Tonight marks not only the first time the playoffs begin with 12-teams and at first round home sites, but also the first chance you’ve got to bet on it. And anyone that knows me knows that when it comes to betting, I’m always down to clown. Some call laying heavy on the line for the hot dog eating contest each July a degenerate move. Nay. I call it a level of dedication and expertise that not many have. And while this is no manufactured meat product or everything but the oink, this is a prime opportunity to boost your bankroll and make some delicious greenbacks just in time for Christmas.

I’ll let you in on a secret… the key to gambling is to craft a narrative of how you think the game will go and then bet accordingly. For this game, it’s a chilly game, weather might be a factor, You’ve got a strong rushing attack from Notre Dame against the Hoosiers stout run defense. For me, I don’t expect a close game, and I do expect Notre Dame to have their way with the Hoosiers early and control the pace of play to keep IU’s offense on their heels and their defense tired. Later in the game, it becomes ball control and a grind it out attack. Usually that lends itself to good running back props and perhaps the under. The current line for this first round match up is Notre Dame -6.5 and the over/under at 50.5. If you think Indiana wins, it’s likely a shoot out and a high scoring one. If you lean Irish, the under has to be attractive.

Here’s my best bets for Indiana versus Notre Dame and a Playoff Parlay for your wagering enjoyment…

• Riley Leonard (ND) over 175 passing yards
• Kurtis Rourke (IU) under 225 passing yards
• Elijah Sarrat (ND) 4+ receptions

And your take a chance playoff parlay…

Notre Dame -6.5, u50.5, Riley Leonard over 40 yards rushing

As usual, don’t bet what you can’t afford to lose. Let’s always be cashing.