year, and Hicks’ role is not that of a target-monster. At 42 yards, I’m backing the damage he can inflict on one or two long completions as we’ve seen every game this year so far.
For easy access to tail my CFB picks swiftly, click here to join the CFB Committee Betting Group on DraftKings Sportsbook.
