Conquer the First Week with Our College Football Week 1 Picks

 

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The first week of the college football schedule is usually pretty tame. Due to the nature of the sport, non-conference schedules have to be made years in advance, which prevents schools from creating competitive matchups right out of the gate. Some programs also want to ease into the season to build confidence with younger players.

Here’s a look at games worth betting for College Football Week 1.

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2023 NCAA Division I Week 1 | August 26, 2023–September 4th, 2023

LSU Tigers (-3) vs. Florida State Seminoles

Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
Sunday, September 3, 2023

The Tigers and Seminoles will look to recreate their 2022 classic that opened the season. During Brian Kelly’s first game as LSU coach, the Tigers put together a 90-plus yard drive in the waning seconds and scored as time expired. However, LSU would miss at extra point to end the game and lose by one point.

The Tigers will return Jayden Daniels at quarterback, while the Seminoles will bring back quarterback Jordan Travis. Both teams had bounce-back years last season and will be in search of a big early season resume builder as they attempt to make a run at the College Football Playoff.

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Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at UCLA Bruins

Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
Saturday, September 2, 2023

The Chanticleers will likely be underdogs on the road for this one. However, Coastal Carolina will return quarterback Grayson McCall and should have a puncher’s chance of winning with him on board. McCall is 29-4 as a starter with the Chanticleers and passed for 2,700 yards with 24 touchdowns and only two interceptions last season.

The Bruins will have a new quarterback taking over in Dante Moore. UCLA coach Chip Kelly likes to run a fast offense, and Moore will have to catch up quickly. Coastal Carolina may be catching UCLA at the right time.

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Florida Gators at Utah Utes (-10)

Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT
Thursday, August 31, 2023

The Gators started coach Billy Napier’s time with the program the right way, scoring a 29-26 win in the Swamp over No. 7 Utah to open last season. However, things soured quickly for Florida. The Gators would lose their last three games of the season to finish with a 6-7 record.

Florida now has to replace Anthony Richardson, who was a top-10 pick in the NFL draft, at quarterback. The Gators quarterback battle is down to a competition between Graham Mertz or Jack Miller III. Utah had a great season last year, winning the Pac-12 for the second straight season, but saw star quarterback Cam Rising tear his ACL in the Rose Bowl. Rising is expected to come back this season, but may need some time to settle back in.

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Colorado Buffaloes at TCU Horned Frogs (-19)

TCU is coming off the greatest season in the modern history of the program. The Horned Frogs won’t return star quarterback Max Duggan, but will bring back plenty of players from last season’s team. TCU will be going against one of the most hyped teams in the nation right off the bat.

Colorado’s hype is mostly surrounded by hiring coach Deion Sanders. When Sanders chose to leave Jackson State for Colorado, he will be bringing several of his top players with him. Deion’s son, Shadedur, will play at quarterback. This is a game where TCU may be eager to quickly tamp down any enthusiasm that Sander’s hiring brough to the program.

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It’s Week 1 of the College Football season! The waiting is over, and we finally get a full slate of college football action. It’s now time to take a look at this week’s Top 10 teams, we’ll see who they play, and we’ll give you some things to watch in each game so you can get ready to bet against their College Football Odds.

Week 1 College Football Top 10 Teams to Bet On the 2022 Season

1. Alabama

The Tide should have a relatively easy opener against Utah State. Alabama has arguably the most talented roster in America. Bryce Young will start his campaign to become only the second person to win the Heisman Trophy twice.

2. Ohio State

The Ohio State Buckeyes decided to challenge themselves when they agreed to play Notre Dame to start the season. This one will be in Columbus, so they’ll have the home-field advantage. We’re anxious to see the new-look defense under the direction of Jim Knowles.

3. Georgia

The Georgia Bulldogs will begin the defense of their National Championship in Atlanta against their former defensive coordinator, Dan Lanning, and his Oregon Ducks. This will be a stiff test for the Bulldogs, and they’ll have many defensive pieces to replace.

4. Clemson

The Tigers are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2021 season. They’ll have a conference game for their season opener, as they’ll play Georgia Tech in Atlanta. The Yellow Jackets hung tough against Clemson last season.

5. Notre Dame

Marcus Freeman will make his head coaching debut in a hostile environment as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish travel to Columbus to take on Ohio State. The Buckeyes have one of the nation’s most dangerous offenses, so we’re eager to see how Freeman plans to slow them down.

6. Texas A&M

Jimbo Fisher has this season’s top recruiting class, so the expectations are high in College Station. They should have an easy one this week, as they host Sam Houston State.

7. Utah

The Utes travel across the country to play the Florida Gators. Kyle Whittingham has a lot of returning starters, and the Utah Utes are looking for a playoff spot. We’ll see if they can handle the rigors of playing on the road in a hostile SEC environment.

8. Michigan

The Michigan Wolverines host Colorado State at the Big House. Harbaugh has a veteran offensive line that will showcase a running-style offense. We’ll see how the defense looks after losing many key players to the NFL.

9. Oklahom

Let the Brent Venables era begin in Norman. We’ll see how the new-look Oklahoma Sooners come out. They host UTEP, so this should be a fairly easy one to start off.

10. Baylor

The Baylor Bears are a trendy pick to win the Big 12 this season. They have plenty of experienced players returning. They should have a cakewalk in the season opener as they host Albany.

Top 25 Betting Analysis

Utah @ Florida

The Utes are favored by two points in this one. Even though it’s a road game against a perennial SEC powerhouse, we still like the Utes to win and cover. This will be Billy Napier’s head coaching debut at Florida, and the Gators still have some work to do. Take the Utes in this one!

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It has been a long wait, but we finally get college football back this weekend in what has become known as Week 0. This is a handful of games played before Week 1 proper, which is set for Saturday, September 3. While there are some games that look like good betting options in Week 0, we are going to jump ahead to the following Saturday to look at the games being played then. There are some big ones on the opening week schedule, which is mostly what we are going to focus on here. As the season progresses and we get a better handle on all the teams, we will cast the net a little wider when making our picks. For now, let’s jump ahead to Week 1 and start making some NCAAF Betting picks.

2022 College Football Week 1 picks, odds, and predictions

Oregon Ducks Vs Georgia Bulldogs

While this is classified as a neutral site game, it’s being played at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, so expect it to feel like a home game for the defending national champions. With so many of their big-name players now in the NFL, the Dawgs could have chosen to maybe go with an easier start to the new season, but they are diving right in with a tough one against the Oregon Ducks. The bookies still see this one as a bit of a slam dunk for the champs, with Georgia in as a 17 ½ point favorite. Georgia has won each of their last 7 season openers and I expect them to extend that streak, although the spread makes me a little nervous.

Cincinnati Bearcats at Arkansas Razorbacks

The Cincinnati Bearcats are coming off a season that saw them go unbeaten and into the playoffs, where they ran into Alabama, who ended their National Championship dream. I don’t seem them being able to match that feat this time around, and they have a difficult matchup to start things off, heading to Arkansas as a 7-point underdog. I think we are looking at a line that offers some real value here, as I think the Bearcats might well be able to keep this one close, or perhaps win outright, so I am taking them to cover.

Utah Utes at Florida Gators

It’s the dawn of a new era in Florida, as Billy Napier will be on the sidelines as the new coach of the Gators. Rather than easing the new head coach in, the Gators will be starting at home against a Utah team that is listed at #7 in the first national rankings. The Florida Gators are not considered to be part of the top 25, but they could change that with a win in opening week. The Utes hit the road as a modest 1 1/w point favorite, which is a number I definitely like. I am taking Utah to win and cover.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Ohio State Buckeyes

It doesn’t get much better than this matchup in opening week, as both of these teams are ranked in the top 5 to start the season. Even with a loss, neither team will probably drop that far, unless we end up with one of them winning in blowout fashion, which doesn’t seem particularly likely. What will happen, though, is that the losing team will have a much more difficult path to the playoffs. Ohio State is favored by 13 ½ here, but what I really like on this game is the OVER, with the point total set at 58 ½.

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The 2021 NCAA football season is officially underway now that a few early matchups have marked the return of one of the best times in the sporting calendar. However, there are plenty of intriguing and entertaining matchups on the way this week, in what is the real “meat” of week one.

This season will look more like the ones of the past as fans return to stadiums, teams minimize cancellations, and the quality of play increases. Of course, this will also be the first year under the new playoff ruleset, which will extend the opportunity of competing to 12 programs.

With all of that in mind, here are the top storylines to watch for in the first week of college football so you can get all set to bet against the NCAAF odds.

Expert Predictions for College Football Week 1

#12 Wisconsin Becomes the First Ranked Team to Lose

Yes, the #12 Wisconsin Badgers are taking on the #19 Penn State Nittany Lions, but they will be the first ranked team to fall. Penn State has generated a ton of momentum on the recruiting and transfer front and should carry that into their first matchup, even as the underdog.

Wisconsin finished top-10 two years ago but was unranked last season and will be starting an unproven quarterback in Graham Mertz, who only averaged 177 yards passing and just over a touchdown per game last season.

C.J. Stroud Leaps into the Heisman Race

C.J. Stroud has been handed the reins as Ohio State’s starting quarterback as a redshirt freshman and in spite of never throwing a competitive pass at the collegiate level— however, that will not stop him from torturing Minnesota’s defense.

The second-ranked pro-style QB in the class of 2020 has been a late riser in the Heisman odds but should vault into clear contention with a breakout performance against a defense that allowed over 30 points per game last season, including 49 against the only ranked team it played (#18 Michigan).

#1 Alabama Demolishes #14 Miami

Alabama is still Alabama, and the return of D’Eriq King will not change the Hurricanes’ fortune. The game will be free-flowing and open, but the overwhelming talent of the Crimson Tide will be able to subdue Miami, even in its home stadium.

Also, do not forget that Alabama has one of the most highly-touted QB prospects ever in Bryce Young making his debut in this game; pro-Miami bettors will have to hope that his inexperience on the big stage will slow down Bama’s offense, but even if it does, their defense is strong enough to bail them out.

#5 Georgia Gets Exposed by #3 Clemson

The post-Trevor Lawrence era is firmly upon Clemson, who will be starting D.J. Uiagalelei under center. Georgia QB, JT Daniels, has had his name thrown around in the preseason Heisman nominations, but he does not have an amazing body of work behind him.

Georgia has gotten so much hype that many are wondering if they can compete with Alabama for the Southeastern Conference title— the simple answer is that no, they will not, and they will drop their opener to a Clemson team that is flying slightly under the radar now that Lawrence has departed. Watch for Clemson to win by double-digits as they beat the spread and show that they are the same powerhouse that they have been in recent years.

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It’s always fun to once again have college football games to watch and wager on every weekend, and while last weekend was fun, it’s this full slate of games for Week 1 that has us all excited. There really is nothing quite like the excitement of the college football season, with almost zero margin for error for any team that thinks they have a shot at making it to the playoffs and winning the National Championship. This weekend is just the first step in what will be a long journey for the team that will eventually go on and hoist the trophy. The NCAA Football National Championship Odds are probably going to change from week to week as dark horses rise and favorites fall, so now is the perfect time to take a look at the current favorites sitting atop the bookies board.

Updated Odds to Win the 2022-23 National Championship Title | College Football Betting Analysis

Alabama Crimson Tide (+190)

You know that expectations are high when losing in the National Championship Game is considered to be a disappointment. That is what happened with the Alabama Crimson Tide last season, and expectations are once again through the roof, as they are coming into the season as the favorite to win it all. Given the current state of the SEC West, you have to think that Bama is the favorite to go to the Conference Championship Game, which should put them in playoff position.

Ohio State Buckeyes (+300)

The talking heads on TV are already talking about who they like to win the National Championship this season, with many of them looking at the Ohio State Buckeyes. It will be interesting to see what this team does after losing to Michigan last season and missing out on a trip to the Big Ten Conference Championship Game, as well as the playoffs. This is a team hell bent on getting some redemption.

Georgia Bulldogs (+320)

It took 42 years for the Georgia Bulldogs to get back to the top of the heap in college football, but I don’t think we are going to need to wait that long to see it happen again. While I think the Bulldogs are going to be very good again this season, they have a lot of new players coming into the fold this season, which is what tends to happen when you win a championship and send a ton of players to the NFL draft. The Bulldogs are the class of the SEC East, so I would certainly like them to get back to the Conference Championship Game again. Whether that also means a playoff spot and a potential repeat remains to be seen.

Clemson Tigers (+1100)

You could certainly argue that last season was a nightmare for the Clemson Tigers, who looked very poor at times. The question now is whether that season was a one off or whether we are in for more of the same. The good news for the Tigers is that they are in the ACC, which is certainly not the strongest of the Power 5 conferences, so you have to like their chances of bouncing back. Whether that translates to a playoff spot and a national title remains to be seen.

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Week 1 of the College Football season is upon us. After a few games last weekend, Week 1 will present us with a full slate of games. While the betting public got a taste of college football action last weekend, they’ll get a full meal this weekend. In looking at the slate of games, we’ve found a few games that we really like, and we think that we have found three sure-fire winners for you to bet on. Let’s take a look at three games, and we’ll give you our winning College Football Betting picks for each of those games. Good luck with your bets this season!

Sure-Fire Winners For Week 1 of the 2022 College Football Season

Utah Utes (-2.5) @ Florida Gators

The Utah Utes are one of the best-kept secrets in the country. Kyle Whittingham’s squad won 9 of its last ten games last season and nearly beat Ohio State in the Rose Bowl. Utah is the favorite to win the Pac-12 title this season.

Quarterback Cam Rising returns this season, as does a good portion of his offense. They’ll be going up against a Florida defense that gave up nearly 30 points per game last season. With Billy Napier now at the helm, things will look different for a Florida program that Dan Mullen couldn’t fix.

Even though Florida is an SEC school, and the game will be played at “The Swamp,” we feel that Utah is the better team, and they’ll beat Florida, covering the spread in the process.

West Virginia Mountaineers @ Pittsburgh Panthers (-7)

This will be the first time since 2011 that these two teams will meet in the “Backyard Brawl.” Pittsburgh is coming off of an ACC title, while West Virginia is looking to get back to where they were just a few short years ago.

Pitt is coming off of a great 2021, but they’ll have a lot of pieces to replace, including Kenny Pickett. West Virginia has struggled the past three seasons, but with transfer JT Daniels under center, the Mountaineers should be improved.

With all of that being said, we like Pittsburgh in this one. They have the more talented team, and they will be prepared for the Mountaineers.

Cincinnati Bearcats @ Arkansas Razorbacks (-7)

In the past, the Arkansas Razorbacks have opened up their season with some fairly easy games. Now that they’re in the upper echelon of the SEC, things are changing. Sam Pittman decided that his team needed a big challenge to start the season, and they’re getting one in the Cincinnati Bearcats.

Luke Fickell’s squad became the first non-Power five school to make the College Football Playoffs last season. They had a very respectable showing against Alabama. They lost some key pieces, including Sauce Gardner and Desmond Ridder, but they’re still very talented.

Unfortunately for Arkansas, they’re in the SEC West with Alabama. In all likelihood, they’re probably the second-best team in that division. While Cincinnati will give them a big challenge, we like the Hogs to win by 10 points.

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Technically, the 2021 college football schedule starts on Saturday, Aug. 28 with five games – but that’s officially Week Zero on the schedule. Here’s a look at three games the following week and the best value bets on the NCAAF odds.

NCAAF 2021 | Games of Week 1

Sept. 3: North Carolina at Virginia Tech (+5.5>)

The Tar Heels bring back arguably the nation’s top quarterback and potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 draft in Sam Howell. After tossing an FBS true freshman record 38 touchdowns in 2019, the Indian Trail, N.C. native led the ACC and ranked sixth nationally with 30 touchdown passes in 2020. Additionally, Howell ranked fourth in the country and topped the league with 3,586 passing yards last fall in helping lead the Tar Heels to the Orange Bowl for the first time in program history. His 68 career passing touchdowns are tied for the most in UNC history and the most ever by an ACC quarterback through a sophomore year. Howell has been named Preseason ACC Player of the Year and All-American. Hokies coach Justin Fuente enters on the hot seat. After a sparkling debut in 2016 that saw the Hokies win 10 games and a Coastal Division title, the program’s won-loss record screams of a decline. Fuente is just 19-18 the past three years. Last season’s 5-6 mark was his second losing record in that span. Last year, the Heels beat the visiting Hokies 56-45 in a wild game. UNC rushed for a whopping 399 yards. Howell had three TD passes. Pick: North Carolina.

Sept. 3: Michigan State at Northwestern (-3.5)

Bit hard to believe the Wildcats are just 3.5-point favorites. The made the Big Ten title game last year and gave Ohio State a tough game before losing. Northwestern finished 7-2 with a 35-19 domination of Auburn in the Citrus Bowl. Michigan State was pretty awful in a 2-5 season under then-first-year coach Mel Tucker and the Spartans are rebuilding a bit. That said, Sparty did upset Northwestern 29-20 last year. The Wildcats’ Brandon Joseph could be the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2021. He was first-team All-American last year and first-team Big Ten and Big Ten Newcomer of the Year as a freshman. It’s still not clear who Northwestern will start at quarterback with Peyton Ramsey transferring. South Carolina transfer Ryan Hilinski likely will get the job. At South Carolina, Hilinski started 11 games for the Gamecocks, passing for 2,357 yards and 11 touchdowns to only five interceptions. Pick: Northwestern.

Sept. 4: Syracuse at Ohio (+1)

Not often you see a Power 5 team like Syracuse visit a Mid-American Conference school – must less be only a 1-point favorite. It’s definitely a make-or-break season for Syracuse coach Dino Babers. He signed a contract extension following the team’s 10-3 campaign in 2018 but things have crashed since with the Orange going 1-10 last year. The problem for the Orange has been offense as Syracuse ranked No. 125 out of 127 teams in the country in yards per game last season. Part of the issue was a lack of experience and depth notably after quarterback Tommy DeVito suffered an early season-ending injury. Ohio will have a new head coach with Frank Solich retired just last month in a surprise. Solich, 76, left as the winningest coach in Mid-American Conference history after leading the Bobcats to a 115-82 record over 16 seasons. Solich was replaced by offensive coordinator Tim Albin, who has agreed to a four-year contract. Pick: Syracuse.

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With the calendar about to turn over into the month of July, we are now just a couple of months away from the start of the college football season. We are more than likely going to see fans back in the stadiums this season, but the biggest changes in the sport may be just around the corner. The common belief is that this will be the last season in which we see the current 4-team playoff, as the NCAA is now looking to a 12-team postseason, which almost everyone seems to be on board with. We are, though, getting a little ahead of ourselves, as our focus is on the upcoming season. While the O/U odds for Week 1 have yet to be released, we are going to look at a few of the bigger matchups of the opening weekend to see if they will be on the high or low end of the scoring scale. Let’s jump right into action so you can plan your bets against their NCAAF odds.

Best over and under picks for the 2021 College Football Week 1

Penn State Nittany Lions Vs Wisconsin Badgers

It is always tough to pick how things might go in the opening week of the new season, but it is tougher still when you have teams coming off limited seasons in 2020. College lineups change from year to year, but there are usually enough returning players to help you grasp how things might go. That said, with a small sample size of games from last season, there is a lot of guessing going on. Penn State finished out the season by averaging about 36 PPG over their final 4 games of the season, but they will be going against a Wisconsin team that has seen games fall on the lower end in scoring. I think we could be looking at a stalemate here and a potential Under.

Alabama Crimson Tide Vs Miami Hurricanes

This is a fantastic Week 1 matchup between a pair of big names in college football. Alabama have been an absolute wrecking ball with Nick Saban as their head coach, while the Hurricanes have spent the last few seasons trying to get back to former glories, with limited success. Looking at last season, the Crimson Tide skewed towards the Over, going 7-5-1 O/U. It was much the same story for the Hurricanes, who ended the season seeing 6 of their 11 games going over the point total. This is one where I would be leaning towards the Over.

Georgia Bulldogs Vs Clemson Tigers

You are probably not going to get a lot of arguments if you come out and declare this as the matchup of the week. You see this and you automatically assume that we are looking at a lot of points hitting the board, but there are a couple of things to consider. The Georgia Bulldogs have had one of the best defenses in the league during the Kirby Smart era, while the Tigers will be adapting to life without Trevor Lawrence under center. On the flipside, the Bulldogs recruited some major offensive weapons, while Clemson believes that they have a QB who can jump right in and perform at a high level. It might be wise to go with the Over after all.

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The NCAA College Football Season Week 1 starts on Saturday, August 27 and ends on Monday, September 5. Most of the top teams are in action in the first week. Only some of the best teams play an opponent that will give them a game. Check out a list of the ten best games happening during the NCAAF’s first week so you can get ready to bet against their College Football Lines.

Early Ranking of the Ten Best Games in Week 1 of the 2022 College Football Season

NCAA College Football Week 1

When: Saturday, Aug. 27 – Monday, Sep. 5

Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Ohio State Buckeyes

Most expect Buckeye quarterback C.J. Stroud to lead this season’s top offense. Stroud is a Heisman Trophy contender for sure.

In week 1, Stroud and Ohio State’s offense faces what should be one of the best defenses in college football. New Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman developed the Fighting Irish’s defense. ND versus OSU should be epic.

Cincinnati Bearcats at Arkansas Razorbacks

Arkansas quarterback K.J. Jefferson returns and so do enough players along his offensive line for the Razorbacks to have a terrific rushing attack.

The Cincinnati Bearcats lost good players from last season’s CFP team. But coach Luke Fickell reloaded well. So Cincy will bring it in this.

Utah Utes at Florida Gators

Many expect Utah to finish in second-place in the Pac-12 behind the USC Trojans. The Utes believe that even though they lost players like linebacker Devin Lloyd, they’re a top 10 team.

Florida’s new head coach, Billy Napier, has recruited well and convinced talented players to transfer to The Swamp. The winner of Florida versus Utah could have an excellent season.

Florida State Seminoles vs LSU Tigers

Brian Kelly and the Tigers from Baton Rouge have garnered plenty of action in Vegas to win the SEC and make it to the College Football Playoff. On paper, LSU doesn’t have the talent to do either.

Florida State should take the next step this season. The Seminoles played their way back to respectability last season. This season, the Seminoles have their eyes on an ACC Championship bid.

Oregon Ducks vs Georgia Bulldogs

It will be interesting to see how well UGA plays after losing 8 starters on their defense from last season’s National Championship squad. It will also be interesting to see if Dan Lanning, Georgia’s defensive coordinator from last season and Oregon’s HC, creates a strategy to temper the Dawgs’ offense.

Penn State Nittany Lions at Purdue Boilermakers

Both Big Ten teams believe they’re being disrespected heading into the season. Nobody has said much of anything about Purdue.

College football analysts believe Penn State is competitive but doesn’t touch Wisconsin, Michigan, or Ohio State. The Nittany Lions and Boilermakers will play with something to prove.

West Virginia Mountaineers at Pittsburgh Panthers

West Virginia shouldn’t be a good team. But in this game, the Mountaineers may have a chance. Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett is now a Pittsburgh Steeler.

Biletnikoff award winner Jordan Addison transferred to USC. Pittsburgh may fall off big time this season without those two. This game should let us know if it’s likely to happen.

Colorado State Rams at Michigan Wolverines

Coach Jim Harbaugh had better switch gears from thinking about politics and start preparing the Michigan Wolverines to take on the Rams in NCAAF Week 1.

The Rams are no joke. Colorado State returns 6 seniors and 2 juniors on offense. On defense, the Rams return 7 seniors and a junior.

Arizona Wildcats at San Diego State Aztecs

Arizona won a single game last season. So no wonder San Diego State is a huge favorite. The Aztecs are a solid club and should win this game, no doubt.

But coach Jedd Fisch brought in the greatest recruiting class in Arizona Wildcats history. Zona should be competitive in this game.

Boise State Broncos at Oregon State Beavers

Boise boasts 9 seniors and 2 juniors on offense. Oregon State starts 5 seniors and 5 juniors on defense. Something must give in this game.

If the Broncos easily handle the Beavers, we should put Boise State on the short list of non-Power 5 Conference teams that can grab a New Year’s Day Bowl bid.

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In just over two weeks, we’ll see the start of the College Football season. In taking a look at Week 1’s games, we’ve found a few sleeper picks that you may like. Let’s take a look at those Week 1 Games so you can plan your bets and place them against the NCAA Football Odds.

Sleeper Picks for Week 1 of the College Football 2022 Season

Utah Utes @ Florida Gators

Now, we’re not sure that many would consider Utah a sleeper pick, but we’re going to. Yes, they’re currently favored by 2.5 points, but they are traveling across the country to an SEC school. Expectations are very high for a Utah squad that has a great shot at winning the Pac-12. However, the Pac-12 isn’t a dominant conference, and we really aren’t sure how good Utah is.

The Florida Gators program has been a mess the last few seasons. Dan Mullen was let go, and Billy Napier stepped in to try and get the Gators back on track. Florida will have a talented roster, but will they be good enough to beat Utah? This will be at “The Swamp”, and with a raucous home crowd, things could get tough for the Utes.

Utah has the better team, and they’ll be ready for everything Florida throws at them. Many experts have said to take Florida and the points, but we like Utah.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Ohio State Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes are expected to be a playoff team this season. Ryan Day’s squad should have one of the top offenses in the country, led by Heisman candidate CJ Stroud. With a new defensive coordinator at the helm, many are expecting the Buckeyes’ weakness to be fixed, and they’ll be one of the best teams in the country.

In Week 1, we’ll have a great scene in Columbus as the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame come to town. Marcus Freeman will be making his head coaching debut in this one, and the defensive guru will have a plan to slow down OSU’s powerful offense.

Things didn’t start off well for Ohio State last season, as Oregon came into Columbus and upset the favored Buckeyes. While we don’t see Notre Dame beating Oregon, we think the 15.5-point dogs will cover the spread. Go with the Irish in this one.

Cincinnati Bearcats @ Arkansas Razorbacks

What a run the Bearcats had last season. They were the first non-Power 5 school to make it to the College Football Playoffs, and they played well against Alabama. After some key losses, the Bearcats are back, and they are starting the season off with a very hard game.

Sam Pittman has done a great job of bringing the Razorbacks program back to prominence. Arkansas should be one of the top teams in the SEC again this season. They’ll welcome the Bearcats to Fayetteville to open up the season.

Luke Fickell always seems to have his team ready for big games, and this one will be no exception. The Hogs are favored by seven, but we’re going with the Bearcats in this one. We think Arkansas wins by a field goal, but Cincinnati makes another great showing.

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College Football Week 1 starts on Wednesday, Sep. 1 and runs through Monday, Sep. 6. Sunday’s Florida State versus Notre Dame contest and Monday’s Mississippi versus Louisville match made our list of must bet college football games. Our first game happens on Friday, Sep. 3, when Duke travels to Charlotte. Check out NCAAF odds, analysis, and free picks for must bet matchups in College Football Week 1.

College Football Week 1 Games to Definitely Bet On

Duke vs Charlotte +6 ½

When: Friday, Sep. 3

Both teams are loaded with juniors and seniors. But there are differences. Duke won a couple of games last season. Charlotte also won 2, but the 49ers played 6 total. Don’t be surprised if Charlotte wins this straight up.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Charlotte

Michigan State vs Northwestern -3

When: Friday, Sep. 3

Michigan State’s program is a mess. So even though Northwestern must replace players on offense and most of their defense, the Wildcats should cover. Sparty could be one of the worst teams in the Big Ten this season.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Northwestern

Stanford +115 vs Kansas State

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

We’re playing the moneyline. Kansas State is a solid Big 12 program. But Stanford coach David Shaw will start senior Jack West. Like so many other Cardinal quarterbacks, West has spent most of his college career learning Shaw’s system. When Shaw has an experienced quarterback to play behind what’s always a top offensive line, Stanford rocks.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Stanford

West Virginia -3 vs Maryland

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

For the Terps, everything rests on Tua’s younger brother, Taulia Tagovailoa. If the offensive line can protect the junior, Maryland will be a decent team. But although Tagovailoa has the chance to have a good season, he’ll fail versus the Mountaineers’ defense. West Virginia’s defense ranked ninth in passing yards and fifth in total yards allowed per game. Most of those defenders return.

College Football Week 1 Pick: West Virginia

Miami OH vs Cincinnati -23

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

The Bearcats have a real shot to be the first team from the American Athletic Conference to grab a College Football Playoff bid. Cincinnati lost few players from 2020’s undefeated regular season squad. Cincy easily covers the big spread versus an overmatched Redhawks team.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Cincinnati

Louisiana Tech +23 ½ vs Mississippi State

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

The thinking is that Mike Leach’s Mississippi State team improves this season because his players will have a better grasp of the offense. The problem is that coaches going from other conferences to the SEC almost never succeed. When it comes to this game, there’s a chance LA Tech has more overall talent than Miss State. Taking the points.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Louisiana Tech

Oregon State vs Purdue -7

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

Oregon State should be a bad team. The Beavers won’t be the worst team in the Pac-12. That distinction will go to the Arizona Wildcats. But Oregon State will find it difficult to keep it close against a decent Purdue team on the road. Boilermakers cover.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Purdue

Syracuse vs Ohio +105

When: Saturday, Sep. 4

Here’s another moneyline play. Syracuse won a single game last season. Ohio won 2-of-3 in 2020. The Bobcats’ defense is loaded with juniors and seniors. Ohio should be the favorite in this. Because this happens in the Bobcats’ stadium, they’re the SU play.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Ohio

Notre Dame vs Florida State +7 ½

When: Sunday, Sep. 5

In his first season as head coach of the Florida State Seminoles, Mike Norvell went 3-6. The former HC at Memphis recruited well and will now send those recruits to the field. It won’t lead to an unbelievable season, but FSU could grab a bowl bid. They could also keep this closer than the 7 ½ points.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Florida State

Louisville vs Ole Miss -9 ½

When: Monday, Sep. 6

Mississippi has no excuses. Lane Kiffin’s squad should rout the Louisville Cardinals. Rebels’ starting quarterback Matt Corral is a legit Heisman Trophy contender and the defense will be much improved. Kiffin thinks Ole Miss can challenge Alabama, Auburn, LSU, and Texas A&M in the loaded SEC West. If so, the Rebels should have no trouble covering versus Louisville.

College Football Week 1 Pick: Ole Miss

College Football Betting News

 

 

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While the 2019 college football season technically kicked off last Saturday with two games, but that was Week 0 and really just an appetizer. The season really begins this week with nearly every team in action either Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday – yep, there’s a Sunday game with no NFL on the schedule. We will have plenty of individual previews this week, but here’s two games that caught my eye with college football odds.

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds, Overview & Picks

Georgia Tech at No. 1 Clemson (-35.5)

It’s the first time Clemson takes the field since Jan. 7 when it trashed top-ranked Alabama 44-16 to win the school’s second national title in three years. It was also the worst loss ever for the Tide under Nick Saban. Clemson opens this year at No. 1 in the polls, the favorite to win another title and with the Heisman favorite in QB Trevor Lawrence.

This will be the first game for new Georgia Tech head coach Geoff Collins. Long-time Jackets coach Paul Johnson retired after last season and took his antiquated option offense with him. Collins came to Georgia Tech after recording 15 wins in two seasons as head coach at Temple. He returns to The Flats after having previously served as a graduate assistant, tight ends coach and director of player personnel at Tech. He also was a successful defensive coordinator at Florida and Mississippi State before taking the Temple job.

The ACC Network just launched last Thursday and this will be the first college football game on the ESPN-affiliated channel. Dave O’Brien and Tim Hasselbeck will call the game sideline reporters Katie George and ESPN’s Maria Taylor for the first league game of the season. ESPN College GameDay will also be live from Clemson.

The Tech-Clemson series is one of the oldest in the ACC, one that well predates the conference’s founding in 1953. It’s clearly a matchup that the conference believes can drive interest and viewership. However, this series has been heavily one-sided of late. Clemson has overpowered the Yellow Jackets as it has much of the rest of the ACC. The Tigers have won the past four games by an average of 20 points. The Tigers rolled 49-21 last year.

After starter Kelly Bryant produced just 13 yards and one first down on Clemson’s first two possessions, Lawrence entered the game early in the second quarter. He finished 13-for-18 for 176 yards and four touchdowns and a legend was born. Lawrence never came off the bench again and Bryant would transfer.

Not likely the Tigers lose this game considering the are 29-1 in their past 30 at home.

No. 19 Wisconsin at South Florida (+13.5)

When: Friday, 7 PM ET

Don’t rule out an upset here as USF has some talent and it’s very hot and humid this time of year in the Tampa area, so that could affect the Badgers players – although obviously this being at night instead of during the day helps.

The Badgers have a legit Heisman candidate and arguably the nation’s top running back in Jonathan Taylor. Last year, he became Wisconsin’s fourth Doak Walker Award winner, joining Ron Dayne (1999), Montee Ball (2012) and Melvin Gordon (2014). Taylor also was the Badgers’ 10th unanimous All-American, including the third running back (Dayne, 1999; Gordon, 2014). He led nation in rushing as a sophomore in 2018 with 2,194 yards (168.8 ypg). Taylor’s total of 4,171 rushing yards ranks as the third-highest two-year rushing total by a player in FBS history.

Should be Jack Coan at quarterback for UW, although he had a tough battle through camp and nothing has been announced as of this writing. Last year he took over late for Alex Hornibrook and Coan started four games. He went 2-2, winning consecutive starts to end the season. Coan completed 60.2% (56 of 93) passes for 515 yards and 5 touchdowns.

USF started last year 7-0 and was ranked … and then didn’t win again in a stunning collapse. The Bulls bring back starting QB Blake Barnett, a former top recruit at Alabama. Barnett led USF to three double-digit fourth quarter comebacks in his first season on the field for the Bulls. He ranked 27th nationally passing for 245.9 yards per game, the second-best season average in USF history. Barnett had 3,011 total yards (273.7 ypg, 25th nationally), the ninth-best mark in program history, and was on pace for the program’s first ever 3,000-yard passing season before being sidelined by injuries in two of the Bulls’ final three games.

Leading rusher Jordan Cronkrite also returns. He posted the ninth 1,000-yard rushing season in program history (the fifth player to do so) with 1,121 yards on 184 attempts (6.1 ypc) and team-leading nine touchdown runs in 12 games (11 starts) in 2018.

Expert 2019 College Football Week 1 Betting Picks

Neither underdog will win but both cover.

Other Top College Football Week 1 Games

 

 

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The 2019-2020 College Football Season is just around the corner. What games in Week 1 should college gridiron handicappers keep an eye on? Check out the complete betting guide for College Football Week 1! And be sure to check out the College Football odds for Week 1!

2019 College Football Week 1 Complete Betting Guide

When: August 24 – September 2

Saturday, August 24

Florida vs Miami FL

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Florida -7 ½

Former defensive coordinator Manny Diaz takes over the Miami-FL program as head coach. In Week 1, Diaz has his work cut out for him. The Florida Gators are stacked. Expect the odds to rise in this one with the Gators offering -8 ½ if not -9.

Thursday, August 29

UCLA vs Cincinnati

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: nnati beat the Bruins 26-17 last year. UCLA will be looking for revenge. The spread should remain tight with it possibly falling to -2 ½, or even -2.

Georgia Tech vs Clemson

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Clemson -33 ½

Clemson is the defending National Champions. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence could dominate the Yellow Jackets. The Tigers only beat Georgia Tech 49-21 last year. The spread is fair although G-Tech averaged 325 rushing yards, which means they could hang in this.

Utah vs BYU

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Utah -6

Utah could make a statemen in this battle. The Utes return players on both offense and defense. In fact, they had only 9 senior starters last season. 2 of the 9 were kickers. The Utes are loaded.

Friday, August 30

Wisconsin vs South Florida

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Wisconsin -10 ½

Badgers-Bulls might be the most interesting matchup in College Football Week 1. Wisconsin had a down year considering many projected them to go undefeated. The Badgers could continue because coach Paul Chryst must replace the entire offensive line.

Charlie Strong coached South Florida to a fantastic 7-0 start. The Bulls lost their last 6 games. Strong’s team should be better on defense in 2019 than they were in 2018 when they allowed 32 points per game.

Oklahoma State vs Oregon State

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Oklahoma State -16 ½

Oregon State should be one of the worst teams in the Big 5 Conferences again. The Beavers aren’t very good. Why does this game show up on the list? Oklahoma State has a chance to win the Big 12. Redshirt freshman quarterback Spencer Sanders should light up the conference behind an offensive line that returns 3 starters: Marcus Keyes, Johnny Wilson, and Teven Jenkins.

Saturday, August 31

Florida Atlantic vs Ohio State

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Ohio State -27 ½

Urban Meyer retired, but he didn’t leave the Ohio State Buckeyes in the lurch. Ohio State has talent everywhere, including at quarterback where Georgia transfer Justin Fields replaces NFL first round pick Dwayne Haskins. But, the talent must come together and we can legitimately question Ohio State’s offensive line.

FAU coach Lane Kiffin landed former Florida State starter Deondre Francois to play quarterback. Kiffin remains a brilliant offensive strategist. It will be interesting to see how well Francois plays against the Buckeyes’ defense.

Duke vs Alabama

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Alabama -31 ½

Duke will lose this game, especially after quarterback Daniel Jones went to the NFL. The real reason to keep this game on your radar is because of the points, Alabama doesn’t always cover gigantic spreads, and to see how well Bama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa plays.

Tagovailoa is the co-Heisman Trophy favorite with Trevor Lawrence at +250. Tua is also the favorite to be the first player drafted at the 2020 NFL Draft. His odds there are -140. If Tua lights up Duke, Alabama’s +200 odds to win the National Championship could take a major hit.

If you like Bama to win it all, back them as soon as you can.

Boise State vs Florida State

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Florida State -4

FSU coach Willie Taggert pressed the reset button after a disastrous 5-7 2018. Taggert has a new coaching staff. There will be new players at almost every position on offense. Boise State hasn’t named a starting quarterback. They won’t until mid-August. However, the Broncos return all 5 starters along the offensive line. Right now, they’re an overlay against the Seminoles at +4.

Oregon vs Auburn

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Auburn -2 ½

This game takes place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. It’s interesting that the oddsmakers have made Auburn a -2 ½ favorite even though on paper the Ducks are a College Football Playoff contender. No doubt, this is the most important game in College Football Week 1.

Oregon has a legit NFL first pick type player in quarterback Justin Herbert while the Auburn Tigers expect to contend for the SEC. Auburn might have the best defensive line in the nation. How Herbert handles it could determine who wins this one straight up.

Sunday, September 1

Houston vs Oklahoma

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Oklahoma -26

The reason to pay attention to this matchup? Has Oklahoma found a player to replace Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Kyler Murray? Oklahoma should dominate Houston because the Cougars must overhaul what was a bad defense last season. How the Sooners dominate is the real question.

Monday, September 2

Notre Dame vs Louisville

2019 College Football Week 1 Odds: Notre Dame -19 ½

Louisville was awful in 2018. Although they should eventually be more competitive under former Appalachian State coach Scott Satterfield, they won’t be competitive in Week 1. Notre Dame, with second-year starter Ian Book under center, should dominate the Cardinals.

Hyped teams will offer underlay odds

Ohio State is favored by 34 ½ points over Florida Atlantic. UCLA is only a +3 ½ dog versus Cincinnati. Both the Buckeyes and Bruins are garnering plenty of hype heading into Week 1. But, do either deserve the attention they’re getting?

Ohio State went through a myriad of changes, including the great Urban Meyer retiring, and losing the best quarterback they may have ever had in Dwayne Haskins to the NFL. Oh, yes, top defensive player Nick Bosa also went pro.

UCLA is getting hype because this is Chip Kelly’s second season at the helm. Kelly’s teams often get better in season two. However, UCLA doesn’t appear much better on paper this season than they were last season.

That doesn’t mean that if you do your handicapping and believe Ohio State is a great bet at -34 ½, or UCLA is a good bet at +3 ½, you shouldn’t wager on both those teams. It just means that you must beware hyped squads in Week 1.

The thing to remember is that not all hyped teams translate their spring and summer form into their first competitive game. There’s turnover in college. It can take a few weeks for a hyped squad to get its feet underneath it.

Big 5 Conference teams, no matter who they are, are always overvalued in Week 1

Is Indiana really 16 ½ points better than Ball State? How about Illinois being 16 points better than Akron? Or, Nebraska giving South Alabama 34 ½ points? Ball State, Nebraska, and Illinois have yet to prove that they can dominate on the football field. None of those three teams are known as weekly against the spread locks yet all three are giving up a lot of points against the spread in Week 1.

It doesn’t mean that those three teams won’t cover. It means that if you want to back any mediocre or unproven Big 5 Conference teams in Week 1 over a non-power conference squad to cover, you had better do your homework.

Consider backing dogs on the moneyline once odds are set

Every season, great moneyline odds exist in Week 1 matchups. Why? Oddsmakers, players, teams, fans, nobody, has a real idea of how teams will perform until they perform. Case in point? How is Florida State a -4 favorite over Boise State? FSU had a terrible season, Boise State is pretty much a power conference squad, and it’s hard to find where the Seminoles are better than the Broncos at any position.

Auburn is -3 over Oregon. The game takes place on a neutral field while Oregon has a legit Heisman Trophy contender at quarterback in Justin Herbert. Right now, we don’t know if Auburn is any better than Oregon.

We don’t know if Florida State is any better than Boise State. After Week 1, oddsmakers will have a much better idea. That means if want to make a few bucks on the moneyline, we had better pick a couple of moneyline wagers to make in Week 1.

 

 

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The college football offseason always feels a little too long, but we are now just a couple of months away from the start of what should be another great year. In the weeks leading up to the Week 1 kick-off, we will have all manner of different articles and predictions to help you get ready for the madness that is sure to follow.

Today, we are going to take a look at the opening week of the 2017 NCAAF season by looking at some of the top games on tap. With the introduction of the playoff system, the days of starting the season with games against punching bag opponents are gone, which means we have some excellent games to wager on in Week 1. Let’s take a quick look at some of the best NCAAF betting games that are going to be available.

Analyzing The Complete Betting Guide & Favorites For 2017 NCAAF Week 1

Alabama Crimson Tide Vs Florida State Seminoles

Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are sure to still be reeling after losing the National Championship Game to Clemson last season in a game that was an instant classic.

I’m sure that is something that they will shake off very quickly once they get back on the field, and they are going to need to, as they will be heading to Georgia to face the Florida State Seminoles in a neutral field game. These are possible two of the best teams in the country, so we should be in for a treat here.

Florida Gators Vs Michigan Wolverines

The Wolverines are sure to be coming into this season with a chip on their shoulder, as they still feel that they got the wrong end of the stick in their game versus Ohio State.

They will have the opportunity to make an immediate statement in Week 1 if they can take down the Florida Gators in a neutral field game that will be held in Arlington. Florida are going to have a tough time defending the SEC East this season, and a win here would be a real confidence builder.

Virginia Tech Hokies Vs West Virginia Mountaineers

These two teams will start the season in the top 25, and whether they go up or down will likely depend on how quickly their new QB’s adapt to life in the starting role.

The Mountaineers have been a team that has been consistently good on the offensive side of the football, so you imagine that they will be able to handle the change, but they are going to be seriously tested against a very good Virginia Tech team. These two may not be huge names in college football, but this is going to be a game worth watching.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Vs Tennessee Volunteers

This game is going to be all about seeing how these two teams respond after down years. There was an awful lot of hype surrounding Tennessee last season, and it’s fair to say that they never came anywhere close to living up to it.

They have lost a lot of their best talent to the NFL, and could be in some serious trouble this year, especially if they get off to a poor start against a Yellow Jackets team who were poor last season. This game features a pair of coaches who could quickly find themselves on the hot seat if things don’t get better this year. Ann awful lot of pressure on both teams in this one.

Western Michigan Broncos Vs USC Trojans

It wasn’t so very long ago that we would have looked at this match-up as being totally one-sided in the favor of the Trojans. USC are clawing their way back after numerous NCAAF violations, and there are a lot of college football fans who believe that this might be their year to get back in the spotlight.

They will start their season with a game against the Western Michigan Broncos, a team that managed to go unbeaten before losing a close one to Wisconsin in the Cotton Bowl. This is a game that USC would be expected to win, but it may well be a great battle.

 

 

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Can the perennially powerful Alabama Crimson Tide overcome their championship game loss against Clemson to reach the four-team playoff again in 2017? Will the Florida State Seminoles hand the Tide a loss when the two title hopefuls meet in their huge Week 1 showdown?

Can Penn State and Stanford cover the NCAAF betting spread as whopping double-digit favorites against their lesser Week 1 opponents? The start of the 2017 NCAA college football season may still be months away from getting underway, but if you’re looking to get your new betting campaign off to a positive start, then you’ve clearly come to the right place as I offer up a quartet of expert Week 1 picks that are sure to please.

In Depth Analysis On The 2017 College Football Picks And Week 1 Predictions

Stanford vs. Rice

When: Saturday, August 26, 2017 at 10:00 PM ET
Where: Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia
TV: ESPN
NCAAF Odds: Stanford -33.5

Analysis: The Rice Owls went 3-9 last season and has absolutely no chance of pulling off the upset win against the Stanford Cardinal in their opener in Australia, but I’m going to urge you to back the Owls to cover the spread simply because Stanford doesn’t have the most explosive offense around – not to mention the fact that they failed to cover as nearly identical 34-point underdogs against Rice last season.

Pick: Rice Owls +33.5 Points

Akron vs. Penn State

When: Saturday, September 2 at 12:00 PM ET
Where: Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA
TV: ESPN
NCAAF Odds: Penn State -35

Analysis: I love Penn State running back Saquon Barkley and quarterback Trace McSorley and I believe both are primed for huge Heisman Trophy-contending seasons in 2017, but I just don’t see the Nittany Lions covering the spread as five touchdown favorites, seeing as how they’ve gone 0-4 ATS in their last four games as a favorite between 33.5 and 35 points.

Pick: Akron +35 Points

Louisville vs. Purdue

When: Saturday, September 2, 7:30 PM ET
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana
TV: FOX
NCAAF Odds: Louisville -23.5

Analysis: Louisville and Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Lamar Jackson are the easy pick to win and cash in as three-touchdown-plus home faves in Week 1 against a Purdue team that went 3-9 last season. Not only does Louisville have an unstoppable quarterback in Jackson and one of the most explosive offenses around, but the Cardinals are 3-1 ATS in their last four games as a favorite of 22 or 23 points.

Pick: Louisville -23 Points

Florida State vs. Alabama

When: Saturday, September 2 at 7:00 PM ET
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
TV: ABC
NCAAF Odds: Alabama -6.5

Analysis: The Alabama Crimson Tide and Florida State Seminoles will square off in the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Classic in a matchup featuring two of the best young quarterbacks in the nation in Florida State signal-caller Deondre Francois and Alabama star Jalen Hurts.

The Noles went 10-3 SU and 804 ATS last season and fell just short of reaching the four-team CFB Playoff while Alabama went 14-1 SU and and made it the national championship game before falling to Deshaun Watson and the Clemson Tigers 35-31.

For this huge Week 1 showdown, I’m going to urge you to back Florida State to, not only cover the spread as near touchdown underdogs, but do so by winning outright. Alabama lost a ton of talent on the defensive side of the ball and I believe that Florida State now has a great blueprint on how to beat the Tide, thanks to Watson and Clemson’s title game win to cap off the 2016 season.

Deondre Francois was fantastic as a freshman last season in completing 58.8 percent of his passes for 3,350 yards with 20 TD passes and a modest seven interceptions. More importantly, Florida State has gone 3-0 ATS in their last three games as an underdog of 6.5 points or less.

 

 

Previous Betting News

If there’s one thing you should know about the early season college football predictions, it is that the preseason USA Today and AP Top 25 Polls are usually meaningless in the grand scheme of playoff contention. The only poll you should be concerned about is the college football playoff committee poll that is released around midseason. You need justifications? Just take a look at how the #18-ranked Auburn Tigers of 2015 choked up and disappointed mightily last season. Or better yet, see how your overhyped 2016 playoff favorites (Hello Oklahoma and LSU) couldn’t even go past Week 1 without losses, or how some of them luckily escaped with undeserved wins (Yes, I am talking about you Tennessee).

But, as always, some of the top teams will perennially remain in the thick of things, come what may. Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide are a good example of that, with Urban Meyer’s Ohio State Buckeyes following closely. A lot can change in the course of the season, especially with injuries and suspensions being a commonality in the league, but as things stand, here is our updated look at the top 2016-17 college football playoff risers, fallers and darkhorses based on the results from Week 1. Note that we won’t be talking about obvious candidates such as Alabama, Clemson, Ohio State, Florida State, Michigan and Stanford, who’ve—in no particular order—maintained more-or-less the same placements atop the CFP race.

College Football Playoff Risers, Fallers, Darkhorses After Week 1

 

College Football Playoff Risers

Biggest Riser: Houston Cougars

Let’s not repeat the obvious, folks. I mean, you’ve heard about Greg Ward Jr., the offensive juggernaut in Houston’s offense and how he launched 17 TD passes and broke the plane of the end zone 21 times for a total of 38 touchdowns last season. You also witnessed the manner in which Ward and the Houston Cougars outplayed star QB Baker Mayfield and the top-5 ranked Oklahoma Sooners in nearly every facet of the game last weekend and kept the ball for over 35 minutes against a gassed Sooner defense, earning a dominant double-digit upset win. This victory is sure to impress everyone, including those biased college football playoff committee members that love to look down on Non-Power Five teams. And in case you are forgetting, this is the same team that dominated the ACC and went 13-1 last season, then ended the year on a flying note with a New Year 6 Bowl victory in the Peach Bowl. Speaking of the AAC, Houston will play its two biggest competitors in Memphis and Navy on the road, but these two teams are breaking in new quarterbacks, with Memphis particularly having a tough rebuilding year after losing head Coach Justin Fuente to Virginia Tech, so running the AAC shouldn’t be a big deal. Throw in the additional fact that the returning starters will be getting much-needed help and depth from top 2016 recruits like 5-star DT Ed Oliver, 4-star OT Na’Ty Rodgers and 4-star WR Courtney Lark, we don’t need to explain further why we have the Cougars as our biggest risers in the 2016-17 CFP race.

Honorable Mentions: Washington Huskies, Wisconsin Badgers, Georgia Bulldogs, Texas Longhorns, Louisville Cardinals

College Football Playoff Fallers

Biggest Faller: LSU

For a minute, I considered having Oklahoma and LSU as joint top-fallers in the playoff race, but I remembered that the Sooners lost to a higher-ranked team and OU did in fact put up a decent fight. The same can’t be said for the Tigers who were every bit of the word pathetic. Sure, Leonard Fournette did rush for 138 yards on 23 carries, but there was nothing spectacular about his running game. Meanwhile, LSU QB Brandon Harris showed absolutely no improvement from his much-criticized poor play from last season. In fact, going by his performance against Wisconsin’s middling defense, you wouldn’t be wrong to expect a worse season from Harris than his performance last year. Add to the fact that Fournette got injured in Week 1 and he’ll most likely be banged up for quite a while, it’s safe that the Tigers will be having a crash-bound, tailspin of a season with Les Miles having his behind planted on the hot seat for the entirety of the year. If you are an LSU fan with hopes of still making the playoffs, better cut your losses right now coz it won’t be happening. Oh, and the same goes for you Notre Dame, Oklahoma (you still have Baylor, Texas and TCU in your schedule) and Tennessee fans who are burying your heads in the sand and ignoring the fire that is blazing around you.

Dishonorable Mentions: Oklahoma Sooners, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Ole Miss Rebels, USC Trojans, UCLA Bruins

College Football Playoff Darkhorses

Best Darkhorses: Louisville and Baylor

Clemson and Florida State front-run the ACC title race, but if those two aren’t careful, Louisville could sneak up and run away with the title. The #2 Tigers struggled to win at Auburn, in spite of the fact that the Auburn unit had several new starters. FSU, meanwhile, did manage to beat Ole Miss, but that was largely because the Rebels shifted down their gears after leading the game comfortably at half-time. Louisville did not show any of such struggles in Week 1. Yes, Charlotte is not an elite team, but you’d be hard-done to find a QB who was as efficient as Louisville Lamar Jackson, who scintillatingly went 17-23 passing for 286 yards and 6 touchdowns. The dual-threat maestro also ran for additional 119 yards and 2 touchdowns. And all that damage, mind you, was done in one half, with the coach opting to sit down the QB for the entire second half. Oh, and the Cardinals defense was just as impressive in the win. With Jackson continuing to rise up as one the best QBs in the nation, Louisville’s defense also playing well and head Coach Bobby Petrino bringing his stellar experience to the team; the Tigers and Seminoles better watch their backs or else the Cardinals will be ACC’s representatives in the playoffs.

Like Louisville, and all great teams for that matter, the Bears have a ruthlessly efficient offense that is led by star QB Seth Russell. Unless you have been living under some rock, you should know by now that Russell was the top-rated FBS passer in the country last season after 6 weeks, before he suffered a season-ending neck injury in Baylor’s seventh game. And to confirm that his skills were still intact, Russell efficiently passed for 163 yards and four touchdowns in less than a half in the 55-7 win over FCS member Northwestern State last Friday. As long as Russell is fit and healthy, and Baylor’s defense continues to improve silently in the Big 12 (the Bears held Northwestern State to a measly 78 total yards), a playoff berth could easily be in the books for this underrated team. This should be particularly encouraged by the fact that Oklahoma’s loss to Houston allows Baylor a slight margin of error while TCU and Texas have holes to patch up in their defenses.

Worthy Mentions: Georgia, Oregon, Washington

I really liked how Georgia’s Nick Chubb announced his return from a season-ending 2015 injury with a big performance in 33-24 win over UNC. My problem, though, is that this team is too over-reliant on the RB, and that is likely to be their undoing, as was the case for the Fournette-reliant LSU Tigers last year. That makes me doubt their potential as a serious darkhorse right now, especially in the top-heavy SEC conference.

With USC and UCLA both probably out of the playoff race, and Stanford still looking shaky at QB, the duo of Washington and Oregon could be due for some value as Pac-12’s representatives in the playoffs. Oregon’s transfer quarterback transfer, Dakota Prukop, looked solid in the 53-28 win over FCS opponent UC-Davis in their opener. But then again, Oregon’s defensive lapses were still glaring in that game and I doubt if new defensive coordinator Brady Hoke will fix those issues in time. The Huskies, meanwhile, welcomed back star wide receiver John Ross, who after missing all of the 2015 season with a knee injury, made his return with 5 receptions for 90 yards and 2 touchdowns while also scoring on a 92-yard kickoff return in the 48-13 blowout of Rutgers. And, unlike Oregon, the Huskies have a decent defense, making them a good pick. Evidently, the Ducks and Huskies have potential, with Oregon’s hopes heavily relying on their offense. Even so, both Oregon and Washington have daunting Pac-12 schedules, so finishing the season unbeaten or as one-loss teams won’t be easy.

 

 

Previous Betting News

Ready or not, here we come with our top sleeper college football week 1 sleeper picks. Feel free to enjoy them and check out for more picks in our NCAA football betting lines preview and analysis section.

Here’s a Closer Look At The Sleeper Picks For College Football Week 1

South Carolina Gamecocks vs. Vanderbilt Commodores (-3.5)

Thursday, September 01, 2016 8:00 PM ET

Vanderbilt Stadium

The South Carolina Gamecocks and Commodores are both in rebuilding seasons and nothing much is expected from them in the bigger picture of the SEC race. And to make matters worse, both teams have very iffy offenses, so we are highly likely to be treated to a dull scoring affair in this game. Fortunately, the weak offenses should mean good things for South Carolina, who are currently coached by Will Muschamp. The former Florida coach–and defensive coordinator for Auburn and Texas–is one of the best defensive minds in the game and he is inheriting some decent pieces from his predecessor Steve Spurrier. That, along with a good-enough QB in Brandon McIlwain, should offer him a chance to start his South Carolina career with a possible win over the Vandy team that is downright ugly on both sides of the ball and is only favored here because it is playing at home.

Recommended Sleeper Pick: South Carolina (-3.5)

Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes (-7.5)

Friday, September 02, 2016 8:05 PM ET

Sports Authority Field at Mile High

Like most rivalries, the Rocky Mountain Showdown is never about who is most talented but rather who wants to win it more. Last year, the Buffaloes had to go all the way to overtime to secure a 27-24 win as three-point favorites in spite of the Rams not having a strong unit at the time. With the Rams coming with a better unit in 2016, they could easily get the ATS in this Week 1 clash, if not win outright. By the way, the Buffs and Rams have alternated wins since 2011 in this yearly interconference rivalry, so the Rams should be due for the win in 2016, assuming the trend continues to hold true.

Recommended Sleeper Pick: Colorado State (-7.5)

UCLA Bruins vs. Texas A&M Aggies (-3)

Saturday, September 03, 2016 3:30 PM ET

Kyle Field

With a total of 12 starters returning for the Bruins, UCLA will definitely have the talent to matchup to Oklahoma transfer Trevor Knight and the Aggies. The fact that A&M has a better crop of offensive targets like RB Keith Ford and receivers Speedy Noil, Christian Kirk and Ricky Seals-Jones will obviously give Knight a better chance for success. Even so, only 2 starters are returning in the O-line, the defense will be experimenting on a good number of new starters and the kicking game lost All-SEC punter and kicker from last season, Taylor Bertolet and Drew Kase. Against the Bruins who are installing more of a pro-style offense to suit to tap into their quarterback’s pro-oriented talents, QB Josh Rosen–who was named a Freshman All-American, the Pac-12 Newcomer of the year and the Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year after his splendid true freshman 2015 campaign–could easily be due for a big game. Meanwhile, senior defensive lineman Eddie Vanderdoes, senior tackle Eli Ankou and spring camp standout defensive end Takkarist McKinley should be more than capable of taking care of business on the other side of the field. Should the Bruins play up to their strengths, a UCLA victory could be in the books here.

 

 

Previous Betting News

With the 2018 NCAA Football Week 1 less than fifteen days away, now is most definitely a great time to offer up some expert picks on the first week of collegiate gridiron action. To that end, I’ve got a handful of insightful Week 1 picks that will help you cash in early and often over the course of the first week of college football betting action.

2018 NCAA Football Week 1 Picks, Odds & Expert Predictions

Florida Atlantic at Oklahoma (-24)

The Oklahoma Sooners might have the big name in this contest and they might be playing at home, but they’ll have a first time starter under center thanks to the graduation of quarterback Baker Mayfield, the top pick in this year’s NFL Draft. Not only that, but Florida Atlantic had a fantastic 2017 campaign in going 11-3 last season under polarizing head coach Lane Kiffin.

The Owls put up a whopping 40.6 points per game to rank eighth in scoring nationally and I believe they’re a lock to cover the chalk as three touchdown-plus road dogs. I’m expecting a shootout college football betting buffs, so don’t expect to see much defense being played in this opener.

Score Prediction: Florida Atlantic 38 – Oklahoma 45

Michigan (-1.5) at Notre Dame

Jim Harbaugh and Brian Kelly will both be desperate to get their 2018 campaigns off to a positive start, but I like the Wolverines to get the huge road win seeing as how they’ve finally got a ‘real’ quarterback in former Ole Miss star, Shea Patterson. Notre Dame could have a first-time starter under center in 2018 and that just doesn’t bode very well for a Michigan team that is loaded on both sides of the ball and one that has been a perennial powerhouse defensively under Harbaugh.

I know this regular season opener is more meaningful for the Fighting Irish squad that doesn’t have a conference title they will play for, but I’m going with Michigan to cover the chalk because of Harbaugh and the Wolverines’ stout defense.

Score Prediction: Michigan 27 – Notre Dame 21

Washington at Auburn (-3)

If you don’t know by now, I’m really high on Washington heading into the 2018 regular season for a couple of reasons. First, the Huskies have not one, but two, legitimate Heisman Trophy candidates in quarterback Jake Browning and running back Myles Gaskin.

Not only that, but Washington has been one of the nation’s best defensive teams under head coach Chris Petersen and they might have the best defensive secondary in the country this season. Oh, and speaking of Petersen, I think he’s got the coaching edge over Auburn’s Gus Malzhan, although the latter is certainly no slouch.

Auburn is an uninspiring 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games while Washington is 4-1 SU in their last five and 3-2 ATS. I’m going with the Huskies for the absolutely huge upset and you should too.

Score Prediction: Washington 28 – Auburn 23

 

 

Previous Betting News

One of the biggest quarterback questions in college football fall camps has been answered: Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham has been named Auburn’s starting quarterback. The school made the announcement on Monday, ending weeks of speculation that the Stidham was the front-runner to start at the position ahead of last year’s starter Sean White. Here’s a look at two games with some of the latest NCAAF odds and lines to back the underdog for College Football Week 1.

College Football Week 1 Sleeper Picks

Michigan Wolverines vs. Florida Gators

When: Saturday, Sept. 2, 3:30 PM ET
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
TV: ABC
Radio: WWJ/Detroit 950 AM (Michigan) / (Florida)
Opening College Football Week 1 Lines: UM -3

Gators Suspend 7

Michigan is going to draw heavy action on this game, which should raise the line. So I’d actually hold out and bet later. But I say that because star Florida receiver Antonio Callaway and six other players have been suspended for this game. The players were suspended for a violation of team rules, and a Florida spokesman declined to elaborate on which rule was broken.

However, it has leaked out that some of the players involved used the funds from part of their scholarship agreement to buy electronics equipment, then later reported the cards stolen. Some players sold the electronics equipment purchased with the school-issued funds.

Callaway also was suspended from team activities during the spring semester in 2016 after a woman accused him of sexual assault. Callaway was found not responsible at a hearing last August and placed back on the team. He played in 12 games, missing the North Texas game with an injury, and gained a team-high 721 receiving yards on a team-high 54 catches. He also led the team in receiving in 2015. In May, he was arrested on charges of misdemeanor marijuana possession in Gainesville.

In addition to Callaway, offensive lineman Kadeem Telfort; linebackers James Houston and Ventrell Miller; and defensive linemen Jordan Smith, Richerd Desir-Jones and Keivonnis Davis were suspended. Only Jones was likely to play a lot (in addition to Callaway).

Yet Michigan Doesn’t Suspend Guy

So while you must give kudos to UF coach Jim McElwain for suspending his rule-breakers, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh isn’t doing the same. In mid-October of last year, WR Grant Perry was accused of groping the groin and buttocks of a female Michigan State student outside of an East Lansing bar. As a result, Perry was initially charged with two counts of sexual assault, and one each of a minor in possession of alcohol and resisting an officer.

The latter charge was a felony, the others misdemeanors. In fact, Perry pleaded guilty in late June to one felony count of resisting a police officer and one misdemeanor count of assault and battery. Earlier this month, he was sentenced to 12 months probation and fined. Yet he’s playing!?

Harbaugh still hasn’t named his starting QB. Although Wilton Speight was Michigan’s starter for the 2016 season and entered the spring as the most likely starter for the offense going into the fall. John O’Korn, who transferred from Houston started one game in place of an injured Speight last season, was expected to push for the starting job. Most believe it will be Spieght again.

Wyoming vs. Iowa

When: Saturday, Sept. 2, Noon ET
Where: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City
TV: Big Ten Network
Radio: 98.7 FM (Wyoming) / Iowa Hawkeyes Sports Network (Iowa)
Stream Option: BTN2Go
Opening College Football Week 1 Lines: Wyoming -12.5

Wyoming Will Pull Upset

The best quarterback on the field this game by far will be Wyoming’s Josh Allen, who might be the No. 1 overall pick in next year’s NFL Draft. Last year, Allen helped lead Wyoming to the 2016 Mountain Division title and a spot in the Mountain West Conference title game.

He was a key player in Wyoming’s win over two Top 25 ranked teams in 2016, as the Cowboys also earned votes in the national polls. The Cowboy offense ranked No. 2 in the MW and No. 25 in the nation in scoring offense, averaging 35.9 points per game. Allen ranked No. 1 in the Mountain West and No. 6 nationally in passing yards per completion (15.33 yards).

He also led the MW and was No. 16 in the country in points responsible for (218). Allen threw 28 touchdown passes in 2016, placing him No. 1 in the conference and No. 20 in the NCAA. He was second in the MW and 32nd in the nation in passing yards (3,203).

Allen was also No. 2 in conference and No. 40 in the nation in total offense (266.1 yards per game). His 3,203 passing yards in 2016 are the fifth best single-season total in Wyoming school history, and his 3,726 yards of total offense in a single season rank No. 3 in school history. His 36 touchdowns responsible for — passing (28), rushing (7) and receiving (1) — rank No. 2 in Wyoming history. Just three years ago, Allen was a 6-4, 185-pound pole of a quarterback from a small town in California without a Division I offer.

The Hawkeyes and Cowboys have squared off twice. Iowa won 21-7 in Iowa City in 1953, and squeaked out a 20-19 Holiday Bowl win over the Cowboys in 1987.

Expert College Football Week 1 Predictions

Maybe I’m just anti-Big Ten today, but I’m taking the Gators and the points when people overreact to the Callaway suspension and I’m taking Wyoming at +12.5. In conclusion, I think the Cowboys could win outright.

 

 

Previous Betting News

With the start of the college football season now less than a month away, it’s time to get serious about picking the best games to wager on. This is why we have decided to look at the match-ups involving Power 5 Conference teams this season to see where the best games lie. For each week, we will have 5 different games featured, so let’s get right to the action around the 2018 NCAA Football Week 1.

2018 NCAA Football Week 1 Betting Picks

ACC

Miami Hurricanes vs LSU Tigers – The beauty of this game is that it is a standalone affair that will be played on Sunday instead of Saturday. The Miami Hurricanes had themselves a great year in 2017, falling just short at the end of the season.

They have given themselves a monumental task in the opening week with a neutral venue game against a very good LSU Tigers team. I think the smart bet in this one would be the UNDER, as these are two teams built from the defense up. If I had to pick an SU winner, I would take Miami.

Big 12

Tennessee Volunteers vs West Virginia Mountaineers – While the Tennessee program is in a bit of a funk at the moment, they are still going to be a tough opening game for West Virginia.

Everyone is excited to see if QB Will Grier and the Mountaineers offense can deliver the fireworks we expect this season, but there are also some who want to see how their patchwork defense will hold up. Not the easiest of starts to the season for West Virginia, but a game I would expect them to win.

Big Ten

Michigan Wolverines vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Not only is this the best game featuring a Big Ten team, it might also be the match-up of the opening week. A little bit of the shine has come off the Wolverines after a poor season in 2017, and while Jim Harbaugh is not yet on the hot seat, fans are expecting a little more.

He can certainly put some minds at ease by getting a win over Notre Dame in Week 1, which is what I believe the Wolverines will do.

PAC 12

Washington Huskies vs Auburn Tigers – Washington won the division and the conference championship in 2016 but missed out last season. The entire conference was shut out of the playoffs in 2017, so the top teams in there, Washington included, are going to feel as though they have something to prove.

The Huskies could certainly make a statement by taking down the Auburn Tigers in Week 1, but that is going to be a big ask that just missed out on the playoffs after losing in the SEC Championship Game. I have Auburn winning a close one here.

SEC

Louisville Cardinals vs Alabama Crimson Tide – Perhaps not the showcase game it would have been had Lamar Jackson not left Louisville for the bright lights of the NFL, but it will still be fun to see what the defending champions bring to the table.

There is a little bit of a QB controversy taking place in Tuscaloosa right now, but I expect that to be taken care of before the season begins. This should be a comfortable win for the Crimson Tide.

 

 

Previous Betting News

Looking for expert picks for College Football Week 1? We’ve got your back with some juicy NCAAF picks based on the opening numbers from the 2016 College Football Week 1 odds.

2016-17 College Football Week 1 Expert Picks

HAWAII RAINBOW WARRIORS (+22) over California Golden Bears, Aug. 26th

In the very first game of the season, the California Golden Bears will be trying to win (and win big, as per the Oddsmakers) against Hawaii at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney, Australia. Whichever way you look at it, Cal is the more talented and proven team so a win should be very likely for the Golden Bears. That said, Hawaii has a new coach in Nick Rolovich who will be hoping to prove that he is the right man for the team, and it just so happens that the Bears will be without their biggest piece from last season in QB Jared Goff (who was drafted first by the LA Rams), so things could be relatively easier for Rolovich and his team. Not to mention, these two teams have split their last four meetings, including a 21-7 win by Hawaii when the two teams last met in California in 1994. Being able to avoid a blowout of 20-plus points should thus be very possible for the Rainbow Warriors, according to the NCAAF odds experts.

HOUSTON COUGARS (+9) over Oklahoma Sooners, Sept. 3rd

Houston’s first year coach, Tom Herman, led the Cougars to a stellar 13-1-season in 2015, including a 3-0 record against the Power Five conference teams. That showcase helped the Cougars to finish the year as the highest-ranked non Power Five team in the nation in the AP Polls (at No.8). More notably, Houston’s lone loss of the season came when the team’s starting dual-threat quarterback Greg Ward Jr. got injured and had to leave the game against University of Connecticut.

With the team returning with a very healthy Ward—who passed for 2,590 passing yards and 16 TDs against just 5 TDs (with a 68.1 completion percentage) and added 1,041 yards with his legs on 178 carries and 5.8 yards per touch– and the majority of his stellar cast from last season that includes a disruptive defense that ranked 8th in the nation in yards allowed per game; many NCAAF experts believe that Houston has all the tools needed to keep things tight or even upset the Sooners in Week 1. Obviously, Oklahoma has a star quarterback of its own in Baker Mayfield, and a 2016 Heisman Trophy contender at that, while the Sooners also have a lot of experience from their solid 2015 campaign that saw them reach the 2015-16 college football playoffs, so beating them won’t be easy. But with the reputation Houston brings in this game, including a Peach Bowl victory last season, you can’t help but feel that the experts may be right on this one.

LSU TIGERS (-10) over Wisconsin Badgers, Sept. 3rd

Like the Sooners, the Tigers will have a tough test of their own in Week 1, facing a dangerous Power Five team in the Badgers. Wisconsin has been one of the toughest teams to beat in their own backyard and will come into this game to prove that it can contend for the Big Ten title in 2016. Unfortunately for the Badgers, LSU’s star running back Leonard Fournette is a one-man wrecking crew, Brandon Harris comes with better experience under his belt as QB for LSU and the Tigers have an established defense. So, even with Wisconsin having some decent talents in the team to make a game out of the Tigers, the experts feel that LSU will almost definitely win this game and most likely take the points too.

OREGON DUCKS (-43.5) over UC Davis Aggies

Despite missing the dependable services of QB Marcus Mariota in their offense last season and featuring one of the worst defenses in 2015, the Ducks still managed to swim to a healthy 9-win season. A big reason for their above-average year was the presence of dual-threat quarterback Vernon Adams who was supported by a strong cast of weapons in his offense. Adams is no longer available in the team, but Oregon’s offense should be in the safe hands of FCS graduate transfer and Montana State All-American quarterback Dakota Prukop, who is every bit of a dual-threat maestro, as is proven by the 1,763 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns he totaled at FCS level.

And to make his work easier, Prukop (or fellow QB Travis Jonsen) will inherit some of Adam’s lethal targets, none more dangerous than the oft-underappreciated RB Royce Freeman. More importantly, the Ducks have a new defensive coordinator in Brady Hoke, who should bring some sanity to Oregon’s insanely-porous defense from 2015. Against a UC Davis team that is no match to Oregon in virtually any department, the experts feel that the Ducks should be every bit capable of delivering a huge blowout Week 1 victory that will earn Prukop and his team the win plus a cover of the point spread.

 

 

Previous Betting News

While the 2017 College Football Week 1 gets under way on August 26, it’s fair to say that the real action begins a week late on September 2, as that is when the big-name programs get the ball rolling. Choosing which games to wager on can be tough with so many to choose from, but we have narrowed the opening week down to what we believe are a handful of games that should be considered must bet.

It’s never too early to get your wagers in, and you may even find that the early prices are very much in your favor. Without further ado, let’s take a look at a few College Football Week 1 games that should definitely be included on your NCAA Football betting slips.

Analyzing The Must Bet Games and Free Picks in 2017 College Football Week 1

Alabama Crimson Tide Vs Florida State Seminoles

Alabama have been the dominant team in college football for the past few years, but are sure to be coming into this season with a bit of a chip on their shoulder after losing in the National Championship game to Clemson this season.

The Alabama Crimson Tide are sure to be the prohibitive favorites to win it all this season, but they have a tough start to the season with a neutral site game in Atlanta versus the Florida State Seminoles. This may well end up being a preview for a playoff game later in the season, so a lot to like about this match-up.

Alabama Crimson Tide Vs Florida State Seminoles Head to Head Summary

Florida Gators Vs Michigan Wolverines

This neutral site game will be held in Arlington, Texas, and will feature a Michigan team who will feel as though they have something to prove this year after a controversial call versus Ohio State late in the season eventually cost them a playoff spot.

This team has improved every year under Jim Harbaugh, and they may be ready to take the ultimate step forward this season. Florida were a bit of a surprise team in the SEC last year, and will serve as a very tough opponent for the Wolverines.

Florida Gators Vs Michigan Wolverines Head to Head Summary

BYU Vs LSU Tigers

Can anyone rise up in the SEC West and pose a serious threat to the dominance of the Alabama Crimson Tide? LSU Tigers will certainly feel that they can be that team, although much is going to depend on their ability to get the job done on the offensive side of the football.

There is no denying how good this team is on defense, but it is their attacking play that has left a lot to be desired in recent years. A new offensive coordinator will ty to get the Tigers rolling early, but they are going to have their work cut out in College Football Week 1 versus a very good BYU team.

BYU Vs LSU Tigers Smart Chart

Texas A&M Aggies Vs UCLA Bruins

While neither of these two teams are likely to be legitimate playoff contenders, this game is intriguing because we are looking at a pair of big programs who may be potentially in trouble. The coaches seat is a little toasty in both of these programs, and it will only get warmer with an opening week loss in the 2017 season. These two have the potential to be good teams this year, and a big win in College Football Week 1 could be what propels one of them to a very positive start.

Texas A&M Aggies Vs UCLA Bruins Head to Head Summary

Ohio State Buckeyes Vs Indiana Hoosiers

The big storyline in this one will almost certainly revolve around Kevin Wilson, the new offensive coordinator for the Buckeyes. He had spent the last 6 seasons in that same role for the Indiana Hoosiers, but was fired amid rumors of player mistreatment.

This is certainly a game that you would expect Ohio State to win handily, but you also need to wonder how quickly their new offensive set-up is going to gel, and you also need to consider the fact that some young men on the Indiana side of the football may want to raise their game a little so that they can stick it to Wilson. This is one that is sure to have its fair share of fireworks.

Ohio State Buckeyes Vs Indiana Hoosiers Head to Head Summary

 

 

Previous Betting News

It’s arguably the greatest opening weekend of college football ever, and we have previewed several games involving ranked teams here at MyBookie. But sometimes you can find value in games that can fly under the radar. Here are five I recommend in NCAA Football lines.

Here’s a Look at the Top College Football Betting Games of the Weekend (Sept 2-4)

New Mexico State at UTEP (-9.5)

Take the Miners here as NMSU’s best player isn’st expected to play. That’ss tailback Larry Rose III, who is recovering from sports hernia surgery. He is the team’s offense. Last year, Rose was selected to the Associated Press All-America Third Team. He led the Sun Belt with 1,651 rushing yards and had 14 touchdowns on 240 attempts to become the first back-to- back 1,000-yard rusher for NM State since Denvis Manns (1995-98). Rose was named Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year, first time for an Aggie since Manns was named Big West Offensive MVP in 1998. Last year, UTEP beat NMSU 50-47 in OT despite a big game from Rose.

Georgia Tech vs. Boston College (+3)

This game is in Dublin, Ireland and I like the Jackets. Tech is looking to bounce back from an uncharacteristic 3-9 campaign in 2015. Sixteen Yellow Jackets combined to miss more than 80 games with injuries last season and, despite the misfortune on the injury front, six of Georgia Tech’s nine defeats came by eight points or less. Georgia Tech returns the majority of its offensive production from a season ago, as the players that accounted for 81 percent of its rushing yards, 84 percent of its receiving yards and 98 percent of its passing yards last season are back on the squad in 2016. Georgia Tech is 7-1 in openers under head coach Paul Johnson.

Missouri at West Virginia (-9.5)

Like the Mountaineers here. WVU coach Dana Holgorsen is on the hot seat entering the year and can’t afford a loss like this to a mediocre Mizzou team. WVU is 36-28 on his watch and six games under .500 in the Big 12, including a 4-5 finish last year. For the first time since 1996, Mizzou opens the season on the home field of a power conference opponent, the first matchup in a two-game series with West Virginia, the program that replaced the Tigers in the Big 12 in 2012. Mizzou is 3-2 all-time against West Virginia, most recently beating the Mountaineers in the 1998 Insight.com Bowl.

Louisiana Tech at Arkansas (-26)

The Razorbacks will cover this spread. Louisiana Tech has less returning production than almost any team in the FBS. Tech lost a bunch of NFL talent from last year’s team, including quarterback Jeff Driskel, tailback Kenneth Dixon and defensive tackle Vernon Butler. In addition, freshman J’Mar Smith is being thrown right to the wolves at QB. Smith beat out redshirt sophomore Price Wilson to earn the right to replace senior Ryan Higgins, who won’t start as punishment for his DWI in August. Smith finished the spring as the third-string quarterback before pushing his way to the starting spot with a solid fall camp. Hogs senior defensive end Deatrich Wise said this of Smith:

“It’s his first time playing, so we’re going to do our job and make sure we hit him every time we can … try to get in his head.”

Fresno State at Nebraska (-28)

The Huskers are the choice in online NCAA Football betting as they are going to be much better this year and rarely lose home openers. The Huskers return 16 starters from last year’s team that capped the season with a victory over UCLA in the Foster Farms Bowl. The Huskers have ample experience on both sides of the ball, returning a four-year starter at quarterback in Tommy Armstrong. Fresno State posted a 3-9 record last season, including a 2-6 mark in the Mountain West Conference. It brings back only 10 starters. The matchup with Fresno State completes a three-game series between the two schools. The Huskers defeated Fresno State in Lincoln in 2011, before winning on the road in Fresno in 2014. Nebraska is 34-2 all time vs. members of the Mountain West.

 

 

Previous Betting News

If you’re looking to get your 2016 NCAA college football wagering campaign off to a positive start, then you’re in luck! While the official start of the regular season may still be months away from getting underway, collegiate gridiron gaming aficionados everywhere will be well-armed with valuable betting information thanks to the expert insight you’re about to get on a handful of Week 1 regular season matchups.

Odds for several Week 1 matchups were released less than 24 hours ago, so let’s get started.

College Football Week 1 Odds Analysis – Check Out Eye-Opening Odds Analysis on Six-Pack of Week 1 Pairings!

 

Friday, Aug. 26, 2016

California Golden Bears at Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (+21)

Game to be played in Sydney, Australia

The Cal Golden Bears will have to overcome the loss of Jared Goff, but they still possess far more talent than Hawaii likely ever will. Still, I like the Rainbow Warriors to cover the spread at home based mostly on adrenaline and the fact that they’re playing a longtime rival.

Thursday, Sept. 1, 2016

Charlotte 49ers at Louisville Cardinals (-39.5)

The Cardinals are ranked 19th in the AP preseason poll and they have plenty of talent. Still, covering the insane 39-point spread could be difficult even against a Charlotte team that won just two games last season.

South Carolina Gamecocks at Vanderbilt Commodores (+5.5)

The Gamecocks are looking to rebound after going 3-9 in head coach Steve Spurrier’s final season at his alma mater. Now, the Gamecocks will look to rebuild under the widely-respected Will Muschamp.

Vanderbilt is a also looking to bounce back from their underwhelming 4-9 campaign in 2015. If young quarterback Kyle Shurmur continues the maturation he showed late last season, the Commodores could surprise!

Friday, Sept. 2, 2016

Kansas State Wildcats at Stanford Cardinal (-16.5)

The Cardinal won’t have quarterback Kevin Hogan under center in 2016, but they still have the nation’s best all-around player in my mind in incomparable running back Christian McCaffery. K-State went 3-3 ATS in six road games last season and I believe they have a great chance to cover the high spread in this opener.

Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016

Hawaii Rainbow Warriors at Michigan Wolverines (-41)

The Wolverines are expected to be national title contenders next season under Jim Harbaugh, but they’re not a high-scoring team by any stretch of the imagination, making the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors the right pick in this regular season opener.

South Alabama Jaguars at Mississippi Bulldogs (-36.5)

Can Chad Kelly lead the high-scoring Ole Miss Rebels to a five-touchdown-plus home win over tiny South Alabama? As the great Marv Albert is fond of saying….Yes!

Massachusetts Minute Men at Florida Gators (-37)

The Florida Gators will win this one with plenty of room to spare, but you should know that UMass has gone 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games as an underdog of eight points or more.

Clemson Tigers at Auburn Tigers (+8.5)

Clemson has won two straight in this series, though these teams haven’t met since 2012. For me, Clemson quarterback DeShaun Watson will be the difference in this huge opener. Beating Auburn by nine points looks a little high, but Clemson will win by a touchdown.

LSU Tigers at Wisconsin Badgers (+10)

It’s Leonard Fournette versus Wisconsin’s Corey Clement. Personally, I like the Badgers to cover the spread at home. Wisconsin has won eight of their L/10 home games and suffered their two home losses during that stretch by just six and four points.

USC Trojans at Alabama Crimson Tide (-10)

Game to be played at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

The Trojans and Crimson Tide will both have new starting quarterbacks in 2016, but Alabama is playing at home and will undoubtedly have the better defense. Will that equate into an 11-point victory? It could, but I’m going to say the Trojans cover by the slimmest of margins.

Sunday, Sept. 4, 2016

Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Texas Longhorns (Pick)

The Fighting Irish pounded the hell out of the Longhorns in their commanding 38-3 home win last season and are the easy pick to get the road win in this opener, mostly because Charlie Strong isn’t in the same caliber of head coaches as Notre Dame’s Brian Kelly.

Monday, Sept. 5, 2016

Mississippi Rebels at Florida State Seminoles (-3)

Quarterback Chad Kelly will lead the Mississippi Rebels to the outright road win over elite running back Dalvin Cook. Florida State will need to improve its passing attack and overcome some key losses on defense and I expect the Noles to be much better later in the season than early on.

 

 

Previous Betting News

We are now only 25 days until the start of the 2016 college football season! Seems like yesterday, doesn’t it, that Alabama beat Clemson in last season’s national title game? Here are a few games and updated college football lines that I recommend.

Let’s Take a Look at the 2016 Top College Football Week 1 Betting Odds

USC vs. Alabama (-10.5 on NCAA Footbal Betting)

The Tide begin defense of their title in Arlington, Texas, against the Trojans, who will be a Top 25 team when the first preseason polls are released. Alabama likely will be in the Top 3 of the polls despite losing quarterback Jake Coker and running back Derrick Henry, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner.

But Alabama will likely be missing a few key players for this game. For sure out is Alabama defensive back Tony Brown due to suspension. But that is expected to be reduced from six games to four. The junior’s suspension stems from something that happened leading up to the Tide’s Cotton Bowl matchup against Michigan State in late December. A former five-star recruit, Brown was a valuable contributor on special teams as a sophomore last season while also contributing as a reserve on defense. Brown was named one of Alabama’s special teams players of the week four times.

It’s not quite clear if Tide offensive lineman Alphonse Taylor will play. Taylor was suspended following his DWI arrest earlier in July. But new reports are that while Taylor tested negative for alcohol, he did not do well on his field sobriety tests. Police were called to the scene of his arrest after Taylor hit a car in a parking lot on July 17. He started every game for Alabama last year. Taylor told officers he had gotten six hours of sleep and was going home after playing cards. The arresting officer said Taylor’s eyes were drooping and, “needed support exiting his vehicle.” The offensive lineman was charged with the DWI on the basis of “any substance” that is impairing as well as the accident in the parking lot. His court date is Aug. 16. I think I’d take the points here — although I’m still waiting on whom USC picks as it’s starting QB.

LSU vs. Wisconsin (+10 on NCAA Football Lines)

Heisman Trophy favorite Leonard Fournette of LSU begins his season at storied Lambeau Field against Wisconsin, which probably has the toughest schedule in the nation this year. If the Heisman Trophy were awarded mid-year in 2015, Fournette would have won it by a landslide last season. Overall, he rushed for 1,953 yards (6.5 yards per carry).

No team in the country brings back more starters than the Tigers, who have 18 returnees. On defense, Coach Miles hired Dave Aranda away from Wisconsin. The new coordinator has 10 starters back, led by ends Lewis Neal and Arden Key. All four starters are back in the secondary, including safety Jamal Adams, who led the team with four interceptions.

Aranda, a native of Redlands, California, had led the Badgers defense for the last three seasons. Wisconsin last year finished the regular season No. 1 in the Football Bowl Subdivision in scoring defense, allowing 13.7 points per game. His defenses are known to be multiple and variable, having no real true base defensive formation, and they’ve had success against the popular spread offense — a scheme that’s even crept into the SEC.

While coaching the Badgers against LSU in the 2014 season opener in Houston, Aranda’s defense limited the Tigers to 126 rushing yards as LSU used a fourth-quarter rally to beat the Badgers at NRG Stadium.

LSU is my pick to play for the national title, but this is basically a home game for the Badgers so I’d take the points on NCAA football lines.