Tanking NFL teams that planned to find a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft might have to think tw...

<p>Tanking NFL teams that planned to find a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft might have to think twice. A few weeks into the collegiate season, the quarterback play has been, well, less than optimal.</p><p>Some of the biggest names haven't come close to meeting their (perhaps unfair) preseason hype, completely shuffling the Heisman race with no clear front-runner emerging.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346409&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Heisman+update">Heisman Trophy odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>John Mateer</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carson Beck</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dante Moore</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Garrett Nussmeier</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gunner Stockton</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeremiah Smith</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joey Aguilar</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julian Sayin</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marcel Reed</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Devon Dampier</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jackson Arnold</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Behren Morton</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Allar</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ty Simpson</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arch Manning</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Castellanos</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346409&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Heisman+update">Check out a full Heisman odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Arch Manning and Cade Klubnik entered the season as co-Heisman favorites at +600. Through three weeks, both have tumbled down the oddsboard and out of the top 10. Manning is still in the top 15 at +3000, but Klubnik has fallen all the way to +10000 on <strong><a data-in-app-uri="" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346409&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Heisman+update">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Let's start with Peyton and Eli's nephew, who was heralded as a generational prospect. Fans saw limited doses of Manning in his two seasons as a backup, but this was his first year as Texas' offensive leader.</p><p>The promotion was clearly more about his last name than his mechanics. Manning hasn't resembled a top prospect through three games, two of which came against poor competition. In the opener against Ohio State, Manning recorded a 55 quarterback rating and a 56% completion percentage, and many of his routine throws were wildly off target. But it wasn't unfathomable that he'd play poorly on the road against the defending champs, who feature one of the nation's best defenses. It's the subsequent two weeks that really raised eyebrows.</p><p>While his statistics were better against San Jose State in Week 2, Manning continued to miss throws and look uncomfortable in the pocket. His worst outing came last weekend against UTEP, where he completed just 44% of his passes and posted a 26 QBR. He's thrown an interception in every game.</p><p>He's shown flashes of his athleticism and exceptional arm strength, but he's mostly looked overwhelmed running an offense. Manning will have plenty of opportunities to change the public perception of him, which has shifted 180 degrees from a month ago when most people expected immediate greatness. For now, Manning's Heisman bid looks as shaky as Billy Napier's job security at Florida. He has received more Heisman tickets on<strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346409&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Heisman+update"> ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong> than any other player, with most of those coming before the season began.</p><p>Klubnik led Clemson to an ACC title and the College Football Playoff while throwing for over 3,600 yards, 36 touchdowns, and only six interceptions last season. However, his production and Clemson's offense have sputtered to start this campaign, leaving Clemson in a 1-2 hole. Klubnik is completing less than 60% of his passes and has thrown as many interceptions as touchdowns. The Tigers have a favorable schedule in a weak ACC, but they've already lost to LSU and Georgia Tech and struggled against Troy. Clemson might not win enough games for Klubnik to even qualify for the Heisman.</p><p>With Manning and Klubnik effectively out of the race, who's in?</p><h3>New front-runners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/cropped_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/w220xh124_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/w320xh180_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/w640xh360_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/w768xh432_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800316/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2234080325.jpg?ts=1757216953 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Garrett Nussmeier had the third-best odds (+900) entering the season, but they've lengthened slightly; LSU's offense hasn't been as prolific as anticipated despite its 3-0 start. Although he makes some boneheaded throws, Nussmeier's talent is undeniable. He'll have plenty of chances to make his Heisman case in prime-time matchups with LSU's daunting upcoming schedule.</p><p>South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers and Penn State's Drew Allar were popular selections before the season. However, Sellers' status is uncertain after he left last week's loss with a head injury. He's earned more money on the Heisman market than any other player. Penn State has played as weak a schedule as any school, hurting Allar's early-season bid.</p><p>Oklahoma is off to a 3-0 start, largely because of quarterback John Mateer. Unsurprisingly, Mateer has garnered the most Heisman bets since he became the favorite last week, receiving 13% of bets on the market. The current Heisman favorite has been spectacular, but now's the time to sell his stock. Mateer's only marquee win is over Michigan, and the Sooners have a challenging schedule with Auburn, Texas, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Alabama, and LSU lurking.</p><p>Miami's impressive resume includes wins over Notre Dame and South Florida. Carson Beck has revived his stock after a down season at Georgia and he's leading the country in completion percentage. Miami has a path to the playoffs, which means Beck has a path to the Heisman.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32439070/related

Heisman odds for Manning, Klubnik dip following disappointing starts

The Bengals repeated one message throughout training camp in light of the early-season woes that ...

<p>The Bengals repeated one message throughout training camp in light of the early-season woes that have plagued Joe Burrow's tenure: Start strong and avoid digging themselves a hole. Mission accomplished. The Bengals are 2-0 for the first time since 2018, but it came at a massive cost.</p><p>Burrow suffered a toe injury in the Bengals' win over the Jaguars that will require surgery and reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3345988" href="https://thescore.com/news/3345988">sideline him</a> for at least three months. Catastrophe struck one of the NFL's best quarterbacks and a team with Super Bowl aspirations.</p><p>The Bengals were +1800 to win the Super Bowl before the season on <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a>, tied for the sixth-best odds. Since the Burrow news, they've moved to <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">+7500</a>, tied for the 21st-best odds. Cincinnati was +260 to win the AFC North before the season, just behind the Ravens. It's now <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">+1000</a>, behind the Ravens (<a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">-400</a>) and Steelers (<a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">+500</a>). The Bengals are +210 to make the playoffs and -250 to miss them.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3346022&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Futures">Check out a full Super Bowl, conference, and division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The Bengals' chances of contention are incredibly slim without Burrow. To be blunt, their season is over before it ever truly started.</p><p>Despite missing the playoffs because of a defense that allowed the seventh-most points per game last season, Burrow led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns. He also posted a 72.1 quarterback rating, the third-highest behind Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Burrow's talent has carried the franchise in recent seasons despite its tendency to get entangled in contract disputes and an awful defense that's damaged its Super Bowl prospects.</p><p>Bengals fans aren't the only group mourning another lost year. The numerous Burrow MVP bettors didn't expect to rip up their tickets this early. More than 17% of the bets on the MVP market were on the Bengals passer, who had the second-best odds at +600 behind Lamar Jackson. Patrick Mahomes received the second-most bets with 6% of tickets on the Chiefs quarterback. Oddsmakers removed Burrow from the market, as he's effectively been eliminated from the MVP conversation.</p><p>While a three-month timeline could allow Burrow to return before the regular season concludes, it's hard to imagine the Bengals will be in playoff contention by then.</p><p>Jake Browning replaced Burrow in Sunday's win, throwing for 241 yards, completing 65% of his passes, and leading a game-winning drive. But he also threw three interceptions. Browning earned seven starts during the 2023 season as Burrow dealt with another injury. He went 4-3 during that span, but turnovers were his biggest problem.</p><p>The difference between 2023 and now is that the Bengals have become even more reliant on Burrow's heroics because of their putrid defense. Even with an incredible receiving tandem in Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Browning must play like one of the top quarterbacks in the league for the Bengals to make a playoff push, especially with a challenging upcoming schedule. He hasn't proven he's capable of reaching that level. Another wasted season is in store for Cincinnati.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32429645/related

Bengals' Super Bowl odds tank following Burrow injury

Every week, we'll break down our favorite props and touchdown scorer bets for Sunday's slate. Let...

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NFL Week 2 prop party: Will Josh Allen come back to earth?

Clemson survived a scare against Troy and South Florida upset Florida in a mostly mundane Week 2....

<p>Clemson survived a scare against Troy and South Florida upset Florida in a mostly mundane Week 2. Conference showdowns and ranked matchups flood the Week 3 slate, which sets up to be a crucial weekend in college football. Let's dive into the big games and our favorite plays.</p><blockquote><p>🏈<strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Check out all college football Week 3 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798928/Marquee_Games-Red.jpg?ts=1756223235 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-6Pd2w" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6Pd2w/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m. ET</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=5c3ad01e-f6da-46a9-a122-d3aacd16af3f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Georgia -3.5</a>
</h3><p>Georgia's defense has allowed the seventh-fewest yards per game through two contests, and the unit's dominance has become synonymous with Kirby Smart's teams. Tennessee's averaging the second-most yards per game this season. So, who has the edge?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While Tennessee's pass-heavy attack was prolific against Syracuse and East Tennessee, Georgia is a different beast. Vols quarterback Joey Aguilar is unproven on the SEC stage. As an Appalachian State transfer, he hasn't experienced many ranked matchups against daunting defenses. Tennessee's ability to block Georgia's front and allow Aguilar enough time to process will be the determining factor. I'm rolling with the road favorite.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gBlQU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gBlQU/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 4:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ee2ec1c5-2d2e-4b79-a888-696b8a0b54d7&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=ncaaf&amp;tags=picks">Pick: South Florida +17.5</a>
</h3><p>South Florida's 2-0 start with wins over Boise State and Florida is no fluke. The Bulls could make a run at the College Football Playoff as a Group of 5 squad. A road game against Miami is USF's last chance to prove its worth against a power conference opponent, and no team is playing with more confidence.</p><p>The Bulls allowed just 11.5 points per game against two ranked programs. A Carson Beck-led offense presents a different challenge, but USF has the personnel to slow down Miami and keep the game low-scoring. Plus, Byrum Brown is an experienced dual-threat quarterback capable of beating defenses in the air and on the ground. Miami is laying too many points against the team with the most impressive resume in the country.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-sa7Hj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/sa7Hj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c848234e-7ec6-40df-865b-1dbbdc8d8392&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Notre Dame -6.5</a>
</h3><p>Notre Dame lost its opener to Miami by three points on the road. While Miami's experience led it to a win, Notre Dame freshman quarterback CJ Carr showed why the Fighting Irish view him as the future. He threw for over 220 yards and two touchdowns but didn't showcase his ability as a runner.</p><p>The Fighting Irish had a bye last week, meaning they benefited from extra rest and more time to prepare for Texas A&amp;M, which played Utah State. Texas A&amp;M isn't nearly as talented as Miami despite its high ranking. The Aggies played two weak opponents to open the season, while Notre Dame is already battle-tested. I'll take the more talented team coming off a bye with a promising freshman quarterback making his first home start.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NOgpW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NOgpW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=0276a3fc-793e-48ca-ba59-ac1a8012db2b&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Florida +7.5</a>
</h3><p>How long will Florida extend the Billy Napier experiment? He's been on a perpetual hot seat but somehow has a longer leash than he should. Last week's upset loss to USF could be costly, especially as Florida faces five ranked opponents in its next six games. That starts with an LSU team that has the makings of a national title contender.</p><p>LSU boasts the top transfer class in the country and has Heisman favorite Garrett Nussmeier under center, but Florida can still keep this game within a touchdown. The Gators' offense settled for field goals way too often last week. If DJ Lagway can convert favorable field position into touchdowns instead, they can compete. Florida's other path here is preventing LSU's big plays. The Tigers often rely too much on Nussmeier's arm due to their nonexistent run game. Florida's defense has the talent to pressure Nussmeier and limit explosive plays, and the Gators should be extra motivated following an upset loss.</p><blockquote><p><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">🏈 Check out all college football Week 3 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798925/Hidden_Gems_-_Red.jpg?ts=1756223236 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XQjbB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XQjbB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:45 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=1d06ef12-931c-4c87-8cb6-251af30d9b9e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: South Carolina -4.5</a>
</h3><p>Vanderbilt's off to another solid start, scoring 44 and 45 points in its opening two games (the latter against Virginia Tech). However, South Carolina is a playoff contender led by Heisman candidate and dynamic quarterback LaNorris Sellers, whom Vanderbilt's defense is not equipped to contain.</p><p>Entering the season, there were questions about South Carolina's defense after it lost key pass-rushers to the NFL. The Gamecocks still look similarly dominant up front, however, having allowed Virginia Tech to score just 11 points in the opener on a neutral field. I'll take South Carolina to win by at least a touchdown at home in each team's SEC opener.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GylKK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GylKK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=d3cd7710-85c5-4e88-a816-20725b2d4c9d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Oregon State +23.5</a>
</h3><p>Quarterback Behren Morton is off to a sizzling start in his fifth season at Texas Tech. He's thrown for 459 yards and seven touchdowns. The Red Raiders are averaging 64.5 points per game, the nation's second-highest mark. However, let's pump the brakes: Those two wins were against Kent State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.</p><p>Oregon State has given us very little reason to trust it after losses to California and Fresno State. However, the offense made strides from Week 1 to Week 2 as quarterback Maalik Murphy threw a career-high 371 yards. Texas Tech's attempted to upgrade what was one of the country's worst defenses last season, but it's still unproven. The Beavers have enough offensive firepower to keep this within three touchdowns.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RkQOC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RkQOC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=23198c23-7016-420b-8e6c-51dee17f989b&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3341288&amp;tags=Picks&amp;tags=NCAAF">Pick: Duke +1.5</a>
</h3><p>Duke opened as a 2.5-point underdog, moved to a 1.5-point favorite, and is now an underdog again. Quarterback Darian Mensah played at Tulane last year before transferring to Duke this spring. This is a revenge spot for him as he returns to his old stomping grounds.</p><p>The Blue Devils played poorly and committed five turnovers against Illinois last week, but they remained competitive despite the final tally. Duke's defense has been impressive, particularly against the run, and should slow down Tulane, which has faced weak competition through two games. Regardless of the quarterback revenge factor, Duke is the more talented and better-coached team.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32364168/related

CFB Week 3 picks: Back Georgia as road favorite at Tennessee

Sunday night's win over the Ravens wasn't the first time Josh Allen put on his Superman cape and ...

<p>Sunday night's win over the Ravens wasn't the first time Josh Allen put on his Superman cape and willed the Bills to a victory. Allen's latest heroic performance made the quarterback the sole MVP favorite, ending Lamar Jackson's preseason reign.</p><p>Buffalo also became the outright Super Bowl favorite (+550) on <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3340885&amp;tags=SB+odds+after+Week+1">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong>, shedding the co-favorite designation with Baltimore. The Bills' improbable win over the Ravens featured 394 passing yards and 30 rushing yards from Allen, who led an unlikely comeback to win an AFC divisional-round rematch against the team they eliminated last January.</p><p>The Ravens were ahead 40-25 with roughly five minutes remaining and had a 99% chance of winning, according to ESPN's analytics. However, Baltimore's conservative play-calling, suspect passing defense, and a costly Derrick Henry fumble allowed the Bills to win 41-40 on a walk-off field goal in an early candidate for game of the year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In the fourth quarter, when the Ravens still looked like they were en route to a win, Allen was +600 to win MVP while Jackson was +300. Twenty minutes later, once the clock ran down to zero, Allen had flipped to +375, and Jackson was +500.</p><p>If Week 1 is any indication, MVP could be another two-horse race between Allen and Jackson. As for the Super Bowl picture, the Ravens still have the second-best odds.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3340885&amp;tags=SB+odds+after+Week+1">Super Bowl odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Bills</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ravens</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eagles</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chiefs</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>49ers</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chargers</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commanders</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bengals</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rams</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3340885&amp;tags=SB+odds+after+Week+1">Check out the full Super Bowl odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>After Baltimore blew another fourth-quarter lead in a big game and its defense allowed 41 points, bettors are convinced the Bills are the team to beat in the AFC. Buffalo's received the most Super Bowl bets (25%) and AFC title bets (65%) since Sunday night's game.</p><p>The Packers received the second-most action since yesterday and were also one of the biggest Super Bowl odds movers after a resounding win over a division rival. Green Bay's impressive pass rush pummeled the Lions, stymying Jared Goff and Detroit's offense. The Packers jumped to the fourth-best odds to win the Super Bowl (+800), leapfrogging the Chiefs and Lions. They also became NFC North favorites, moving from +250 to -120. Detroit, which could have serious concerns after the departure of its offensive and defensive coordinators, saw its odds to win the division lengthen from +145 to +425.</p><p>The Chiefs' Super Bowl odds also got worse after losing to the Chargers in Brazil on Friday night. Kansas City moved from +750 to +1000, while Los Angeles improved from +2500 to +1800. The Chiefs remain the favorites in the AFC West, a division they've won nine straight seasons, but the gap has shrunk substantially. Kansas City opened the season as a -120 favorite while Los Angeles was +300. Now, the Chiefs are +160 and the Chargers are +200.</p><p>Week 1 is the best time to overreact, especially as oddsmakers try to discern what's real and what's not from the opening weekend. A lot will change between September and February, but the Bills and Packers were clear winners of the weekend.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32337575/related

Bills take over as title favorites, Allen leads MVP race after SNF

After three top-10 showdowns highlighted an incredible Week 1 slate, Week 2 features fewer highly...

<p>After three top-10 showdowns highlighted an incredible Week 1 slate, Week 2 features fewer highly anticipated matchups with just one ranked showdown. However, that doesn't mean chaos won't occur; remember, Northern Illinois upset Notre Dame in Week 2 last year. Let's dive into the biggest games and hidden gems to bet on.</p><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Check out all college football Week 2 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798919/Marquee_Games-Blue.jpg?ts=1756223232 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qc755" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qc755/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m. ET</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Iowa +3.5</a>
</h3><p>Iowa and Iowa State typically play low-scoring games. Their last eight matchups that ended in regulation averaged a total of 34.6 points. In a projected low-scoring affair, it's hard to bet on a team winning by more than a field goal. Now, factor in how close nearly every game is between these in-state rivals. Iowa State hasn't defeated Iowa by more than three points since 2005.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Quarterback Mark Gronowski is supposed to be Iowa's offensive savior after four seasons at South Dakota State. He struggled to be accurate in his debut, but one game isn't enough to sound the alarms. If he can settle in against Iowa State's defense, Iowa will score enough to cover.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jFWGh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jFWGh/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Duke +2.5</a>
</h3><p>This is the toughest game to pick this weekend. Quarterback Darian Mensah came to Duke to revive an offense on life support. He had an outstanding season at Tulane last year and impressed in Duke's opener. Entering his third season, Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer is a reliable, precise, turnover-free signal-caller. The Fighting Illini can compete in the Big Ten with a relatively easy conference schedule, but it feels like they'll come up short on the road against a feisty Duke team that's improved its personnel from a year ago.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-osm62" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/osm62/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Ole Miss -8.5</a>
</h3><p>This is the ultimate revenge spot. Kentucky shockingly defeated Ole Miss as a 17.5-point road underdog last September in the first of three losses that prevented the Rebels from qualifying for the College Football Playoff. Ole Miss isn't quite as good after replacing Jaxson Dart but still has a huge talent advantage over Kentucky, which failed to cover against Toledo in Week 1.</p><p>Lane Kiffin will be playing last year's tape all week to remind his team how Kentucky embarrassed Ole Miss on its home field. The Rebels will be highly motivated to return the favor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qy1hO" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qy1hO/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Michigan +5.5</a>
</h3><p>Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood had a stellar collegiate debut, but it was against New Mexico. It would be foolish to put much stock in that performance. Underwood will have a chance to prove himself on the national stage as a road underdog. Trusting him is part of the equation in picking the Wolverines, but this matchup will come down to Michigan's defensive front against Oklahoma's offensive line.</p><p>The Wolverines' ferocious defensive line pressures the backfield and attacks the quarterback, while Oklahoma's shaky offensive line is already dealing with some injuries. Michigan can keep this game within five points by dominating the line of scrimmage.</p><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Check out all college football Week 2 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798924/Hidden_Gems_-_blue.jpg?ts=1756223234 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KtbXG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KtbXG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Mississippi State +6.5</a>
</h3><p>Mississippi State remains a cellar-dweller in the SEC, but it has significantly improved from last season. Arizona State, meanwhile, is worse after winning the Big 12. While Sam Leavitt is still under center, the Sun Devils' run game suffered following Cam Skattebo's departure. That didn't matter against Northern Arizona in Week 1, but it will against an SEC defense. Arizona State should be on outright upset alert on the road.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-d8wRH" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/d8wRH/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Vanderbilt +1.5</a>
</h3><p>Virginia Tech disappointed against South Carolina on a neutral field in Atlanta last Sunday. Now the Hokies play on a short week while Vanderbilt benefits from an extra day of rest. In a coin-toss game, the quarterback battle gives Vanderbilt the edge. Diego Pavia proved he can carry the Commodores to wins last season, and I trust him to do that against a Virginia Tech defense that LaNorris Sellers just carved up. Meanwhile, Hokies quarterback Kyron Drones has been too mistake-prone and unreliable during his time with the program.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-MorDB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/MorDB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336879&amp;tags=CFB+Week+2+picks&amp;tags=CFB+betting+story+Week+2">Pick: Kansas +5.5</a>
</h3><p>Kansas' momentum from the final month of last season, where it won three straight games against ranked opponents, has carried over. The Jayhawks' offense scored 31 and 46 points, respectively, in their first two games. Jalon Daniels has dealt with injuries throughout his Kansas tenure, but he threw for over 2,400 yards last season, and he's healthy entering this week. With Daniels under center, the offense can keep up with Missouri.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32277130/related

CFB Week 2 picks: Can Michigan pass SEC test on the road?

We gave out picks for every game on Sunday's slate. Now, it's time for our favorite player props ...

<p>We gave out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3336978" href="https://thescore.com/news/3336978">picks for every game</a> on Sunday's slate. Now, it's time for our favorite player props and anytime touchdown scorers. Let's dive in.</p><blockquote><p><strong>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fqb-props&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=QB+props+Week+1">Check out a full selection of props on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796845/player_props-Red.jpg?ts=1754582951 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fdad6c6d7-d234-40c3-8e9a-f283bb39a2ed&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thscore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=Broncos+Week+2+rushing+prop">RJ Harvey over 34.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Titans allowed the seventh-most rushing yards last season, presenting a favorable matchup for the Broncos. Denver will implement a split backfield with Harvey and JK Dobbins, but Harvey has reportedly impressed enough to be an early down back in certain situations. His talent earned him a second-round selection at April's draft, and the Broncos should be prepared to use Harvey early and often - beginning in their opener.</p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Ffaea3bb6-3e41-4ad0-af14-bbff140313d6&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=Saints+Week+2+prop">Chris Olave under 4.5 receptions</a>
</h3><p>Who is Olave supposed to catch passes from? Spencer Rattler will start under center with rookie Tyler Shough serving as the backup. The Saints have the NFL's worst quarterback room. That impacts the wide receivers, who can't accumulate catches from inaccurate and unreliable quarterbacks. New Orleans will struggle to move the ball throughout the game - and the entire season. Take Olave's under receptions instead of yards because he could break free for a large gain on a single catch.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fqb-props&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=QB+props+Week+1">Michael Penix over 234.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>Penix eclipsed 235 passing yards in only one of his three starts last season, but the Falcons began to trust him down the stretch. He attempted 35 and 38 passes in his final two games, both of which went to overtime. Although it has one of the best running backs in the league with Bijan Robinson, Atlanta will still let Penix rip it, especially against the Bucs' putrid passing defense. Tampa Bay allowed the third-most passing yards in 2024. Penix's first opener as the starter should produce a high passing total.</p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F31402ef2-0c29-48ed-b5d2-54c350899bd7&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=Packers+Week+2+rushing+prop">Jordan Love over 4.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Nagging injuries throughout the campaign severely hindered Love's ability to run last season. But don't forget how effective he can be with his legs as a dual-threat quarterback. He should return to running more willingly and frequently this year. Love rushed for at least 5 yards in 11 out of 17 games in 2023.</p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Faba87086-52b3-4b33-b346-25e1ac120548&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=Giants-Commanders+receiving+props">Malik Nabers over 76.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Nabers cleared 77 receiving yards in his final three contests last season - and that was with incompetent quarterback play. Russell Wilson isn't an elite passer, but he's solid. Plus, the Giants should force-feed Nabers against a suspect Commanders secondary.</p><blockquote><p><strong>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fqb-props&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=QB+props+Week+1">Check out a full selection of TD scorer props on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796852/Touchdown_Scorers-Red.jpg?ts=1754583246 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ftd-scorers&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=TD+scorers+Week+1">Kenneth Walker (+125)</a>
</h3><p>These odds are too good to pass up. Walker had eight touchdowns in 11 contests last campaign, and all signs point to him getting a heavy workload to start the year. With Robert Saleh now leading San Francisco's defense as the new coordinator, the unit might need some time to find its rhythm. The 49ers also allowed the most rushing touchdowns to opposing running backs in 2024.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ftd-scorers&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=TD+scorers+Week+1">Tee Higgins (+135)</a>
</h3><p>Higgins battled multiple injuries last year, but he was a touchdown machine in the games he played. The 26-year-old racked up 10 scores in 12 contests and will face a Browns secondary that surrendered the fourth-most touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in 2024. Higgins also found the end zone in both matchups against Cleveland last campaign.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ftd-scorers&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=TD+scorers+Week+1">Emeka Egbuka (+200)</a>
</h3><p>The rookie has an excellent opportunity to shine in his first NFL game, as Atlanta gave up the most red-zone touches and touchdowns to opposing wide receivers last season. Egbuka, who Tampa Bay selected 19th overall in the 2025 draft, will start across from Mike Evans with Chris Godwin sidelined due to injury. He's projected to get a lot of targets in the Buccaneers' pass-happy offense.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ftd-scorers&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=TD+scorers+Week+1">Hunter Henry (+250)</a>
</h3><p>Henry will be Maye's security blanket this season, and the veteran has earned the trust of his young quarterback. The 30-year-old led the team in targets (97), receptions (66), and receiving yards (674) in 2024. Henry has a great matchup out of the gate against the Raiders, as Las Vegas allowed the fourth-most red-zone targets and the second-most touchdowns to opposing tight ends last year.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ftd-scorers&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3337610&amp;tags=TD+scorers+Week+1">Troy Franklin (+450)</a>
</h3><p>Our swing of Week 1 is taking Franklin to find the end zone against the Titans. The second-year wideout is projected to have an increased role on Denver's offense, and he can absolutely fly and burn a shaky Tennessee secondary for a touchdown. The Oregon product is also coming off a great preseason, hauling in over 90 yards and two scores. We're all in on the Franklin hype to start.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32289754/related

NFL Week 1 props: TD scorers, player totals for Sunday's slate

It's finally here. The NFL season kicks off Thursday night in Philadelphia with an NFC East match...

<p>It's finally here. The NFL season kicks off Thursday night in Philadelphia with an NFC East matchup between the Eagles, who are coming off a Super Bowl championship, and their bitter foes, the Dallas Cowboys.</p><blockquote><p>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks"><strong>Check out all of the Eagles-Cowboys markets available on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796823/Game_Picks-Green.jpg?ts=1754581776 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-j1Ynv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/j1Ynv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">Pick: Eagles (-7.5)</a>
</h3><p>The Eagles begin their title defense against a clown factory that just traded a generational talent in Micah Parsons due to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones' ineptitude. These rivals are in different stratospheres of organizational competence.</p><p>Philadelphia returns nearly its entire offense from last season's championship team, which featured the league's best running back and best offensive line, a top-three receiving core, and one of the best quarterbacks. A Super Bowl hangover won't hit Philly this season. While the defense is younger with some question marks in the secondary, the front seven should continue to dominate. Plus, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is back for his second season as one of the best coordinators in football.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cowboys won't be as bad as their 7-10 campaign last year, but the talent gap between them and the Eagles is wider than it's been in a while. That's part of why this may seem like a large spread for a division rivalry game.</p><p>The energy inside Lincoln Financial Field as the Eagles unveil their banner in front of the Cowboys will carry the more talented team to a resounding win.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">Dak Prescott over 249.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Cowboys will feature a pass-heavy attack this season as Dak Prescott is paired with a dangerous wide receiver tandem in CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. The Eagles' biggest defensive liabilities are in the secondary, particularly at the second cornerback and safety spots, which Dallas should target. Plus, the Cowboys will likely trail in the second half as substantial underdogs. If Dallas is down, Prescott will have even more opportunities to accumulate passing yards.</p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">Jalen Hurts over 36.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Hurts rushed for at least 37 yards in over half of his games last year. The Cowboys allowed the fourth-most rushing yards per game last season, and now their best defender is playing for the Packers. The threat of Saquon Barkley in the backfield creates opportunities for Hurts to run, particularly when the Eagles utilize the read option.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799749/Touchdown_Scorers-Green.jpg?ts=1756828040 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><em>NFL news editor Brenden Deeg will provide touchdown scorer props all season long. </em></p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">A.J. Brown (+145)</a>
</h3><p>Dallas' defense struggled against wide receivers last season, ranking 24th in touchdowns allowed to the position. A.J. Brown, who missed time with a hamstring injury in camp, has been back at practice over the last week and will be fully healthy for the season opener. He scored in five of the last seven games in 2024, including touchdowns in the NFC championship and Super Bowl.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">Javonte Williams (+185)</a>
</h3><p>We'll trust the Cowboys' depth chart and training camp reporting here. Williams, who was signed this offseason after four years in Denver, headlines Dallas' running backs entering Week 1, and these odds are too good to pass up. You'll rarely ever see an RB1 over +150, so take it while you can.</p><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8a4f2434-08fd-4dbb-b318-f739bbbaab15&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3336851&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+betting+preview&amp;tags=Eagles-Cowboys+TNF+opener+picks">Jalen Hurts to score 2+ (+325)</a>
</h3><p>The Eagles won't mess around in the season opener: We expect them to utilize the tush push every chance they get. Hurts scored two rushing touchdowns in his lone start against Dallas last season, and the Cowboys allowed the most scores and yards on the ground to opposing quarterbacks in 2024. Their run defense is set to struggle again this year, so Hurts finding the end zone twice is a great long-shot bet.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799745/Parlays-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>Let's have some fun, shall we? Parlays are rarely recommended wagers, but they easily offer the best bang for your buck from an entertainment standpoint. Turning $5 into hundreds is every casual bettor's dream, and the season opener presents a great setup to take a shot at hitting an early lottery ticket.</p><p><strong>The legs:</strong></p><ul>
<li>CeeDee Lamb: Over 89.5 receiving yards</li>
<li>CeeDee Lamb: To score a TD</li>
<li>Dak Prescott: Over 39.5 passing attempts</li>
<li>Dak Prescott: Over 299.5 passing yards</li>
<li>Dak Prescott: Over 19.5 rushing yards</li>
<li>Jalen Hurts: To score a TD</li>
</ul><p><strong>The odds: +7856</strong></p><p><strong>The logic: </strong></p><p>The Eagles are 7.5-point favorites, and the game total is 47.5, which is higher than average. The Eagles should be leading, and if they score four touchdowns - as their team total implies - chances are Hurts scores one of them.</p><p>All signs point toward the Cowboys being one of the pass-happiest offenses in the league. Their defense, meanwhile, projects to be one of the worst in the NFL, and nothing suggests their rushing attack will improve from last year. With the Cowboys forced to play catch-up and Philadelphia's relatively weak secondary, it's easy to see how Prescott would throw the ball 40 or more times.</p><p>If Prescott does, his chances of throwing for over 300 yards increase. Lamb will be his go-to option and should see a hefty number of targets as the Cowboys' best offensive weapon. There's a chance Pickens is shadowed by Quinyon Mitchell, who finished second in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting last year. That would force Prescott to look Lamb's way even more often. Plus, Lamb can operate out of the slot to create different matchups for the Cowboys to capitalize on.</p><p>In a game where the Cowboys are expected to call a high rate of passing plays, it could take just one scramble from Prescott to rush for 20 or more yards. The Eagles' defensive line is a problem, and Prescott could be running for his life more than once.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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TNF betting preview: Eagles host Cowboys in season opener

It's officially Week 1 as the Eagles and Cowboys kick off the season Thursday night.   But first,...

<p>It's officially Week 1 as the Eagles and Cowboys kick off the season Thursday night. </p><p>But first, we still have 10 more season-long wagers to round out our futures portfolio. We covered the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3330997" href="https://thescore.com/news/3330997">MVP</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3328400" href="https://thescore.com/news/3328400">Player of the Year</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327809" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327809">Rookie of the Year</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3321323" href="https://thescore.com/news/3321323">win totals</a> betting markets throughout the preseason. Here are our final futures wagers of the year.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Jalen Hurts: Over 575.5 rushing yards</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/cropped_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/w220xh124_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/w320xh180_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/w640xh360_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/w768xh432_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799072/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1820813633.jpg?ts=1756311906 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Perry Knotts / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>This is a bizarrely low line given Hurts has surpassed 600 rushing yards in the last four seasons. He's a dual-threat quarterback behind the Eagles' elite offensive line. Saquon Barkley assumes the rushing load, but the threat of Barkley's presence allows Hurts to break free on the ground. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Trevor Lawrence: Over 3,500.5 passing yards</a></h3><p>Lawrence threw for 3,600 or more yards in each of his first three seasons (over 4,000 twice) before only playing 10 games last season. Now he gets what's perceived as a huge coaching upgrade in Liam Coen, a second year with receiver Brian Thomas Jr., and Travis Hunter injected into the offense.</p><p>As the Buccaneers' offensive coordinator last year, Coen guided Baker Mayfield to a 4,500-yard season. It's reasonable to expect Lawrence to have a great year if he can stay healthy. Even if he has an average campaign, 3,500 passing yards is more than achievable. <em>- Patterson</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Bo Nix: Over 3,350.5 passing yards</a></h3><p>Nix threw for 3,775 yards last season. He tossed the sixth-most pass attempts in the NFL, but his yards per attempt didn't rank in the top 20. Although the Broncos quarterback delivered the ball quickly and efficiently, he didn't throw downfield much. While many expect a sophomore slump for Nix, I believe he'll build on his successful rookie season, and Sean Payton will give him more opportunities to take chances downfield.<em> - Oshtry</em></p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Omarion Hampton: Over 6.5 rushing touchdowns</a></h3><p>The Chargers took Hampton with the 22nd pick in the 2025 draft, a clear indication they believe he can be a workhorse back in Jim Harbaugh's offense. Yes, the Chargers brought in Najee Harris in the offseason, but he has yet to participate in team drills after sustaining an eye injury July 4, and his status for Week 1 remains in doubt. Even if Harris were completely healthy, there's a good chance Hampton would outperform him and handle the bulk of the Chargers' carries.</p><p>J.K. Dobbins punched it in nine times in 13 games last year for the Chargers. If Hampton can earn 50% of the goal-line carries and play a full slate of games, he should have no problem scoring seven or more touchdowns on the ground. <em>- Patterson</em></p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">CeeDee Lamb: Over 6.5 receiving touchdowns</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/cropped_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759920/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189118735.jpg?ts=1733803577 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Lamb was a target of mine before the Cowboys traded away Micah Parsons, and now that Dallas' defense projects to be much worse, I love this bet even more.</p><p>The Cowboys will need to throw the ball at a higher rate than normal to score points and keep up with opposing teams. They ranked third in pass attempts last season and were eighth the season prior. Dallas was inefficient on the ground last season and didn't make any moves that suggest their rushing attack will improve. That leaves the door wide open for Lamb to be heavily targeted and likely score seven or more touchdowns, something he's done two of the past three seasons.<em> - Patterson</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Malik Nabers: Over 1,050 receiving yards</a></h3><p>Nabers soared past this number as a rookie despite only playing 15 games and dealing with incompetent quarterback play. He accumulated 1,204 receiving yards (seventh in the league), had 109 receptions (fifth), and 170 targets (second).<strong> </strong>That was with Daniel Jones, Drew Lock, and Tommy DeVito delivering him passes. There's still uncertainty at quarterback, but Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and rookie Jaxson Dart are all upgrades. The Giants will force-feed their star wideout frequently. It's hard to imagine him not eclipsing this total. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">George Pickens: Over 4.5 receiving touchdowns</a></h3><p>The reasons we like Lamb also apply to Pickens, the Cowboys' new wide receiver. The former Steeler should be Dak Prescott's go-to option in the red zone for a team that doesn't have a true goal-line back.</p><p>Prescott's passing touchdown total is set at 24.5, the seventh highest of all quarterbacks, with the over paying -140. His targets should be condensed to Lamb, Pickens, and tight end Jake Ferguson. There's no reason to think that both Lamb and Pickens can't go over their touchdown props. <em>- Patterson</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Marvin Harrison Jr.: Over 900.5 receiving yards</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/cropped_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794463/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183194460.jpg?ts=1752617004 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brooke Sutton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Harrison didn't come close to meeting expectations as a highly touted rookie receiver, but his disappointing campaign still netted 885 receiving yards for the Cardinals. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing will get Harrison even more involved in the wideout's second season, increasing his targets and receptions. Kyler Murray and Harrison should also improve their chemistry. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Tyler Warren: Over 575.5 receiving yards</a></h3><p>Brock Bowers is a good example of what a star rookie tight end can do with bad quarterback play: He had 1,194 receiving yards as a rookie. Warren isn't Bowers, but the 14th overall pick can be a game-changer for Daniel Jones and the Colts' offense, and they should target him often. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_totals&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Season-long+props&amp;tags=3331240&amp;tags=picks">Travis Kelce: Over 650.5 receiving yards</a></h3><p>Kelce's got a lot going on off the field, but he recently acknowledged that his focus shifted back to football this offseason in a way it hadn't in previous years. His decline is mostly due to his age - he's a soon-to-be 36-year-old tight end. For all his struggles, he's still reached at least 800 receiving yards every season. His career low in receiving yards came in 2024 (823 yards). Oddsmakers expect major regression from Kelce, but this is a wildly low total, especially given how badly the Chiefs need his pass-catching production with Rashee Rice suspended for the first six games. <em>- Oshtry</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32259886/related

10 season-long player props to take before Week 1

The college football offseason is long. It's even longer when it's spent bickering over playoff e...

<p>The college football offseason is long. It's even longer when it's spent bickering over playoff expansion, conference realignment, court rulings, the transfer portal, NIL problems, and all the other ailments that currently plague college athletics. </p><p>Then Labor Day weekend rolls around and all those issues fade into the background as<strong> </strong>the pageantry, passion, and high stakes that make college football great return to center stage.</p><p>It's hard to find a more appealing Week 1 slate than this one that features three ranked matchups, including one between two of the top three teams in the AP Poll. Every week, we'll discuss and provide picks for the marquee games and touch on other bets to round out the card.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Check out all college football Week 1 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798920/Marquee_Games-Orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8pmhV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8pmhV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m. ET</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Texas (+1.5)</a>
</h3><p>Opening Week 1 with a showdown between the two national title favorites is a blessing for every college football fan, although this game doesn't have the same stakes in a 12-team playoff system that it would have had two years ago with a four-team playoff. While both teams should still qualify for the College Football Playoff regardless of the outcome, the loser will face more pressure as the season continues.</p><p>Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin and Texas quarterback Arch Manning have little experience in these environments. The edge there should go to Manning, who has dealt with scrutiny and high expectations his entire football life due to his last name. But finding a true edge is a challenge with two ultra-talented, evenly matched teams that haven't played a game since experiencing plenty of roster turnover.</p><p>In the coaching booths, Texas has the advantage. Matt Patricia, whom Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian coached against in the NFL, replaced Jim Knowles as Buckeyes defensive coordinator, and Brian Hartline replaced Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator. Sarkisian remains Texas' play-caller, and both Longhorns coordinators returned. Coaching staff continuity could be the deciding factor in a coin-flip contest between opponents who might meet again in January.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-v5gTQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/v5gTQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Alabama (-13.5)</a>
</h3><p>Florida State won't be as bad as its disastrous two-win season last year, but overhauling the roster through the transfer portal doesn't guarantee success. Most of the Seminoles' offensive starters are transfers, including former Boston College quarterback Tommy Castellanos.</p><p>Meanwhile, Alabama returns many of its premier pass-rushers and offensive linemen, a few of whom will go on to be drafted in the early rounds. Even with quarterback Ty Simpson making his first career start on the road, the Crimson Tide's offensive and defensive lines will overpower Florida State. Quarterback play won't decide the game. It'll be obvious for 60 minutes which team has roster continuity and which team is rebuilding.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gzPsY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gzPsY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: LSU (+4)</a>
</h3><p>LSU has lost five consecutive openers and is an underdog on the road against Clemson. If not now for LSU, when? Garrett Nussmeier is one of the nation's best quarterbacks and is featured in a pass-heavy offense. Clemson's secondary will have a difficult time matching up against LSU's stud playmakers.</p><p>Although Clemson signal-caller Cade Klubnik is also a Heisman candidate, the positional matchup that will decide this contest is LSU's questionable offensive line against Clemson's daunting defensive line. Only one starter from LSU's offensive line returned. The program reloaded through the transfer portal, which creates uncertainty. If LSU can protect Nussmeier, Brian Kelly's team can win on the road. I expect LSU's offense to keep up with Clemson's and keep the game within a field goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-B4onU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/B4onU/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: Sunday, 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Miami (+2.5)</a>
</h3><p>The last three national-title losers who played a power conference school in their opener the following season went 0-2-1 against the spread. The inaugural 12-team playoff created the longest college football season ever. Although Notre Dame did experience some roster turnover, the team could still get off to a slow start after playing in the national championship - especially considering the Fighting Irish are notorious for getting better as the season goes on under Marcus Freeman.</p><p>I don't trust Miami throughout an entire season, but Carson Beck has experience in big games and will be prepared for a difficult Week 1 opponent, especially at home. He should have a reliable running game and a solid receiving corps around him. The Canes improved on their putrid passing defense last season after adding transfers and freshmen. Notre Dame, on the other hand, is starting true freshman quarterback CJ Carr. He's never played a collegiate snap and has to go on the road to open the season against a top-10 team. I wouldn't count on him to pass that test.</p><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Check out all college football Week 1 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798921/Hidden_Gems_-_orange.jpg?ts=1756223235 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-K0gBB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/K0gBB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12:45 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Toledo (+9)</a>
</h3><p>Toledo already has a dynamic passing game, and now it's added running back Chip Trayanum to bring versatility to an offense that relied too heavily on throwing the ball last season.</p><p>Kentucky is poised for another disappointing finish in the SEC with a weak offensive line and seventh-year quarterback Zach Calzada, who brings experience but limited talent. Toledo upset another weak SEC team last year when it beat Mississippi State. This opener is also a lookahead spot for Kentucky with a matchup against Ole Miss looming in Week 2. The Wildcats are on outright upset alert.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ggmTc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ggmTc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: Sunday, 3 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Virginia Tech (+8)</a>
</h3><p>The hype surrounding South Carolina, particularly Heisman-contending quarterback LaNorris Sellers, has overinflated its opening line on a neutral field. As brilliant as Sellers was down the stretch last season, the Gamecocks' ferocious defensive line was their biggest strength. Many of their top defenders are now in the NFL, however, leaving massive holes.</p><p>Virginia Tech fans expected better than the team's 6-7 record last year. Kyron Drones is back at quarterback, but nearly the entire offense features new faces. The Hokies had a productive portal period and should showcase a high-octane offense. Against a questionable defense, Virginia Tech will score enough to keep this one within a touchdown.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ovn5O" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ovn5O/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: Penn State (-44)</a>
</h3><p>As awful as James Franklin's track record is in big games as an underdog, it's just as good as a huge favorite against inferior competition. Franklin is 78-44-5 (61%) against the spread against unranked teams. Furthermore, he's 26-8-1 against the spread in his last 35 games when favored by at least a touchdown.</p><p>Excluding the COVID-shortened 2020 season, Penn State covered the spread in six of its last seven openers. This is the Nittany Lions' best chance to win a national title under Franklin with a loaded roster and an experienced quarterback. Expect them to make a statement in the opener against Nevada.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GzT2H" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GzT2H/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 11 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a target="_blank" href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330718&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+picks&amp;tags=CFB+Week+1+betting%3A+">Pick: UCLA +6.5</a>
</h3><p>UCLA started last season 1-5 and then went 4-2 as first-year head coach DeShaun Foster's culture began to take shape. Foster brought in depth at key positions, but his biggest portal addition is quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who became the top transfer on the market after his NIL dispute with Tennessee. Questions surrounding Iamaleava persist, but he's a dual threat who clearly improved throughout last season.</p><p>As for Utah, the team returns many key pieces to a group that went 5-7 for its first losing season since 2013. The Utes' big addition is quarterback Devon Dampier from New Mexico. Dampier is a running threat, but he threw as many interceptions as touchdowns. The Bruins' defense must contain his rushing ability and force him to throw. For all of Dampier's success at New Mexico, he was 0-2 and struggled in both losses against power conference programs last season.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32196398/related

CFB Week 1 picks: All eyes on Texas-Ohio State in massive opening slate

While the college football season kicked off over the weekend with five Week 0 matchups, the 2025...

<p>While the college football season kicked off over the weekend with five Week 0 matchups, the 2025 campaign truly begins this week when all of the contenders open their seasons.</p><p>We've already touched on the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324014" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324014">Heisman odds</a>, our major <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327194" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327194">conference predictions</a>, and picks to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327886" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327886">make or miss the College Football Playoff</a>. Now it's time to outline the national title picture. We broke down the contenders and why each team will and won't win the championship and also discussed some sleeper teams.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Contenders' title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Check out the full CFP odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Ohio State (+550)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win:</strong> Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is the nation's best playmaker. Along with Ohio State's other dangerous weapons, he'll make inexperienced quarterback Julian Sayin's life easier. Ohio State is a perennial contender with a stacked roster of blue-chip prospects and transfers at every position.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Why it won't:</strong> It's hard to repeat, and it's even more challenging with an unproven quarterback. Sayin has never started and only appeared in four games as a true freshman last season.</p><p>Ohio State also lost major pieces on its defensive line, including key captains who were integral in making a championship run after losing to Michigan. The Buckeyes will win a ton of games, but losing leaders at important positions could be too much to overcome in their pursuit of the title.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Texas (+550)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win:</strong> If Arch Manning is as good as advertised, Texas' offense will be unstoppable. However, the Longhorns' defense is their real strength. Texas had the nation's third-best scoring defense last season and replenished its line while drastically improving its secondary.</p><p><strong>Why it won't: </strong>Manning hasn't played a ton of meaningful football, so he should be expected to make normal first-year starter mistakes. Texas also lost eight starters from its elite offense. Head coach Steve Sarkisian recruited high-end talent to fill those holes, but transfers aren't always home-run signings. The running game is also a potential weakness with new faces on the offensive line and no emerging star at running back. A feeble run game puts even more pressure on Manning.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Penn State (+650)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win: </strong>Drew Allar is in his third season as the starter and made leaps as a passer last season. He's a projected first-round pick and a preseason Heisman candidate. Penn State doesn't even need to rely on his arm too much with the best running back duo in the nation. The Nittany Lions' weakest unit is their run defense following key departures to their front seven, but a new, respected defensive coordinator should ease those concerns. That's nitpicking a group that's second in the AP Poll for a reason.</p><p><strong>Why it won't:</strong> James Franklin is the coach. It's that simple. He's 1-15 against AP top-five teams and 4-20 against the top 10. Whether it's preparation, in-game management, or just getting consistently outcoached by his peers, Franklin rarely wins against great opponents. Penn State is as talented as any team in the country, but until Franklin consistently wins big games - which he must for Penn State to hoist the trophy - there's no reason to trust him.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Georgia (+800)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win: </strong>Nate Frazier should break out as a top running back in the country. Georgia's offense must rely on its running game to move the chains, and Frazier's freshman season provides reason for optimism that the formula can work. Plus Georgia added significant wide receiver depth, including transfer Zachariah Branch. With a young quarterback under center, Georgia has the pieces in the backfield and on the outside to relieve the pressure on its signal-caller.</p><p><strong>Why it won't:</strong> Kirby Smart is relying on a ton of young pieces to grow up quickly in a physical and deep conference. Quarterback Gunner Stockton is entering his first year as a starter. He can run the ball effectively, but there are still concerns about whether he can win games for Georgia with his arm.</p><p>The Bulldogs' offensive line was a disaster last season, and who knows if it'll be much better after replacing four starters. They also lack defensive line depth. It's tough to win with youth in the SEC.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Alabama (+900)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win:</strong> Although Alabama had a disappointing first season under head coach Kalen DeBoer, the Crimson Tide returns many critical pieces from last year's squad, including NFL-ready receivers and offensive linemen. The defensive front should also be better this season as it brings back many key contributors.</p><p><strong>Why it won't:</strong> Ty Simpson patiently waited at Alabama for three seasons before he was finally named the starter this summer. The problem is that he has practically no experience. He's a former five-star recruit and Alabama has plenty of talented wide receivers, but he'll be thrown into the fire immediately.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Clemson (+900)</a></h3><p><strong>Why it can win: </strong>This is Dabo Swinney's most complete team since 2020. Clemson has the right pieces in the right places, starting with Cade Klubnik, a Heisman candidate who's the most trustworthy quarterback in the country. He threw for over 3,600 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just six interceptions last season. Klubnik is surrounded by dangerous pass-catchers and protected by a steady offensive line. On the other side of the ball, the Tigers' deep and experienced defensive line should frequently disrupt opposing quarterbacks.</p><p><strong>Why it won't:</strong> Although they open with LSU and close with South Carolina, the Tigers' schedule isn't as difficult as those of some contenders in the SEC and Big Ten. Those programs might be more prepared for a playoff after competing in stronger conferences.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Sleepers' title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LSU</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+3500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Carolina</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">Check out the full CFP odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Following successful seasons, Notre Dame and Oregon lost many pivotal contributors, including their starting quarterbacks. Marcus Freeman and Dan Lanning are two of the best recruiters in the nation, but both teams are relying on new and younger pieces.</p><p>The Ducks and Fighting Irish have relatively easy schedules, particularly the latter, so they should be in the College Football Playoff. However, it's hard to imagine either of those teams winning the title.</p><p>Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is good enough to lead LSU to the promised land, and head coach Brian Kelly secured the top transfer class. But seven of LSU's 12 games are against preseason ranked opponents. Still, LSU has received the fourth-most money to win the title at <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3330454&amp;tags=CFB+national+title+betting&amp;tags=national+championship+winner">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong>.</p><p>South Carolina and Florida are also considered contenders because of star quarterbacks LaNorris Sellers and DJ Lagway, respectively. </p><p>Although Michigan should improve on its disastrous 8-5 record, it's starting true freshman Bryce Underwood at quarterback. Earning double-digit wins should be the Wolverines' goal for now, not competing for a national championship.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32169623/related

CFB national title betting: Presenting a case for the top 6 contenders

Before the College Football Playoff expands even further, this season marks the second consecutiv...

<p>Before the College Football Playoff expands even further, this season marks the second consecutive year of the 12-team format. Let's dive into our four favorite picks to make the CFP before the campaign officially kicks off Saturday.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">Odds to make College Football Playoff</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>SEC<br>(Make/Miss)</th>
<th>Big Ten<br>(Make/Miss)</th>
<th>Big 12<br>(Make/Miss)</th>
<th>ACC<br>(Make/Miss)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Alabama</strong><br>(-190/+150)</td>
<td>
<strong>Illinois</strong><br>(+500/-900)</td>
<td>
<strong>Arizona State</strong><br>(+400/-650)</td>
<td>
<strong>Clemson</strong><br>(-200/+150)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Auburn</strong><br>(+380/-600)</td>
<td>
<strong>Indiana</strong><br>(+550/-1000)</td>
<td>
<strong>BYU</strong><br>(+1000/-2500)</td>
<td>
<strong>Georgia Tech</strong><br>(+600/-1000)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Florida</strong><br>(+380/-600)</td>
<td>
<strong>Iowa</strong><br>(+750)/-1600)</td>
<td>
<strong>Baylor</strong><br>(+550/-1000)</td>
<td>
<strong>Louisville</strong><br>(+340/-500)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Georgia</strong><br> (-260/+200)</td>
<td>
<strong>Michigan</strong><br>(+200/-260)</td>
<td>
<strong>Iowa State</strong><br>(+1000/-2500)</td>
<td>
<strong>Miami</strong><br>(+175/-240)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>LSU</strong><br>(+110/-140)</td>
<td>
<strong>Nebraska</strong><br>(+700/-1400)</td>
<td>
<strong>Kansas State</strong><br> (+400/-650)</td>
<td>
<strong>North Carolina</strong><br>(+1000/-2500)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Oklahoma</strong><br>(+500/-900)</td>
<td>
<strong>Ohio State</strong><br>(-375/+260)</td>
<td>
<strong>Kansas</strong><br>(+1100/-3000)</td>
<td>
<strong>SMU</strong><br>(+400/-650)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Ole Miss</strong><br>(+180/-240)</td>
<td>
<strong>Oregon</strong><br>(-220/+170)</td>
<td>
<strong>TCU</strong><br>(+750/-1600)</td>
<td>
<strong>Virginia Tech</strong><br>(+1300/-3500)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>South Carolina</strong><br>(+475/-800)</td>
<td>
<strong>Penn State</strong><br>(-350/+250)</td>
<td>
<strong>Texas Tech</strong><br>(+400/-650)</td>
<td>
<strong>Duke</strong><br>(+1300/-3500)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Tennessee</strong><br>(+290/-420)</td>
<td>
<strong>USC</strong><br>(+400/-650)</td>
<td>
<strong>Utah</strong><br>(+475/-800)</td>
<td>
<strong>Florida State</strong><br>(+1300/-3500)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Texas A&amp;M</strong><br>(+230/-320)</td>
<td>
<strong>Washington</strong><br>(+900/-2000)</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<strong>Texas</strong><br>(-310/+225)</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">Check out the full CFP odds on ESPNBET and theScore Bet here </a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">LSU to make the CFP (+110)</a></h3><p>Brian Kelly has yet to lead LSU to the CFP in his first three seasons, but this year is his best chance. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier returned to the Tigers after throwing for over 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2024. He must limit the turnovers, but another year under center should lead to better decision-making.</p><p>A Heisman-contending quarterback is one reason to be optimistic, but LSU had the most productive offseason in the country, landing the top transfer class. Although the offensive line is unproven, Nussmeier has enough playmakers on the outside to deliver the ball early.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While an easy SEC schedule doesn't exist, the Tigers do avoid Texas and Georgia. However, they play Ole Miss and Alabama on the road. LSU needs to win a couple of games as underdogs to avoid inching into three-loss territory, beginning with an opening matchup against Clemson.</p><p>LSU has lost five straight openers, and it's a 4-point underdog against Clemson in Week 1. Bucking their opening week trend will be crucial if the Tigers want to set the tone for a solid season.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">Florida to make the CFP (+380)</a></h3><p>With Texas, Georgia, LSU, and Texas A&amp;M on the schedule, it's probably hard to imagine a path for Florida to make the playoff. Oddsmakers have set the Gators' win total at 7.5, and eight wins certainly aren't enough to qualify for the playoffs. Still, this group is too talented to ignore. As a sleeper team in the SEC, +380 is good value on the Gators to make the CFP.</p><p>Quarterback DJ Lagway emerged as one of the nation's best arms last season. He went 6-1 as a starter and threw for 1,915 yards and 12 touchdowns as a true freshman. Florida will go as far as Lagway takes them, especially with four starting offensive linemen returning and a solid receiving core. Health could hold Lagway and the Gators back as their signal-caller has dealt with various injuries leading up to the opener. If he stays healthy throughout the campaign, Lagway will have a Heisman claim, and Florida's offense will be prolific.</p><p>Defensively, the Gators return seven starters to a unit that allowed just 19.1 points per game over its final nine contests. Head coach Billy Napier saved his job with how Florida closed the season. If the program contends in the SEC, Napier might stick around Gainesville even longer.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">Arizona State to make the CFP (+400)</a></h3><p>After winning the Big 12 and earning a playoff bid last year, Arizona State is a respected conference contender. While the Big 12 will likely be a one-bid conference with a few teams capable of winning the conference title, the Sun Devils are best equipped due to their star quarterback. </p><p>Sam Leavitt has Heisman potential after throwing for over 2,800 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only six interceptions last season. He'll pair up again with top weapon Jordyn Tyson, who had 1,101 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. Replacing Cam Skattebo's rushing production is Arizona State's hardest challenge, but Leavitt is ready to emerge as a high-volume passer. Defensively, nine starters return to a group that was atop the conference in 2024.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fplayoff-specials&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327886&amp;tags=CFP+odds&amp;tags=CFB+Betting%3A+Who+will+make%2Fmiss+CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF+picks">Oregon to miss the CFP (+170)</a></h3><p>Dan Lanning has built a tremendous culture and program in Eugene, Oregon. The Ducks' only truly challenging test will be a road matchup against Penn State. Though it isn't easy to fade a great coach and an easy schedule, this is a bet against an inexperienced group.</p><p>With Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel now gone, second-year quarterback Dante Moore takes over under center despite having just five career starts. The Ducks also lost key receivers and running backs, as well as important defensive personnel.</p><p>Oregon has recruited extremely well recently, but it'll rely on its younger, inexperienced players to contribute without many meaningful reps. That could lead to them dropping a game as favorites and bouncing them out of the playoff picture.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p><div> </div>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32136231/related

CFB betting: Who will make, miss College Football Playoff? 

With Week 0 kicking off this week and meaningful games quickly approaching, it's time to dive int...

<p>With Week 0 kicking off this week and meaningful games quickly approaching, it's time to dive into our conference title picks for the four major conferences using odds from <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong>.</p><p>We already broke down the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324014" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324014">Heisman betting board</a> and will release our favorite teams to make and miss the College Football Playoff later this week.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">SEC title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+360</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LSU</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Carolina</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kentucky</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mississippi State</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Check out SEC title odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Alabama to win the SEC (+425)</a></h3><p>The SEC is incredibly deep, as more than half the conference could contend for a playoff spot. Teams like South Carolina and Florida could be sleepers thanks to their electric quarterbacks.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Texas, Georgia, and LSU are rightfully the favorites, but let's focus on a different contender.</p><p>Alabama's success depends on quarterback Ty Simpson, who has earned little meaningful playing time. If Simpson emerges as the Crimson Tide's next great quarterback, they could be one of the nation's best teams. And he'll have some help, as he has plenty of playmakers on the outside, including top wideout Ryan Williams. Alabama also returned many NFL-ready offensive linemen and retained key members of its defense who opted to return to college rather than enter the NFL draft.</p><p>Head coach Kalen DeBoer is facing pressure after missing out on the College Football Playoff in his first season. This is a make-or-break campaign for his future in Tuscaloosa after replacing the legendary Nick Saban. If the quarterback can be a strength instead of a weakness, Alabama has the pieces to win the SEC.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Big Ten title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>+225</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USC</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nebraska</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Washington</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rutgers</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minnesota</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Northwestern</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Check out Big Ten title odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Ohio State to win the Big Ten (+200)</a></h3><p>Penn State is well equipped to win the Big Ten with a first-round talent under center in Drew Allar, the best running back duo in the country with Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen, and a loaded defense. But it's hard to trust James Franklin, who's 1-15 against top-five opponents and 4-20 against top-10 opponents.</p><p>The Nittany Lions have an easy schedule - they'll only be underdogs in a road matchup against Ohio State on Nov. 1 - so it'd be a disappointment if they don't at least make the Big Ten title game. But winning would require Franklin to emerge victorious in a big spot, a rare feat.</p><p>Ohio State, the defending national champ, returns enough talent to repeat, starting with the best playmaker in the country in Jeremiah Smith. But the Buckeyes have a new signal-caller, Julian Sayin, starting under center. The highly ranked recruit in the 2024 class has no experience, but he'll be delivering the ball to the nation's best wide receiver unit. That's exactly the setup a first-year starter needs.</p><p>Ohio State lost 14 players to the NFL draft, mainly from the defensive line. The good news is that Ohio State replenished through the portal and will provide its younger backups an opportunity.</p><p>The Buckeyes' outlook largely depends on Sayin and other inexperienced players. However, the talent is worth picking them over Penn State, Oregon, Michigan, and others.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Big 12 title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas State</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utah</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Baylor</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TCU</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cincinnati</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>West Virginia</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCF</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner"><strong>Check out Big 12 title odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Texas Tech to win the Big 12 (+550) </a></h3><p>Arizona State was projected to finish toward the bottom of the standings in its first season in the Big 12. Instead, it won the conference and earned a bid to the College Football Playoff. Kenny Dillingham's program is now the favorite to repeat as Big 12 champs. </p><p>The conference is deep, evidenced by six teams with odds less than +1000, but it's not top-heavy. With the depth of the Big 10 and SEC, the Big 12 should be a one-bid conference.</p><p>Tahj Brooks, Texas Tech's all-time leading rusher, left for the NFL. Replacing his output is nearly impossible, but the Red Raiders loaded up on weapons through the transfer portal, including wide receiver Reggie Virgil and tight end Terrance Carter. That'll help quarterback Behran Morton, who finished third in passing yards in the Big 12 last season while throwing for 27 touchdowns and eight interceptions. However, transfer running back Quinten Joyner will miss the entire season with a torn ACL.</p><p>Texas Tech completely revamped its offensive line entering this season. While all the fresh faces create uncertainty, the Red Raiders' offense will be prolific if their weakest unit can emerge as a strength, even with Joyner's absence.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">ACC title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia Tech</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+3500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida State</td>
<td>+3500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pittsburgh</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NC State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia Tech</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Boston College</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Syracuse</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>California</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stanford</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wake Forest</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner"><strong>Check out ACC title odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3327194&amp;tags=CFB+conference+title+picks&amp;tags=SEC+championship+winner&amp;tags=Big+Ten+championship+winner">Clemson to win the ACC (-110)</a></h3><p>I'd love to pick against the favorite, but Clemson has a stacked roster in a weak conference. Miami had its best team and best season in two decades last season. However, it still lost two conference games, and it easily could have been more if not for two miraculous wins against Virginia Tech and California.</p><p>The Hurricanes' disappointing end to the season proved that first overall pick Cam Ward masked glaring problems. Despite some reckless throws, Ward was sensational. And it doesn't feel like there's a reason to trust transfer Carson Beck to come close to Ward's production, especially after a disappointing campaign at Georgia. </p><p>Clemson, on the other hand, returned to the College Football Playoff after a three-year hiatus. Many of its key offensive talents return, including Heisman contender Cade Klubnik and most of its offensive line. Plus, T.J. Moore is back for a second season as Klubnik's top pass-catcher.</p><p>The Tigers have elite defensive personnel and hired one of the most respected defensive coordinators in the country in Tom Allen. There's a reason Clemson is fourth in the AP Poll and sixth in the coaches poll. Without many challengers in the ACC, take Clemson.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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All-time NBA re-draft: The best picks at every slot (Part 2, Nos. 30-1)

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Quarterbacks typically collect the Heisman Trophy, college football's most prestigious individual...

<p>Quarterbacks typically collect the Heisman Trophy, college football's most prestigious individual award. While that hasn't always been the case in recent seasons - wide receiver DeVonta Smith won in 2020 and wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter won in 2024 - 20 of the last 25 Heisman recipients have been signal-callers. The last running back to win was Derrick Henry in 2015.</p><p>Let's dive into this year's race.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3324014&amp;tags=Heisman+futures&amp;tags=Heisman+Trophy+odds">Heisman Trophy odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player (School)</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Arch Manning (Texas)</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Klubnik (Clemson)</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State)</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Allar (Penn State)</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina)</td>
<td> +1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ty Simpson (Alabama)</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carson Beck (Miami)</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sam Leavitt (Arizona State)</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DJ Lagway (Florida)</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julian Sayin (Ohio State)</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dante Moore (Oregon)</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3324014&amp;tags=Heisman+futures&amp;tags=Heisman+Trophy+odds">Check out the complete odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Arch Manning enters his third season with Texas but his first as a full-time starter with extraordinary hype. As the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, the top recruit in the 2023 class is expected to deliver immediately with a roster ready to contend for a national championship. Arch Manning showed flashes of his athletic prowess and arm strength during meaningful snaps in big games last season. If he's as talented as evaluators suggest, he should put up monster numbers for one of the nation's best teams and likely win the Heisman.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cade Klubnik is the co-favorite alongside Manning with Clemson projected to have one of the nation's best offenses. Klubnik is entering his fourth season at Clemson, and last year, he proved he's a top quarterback. He threw for over 3,600 yards, 36 touchdowns, and only six interceptions with a 63% completion percentage. He also picked up 463 yards and seven touchdowns with his legs.</p><p>Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith could get himself into the Heisman conversation, though that typically requires a phenomenal statistical profile for a wideout. Hunter was a productive receiver last year, but he had fewer yards and catches than Smith; however, Hunter played both cornerback and wide receiver, and his unique skill set earned him the award.</p><p>DeVonta Smith totaled 117 receptions, 1,856 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns when he won the Heisman. Jeremiah Smith had 76 catches for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. He'll need an uptick in production to contend, but Ohio State's uncertain quarterback situation might present a problem: The Buckeyes are in the midst of a quarterback battle between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz. Sayin is reportedly the front-runner to win the job, but both candidates have virtually no starting experience. Without a reliable passer, Smith's path to win the Heisman is daunting.</p><p>The last three quarterbacks to win the Heisman - Jayden Daniels, Caleb Williams, and Bryce Young - all passed for at least 3,800 yards and 40 touchdowns, with two of them eclipsing 4,000 passing yards. Based on those qualifications, one guy to stay away from is Penn State's Drew Allar.</p><p>While Allar improved as a passer last season and the team trusted him to throw the ball downfield more, he attempted fewer than 400 passes and threw for 3,327 yards. The Nittany Lions feature the best running back duo in the country in Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Their reliance on the ground game hurts Allar's Heisman candidacy.</p><p>On the other hand, Garrett Nussmeier has the best opportunity to put up freakish numbers in a pass-heavy LSU offense. He attempted 525 passes last season and threw for over 4,000 yards. The senior must improve his touchdown-to-interception ratio - he tossed 29 TDs and 12 picks last season - but he has the talent and plays in the right system to secure the award.</p><p>Although it would help Nussmeier if LSU made the College Football Playoff (+110 to make/-140 to miss), the team faces a challenging schedule starting with Clemson on opening weekend - and LSU wasn't one of the nation's best teams when Daniels won the Heisman in 2023. Regardless of the team's record, conditions are ripe for Nussmeier to earn the award.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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Heisman Trophy odds: Should Nussmeier be in same tier as Manning, Klubnik?

With less than a month remaining before the 2025 NFL season kicks off, we covered a few storyline...

<p>With less than a month remaining before the 2025 NFL season kicks off, we covered a few storylines as training camps opened: the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3313824" href="https://thescore.com/news/3313824">quarterback battle</a> in Cleveland, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314815" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314815">Chiefs' outlook</a> as Super Bowl losers, and provided a look at all <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314251" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314251">32 teams' championship odds</a>.</p><p>That said, it's time to preview the NFC divisions. Stay tuned later in the week for our AFC breakdown.</p><h3>NFC East odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division odds</th>
<th>Super Bowl odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Eagles</td>
<td>-160</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commanders</td>
<td>+225</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cowboys</td>
<td>+700</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Giants</td>
<td>+3000</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks">Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The NFC East hasn't had a repeat champion since the Eagles won consecutive titles from 2001 to 2004. And this iteration of the Eagles seems likely to do it again - the defending Super Bowl champions are the biggest favorite to win the division.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While Philadelphia lost experience and talent on its defense, which was the league's best last season, the team trusts its budding stars to carry the torch. Meanwhile, the Eagles return 10 of their 11 offensive starters from the NFL's second-best rushing offense and eighth-best overall offense. </p><p>In Dallas, Jerry Jones is dealing with yet another disgruntled player in Micah Parsons, who requested a trade after contract extension negotiations fell apart. Parsons is on pace to become one of the league's best pass rushers, and he deserves to be paid as such. But even though he requested a trade, Dallas doesn't have to move him - he's under contract for two more seasons. But with or without Parsons, the Cowboys likely don't have a contending roster. </p><p>The Commanders are also going through turmoil during training camp. Terry McLaurin also requested a trade amid a contract dispute and is holding in during camp. Washington's situation with McLaurin could have a huge impact on Jayden Daniels in his second season. </p><p>Speaking of Daniels, sophomore quarterbacks often take a step back after impressive rookie campaigns, as coaches around the NFL have a full offseason to scout them. That's not to say Daniels is heading down that path, but it's fair to expect some regression.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks"><strong>BET: Eagles to win NFC East (-160)</strong></a></p><h3>NFC North odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division odds</th>
<th>Super Bowl odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>+145</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>+250</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vikings</td>
<td>+350</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bears</td>
<td>+450</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks">Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>This is the toughest division in the conference; all four teams will be disappointed with anything short of a playoff appearance.</p><p>The Lions won 15 games last season and are returning the bulk of their team. Still, losing their offensive and defensive coordinators - both took head coaching jobs elsewhere - is worrisome. The Eagles were in the same situation in 2022 after their Super Bowl appearance and had a disastrous finish the following year.</p><p>The Vikings let Sam Darnold walk in free agency because of their confidence in J.J. McCarthy, who missed his rookie season with a knee injury. Their roster is filled with talent, and Kevin O'Connell is an offensive mastermind - but is McCarthy capable of ensuring the Vikings are a top-six passing offense like last season, especially in a division full of trustworthy signal-callers? That question will determine Minnesota's fate.</p><p>Expectations of Caleb Williams have lowered after his mediocre first season. The Bears didn't help their rookie quarterback, though, surrounding him with a weak offensive line, limited weapons, and a subpar coach. Chicago made the right moves this offseason, hiring Ben Johnson, the best playcaller on the market, and improving the offensive line by acquiring Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. Despite having the worst odds, the Bears will likely be contenders in the NFC North.</p><p>The Packers could reclaim the North this season, something they haven't done since Aaron Rodgers left. Green Bay won 11 games last season, even after Jordan Love suffered a knee injury in Week 1. Love is healthy again and has a claim as the best signal-caller in the division because of his dual-threat ability. The Packers also added another weapon when they drafted Texas wideout Matthew Golden, which should help Love even more. </p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks"><strong>BET: Packers to win NFC North (+250)</strong></a></p><h3>NFC West odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division odds</th>
<th>Super Bowl odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>49ers</td>
<td>+160</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rams</td>
<td>+175</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cardinals</td>
<td>+425</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seahawks</td>
<td>+550</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks">Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Injuries derailed the 49ers' season, failing to overcome the daunting Super Bowl hangover. But oddsmakers expect them to brush that off and be contenders again.</p><p>However, Matthew Stafford gives the Rams an edge because he's the best quarterback in the division. Yes, he's dealing with a back injury during training camp, but he should be ready to go for Week 1.</p><p>The Rams return a similar group to the one that won seven of the final eight contests last season. Jared Verse leads their frightening defensive corps, which will balance out their questionable secondary. Equipped with explosive playmakers in Davante Adams and Puka Nacua on the outside for Stafford to deliver the ball to, as well as a great pass rush, Los Angeles is a Super Bowl sleeper.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks"><strong>BET: Rams to win NFC West (+175)</strong></a></p><h3>NFC South odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division odds</th>
<th>Super Bowl odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Bucs</td>
<td>+100</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Falcons</td>
<td>+225</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Panthers</td>
<td>+400</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saints</td>
<td>+1100</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks">Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The Buccaneers have won the NFC South in four consecutive seasons, dating back to the Tom Brady era. Baker Mayfield had an excellent 2024 campaign, but will now have his third offensive coordinator in as many years. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin aren't getting any younger, either. This may be the Bucs' last chance with their current core.</p><p>There's no quarterback debate in Atlanta anymore - Michael Penix Jr. is the guy after showing off his passing abilities in five games last season and showcasing his incredible arm and pinpoint accuracy in college. When the Falcons used a top-10 pick on him in 2024, it signaled the end of the Kirk Cousins era before it even started. If Penix's college efforts can translate to the NFL, it shouldn't take him long to turn the Falcons into a winning team.</p><p>The Panthers took strides late last year thanks to Bryce Young's strong play under center, but they still have a long way to go to push for the division title. The Saints, meanwhile, could be the worst team in the NFL - they seem destined to have the first overall selection in the 2026 draft. </p><p>Tampa Bay's 10 wins were enough to win a weak division last year, but the competition has improved. Atlanta feels like the team to push the Bucs aside and reclaim the NFC South for the first time since 2016.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+Futures&amp;tags=AFC+Division+betting&amp;tags=3318353&amp;tags=Picks"><strong>BET: Falcons to win NFC South (+225)</strong></a></p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31988778/related

NFC betting preview: Who are Eagles' biggest challengers?

The MLB trade deadline is in the rearview, leaving some contending fan bases feeling more optimis...

<p>The MLB trade deadline is in the rearview, leaving some contending fan bases feeling more optimistic about their team's World Series chances and others upset with their front office's approach. But how do the oddsmakers feel?</p><p>Thursday's deadline brought notable movements on <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3318873&amp;tags=MLB+futures&amp;tags=World+series+odds&amp;tags=Post+trade+deadline+world+series+odds">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a>'s World Series oddsboard. Let's dive into the favorites and examine which clubs improved at the deadline, with roughly 50 games left.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3318873&amp;tags=MLB+futures&amp;tags=World+series+odds&amp;tags=Post+trade+deadline+world+series+odds">World Series odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dodgers</td>
<td>+240</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tigers</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Phillies</td>
<td>+850</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cubs</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Astros</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mets</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yankees</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Blue Jays</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mariners</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brewers</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Padres</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Red Sox</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rangers</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3318873&amp;tags=MLB+futures&amp;tags=World+series+odds&amp;tags=Post+trade+deadline+world+series+odds">⚾️ Check out the complete odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><p>The Dodgers remain a massive favorite to win the World Series, boasting the second-best record in the National League. Contenders like Los Angeles, the Yankees, and the Phillies didn't see much movement following the deadline, although Philadelphia bolstered its bullpen by adding Jhoan Duran, possibly the best closer on the market. The Phillies, who are second in the NL East with 61 wins, have stayed atop the oddsboard since the season opened.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Padres were the biggest trade deadline winners. They moved from +3500 to +1600 after making all-in moves to capitalize on their win-now window. San Diego acquired pitchers Mason Miller and JP Sears while parting with one of the top prospects in baseball. The Padres now have one of the best pitching staffs in the majors.</p><p>The Astros and Mets also improved their championship chances at the deadline. Both went from +1200 to +1000 to win the World Series, tied with the Cubs for the fourth-best odds.</p><p>Houston reacquired Carlos Correa in a blockbuster trade with the Twins. Though he has struggled with injuries in the past, a healthy Correa could boost the AL West-leading Astros' title chances as they aim to build on the American League's third-best record.</p><p>The Mets had many holes to fill and didn't make any huge moves but improved on the margins by trading for Cedric Mullens and some relief pitchers.</p><p>The Blue Jays also received a slight bump in their odds, going from +1400 to +1200 after acquiring Shane Bieber to strengthen their starting rotation, among other moves. Although Bieber hasn't pitched in over a year while recovering from Tommy John surgery, he's expected to return to the lineup soon. Toronto's tied with the Tigers for the best record in the American League despite having the fourth-best odds to win the pennant.</p><p>Transactions lead to odds movement, but they don't always result in championships. The active teams around the deadline hope their moves pay off in October.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31944416/related

MLB post-trade deadline odds: Padres, Astros big winners

Equipped with a loaded roster, Penn State has its shortest national championship and Big Ten titl...

<p>Equipped with a loaded roster, Penn State has its shortest national championship and Big Ten title odds this century, per <a href="https://www.sportsoddshistory.com/cfb-team/?sa=cfb&amp;Team=Penn+State">Sportsoddshistory.com</a>. It's +600 to win the national title, behind Texas and Ohio State at +550, and +225 to win the conference behind Ohio State at +200 on <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314814&amp;tags=CFB+futures&amp;tags=Big+Ten+cfb+futures&amp;tags=Penn+State+future">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a>.</p><p>The Nittany Lions' win total is 10.5, their highest mark in the last 20 years. They've only won the Big Ten title once in James Franklin's decade-plus tenure, having done so in 2016 when they were +6000 preseason longshots.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314814&amp;tags=CFB+futures&amp;tags=Big+Ten+cfb+futures&amp;tags=Penn+State+future">Big Ten title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Big Ten title odds</th>
<th>National title odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+200</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>+225</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+350</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+850</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USC</td>
<td>+2000</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+3000</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nebraska</td>
<td>+3000</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+4000</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa</td>
<td>+4000</td>
<td>+15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Washington</td>
<td>+7500</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UCLA</td>
<td>+10000</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><a href="https://https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fsection%2Fconference_winner&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314814&amp;tags=CFB+futures&amp;tags=Big+Ten+cfb+futures&amp;tags=Penn+State+future">🏈 Check out the complete odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><p>Bettors are buying into Penn State's talent despite its track record in big games. Nearly 14% of the money in the national championship market is on Penn State, the second most behind Texas. The Nittany Lions have also received the third-most title tickets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite returning the program to national relevance, Franklin still faces criticisms. Penn State is 4-20 against top-10 opponents under Franklin and 1-15 against AP top-five teams. Nick Saban, Urban Meyer, and Kirby Smart - some of the sport's most legendary coaches over the last generation - all have winning records against AP top-five teams. Franklin, meanwhile, is 0-6 against teams ranked in the top five by the CFP selection committee.</p><p>What's more, Franklin had several opportunities last season to flip the narrative with one of the nation's best teams. Instead, he lost to Ohio State at home, lost a close contest to Oregon in the Big Ten championship, and blew a halftime lead to Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinals.</p><p>Penn State benefited from an easy path to those semifinals, with clashes against Boise State and SMU. The Nittany Lions were favored by more than a touchdown in both of those contests. But when it came time to stare down an opponent of similar caliber, they fell apart. </p><p>Feasting on mediocre competition is Franklin's specialty. Winning the big contest - or the one he's not supposed to - is his kryptonite. He's even been facetiously dubbed "Big Game James," poking fun at his abysmal record in matchups with strong opponents. </p><p>Penn State should be in the College Football Playoff. Anything short of that would be a failure considering its easy schedule and its roster, which is one of the nation's best. It'll only be an underdog in a road matchup against Ohio State, and if that's its only loss, Penn State will likely appear in the Big Ten championship and as a top seed in the playoff.</p><p>Quarterback Drew Allar is one of the top signal-callers in the nation, but has crumbled in big moments, like when he threw two poorly-timed picks against Oregon in the Big Ten championship or only completed 52% of his passes against Notre Dame in the playoff.</p><p>Allar lost his top weapon when tight end Tyler Warren, one of Penn State's all-time best pass catchers, left for the NFL this past season. Because of Warren's presence and Allar's improvements, the Nittany Lions trusted their quarterback to push the ball down the field more last season - he increased his yards per attempt from 6.8 in 2023 to 8.4 in 2024. But they made up for Warren's loss through the transfer portal, adding Kyron Hudson from USC and Devonte Ross from Troy.</p><p>Penn State also has one of the nation's top offensive lines and most dynamic running back duos in Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Singleton rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2022 and 2024 and has pass-catching abilities out of the backfield. Allen also rushed for 1,000 yards last season, leading the team in rushing yards. Few teams have the luxury of rostering a pair like them.</p><p>Franklin's squad, complete with its offensive optionality, could very well be one of the country's most explosive offenses. </p><p>Maybe this is the year Franklin laughs back at his critics. After all, he has the team to do it.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31941462/related

Penn State enters season with its shortest title odds this century

The Super Bowl hangover after a loss is real. Sometimes the misery hits early - like the 49ers' 2...

<p>The Super Bowl hangover after a loss is real. Sometimes the misery hits early - like the 49ers' 2024 campaign that was doomed from the start. Sometimes it takes time - the 2023 Eagles started 10-1 before losing six of their final seven games. </p><p>The 2018 Patriots are the only Super Bowl loser in the last decade to return to - and win - the Big Game. Otherwise, things have been grim: The last 10 Super Bowl losers have won 3.4 fewer regular-season games the following season. Only one, the 2022 Bengals, had more victories in the ensuing campaign. Four of them, including the 49ers last season, missed the playoffs entirely. Just two made the conference championship the next season.</p><p>The Chiefs have been the preseason Super Bowl favorite in four of the last five seasons. This year, they have the fourth-best odds on <a href="https://The%20Chiefs%20have%20been%20the%20preseason%20Super%20Bowl%20favorite%20in%20four%20of%20the%20last%20five%20seasons.%20This%20is%20the%20first%20time%20the%20Chiefs%20haven't%20had%20one%20of%20the%20three-best%20odds%20to%20win%20the%20Super%20Bowl%20since%202018,%20Mahomes'%20first%20full%20season%20as%20a%20starter.">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a>, their lowest ranking on the oddsboard since 2018, Patrick Mahomes' first full season as a starter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In Kansas City, a down season still means a trip to the AFC Championship Game - the Chiefs have gotten at least that far in each of the last seven years. They've made five Super Bowl appearances and won three titles during that span, too, but oddsmakers think things will change this year.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures">Super Bowl odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ravens</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eagles</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bills</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chiefs</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bengals</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commanders</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>49ers</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rams</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures">🏈 Check out the complete odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><p>Recent history suggests Kansas City won't make it back to the Big Game, so the Ravens and Bills, two teams the Chiefs have dominated in the postseason, now hold shorter odds. Baltimore and Buffalo also have better rosters than the Chiefs, but that hasn't mattered in past seasons because of Mahomes' brilliance.</p><p>Andy Reid and Mahomes have dealt with a Super Bowl loss before, when the Buccaneers defeated them in 2020. But that group didn't collapse the following season; instead, the Chiefs lost a thrilling AFC Championship Game to Cincinnati.</p><p>The difference between the first and second defeat is that in the latter, Mahomes' squad didn't just lose last year's Big Game. The Chiefs were thoroughly dominated, evidenced by the Eagles' 34-0 lead in the third quarter.</p><p>Despite Mahomes' greatness, Kansas City's offense has regressed over the last two years. It never averaged below 28 points per game during Mahomes' first five seasons as a starter, but it hasn't eclipsed 23 points per contest in the last two campaigns.</p><p>That dip can be attributed to many factors. First is the shaky offensive line that didn't look like it belonged on the same field as the Eagles' defensive line in the Super Bowl, having dealt with unresolved left tackle issues for the entire season. The Chiefs have since signed Jaylon Moore in free agency and drafted Josh Simmons with a first-round pick, so their offensive line should hold up better, but concerns persist.</p><p>Another issue is Mahomes' weapons, especially as Travis Kelce's production has swiftly declined. Rashee Rice returned from injury, but he's facing a suspension from the NFL as he deals with legal troubles. So Xavier Worthy and Hollywood Brown will be Mahomes' top targets until Rice returns.</p><p>Kansas City's defense has been its best unit over the last two seasons, which it'll need to carry it through the regular season again. The team is a <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures">-120 favorite</a> to win the division, but the Chargers (<a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures">+300</a>) and Broncos (<a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures">+325</a>) aren't far behind, while the Raiders sit at<a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3314815&amp;tags=NFL+futures&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+odds&amp;tags=Chiefs+super+bowl+futures"> +1500</a>.</p><p>Even with a strong defense, the Chiefs are part of a deep AFC with other MVP-level quarterbacks desperate to dethrone Mahomes, so it's hard to expect them to return to the Big Game.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

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