Looking for this week’s college football picks? Below you’ll find our NCAAF predictions, including moneyline picks, against-the-spread picks, total picks, our best bet of the week, and game-by-game analysis. We update this page throughout the college football season and track our running betting record.
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This Week’s College Football Picks (Week 1)
| Game | Moneyline Pick | ATS Pick | Total Pick | Best Bet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMass vs Rutgers | Rutgers ML | Rutgers -29.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Akron vs Wake Forest | Wake Forest ML | Akron +24.5 | Under 48.5 | No |
| Albany vs Buffalo | Buffalo ML | Buffalo -24.5 | Under 48.5 | No |
| Merrimack vs Delaware | Delaware ML | Delaware -28.5 | Over 55.5 | No |
| West Georgia vs Kennesaw State | Kennesaw State ML | Kennesaw State -23.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Bethune-Cookman vs UCF | UCF ML | Bethune-Cookman +42.5 | Under 59.5 | No |
| Colorado vs Georgia Tech | Georgia Tech ML | Georgia Tech -6.5 | Over 50.5 | No |
| Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs Missouri | Missouri ML | Missouri -54.5 | Under 60.5 | No |
| Eastern Illinois vs Minnesota | Minnesota ML | Eastern Illinois +43.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Idaho vs Utah | Utah ML | Utah -33.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| UAB vs Illinois | Illinois ML | Illinois -28.5 | Under 55.5 | No |
| San Jose State vs Eastern Michigan | Eastern Michigan ML | Eastern Michigan -3.5 | Over 54.5 | No |
| North Carolina A&T vs Georgia State | Georgia State ML | Georgia State -28.5 | Under 63.5 | No |
| Indiana State vs Purdue | Purdue ML | Indiana State +35.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| Toledo vs Michigan State | Michigan State ML | Toledo +10 | Under 49.5 | No |
| UTEP vs Oklahoma | Oklahoma ML | UTEP +41.5 | Under 50.5 | No |
| LIU vs Kansas | Kansas ML | Kansas -38.5 | Over 53.5 | No |
| Miami vs Stanford | Miami ML | Miami -24.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| Fresno State vs USC | USC ML | Fresno State +22.5 | Over 51.5 | No |
| East Carolina vs Alabama | Alabama ML | East Carolina +28.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Oregon State vs Houston | Houston ML | Oregon State +20.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Liberty vs James Madison | James Madison ML | James Madison -6.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Coastal Carolina vs West Virginia | West Virginia ML | Coastal Carolina +21.5 | Over 56.5 | No |
| Ohio vs Nebraska | Nebraska ML | Ohio +23.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| Lafayette vs UConn | UConn ML | Lafayette +19.5 | Under 58.5 | No |
| North Texas vs Indiana | Indiana ML | North Texas +40.5 | Over 55.5 | No |
| New Hampshire vs Syracuse | Syracuse ML | Syracuse -33.5 | Under 55.5 | No |
| Tarleton State vs Bowling Green | Bowling Green ML | Tarleton State +2.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| Bryant vs Army | Army ML | Bryant +36.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Ball State vs Ohio State | Ohio State ML | Ball State +50.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| Miami (OH) vs Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh ML | Miami (OH) +16.5 | Under 49.5 | No |
| Kent State vs South Carolina | South Carolina ML | South Carolina -36.5 | Over 53.5 | No |
| Youngstown State vs Kentucky | Kentucky ML | Youngstown State +23.5 | Under 62.5 | No |
| Duquesne vs Air Force | Air Force ML | Air Force -30.5 | Under 58.5 | No |
| Southeast Missouri State vs Iowa State | Iowa State ML | Southeast Missouri State +29.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Rhode Island vs Temple | Temple ML | Rhode Island +10.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Tennessee State vs Georgia | Georgia ML | Tennessee State +46.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| Texas State vs Texas | Texas ML | Texas -30.5 | Over 59.5 | No |
| Boise State vs Oregon | Oregon ML | Oregon -24.5 | Over 51.5 | No |
| Baylor vs Auburn | Auburn ML | Auburn -7 | Under 59.5 | Yes |
| Tulane vs Duke | Duke ML | Tulane +9.5 | Under 50.5 | No |
| Boston College vs Cincinnati | Cincinnati ML | Cincinnati -7.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Maine vs Appalachian State | Appalachian State ML | Maine +18.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Marshall vs Penn State | Penn State ML | Marshall +24.5 | Under 54.5 | No |
| The Citadel vs Charlotte | Charlotte ML | Charlotte -17.5 | Under 46.5 | No |
| Furman vs Tennessee | Tennessee ML | Furman +46.5 | Under 66.5 | No |
| Towson vs Navy | Navy ML | Towson +30.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Fordham vs North Dakota State | North Dakota State ML | North Dakota State -39.5 | Under 57.5 | No |
| UT Rio Grande Valley vs UTSA | UTSA ML | UTSA -28.5 | Over 59.5 | No |
| Oklahoma State vs Tulsa | Oklahoma State ML | Oklahoma State -14 | Under 60.5 | No |
| Northern Illinois vs Iowa | Iowa ML | Northern Illinois +31.5 | Under 45.5 | No |
| North Alabama vs Arkansas | Arkansas ML | North Alabama +40.5 | Under 63.5 | No |
| Alcorn State vs Southern Miss | Southern Miss ML | Southern Miss -21 | Under 50.5 | No |
| Norfolk State vs Old Dominion | Old Dominion ML | Norfolk State +41.5 | Under 55.5 | No |
| Wyoming vs Colorado State | Colorado State ML | Wyoming +3.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| Missouri State vs Texas A&M | Texas A&M ML | Missouri State +41.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Houston Christian vs Rice | Rice ML | Rice -22.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| FIU vs South Florida | South Florida ML | FIU +13.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Arkansas State vs Memphis | Memphis ML | Arkansas State +8.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Idaho State vs Utah State | Utah State ML | Idaho State +12.5 | Over 63.5 | No |
| Sam Houston vs Troy | Troy ML | Troy -16.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
| Abilene Christian vs Texas Tech | Texas Tech ML | Abilene Christian +42.5 | Under 59.5 | No |
| Southeastern Louisiana vs South Alabama | South Alabama ML | Southeastern Louisiana +12.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Austin Peay vs Vanderbilt | Vanderbilt ML | Vanderbilt -30.5 | Over 61.5 | No |
| Murray State vs Middle Tennessee | Middle Tennessee ML | Murray State +20.5 | Under 59.5 | No |
| Charleston Southern vs Georgia Southern | Georgia Southern ML | Georgia Southern -25.5 | Over 51.5 | No |
| Eastern Kentucky vs Jacksonville State | Jacksonville State ML | Eastern Kentucky +19.5 | Under 54.5 | No |
| Nicholls State vs Kansas State | Kansas State ML | Nicholls State +40.5 | Under 55.5 | No |
| Clemson vs LSU | LSU ML | Clemson +10.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Western Michigan vs Michigan | Michigan ML | Michigan -27.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| ULM vs Mississippi State | Mississippi State ML | ULM +28.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| Utah Tech vs BYU | BYU ML | Utah Tech +49.5 | Under 54.5 | No |
| VMI vs Virginia Tech | Virginia Tech ML | VMI +50.5 | Under 57.5 | No |
| Northwestern State vs Louisiana Tech | Louisiana Tech ML | Northwestern State +43.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Florida Atlantic vs Florida | Florida ML | Florida -27.5 | Under 59.5 | No |
| Lamar vs Louisiana | Louisiana ML | Louisiana -20.5 | Under 48.5 | No |
| South Dakota State vs Northwestern | Northwestern ML | South Dakota State +12.5 | Under 46.5 | No |
| Hampton vs Maryland | Maryland ML | Hampton +45.5 | Under 56.5 | No |
| Morgan State vs Arizona State | Arizona State ML | Morgan State +41.5 | Under 52.5 | No |
| Mercyhurst vs New Mexico State | New Mexico State ML | Mercyhurst +28.5 | Under 51.5 | No |
| Portland State vs San Diego State | San Diego State ML | Portland State +40.5 | Under 57.5 | No |
| Northern Arizona vs Arizona | Arizona ML | Northern Arizona +31.5 | Over 56.5 | No |
| Central Michigan vs New Mexico | New Mexico ML | Central Michigan +10.5 | Under 46.5 | No |
| UNLV vs Hawaii | UNLV ML | UNLV -3 | Over 58.5 | No |
| Mississippi Valley State vs Sacramento State | Sacramento State ML | Sacramento State -35.5 | Over 56.5 | No |
| UCLA vs California | UCLA ML | UCLA -1.5 | Over 53.5 | No |
| Western Kentucky vs Nevada | Western Kentucky ML | Western Kentucky -2.5 | Over 52.5 | No |
| Washington State vs Washington | Washington ML | Washington State +23.5 | Under 50.5 | No |
| Wisconsin vs Notre Dame | Notre Dame ML | Notre Dame -20.5 | Under 47.5 | No |
| Louisville vs Ole Miss | Ole Miss ML | Louisville +6.5 | Over 55.5 | No |
| SMU vs Florida State | SMU ML | SMU -2.5 | Under 53.5 | No |
College Football Best Bet of the Week
Best Bet: Auburn -7 vs Baylor
Auburn is laying a touchdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and this is one of the Week 1 numbers I am comfortable attacking rather than simply taking the favorite on the moneyline. Auburn beat Baylor last season and enters 2026 with an upgraded roster under a new coaching staff. Baylor struggled badly against the spread in 2025, and the Bears now have to prove they can handle an Auburn team capable of stressing them both on the ground and through the air.
The neutral-site location should also lean toward Auburn from a crowd standpoint, and laying seven gives us a manageable threshold if the Tigers control the second half. Baylor can score enough to prevent this from becoming a complete runaway, which is why I prefer the Under 59.5 on the total, but Auburn has the better combination of explosiveness, roster strength and matchup advantages. Auburn -7 is the Week 1 Best Bet.
Check out our best college football pick of week 1 with our full Baylor vs Auburn Pick Preview.
UMass vs Rutgers Pick
The moneyline pick for this matchup is Rutgers, the ATS pick is Rutgers -29.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. Rutgers owns a significant roster and physicality advantage, and UMass could struggle to generate enough sustained offense to keep this competitive. The large spread requires Rutgers to maintain pressure after halftime, but a controlled game dominated by the Scarlet Knights points toward the favorite and the Under.
Akron vs Wake Forest Pick
The moneyline pick for this matchup is Wake Forest, the ATS pick is Akron +24.5, and the total pick is Under 48.5. Wake Forest should have enough at home to win comfortably, but laying more than three touchdowns is aggressive for an offense that still has questions to answer. Akron can stay inside the number without seriously threatening the outright result, while a slower game favors the Under.
Albany vs Buffalo Pick
The moneyline pick is Buffalo, the ATS pick is Buffalo -24.5, and the total pick is Under 48.5. Buffalo should be able to establish control at the line of scrimmage and gradually separate from Albany. The Bulls do not need a shootout to cover if their defense handles its assignment, making Buffalo and the Under a correlated approach.
Merrimack vs Delaware Pick
The moneyline pick is Delaware, the ATS pick is Delaware -28.5, and the total pick is Over 55.5. Delaware should be capable of creating explosive opportunities throughout this matchup, and Merrimack may contribute enough offense to help push the total upward. Look for Delaware to pull away while the game produces enough late scoring to clear the number.
West Georgia vs Kennesaw State Pick
The moneyline pick is Kennesaw State, the ATS pick is Kennesaw State -23.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Kennesaw State should own the better depth and control the game physically, but the preferred scoring projection remains relatively modest. A methodical multi-score win by the home side fits both selections.
Bethune-Cookman vs UCF Pick
The moneyline pick is UCF, the ATS pick is Bethune-Cookman +42.5, and the total pick is Under 59.5. UCF should win easily, but asking the Knights to cover more than six touchdowns creates significant backdoor risk once reserves enter the game. Bethune-Cookman getting the huge number and the Under offer more value than chasing an enormous favorite.
Colorado vs Georgia Tech Pick
The moneyline pick is Georgia Tech, the ATS pick is Georgia Tech -6.5, and the total pick is Over 50.5. Georgia Tech’s rushing attack presents a difficult opening-week assignment for Colorado, and the Yellow Jackets should have opportunities to dictate tempo and possession. Colorado has enough offensive ability to contribute to the total, but Georgia Tech is the more trustworthy side at home.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs Missouri Pick
The moneyline pick is Missouri, the ATS pick is Missouri -54.5, and the total pick is Under 60.5. This is an extreme mismatch, and Missouri has enough depth to continue creating separation even after the starters leave. The biggest threat to the spread is simply how quickly Missouri takes its foot off the accelerator, but the Tigers can dominate while keeping the opponent’s scoring extremely low.
Eastern Illinois vs Minnesota Pick
The moneyline pick is Minnesota, the ATS pick is Eastern Illinois +43.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Minnesota should dominate possession and field position, but more than six touchdowns is too much to comfortably lay in an opener. A lower-possession game in which Minnesota wins easily without reaching the mid-40s makes the dog and Under attractive.
Idaho vs Utah Pick
The moneyline pick is Utah, the ATS pick is Utah -33.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. Utah should own a substantial advantage in the trenches and can turn this into a one-sided game without requiring an offensive track meet. A dominant defensive performance provides the cleanest path toward both Utah covering and the total staying Under.
UAB vs Illinois Pick
The moneyline pick is Illinois, the ATS pick is Illinois -28.5, and the total pick is Under 55.5. Illinois has the physical advantages necessary to steadily wear down UAB, particularly if the Illini establish the run early. UAB needs multiple scoring drives to threaten the spread, and that is difficult to trust on the road.
San Jose State vs Eastern Michigan Pick
The moneyline pick is Eastern Michigan, the ATS pick is Eastern Michigan -3.5, and the total pick is Over 54.5. San Jose State showed it can produce offense during Week 0, but its defense gave up 42 points to USC. Eastern Michigan gets the home-field edge and should find scoring opportunities of its own, giving the Eagles a slight advantage in what could become one of Friday’s higher-scoring games.
North Carolina A&T vs Georgia State Pick
The moneyline pick is Georgia State, the ATS pick is Georgia State -28.5, and the total pick is Under 63.5. Georgia State has enough offensive superiority to create separation, but a total above 60 asks for sustained scoring from both teams. The Panthers can cover without the game approaching that threshold.
Indiana State vs Purdue Pick
The moneyline pick is Purdue, the ATS pick is Indiana State +35.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. Purdue should have little trouble winning outright, but five touchdowns is a considerable price for a team still trying to establish itself. Indiana State can lose decisively and still cash the ticket.
Toledo vs Michigan State Pick
The moneyline pick is Michigan State, the ATS pick is Toledo +10, and the total pick is Under 49.5. Toledo has enough program stability and defensive capability to make Michigan State work for this victory. The Spartans should ultimately prevail at home, but a competitive game decided by single digits is more appealing than laying double digits.
UTEP vs Oklahoma Pick
The moneyline pick is Oklahoma, the ATS pick is UTEP +41.5, and the total pick is Under 50.5. Oklahoma should dominate this game, but covering six touchdowns requires almost everything to go right offensively. UTEP can stay inside the enormous number if Oklahoma begins shortening the game once the result is secure.
LIU vs Kansas Pick
The moneyline pick is Kansas, the ATS pick is Kansas -38.5, and the total pick is Over 53.5. Kansas has enough offensive firepower to do most of the work required to reach the total by itself. LIU faces a major talent disadvantage, and the Jayhawks should create repeated short fields and explosive opportunities.
Miami vs Stanford Pick
The moneyline pick is Miami, the ATS pick is Miami -24.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Stanford’s Week 0 win does not erase the larger talent gap it faces against a top-10 Miami roster. Miami should be able to control the Cardinal defensively while steadily creating separation, making a convincing road victory the preferred angle.
Fresno State vs USC Pick
The moneyline pick is USC, the ATS pick is Fresno State +22.5, and the total pick is Over 51.5. USC scored 42 in Week 0 but also surrendered 26, which makes laying more than three touchdowns difficult to trust. Fresno State should find enough offense to hang around while USC’s superior firepower pushes the game Over.
East Carolina vs Alabama Pick
The moneyline pick is Alabama, the ATS pick is East Carolina +28.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Alabama is clearly the superior team, but the Crimson Tide enter the opener with several offensive availability questions. East Carolina does not need to seriously threaten the upset to cover four touchdowns, while Alabama’s defense can keep the overall scoring down.
Oregon State vs Houston Pick
The moneyline pick is Houston, the ATS pick is Oregon State +20.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Houston deserves to be favored at home, but three touchdowns is a substantial number against an Oregon State team capable of making the game uncomfortable. A relatively slow pace makes taking the points preferable.
Liberty vs James Madison Pick
The moneyline pick is James Madison, the ATS pick is James Madison -6.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. James Madison’s home-field advantage and defensive profile give the Dukes the edge in a matchup that should be considerably more competitive than many Week 1 games. The number staying below seven is important.
Coastal Carolina vs West Virginia Pick
The moneyline pick is West Virginia, the ATS pick is Coastal Carolina +21.5, and the total pick is Over 56.5. West Virginia should generate plenty of offense at home, but Coastal Carolina has enough scoring potential to make three touchdowns valuable. A 38-24 type of game fits the preferred combination.
Ohio vs Nebraska Pick
The moneyline pick is Nebraska, the ATS pick is Ohio +23.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Nebraska should win behind its talent and physicality advantages, but Ohio is capable of making this more difficult than a typical four-score underdog. The Bobcats and Under work together if the game remains competitive into the second half.
Lafayette vs UConn Pick
The moneyline pick is UConn, the ATS pick is Lafayette +19.5, and the total pick is Under 58.5. UConn has the better roster and should win at home, but laying nearly three touchdowns is less appealing than backing Lafayette to keep the margin manageable. The high total provides room for an Under in a game that may become increasingly run-oriented.
North Texas vs Indiana Pick
The moneyline pick is Indiana, the ATS pick is North Texas +40.5, and the total pick is Over 55.5. Indiana possesses an enormous talent advantage, but North Texas has enough offensive ambition to make more than 40 points uncomfortable. The Mean Green only need modest production to help this game reach the Over.
New Hampshire vs Syracuse Pick
The moneyline pick is Syracuse, the ATS pick is Syracuse -33.5, and the total pick is Under 55.5. Syracuse should be able to dictate this matchup from the opening quarter and create separation without needing a frantic pace. A strong defensive showing makes the Orange and Under the preferred combination.
Tarleton State vs Bowling Green Pick
The moneyline pick is Bowling Green, the ATS pick is Tarleton State +2.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. This is close enough that taking the points with Tarleton State makes sense even while giving Bowling Green the slight outright edge at home. Expect possessions to matter in a game that could remain within one score throughout.
Bryant vs Army Pick
The moneyline pick is Army, the ATS pick is Bryant +36.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Army’s rushing system should control possession and eventually wear Bryant down, but that same approach can make covering enormous spreads difficult. The clock should move quickly enough to favor both Bryant and the Under.
Ball State vs Ohio State Pick
The moneyline pick is Ohio State, the ATS pick is Ball State +50.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. There is no realistic argument against Ohio State outright, but more than 50 points leaves little margin once the Buckeyes begin rotating the depth chart. Ball State can cash while losing by five or six touchdowns.
Miami (OH) vs Pittsburgh Pick
The moneyline pick is Pittsburgh, the ATS pick is Miami (OH) +16.5, and the total pick is Under 49.5. Pittsburgh should have the offensive and defensive advantages required to win at home, but Miami has historically been comfortable playing physical, lower-possession football. That profile makes more than two touchdowns valuable.
Kent State vs South Carolina Pick
The moneyline pick is South Carolina, the ATS pick is South Carolina -36.5, and the total pick is Over 53.5. Kent State faces one of the larger physical mismatches on the Saturday board. South Carolina should create scoring opportunities through both its offense and defense, giving the favorite a path to cover while pushing the game above the number.
Youngstown State vs Kentucky Pick
The moneyline pick is Kentucky, the ATS pick is Youngstown State +23.5, and the total pick is Under 62.5. Kentucky should control the game physically, but the total and spread both appear inflated for a matchup that could feature long rushing possessions. Youngstown State can stay inside the number without threatening the upset.
Duquesne vs Air Force Pick
The moneyline pick is Air Force, the ATS pick is Air Force -30.5, and the total pick is Under 58.5. Air Force should dominate possession and the line of scrimmage, allowing the Falcons to steadily build a substantial margin. The service-academy style also makes an Under attractive even if Air Force reaches the 40s.
Southeast Missouri State vs Iowa State Pick
The moneyline pick is Iowa State, the ATS pick is Southeast Missouri State +29.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Iowa State should win comfortably, but nearly 30 points is enough to side with the underdog in a matchup where the Cyclones do not need to chase scoring late. A controlled victory is the expectation.
Rhode Island vs Temple Pick
The moneyline pick is Temple, the ATS pick is Rhode Island +10.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Temple gets the home-field edge, but Rhode Island catching double digits offers more betting value in a game with a relatively modest expected scoring environment. A one-possession Temple win would cash both preferred angles.
Tennessee State vs Georgia Pick
The moneyline pick is Georgia, the ATS pick is Tennessee State +46.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. Georgia should dominate from start to finish, but the Bulldogs have little incentive to keep their primary units on the field once the game is secure. Tennessee State only needs to avoid a complete collapse to stay within nearly seven touchdowns.
Texas State vs Texas Pick
The moneyline pick is Texas, the ATS pick is Texas -30.5, and the total pick is Over 59.5. Texas State’s offensive style could create enough scoring opportunities to make this entertaining early, but Texas possesses overwhelming depth and should pull away as the game progresses. The Longhorns have the ceiling to reach the 40s or 50s.
Boise State vs Oregon Pick
The moneyline pick is Oregon, the ATS pick is Oregon -24.5, and the total pick is Over 51.5. Boise State pushed Oregon hard in a recent meeting, but this version of Oregon enters with legitimate championship expectations and substantially more high-end talent. If the Ducks’ offense starts quickly, Boise State will be forced into a more aggressive game that favors both Oregon and the Over.
Baylor vs Auburn Pick
The moneyline pick is Auburn, the ATS pick is Auburn -7, and the total pick is Under 59.5. Auburn has the better combination of roster strength, offensive upside and matchup advantages, while Baylor must prove last season’s ATS struggles are behind it. The Tigers should eventually create separation, but Baylor’s ability to slow portions of the game makes the Under preferable to expecting a shootout.
Tulane vs Duke Pick
The moneyline pick is Duke, the ATS pick is Tulane +9.5, and the total pick is Under 50.5. Duke deserves the home favorite role, but Tulane is too capable to casually lay nearly double digits against. The Green Wave can keep the game competitive by limiting possessions, which also points toward the Under.
Boston College vs Cincinnati Pick
The moneyline pick is Cincinnati, the ATS pick is Cincinnati -7.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. Cincinnati has a strong home-field setup and should own enough advantages at the line of scrimmage to gradually separate. Boston College may struggle to produce explosive plays consistently, leaving the Bearcats and Under as the preferred combination.
Maine vs Appalachian State Pick
The moneyline pick is Appalachian State, the ATS pick is Maine +18.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Appalachian State should win at home, but the spread requires a level of offensive dominance that is harder to trust in an opener. Maine can remain within the number if it avoids giving the Mountaineers short fields.
Marshall vs Penn State Pick
The moneyline pick is Penn State, the ATS pick is Marshall +24.5, and the total pick is Under 54.5. Penn State should control this matchup, but Marshall catching more than three touchdowns gives us substantial room. A Penn State victory built around defense and field position rather than nonstop explosive scoring favors the underdog spread and Under.
The Citadel vs Charlotte Pick
The moneyline pick is Charlotte, the ATS pick is Charlotte -17.5, and the total pick is Under 46.5. Charlotte should be able to establish a physical advantage and force The Citadel into difficult down-and-distance situations. The home team can cover without the matchup developing into a high-scoring game.
Furman vs Tennessee Pick
The moneyline pick is Tennessee, the ATS pick is Furman +46.5, and the total pick is Under 66.5. Tennessee’s talent advantage is enormous, but the Volunteers are being asked to win by almost seven touchdowns against a massive total. Furman does not need much offense to make both the points and Under attractive.
Towson vs Navy Pick
The moneyline pick is Navy, the ATS pick is Towson +30.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Navy should control the game with its rushing attack, but that same approach shortens games and makes huge spreads difficult to cover. Towson can lose comfortably while remaining inside the number.
Fordham vs North Dakota State Pick
The moneyline pick is North Dakota State, the ATS pick is North Dakota State -39.5, and the total pick is Under 57.5. North Dakota State’s 33-7 demolition of Jacksonville State in Week 0 was an impressive demonstration of how overwhelming the Bison can be physically. Back home against Fordham, another dominant defensive performance should give NDSU a chance to cover without requiring the total to climb above the high 50s.
UT Rio Grande Valley vs UTSA Pick
The moneyline pick is UTSA, the ATS pick is UTSA -28.5, and the total pick is Over 59.5. UTSA should create explosive opportunities throughout this matchup and has enough offensive ceiling to do most of the work against the total. The Roadrunners’ depth should become increasingly noticeable after halftime.
Oklahoma State vs Tulsa Pick
The moneyline pick is Oklahoma State, the ATS pick is Oklahoma State -14, and the total pick is Under 60.5. Oklahoma State has the better roster and should gradually impose itself, while Tulsa needs a strong offensive performance to turn this into a shootout. Two touchdowns is reasonable enough to back the Cowboys.
Northern Illinois vs Iowa Pick
The moneyline pick is Iowa, the ATS pick is Northern Illinois +31.5, and the total pick is Under 45.5. Everything about this matchup points toward a low-possession game, which makes laying more than four touchdowns difficult. Iowa should win comfortably, but Northern Illinois can cover simply by preventing the Hawkeyes from reaching the upper 30s.
North Alabama vs Arkansas Pick
The moneyline pick is Arkansas, the ATS pick is North Alabama +40.5, and the total pick is Under 63.5. Arkansas should dominate the matchup, but laying nearly six touchdowns creates unnecessary risk. North Alabama and the Under provide protection against the Razorbacks reducing the tempo once the outcome is decided.
Alcorn State vs Southern Miss Pick
The moneyline pick is Southern Miss, the ATS pick is Southern Miss -21, and the total pick is Under 50.5. Southern Miss should be able to control both lines of scrimmage and limit Alcorn State’s scoring opportunities. Three touchdowns is playable if the home defense produces the type of performance the matchup suggests.
Norfolk State vs Old Dominion Pick
The moneyline pick is Old Dominion, the ATS pick is Norfolk State +41.5, and the total pick is Under 55.5. Old Dominion should win easily, but more than 40 points is an enormous spread in a game where late substitutions could flatten the scoring margin. Norfolk State and the Under are the value positions.
Wyoming vs Colorado State Pick
The moneyline pick is Colorado State, the ATS pick is Wyoming +3.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Rivalry games tend to produce tighter margins, and getting more than a field goal with Wyoming is appealing. Colorado State gets the slight outright edge at home, but this projects as a one-score battle.
Missouri State vs Texas A&M Pick
The moneyline pick is Texas A&M, the ATS pick is Missouri State +41.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. Texas A&M should control this from the start, but the Aggies do not need to score into the 50s to accomplish what they want from the opener. Taking more than six touchdowns provides substantial insurance.
Houston Christian vs Rice Pick
The moneyline pick is Rice, the ATS pick is Rice -22.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Rice should have significant advantages on both sides of the football and can create separation without turning the game into a track meet. A dominant defensive showing is the key to both selections.
FIU vs South Florida Pick
The moneyline pick is South Florida, the ATS pick is FIU +13.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. South Florida should win, but this in-state matchup could remain uncomfortable longer than the market expects. Nearly two touchdowns makes FIU appealing while the Under provides protection against an uneven opener.
Arkansas State vs Memphis Pick
The moneyline pick is Memphis, the ATS pick is Arkansas State +8.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Memphis showed toughness in its Week 0 victory over UNLV, but returning home on a short turnaround makes laying more than a touchdown less attractive. Arkansas State can stay within one possession while Memphis still moves to 2-0.
Idaho State vs Utah State Pick
The moneyline pick is Utah State, the ATS pick is Idaho State +12.5, and the total pick is Over 63.5. This number suggests a much more competitive matchup than the typical FBS-FCS opener, and Idaho State catching double digits is worth consideration. Both teams should have opportunities to score, making the Over the stronger total angle.
Sam Houston vs Troy Pick
The moneyline pick is Troy, the ATS pick is Troy -16.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. Troy owns the better overall setup and should be able to pressure Sam Houston into difficult situations. A controlled home victory by roughly three touchdowns fits the handicap.
Abilene Christian vs Texas Tech Pick
The moneyline pick is Texas Tech, the ATS pick is Abilene Christian +42.5, and the total pick is Under 59.5. Texas Tech should win without serious trouble, but more than six touchdowns provides plenty of room for Abilene Christian to cover after the Red Raiders begin substituting. The same late-game scenario favors the Under.
Southeastern Louisiana vs South Alabama Pick
The moneyline pick is South Alabama, the ATS pick is Southeastern Louisiana +12.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. South Alabama has enough advantages to win at home, but Southeastern Louisiana can make this a more competitive matchup than the spread implies. Taking nearly two touchdowns is preferable to laying them.
Austin Peay vs Vanderbilt Pick
The moneyline pick is Vanderbilt, the ATS pick is Vanderbilt -30.5, and the total pick is Over 61.5. Vanderbilt has enough offensive advantages to build a large score, while Austin Peay may contribute enough late production to help the total. The Commodores should maintain separation throughout.
Murray State vs Middle Tennessee Pick
The moneyline pick is Middle Tennessee, the ATS pick is Murray State +20.5, and the total pick is Under 59.5. Middle Tennessee should win, but three touchdowns is enough to take the underdog in an opener where offensive execution may not be particularly clean. A slower second half favors both selections.
Charleston Southern vs Georgia Southern Pick
The moneyline pick is Georgia Southern, the ATS pick is Georgia Southern -25.5, and the total pick is Over 51.5. Georgia Southern’s offensive system should generate enough opportunities to create separation quickly. Charleston Southern only needs modest production for the favorite and Over to work together.
Eastern Kentucky vs Jacksonville State Pick
The moneyline pick is Jacksonville State, the ATS pick is Eastern Kentucky +19.5, and the total pick is Under 54.5. Jacksonville State is coming off a rough Week 0 showing against North Dakota State, making nearly three touchdowns difficult to lay immediately. A bounce-back win is likely, but Eastern Kentucky can stay within the number.
Nicholls State vs Kansas State Pick
The moneyline pick is Kansas State, the ATS pick is Nicholls State +40.5, and the total pick is Under 55.5. Kansas State should control every meaningful phase, but the huge spread requires continued scoring deep into a decided game. Nicholls State and the Under benefit from an early clock-killing approach by the favorite.
Clemson vs LSU Pick
The moneyline pick is LSU, the ATS pick is Clemson +10.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. LSU has the roster depth, home-field advantage and transfer additions to deserve favorite status, but Clemson’s defense gives the road team a realistic chance to keep this within double digits. Last season’s meeting produced only 27 combined points, and another physical game makes the Under more attractive than expecting an immediate shootout.
Western Michigan vs Michigan Pick
The moneyline pick is Michigan, the ATS pick is Michigan -27.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Michigan should dominate the trenches and put Western Michigan in poor field position throughout the evening. A defensive-driven blowout such as 35-7 would cash both the Wolverines and the Under.
ULM vs Mississippi State Pick
The moneyline pick is Mississippi State, the ATS pick is ULM +28.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. Mississippi State should control the matchup, but more than four touchdowns creates enough cushion to back ULM. A comfortable SEC victory without a huge offensive explosion fits the Under.
Utah Tech vs BYU Pick
The moneyline pick is BYU, the ATS pick is Utah Tech +49.5, and the total pick is Under 54.5. BYU should have complete control, but asking the Cougars to win by 50 while the total sits at only 54.5 creates an obvious mathematical tension. Utah Tech does not need much scoring at all to make taking the points preferable.
VMI vs Virginia Tech Pick
The moneyline pick is Virginia Tech, the ATS pick is VMI +50.5, and the total pick is Under 57.5. Virginia Tech should dominate, but more than seven touchdowns is too large a number to comfortably lay in an opener. Once the Hokies turn to their reserves, the scoring pace should slow considerably.
Northwestern State vs Louisiana Tech Pick
The moneyline pick is Louisiana Tech, the ATS pick is Northwestern State +43.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. Louisiana Tech has an overwhelming advantage but does not need to score into the 50s to win comfortably. The underdog and Under provide the better protection against a quiet second half.
Florida Atlantic vs Florida Pick
The moneyline pick is Florida, the ATS pick is Florida -27.5, and the total pick is Under 59.5. Florida’s talent advantage should become increasingly evident as the game progresses, particularly defensively. The Gators can cover four touchdowns while keeping Florida Atlantic’s scoring low enough to stay Under.
Lamar vs Louisiana Pick
The moneyline pick is Louisiana, the ATS pick is Louisiana -20.5, and the total pick is Under 48.5. Louisiana should be able to control the line of scrimmage and build separation behind a strong defensive effort. The low total is still playable to the Under if Lamar struggles to reach double figures.
South Dakota State vs Northwestern Pick
The moneyline pick is Northwestern, the ATS pick is South Dakota State +12.5, and the total pick is Under 46.5. South Dakota State is far too accomplished to dismiss simply because it is facing a Big Ten opponent. Northwestern gets the narrow outright preference at home, but double-digit points with the underdog are attractive in a matchup that should feature limited possessions.
Hampton vs Maryland Pick
The moneyline pick is Maryland, the ATS pick is Hampton +45.5, and the total pick is Under 56.5. Maryland should dominate, but nearly seven touchdowns is a massive requirement. Hampton can cover if Maryland eases off once the game is decided, which would simultaneously help the Under.
Morgan State vs Arizona State Pick
The moneyline pick is Arizona State, the ATS pick is Morgan State +41.5, and the total pick is Under 52.5. Arizona State should have no trouble winning, but the market is asking for an enormous margin relative to the total. Taking the points is preferable in a game likely to slow down substantially after halftime.
Mercyhurst vs New Mexico State Pick
The moneyline pick is New Mexico State, the ATS pick is Mercyhurst +28.5, and the total pick is Under 51.5. New Mexico State steps down dramatically in competition after facing Florida State, but laying four touchdowns remains aggressive. Mercyhurst can stay within the number if the Aggies lean heavily on the run.
Portland State vs San Diego State Pick
The moneyline pick is San Diego State, the ATS pick is Portland State +40.5, and the total pick is Under 57.5. San Diego State should dominate defensively, but covering almost six touchdowns requires considerably more offensive production than simply winning comfortably. Portland State plus the points is the safer position.
Northern Arizona vs Arizona Pick
The moneyline pick is Arizona, the ATS pick is Northern Arizona +31.5, and the total pick is Over 56.5. Arizona should create plenty of explosive offensive opportunities, but Northern Arizona can contribute enough scoring to stay within five touchdowns. That makes the underdog and Over an attractive pairing.
Central Michigan vs New Mexico Pick
The moneyline pick is New Mexico, the ATS pick is Central Michigan +10.5, and the total pick is Under 46.5. New Mexico deserves the home-field edge, but Central Michigan catching double digits is attractive in a game expected to produce fewer than 50 points. The lower the scoring, the more valuable those points become.
UNLV vs Hawaii Pick
The moneyline pick is UNLV, the ATS pick is UNLV -3, and the total pick is Over 58.5. Both teams are coming off emotionally charged Week 0 games, but UNLV now gets a chance to respond after losing to Memphis while Hawaii must regroup after surrendering its fourth-quarter lead at Stanford. The matchup has more offensive potential than either team’s Week 0 result initially suggests, giving UNLV and the Over the edge.
Mississippi Valley State vs Sacramento State Pick
The moneyline pick is Sacramento State, the ATS pick is Sacramento State -35.5, and the total pick is Over 56.5. Sacramento State should be able to dictate this matchup offensively and create a much more favorable game than it faced at Eastern Michigan. A large home score makes both the favorite and Over playable.
UCLA vs California Pick
The moneyline pick is UCLA, the ATS pick is UCLA -1.5, and the total pick is Over 53.5. This is essentially a toss-up on the market, but UCLA gets the slight edge based on offensive upside. California should contribute enough to keep the game competitive, creating a path toward a one-score UCLA win in a game that clears the total.
Western Kentucky vs Nevada Pick
The moneyline pick is Western Kentucky, the ATS pick is Western Kentucky -2.5, and the total pick is Over 52.5. With less than a field goal separating these teams, Western Kentucky’s offensive ceiling is enough to break the tie. Nevada should produce enough at home to push the scoring into the upper 50s.
Washington State vs Washington Pick
The moneyline pick is Washington, the ATS pick is Washington State +23.5, and the total pick is Under 50.5. Washington is clearly the stronger roster, but rivalry games are difficult spots to lay more than three touchdowns. Washington State can make this ugly enough to cover while the Huskies still control the outcome.
Wisconsin vs Notre Dame Pick
The moneyline pick is Notre Dame, the ATS pick is Notre Dame -20.5, and the total pick is Under 47.5. Notre Dame enters with championship-level expectations while Wisconsin is trying to reverse consecutive losing seasons. At Lambeau Field, the Irish should own significant advantages on both sides of the ball, and a dominant defensive performance gives Notre Dame a path toward covering three touchdowns without requiring a high-scoring game.
Louisville vs Ole Miss Pick
The moneyline pick is Ole Miss, the ATS pick is Louisville +6.5, and the total pick is Over 55.5. Ole Miss has the offensive ceiling to win this neutral-site matchup, but Louisville has built enough consistency under its current staff to make nearly a touchdown valuable. This has one of the better shootout profiles of Week 1, with both offenses capable of reaching the upper 20s or beyond.
SMU vs Florida State Pick
The moneyline pick is SMU, the ATS pick is SMU -2.5, and the total pick is Under 53.5. SMU brings considerably more continuity into the opener, while Florida State is relying on a heavily reconstructed roster to immediately click against a ranked conference opponent. Doak Campbell Stadium makes this dangerous, but laying less than a field goal with the more established team is the preferred position. Florida State’s changes could create enough early offensive inconsistency to keep the game Under.
College Football Picks Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall College Football Picks | 15-9 |
| Moneyline Picks | 5-3 |
| ATS Picks | 4-4 |
| Total Picks | 6-2 |
| Best Bets | 0-1 |
The record will be updated after each completed college football slate.
How to Bet on College Football Games
The three most popular college football betting markets are the moneyline, point spread, and game total. Each market provides a different way to approach a matchup depending on where you believe the strongest betting value exists.
A moneyline wager is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The final margin does not matter. Favourites typically carry a higher price, while underdogs offer a larger potential return.
ATS stands for “against the spread.” The favourite must win by more than the posted point spread to cover. The underdog can cover by winning outright or losing by fewer points than the spread. A game that finishes directly on the listed spread is normally graded as a push.
A total wager focuses on the combined number of points scored by both teams. Bettors can select the over if they expect the final score to exceed the posted total or the under if they anticipate a lower-scoring game.
What We Consider When Making College Football Picks
Our college football picks are based on identifying betting value rather than simply choosing the team with the better record or national ranking. We evaluate quarterback play, offensive and defensive efficiency, recent performance, turnover margin, injuries, home-field advantage, coaching tendencies, weather, rest, travel, and how the betting market has priced each matchup.
Conference games require particular attention because familiar opponents may understand each other’s systems and personnel. Rivalry games can also produce unusual results, especially when motivation and emotion outweigh differences in season-long performance.
College football rosters and playing styles vary considerably. A matchup between teams from different conferences or competitive levels must be evaluated within the context of each programme’s schedule, personnel, and quality of opposition.
Understanding College Football Point Spreads
College football point spreads can be considerably larger than NFL spreads because of the differences in talent between programmes. National contenders may be favoured by several touchdowns when facing rebuilding teams or opponents from smaller conferences.
A large favourite does not need merely to win the game—it must win by more than the posted spread. This creates an important distinction between predicting the game’s winner and deciding which team offers the best ATS value.
Late scoring can be particularly important when betting college football spreads. Teams may continue playing aggressively with a comfortable lead, while others may give reserve players extended playing time during the second half.
College Football Total Picks
College football totals can vary widely because teams use different offensive systems and play at different tempos. Some programmes rely on quick possessions and explosive passing plays, while others prefer longer drives designed to control the clock.
Defensive efficiency, offensive pace, quarterback play, weather, and red-zone execution can all influence an over-or-under selection. A high-scoring offence does not automatically make the over the correct wager if the sportsbook has already accounted for that strength with an elevated total.
Game script is another important consideration. A heavy favourite may build an early lead and slow the pace, or the underdog may be forced to throw more frequently while attempting to mount a comeback.
College Football Betting Tips
Compare betting lines across multiple sportsbooks before placing a wager. Even half a point can determine whether an ATS or total wager wins, loses, or pushes.
Avoid selecting a team solely because of its ranking, reputation, or recent national attention. Sportsbooks understand public perception and may adjust the line accordingly. The better-known team is not always the side offering the strongest value.
It is also important to manage your bankroll carefully. College football Saturdays can feature a large number of attractive games, but wagering on too many matchups can make disciplined decision-making more difficult.
Focus on the games you understand best, maintain consistent wager sizes, and avoid chasing losses later in the day.
Betting on Ranked College Football Teams
Games involving ranked teams attract considerable attention, but national rankings are not betting power ratings. Rankings are designed to compare team accomplishments, while betting lines attempt to estimate the likely margin between two opponents.
A lower-ranked or unranked team may still be favoured because of home-field advantage, injuries, matchup strengths, or how the betting market evaluates each team.
Rather than assuming the higher-ranked programme should cover, consider whether the point spread accurately reflects the matchup and game location.
Betting on College Football Rivalry Games
Rivalry games often carry additional emotional significance for players, coaches, and supporters. Records and rankings still matter, but motivation can make these matchups more competitive than expected.
Familiarity can also influence the result. Conference and in-state rivals may understand each other’s tendencies, personnel, and coaching systems better than unfamiliar opponents.
Bettors should avoid assuming that every rivalry game will be close. The point spread, current personnel, recent performance, and matchup still need to support the wager.
College Football Conference Championship Picks
Conference championship games bring together many of the strongest teams from each league. These contests may also influence College Football Playoff qualification, adding further importance to every possession.
Some conference championships are played at neutral venues, while others may provide one programme with a geographical or crowd advantage. Bettors should verify the location rather than automatically treating the first-listed team as the visitor and the second-listed team as the host.
Rematches require additional consideration because both coaching staffs can adjust based on the first meeting. However, bettors should avoid assuming that the previous result will automatically be reversed.
College Football Bowl Game Picks
College football bowl betting presents challenges that are less common during the regular season. Coaching changes, transfer-portal activity, NFL Draft decisions, injuries, and player opt-outs can significantly affect a team between its final regular-season game and bowl appearance.
Motivation is frequently discussed during bowl season, but it should not be treated as the only deciding factor. Personnel availability, quarterback play, coaching continuity, and the matchup between each team’s strengths are usually more dependable considerations.
Because important availability news may emerge close to kickoff, bowl-game betting lines can move considerably. Always check the latest roster information and odds before placing a wager.
College Football Playoff Picks
College Football Playoff games feature elite competition and intense betting interest. Public attention can influence the market, particularly when a nationally recognised programme faces a less familiar opponent.
Strength of schedule, offensive and defensive matchups, venue, rest, quarterback play, and coaching experience should all be considered. The team with the strongest overall résumé will not necessarily provide the best value against the spread.
As the postseason progresses, the market gains more information about each remaining team. This can make obvious betting value increasingly difficult to find.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
Sports betting should always be treated as entertainment rather than guaranteed income. Only wager what you can comfortably afford to lose, establish reasonable limits, and never chase losses.
If betting stops being enjoyable or begins creating financial or emotional stress, take a break and seek assistance. Responsible gambling is more important than the result of any individual wager.
College Football Picks FAQ
Are these college football picks updated every week?
Yes. We update this page throughout the college football season with moneyline picks, ATS picks, total picks, and our best bet of the week.
Do you provide picks for every college football game?
We aim to cover the most prominent and bettable games on each weekly schedule. However, the large number of college football matchups means not every game will receive an in-depth preview.
How can I find a particular team on this page?
Press Ctrl + F on a Windows computer or Command + F on an Apple Mac and enter the team’s name. On an iPhone, iPad, or Android device, open the browser menu and select Find on Page.
What is the best college football bet this week?
Our favourite wager is featured in the College Football Best Bet of the Week section near the top of the page. The selection may be a moneyline, point spread, or game total.
Do you track your college football betting record?
Yes. We maintain running records for our overall picks, moneyline selections, ATS picks, totals, and best bets throughout the season.
What does ATS mean in college football betting?
ATS stands for “against the spread.” Instead of simply selecting the winner, you are betting on whether a team will cover the sportsbook’s posted point spread.
What is a college football moneyline bet?
A moneyline wager is a bet on which team will win the game outright. The final margin does not matter, although favourites and underdogs are offered at different prices.
What is a college football total?
The total is the sportsbook’s projected number of combined points for both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the final combined score will finish over or under that number.
Do you provide college football bowl picks?
Yes. We provide picks during bowl season while accounting for coaching changes, transfers, injuries, NFL Draft declarations, and player availability whenever reliable information is available.
Do you provide College Football Playoff picks?
Yes. Our postseason coverage includes College Football Playoff games and the national championship.
What is the best way to bet on college football?
Most bettors focus on moneylines, point spreads, and totals. The key is identifying value, comparing available odds, managing your bankroll, and remaining disciplined throughout the season.
More Free Football Picks
Are you looking for additional predictions? Check out our free football picks covering the biggest games throughout the season.
If you want to get in on the professional action, check out our free NFL picks.
Interested in Canadian football? Visit our free CFL picks for weekly moneyline, ATS, total, and best-bet predictions.
