The Sock 'Em, Bust 'Em Board Because that's our custom

Line of thinking

Here’s your water cooler topic for the remainder of the week: What is the point spread next Thursday night when No. 7 West Virginia plays host to Louisville?

I happen to think it’s a pretty interesting debate. It could be close. It could be a shootout. It could be a blowout. And, really, it could go in any direction. Numerous variables come into play, but the hunch is Vegas goes big. WVU has a great offense, Louisville an iffy defense that has struggled with spread offenses. The Mountaineers are also dangerous at home and the nighttime crowd mixed with the ESPN audience figures to make momentum an even bigger factor. Then again, the Cardinals have Brian Brohm at quarterback and a still-scary offense despite the 5-4 record. WVU’s defense is dramatically better, but this is its toughest test to date.

Guess? WVU as a 14 1/2 point favorite. Your thoughts?