College football hot tix and pix: Stanford a good bet over hyped-up Southern California?

Everyone loves a winner, and while bookmakers have used that mentality to make a fortune over time, most casual bettors can’t help but remain addicted to past champions. 

A new college football season and sharpened attention on betting patterns haven’t altered wagering behavior, according to reports from the nation’s shops gathered here on “Hot Tix and Picks.” 

Ranked No. 1 in the USA Today Sports AFCA Coaches poll, Alabama is an overwhelming favorite of public bettors in the Crimson Tide’s marquee Saturday game at No. 22 Texas. 

“(Alabama) definitely passed the eye test against Utah State last week. Bettors are convinced Alabama is as dominant as (it was) expected to be, which is why the action is going toward them here,” said Caesars Sportsbook’s lead football trader Joey Feazel.