College football is back, and with it comes an exciting first weekend full of marquee matchups that could set the tone for the entire season. In fact, right out of the gate, some of these games could have serious implications for these teams.
For bettors, though, it’s a golden opportunity to get in on the action. These are some games that feature powerhouse programs and intriguing storylines.
If you’re looking to place some bets, and we all are, here are five games you won’t want to miss.
Spread: Georgia -13.5
Totals: 49.5
This matchup between the Clemson Tigers and the Georgia Bulldogs is undoubtedly the headliner of the weekend. You don’t even have to be a fan of either team to want to watch (and bet) on this game.
Georgia, the reigning national champion and current top-ranked team, is a heavy favorite at sportsbooks like Caesars and BetMGM. The odds for Georgia to win range anywhere from -550 to -715, which shows that the bookmakers absolutely love the Dogs.
The Bulldogs return a wealth of talent on both sides of the ball, including one of the most ferocious defensive fronts in college football. Their pass rush is likely to give Clemson’s offensive line nightmares. This is especially true, considering the Tigers’ offense remains somewhat of a question mark.
Clemson’s defense, led by its solid front seven, should keep the game relatively competitive for a bit. However, the big concern is whether their offense can keep pace.
Georgia’s offense, while not flashy, undoubtedly gets the job done. They’re built to wear down opponents over four quarters and keep on grinding.
On paper, Clemson's defense has the chops to slow them down, but if Georgia's run game gets going, and we think it will, it could be a long day for the Tigers.
We expect a close first half, but Georgia’s grit and talent should pull them away in the second half.
BettorsInsider Pick: Georgia covers the spread (-13.5) and wins by two touchdowns.
Spread: Texas A&M -3
Totals: 46.5
The game between Notre Dame and Texas A&M is a clash of two teams with high hopes but plenty of questions. When it comes to betting, questions mean possibilities and opportunities.
Notre Dame comes into this game with a new quarterback and an offensive line that still needs to prove itself. Sure, they might be able to hold their own, but they’ll show their colors against top-tier competition. Facing an Aggies defense that’s stout, especially in the front seven, presents the biggest challenge they’ve seen in a long time.
Texas A&M, under new head coach Mike Elko, is looking to make a statement right out of the gate. The Aggies’ defense will be the key to this game. They’ll try to pressure Notre Dame’s new signal-caller and disrupt the timing of their offense.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s defense is strong. But can they hold up against an Aggies offense that has plenty of playmakers and will benefit from the home crowd at Kyle Field? It’s a tall order, but we think TAMU might have the edge on this.
The line is tight in this one, with sportsbooks like Bet365 giving Texas A&M a slight edge with -150 odds and a spread of only -3. Notre Dame’s defense could keep it close, but the home advantage and a more proven lineup, we think, gives the Aggies a slight upper hand.
BettorsInsider Pick: Texas A&M wins a close one, covering the narrow spread.
Spread: LSU -4.5
Totals: 63.5
The USC Trojans and the LSU Tigers square off in what promises to be one of the best games of the weekend. We’ll see a battle between two teams trying to reassert themselves on the national stage, and when that happens, there’s bound to be exciting football.
This game is a bit different than most because both teams are breaking in new quarterbacks after losing Heisman-level talent to the NFL. It happens, sure, but how they rebound is always the story of the following season.
USC’s move to the Big Ten also adds a bit more intrigue, as they now face an SEC powerhouse in LSU.
Both teams have strengthened their defenses, a much-needed improvement after last season’s struggles on that side of the ball. LSU’s secondary will be tested by USC’s explosive wide receivers, who are among the best in the nation. But they’re not the only ones on notice, as USC’s defense needs to prove it can handle a physical LSU offense.
The game is expected to be close, with LSU favored by 4.5 points. Given that both teams are still finding their footing, this game could go either way. However, we think the Tigers' experience in big games and the stability of their coaching staff give them a slight edge in this game.
BettorsInsider Pick: LSU wins in a nail-biter, but we’re not so sure that they’ll cover the spread. Stick to the moneyline.
Spread: Penn State -8.5
Totals: 51.5
Penn State enters this season with high expectations, aiming to finally break through to the College Football Playoff. Of course, it’s a long season, but they’re coming into the season looking great.
Despite that, this opener against West Virginia is more about making a statement than anything else. The Nittany Lions boast a balanced offense led by Drew Allar, who showed plenty of promise last season. He’ll only be better this season. Their defense is just as dominant, ranking 3rd in points allowed last year only behind Ohio and Michigan.
West Virginia, on the other hand, is still trying to find its identity under coach Neal Brown. They’ll have their hands full trying to keep up with Penn State, especially given the Nittany Lions' depth on both sides of the ball. West Virginia’s defense could struggle to contain Allar and their versatile attack.
The sportsbooks are heavily favoring Penn State by anywhere from 8.5 to 9 points. That’s surprising, as we expected at least a 2 touchdown difference. Given Penn State’s ambitions this season and their huge advantages in this matchup, they should cover the spread with ease.
BettorsInsider Pick: Penn State wins big and covers the -8.5 spread comfortably.
Spread: Miami -2.5
Totals: 54.5
The rivalry between Miami and Florida is always intense. This year’s matchup is expected to be no different. Both teams are coming off of relatively disappointing seasons and need a strong start to turn things around. This game could play a big role in their motivation going forward.
For Miami, coach Mario Cristobal feels pressure to show progress. To do so, he’s brought in some key transfers, including quarterback Cam Ward, to boost the offense. Ward’s dual-threat ability will most likely be a problem for Florida, especially if the Hurricanes can keep him protected.
Florida, on the other hand, also retooled through the transfer portal. However they face the toughest schedule in the nation this year. Winning the opener, even more so given it’s a tough one, will be very important for building momentum. The Gators’ defense (looking more at their secondary) will be tested by Miami’s playmakers, but if Florida can establish the run and control the clock, they could grind out a win. Even a small-margin win would be explosive for the Gators.
With BetMGM and other books setting the line close, this game is expected to be a tight one. Most bookmakers have Miami favored by -2.5, however, given the uncertainty surrounding both teams and the fact that it’s a rivalry game, anything could happen. However, Florida’s home-field advantage and Miami’s ongoing rebuilding process might tilt the scales.
BettorsInsider Pick: Florida wins a tight, low-scoring game. Stay with the moneyline and bet on under 54.5 points.
This weekend is packed with games that will have bettors glued to their screens. Well, we can’t say we blame them. We missed the game and this first week of September is just the start to all of the excitement.
Each of these matchups presents unique challenges and opportunities for teams looking to make a statement early in the season. That’s where the opportunity comes in for you to make huge bets that pay out big time.