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 be providing 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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CFB betting: Picking winners for each of the 4 major conferences

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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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32042761/related

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>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31921031/related

Will Chiefs follow similar fate as past Super Bowl losers?

Texas hasn't won a national championship since 2005 and hadn't entered a campaign as the title fa...

<p>Texas hasn't won a national championship since 2005 and hadn't entered a campaign as the title favorite this century - until now. <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=CFB+title+futures&amp;tags=Bettors+in+on+Texas&amp;tags=3311986&amp;tags=Texas%2C+Arch+manning+futures">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a> list the Longhorns as co-favorites alongside Ohio State (<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=CFB+title+futures&amp;tags=Bettors+in+on+Texas&amp;tags=3311986&amp;tags=Texas%2C+Arch+manning+futures">+550)</a> to win 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=CFB+title+futures&amp;tags=Bettors+in+on+Texas&amp;tags=3311986&amp;tags=Texas%2C+Arch+manning+futures">National title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Ohio State</th>
<th>+550</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LSU</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+3000</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%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=CFB+title+futures&amp;tags=Bettors+in+on+Texas&amp;tags=3311986&amp;tags=Texas%2C+Arch+manning+futures">🏈 Check out the odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><p>Lofty expectations are part of Texas' DNA, but Steve Sarkisian's program faces more pressure to win than ever before. Bettors trust it can live up to projections: Nearly 23% of national title tickets and 15% of the money is on Texas, by far the most of any title contender.</p><p>The public's belief in the Longhorns is as much about the quarterback as anything else. Arch Manning garnered attention well before he enrolled at Texas, as Peyton and Eli's nephew has long been expected to carry on the Manning legacy of quarterback excellence.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He signed with Texas after being named the top recruit in the 2023 class, even though Manning knew he'd have to wait to become the starter. He only played in one game his freshman season, but he earned some meaningful playing time in his sophomore campaign as Quinn Ewers' backup.</p><p>That season, Manning started two contests when Ewers was sidelined with an injury and earned sporadic snaps in big spots even when Ewers was healthy. Manning tossed 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions while completing 67.8% of his passes, and he rushed for 108 yards on 25 carries. He's proven himself as a dual-threat signal-caller, a capability his uncles never had.</p><p>The Longhorns earned their second straight playoff appearance after suffering just two pre-playoff losses, both of which came against Georgia in the regular season and the SEC championship. They then lost to Ohio State, the eventual national champion, in the College Football Playoff semifinals.</p><p>But with Ewers out of the picture, Manning has assumed full rein of the offense.</p><p><a href="https://x.com/GetUpESPN/status/1940039961182454105">ESPN's Paul Finebaum</a> declared Manning the best quarterback college football has seen since Tim Tebow, and that hype is translating to the betting markets. Manning is the <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=CFB+title+futures&amp;tags=Bettors+in+on+Texas&amp;tags=3311986&amp;tags=Texas%2C+Arch+manning+futures">Heisman favorite (+600)</a>, and he accounts for 15% of the Heisman tickets and 13% of the money, more than any other player. Cade Klubnik (+800) and Garrett Nussmeier (+900) have the next-best odds.</p><p>Sarkisian deserves credit, too, for flipping Texas' fortunes since he took over in 2021. After a decade of disappointment and mediocrity, Sarkisian led Texas to its first College Football Playoff appearance in 2023 - back when it was still a four-team playoff - and helped the team reach double-digit wins for just the second time since 2010. The Longhorns took that momentum even further in 2024, their first season in the SEC after leaving the Big 12, winning a school record 13 matchups after a semifinal appearance in the expanded playoff.</p><p>The Longhorns consistently land the top high school and transfer talent thanks to a war chest of NIL resources. Last season, they returned most of their key defensive contributors and added depth to their pass defense, which tied BYU for the most interceptions and allowed 173.8 passing yards per game, the nation's seventh-best mark.</p><p>As for Manning's weapons, Texas lost wideout Matt Golden and tight end Gunnar Helm to the NFL. However, the Longhorns return DeAndre Moore Jr. and Ryan Wingo, two highly productive receivers, and acquired one of the tight ends available in the portal in Jack Endries, so Manning won't be short on playmakers.</p><p>Texas opens the season with its toughest test, a matchup against defending national champion Ohio State. The Buckeyes are favored by 2.5 points in the clash in Columbus.</p><p>The title odds will obviously shift depending on the result, but both teams can reasonably be expected to compete for the title in January.</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/31904625/related

Texas, Manning earning bettors' attention

Most NFL teams enter training camp with a clear Week 1 starter, but a few squads begin with quart...

<p>Most NFL teams enter training camp with a clear Week 1 starter, but a few squads begin with quarterback battles. We already outlined the <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3313824">Browns' signal-caller situation</a>, so let's dive into the Giants' and Saints' passers.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Giants starting QB 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>Russell Wilson</td>
<td>-900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jameis Winston</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jaxson Dart</td>
<td>+1600</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%2Fplayer_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Check out the odds on theScore Bet here (available in Ontario only)</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>After a disastrous stint with the Broncos, Russell Wilson embarked on a redemption tour in Pittsburgh that yielded mixed results. Wilson replaced Justin Fields in late October, and the Steelers won six of their next seven games. The Super Bowl champ had some vintage performances, carrying the offense against lackluster defenses.</p><p>However, Wilson cooled off when the competition heated up. Pittsburgh lost its final five contests against elite challengers, including a playoff loss to the Ravens. The Steelers moved on from Wilson after one year, which landed the former Seahawks star in New York.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wilson is a huge favorite (-900) to line up under center in Week 1, and head coach Brian Daboll confirmed he's already made a decision.</p><p>"These guys will be out here competing, but Russ is the starter," Daboll <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314862" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314862">said</a> at Wednesday's first training camp practice.</p><p>The Giants' signing of Wilson made sense, considering they needed a veteran signal-caller to improve their quarterback situation. But the club then drafted Jaxson Dart in the first round.</p><p>There's enough evidence suggesting Wilson can't lead an average-at-best roster to the playoffs, especially if he's behind a flailing offensive line. Why would New York provide Wilson a long leash when it used first-round capital on a quarterback?</p><p>Despite Daboll's comments, if either Dart or Jameis Winston outplays Wilson throughout training camp and the preseason, the team could elect for a different option for the opener.</p><p>Winston has bounced around as a backup, with his most recent stints on the Browns and Saints. While he's one of the most eclectic personalities in the sport, Winston is a reckless quarterback. One play, he'll deliver a 45-yard strike into his receiver's hands. The next play, he'll throw an unfathomable pick-6. That's exciting, but it doesn't lead to winning football.</p><p>Giants owner John Mara has indicated that his general manager, Joe Schoen, and head coach don't have secure positions. Although New York is unlikely to make the playoffs, Daboll and Schoen need to convince their owner that they're worth keeping around. Allowing Dart to showcase his potential as a franchise quarterback and properly develop him as the season progresses might prevent Mara from making a change.</p><p>Wilson would have to suffer an injury or an all-time meltdown in camp to lose the starting job, but he'll have as short a leash as almost any quarterback in the NFL. If losses start piling up early, expect the Giants to give Dart a chance to prove himself and potentially save his coach's job.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fsection%2Fplayer_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Saints starting QB 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>Tyler Shough</td>
<td>-240</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spencer Rattler</td>
<td>+175</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jake Haener</td>
<td>+4000</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%2Fplayer_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Check out the odds on theScore Bet here (available in Ontario only)</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The Saints are in complete rebuild mode, as first-year head coach Kellen Moore doesn't have much to work with under center. Going from calling plays with Jalen Hurts at quarterback to working with Tyler Shough is like trading in a Maserati for a Prius.</p><p>New Orleans used a 2025 second-round pick on Shough, and he's the favorite to earn first-team reps because there isn't much competition in the quarterback room. However, Shough isn't a highly regarded prospect after making three stops in seven collegiate seasons and playing only one full year.</p><p>Spencer Rattler has a chance to earn the starting job in his second season with the Saints. He played in seven games last campaign, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns. While he struggled with accuracy, Rattler also displayed his impressive arm strength.</p><p>Shough will likely be the Week 1 starter, but New Orleans has nothing to lose by shuffling through quarterbacks. </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>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/31871029/related

Starting QB odds: Wilson set for Giants' job, but who will Saints choose?

The legendary football figure John Madden once said, "If you have two quarterbacks, you have none...

<p>The legendary football figure John Madden once said, "If you have two quarterbacks, you have none." Well, what about if you have four? </p><p>Cleveland, where quarterbacks' careers have notoriously gone to die, has the NFL's most peculiar quarterback situation, with Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and 2025 draft picks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders all having a legitimate chance of earning playing time this season.</p><p>The Browns have started over 40 quarterbacks since 1999, by far the most in the NFL. As players report to training camp Tuesday, there's still little clarity on their quarterback situation - especially regarding the long-term future. But someone will line up under center when Cleveland opens the season against the Bengals. Who that is will be decided over the next six weeks.</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_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Browns starting QB 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>Joe Flacco</td>
<td>-105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kenny Pickett</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dillon Gabriel</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shedeur Sanders</td>
<td>+700</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%2Fplayer_futures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3313824&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=NFL+player+futures&amp;tags=NFL+starting+QB+market&amp;tags=Browns+starting+QB+odds">Check out the odds on theScore Bet here (available in Ontario only)</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The smartest and most likely move for the Browns is to ride their veteran quarterbacks at the start of the season until the losses pile up and they have nothing to lose by handing the keys to a rookie. That's why Flacco is the odds-on favorite.</p><p>Flacco is 40 years old and has recently served as a solid bridge quarterback when teams needed a trustworthy alternative. He had a successful six-game stint with the Browns in 2023, winning four of their final five regular-season games, which led to a playoff appearance and earned him Comeback Player of the Year honors. He started eight games for the Colts last season.</p><p>The 2012 Super Bowl MVP isn't the passer he was a decade ago, but he serves a purpose for a franchise desperate for steady quarterback play.</p><p>Pickett will likely begin the season as his backup, but he could outplay Flacco in training camp and earn the starting job. The more plausible scenario is that Flacco struggles in the first month of the season and Pickett replaces him.</p><p>Pickett served as a backup quarterback for the Super Bowl champion Eagles last year, sitting behind Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts. Pickett earned significant reps in two games and started one after Hurts suffered a concussion. The 2022 first-round pick played well in both outings, accurately delivering the ball to Philly's playmakers. He posted a 119 passer rating in his lone start and led the Eagles' offense to 41 points in a beatdown over the Cowboys.</p><p>While he's not talented enough to be a full-time NFL starter, Pickett could end up being Cleveland's best choice, especially if sitting behind Hurts for a year during a Super Bowl run accelerated his development.</p><p>However, the Browns' quarterback room garners headlines because of their rookies, not their vets. Sanders is a captivating story following his collegiate rise and draft slide.</p><p>Sanders' draft projection as a first or second rounder might have been generous based upon the buzz his dad and Colorado coach, Deion Sanders, created. However, his fall to the fifth round shocked the football world, and undoubtedly humbled a player whose character concerns and questionable talent led to his free fall.</p><p>Despite the embarrassing moment, Sanders might have landed in the right spot with a pathway to playing time as a rookie. He'll start training camp as the fourth-string quarterback, explaining his long odds behind fellow rookie Gabriel, whom the Browns selected in the third round. (Deshaun Watson is still on the roster, but he's rehabbing an Achilles injury he suffered last season and has likely played his last down in Cleveland.)</p><p>As the losses pile up, the Browns would be foolish not to provide their rookies a chance to prove themselves and develop with live reps. Whether that's Gabriel or Sanders first remains to be seen, but both of them should receive opportunities this 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>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/31852624/related

Browns starting QB odds: Could Sanders get the nod for Week 1?

Caitlin Clark's groin injury will prevent her from appearing in any events during All-Star Weeken...

<p>Caitlin Clark's groin injury will prevent her from appearing in any events during All-Star Weekend. While her absence eliminates some of the appeal, especially with the event in Indiana, the show must go on without the league's star. </p><p><strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba-all-star&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star&amp;tags=3312215&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+betting&amp;tags=picks">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong> offer odds for the weekend's events, and - if you checked in earlier - we already gave out Sabrina Ionescu as the Three-Point Contest winner. Let's dive into the other markets available before Saturday night's game. </p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3312215&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+Betting&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+MVP+picks&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star">All-Star Game MVP</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>Napheesa Collier</td>
<td>+300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sabrina Ionescu</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>A'ja Wilson</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelsey Plum</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Breanna Stewart</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kelsey Mitchell</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Allisha Gray</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Paige Bueckers</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jackie Young</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Skylar Diggins</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kayla McBride</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aliyah Boston</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Angel Reese</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><strong>🏀 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3312215&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+Betting&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+MVP+picks&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star">Check out the odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Napheesa Collier is the favorite to win the regular season MVP. It's reasonable for oddsmakers to assign her the shortest odds to win the All-Star Game MVP as the league's best player. Ionescu, A'ja Wilson, and Kelsey Plum are all having incredible seasons and are worthy candidates. But let's look down the board for a longer shot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba-all-star%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3312215&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+Betting&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+MVP+picks&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star">Kelsey Mitchell (+1500)</a></h3><p>Kelsey Mitchell's consistent and impressive season has been completely overshadowed by playing alongside Clark. However, Mitchell is leading the Fever in scoring, averaging 19.1 points per game. </p><p>She typically plays off the ball as Clark assumes the ball-handling duties, but her teammates will create plenty of looks for her in an All-Star setting. She's also more than capable of creating looks for herself, which she's proven during Clark's absences.</p><p>Mitchell isn't a household name, but Fever fans are familiar with her. She'll have the backing of the home crowd and the motivation to put on a show in Indiana.</p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba-all-star&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star&amp;tags=3312215&amp;tags=WNBA+All-Star+betting&amp;tags=picks">Team Collier (-5.5) vs. Team Clark (O/U 256.5)</a></h3><p>When Clark was supposed to play, her team was only a 2.5-point underdog for Saturday night's showdown. That line moved three points after she announced she'll be cheering from the sidelines rather than chucking long-range threes.</p><p>Team Clark still has plenty of talent without her, including Wilson, Ionescu, Mitchell, and Jackie Young. While it'll be hard to stop Collier, Plum, and Breanna Stewart, anything can happen in an All-Star Game setting where the competitive drive is diminished. It's worth betting on the underdogs.</p><p>Four rule changes to the game should promote more scoring. The WNBA is implementing a 4-point shot from designated spots, and the shot clock will be 20 seconds.</p><p>The league is also allowing hockey-style substitutions during live play, and there will be no free throw attempts until the final two minutes, meaning fouls that typically result in free throws will be rewarded with points. The WNBA clearly wants a high-scoring affair, so why not trust that these rule changes will lead to that? Take over 256.5 points.</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/31818492/related

WNBA All-Star betting: Can a long shot win the game's MVP?

The lineup for the 2025 Home Run Derby was finalized Thursday, featuring eight of baseball's most...

<p>The lineup for the 2025 Home Run Derby was finalized Thursday, featuring eight of baseball's most powerful hitters. </p><p>Current home-run leader Cal Raleigh is the <a target="_blank" href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544"><strong>+300</strong></a> favorite on <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544"><strong>ESPN BET and theScore Bet</strong></a>. The Mariners catcher has belted 38 dingers, three more than his closest challenger, Aaron Judge. While the Yankees star is the American League MVP favorite, Raleigh's got the second-best odds to win the honor amid his breakout season.</p><p>Aside from Raleigh, the event doesn't feature many of the league's home-run leaders - Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Eugenio Suárez, and Kyle Schwarber are all absent - but the field is still rich with talent.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>James Wood, who is making his first All-Star Game appearance, is eighth in the league in homers with 24. Junior Caminero is right behind Wood with 23. </p><p>Ronald Acuña Jr. pulled out of the event and was replaced by fellow Brave, Matt Olson. Oneil Cruz, Brent Rooker, Byron Buxton, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. round out the field for what should be an exciting Monday night event.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Home Run Derby Odds" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-p1U98" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/p1U98/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="481" 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}}})}();</figure><blockquote><p><strong>⚾️ <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Check out the 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%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet James Wood (+375)</a></h3><p>Wood was +600 when we originally gave out this bet, but we still like his chances at +400.</p><p>He's catapulted his way into MLB's group of elite power hitters in his second season in the majors, giving Nationals fans reason to be excited about the organization's future. The left fielder has blasted 24 homers, 69 RBIs, and 99 hits.</p><p>While Woods is 6-foot-7 and tall hitters sometimes struggle at the derby, his exceptional strength and athleticism should allow him to crush balls in a batting practice setting; he hits the ball exceptionally hard and is toward the top of the league in exit velocity. This is Wood's first derby appearance, but that shouldn't prevent him from putting on a show in Atlanta. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet Oneil Cruz (+325)</a></h3><p>Cruz leads the big leagues in average exit velocity (96.4 mph), ranks second in barrel percentage (22.3%), and is third in the league in hard-hit percentage (58.0%) behind only Ohtani and Schwarber, making the Pirates center fielder one of the derby's most dangerous hitters. If he can pace himself in the early rounds and not gas out by over-swinging, Cruz has a legit shot to run away with this competition. - <em>Patterson</em></p><h3><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet under 238.5 total home runs (+100)</a></h3><p>What kind of person bets on the under of a Home Run Derby? Exactly. </p><p>No fan wants to see pop-ups and ground balls during the competition, which is why sportsbooks have little incentive to provide an accurate line for the total number of home runs hit. Casual bettors are clicking the over regardless of the total, providing value on the other side. </p><p>The rules of the derby changed last year to make the under more appealing. Players no longer have unlimited swings during their turn and will have to do damage on only 40 pitches within a three-minute window. </p><p>In 2023, 341 big flies were hit compared to only 225 in 2024. To expect 14 more home runs this year from a group that doesn't have Home Run Derby experience is a big ask. Seven of the eight participants are making their derby debuts, and nerves will certainly be a factor in the first round. - <em>Patterson</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><p> </p></script></figure><blockquote><p>⚾️ <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Check out the odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet James Wood (+375)</a></h3><p>Wood was +600 when we originally gave out this bet, but we still like his chances at +375.</p><p>He's catapulted his way into MLB's group of elite power hitters in his second season in the majors, giving Nationals fans reason to be excited about the organization's future. The left fielder has blasted 24 homers, 69 RBIs, and 99 hits.</p><p>While Woods is 6-foot-7 and tall hitters sometimes struggle at the derby, his exceptional strength and athleticism should allow him to crush balls in a batting practice setting; he hits the ball exceptionally hard and is toward the top of the league in exit velocity. This is Wood's first derby appearance, but that shouldn't prevent him from putting on a show in Atlanta. - <em>Oshtry</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet Oneil Cruz (+325)</a></h3><p>Cruz leads the big leagues in average exit velocity (96.4 mph), ranks second in barrel percentage (22.3%), and is third in the league in hard-hit percentage (58.0%) behind only Ohtani and Schwarber, making the Pirates center fielder one of the derby's most dangerous hitters. If he can pace himself in the early rounds and not gas out by over-swinging, Cruz has a legit shot to run away with this competition. - <em>Patterson</em></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbaseball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fmlb%2Fsection%2Fhome-run-derby-2025&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=MLB&amp;tags=MLB+Home+Run+Derby&amp;tags=Home+Run+Derby+Odds&amp;tags=3310544">Bet under 238.5 total home runs (+100)</a></h3><p>What kind of person bets on the under of a Home Run Derby? Exactly.</p><p>No fan wants to see pop-ups and ground balls during the competition, which is why sportsbooks have little incentive to provide an accurate line for the total number of home runs hit. Casual bettors are clicking the over regardless of the total, providing value on the other side.</p><p>The rules of the derby changed last year to make the under more appealing. Players no longer have unlimited swings during their turn and will have to do damage on only 40 pitches within a three-minute window. - <em>Patterson</em></p><p>In 2023, 341 big flies were hit compared to only 225 in 2024. To expect 14 more home runs this year from a group that doesn't have Home Run Derby experience is a big ask. Seven of the eight participants are making their derby debuts, and nerves will certainly be a factor in the first round. - <em>Patterson</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/31763059/related

Home Run Derby betting preview: Trust Wood, Cruz to put on a show

Caitlin Clark is the driving force behind the growing interest in the WNBA. Whether she's unleash...

<p>Caitlin Clark is the driving force behind the growing interest in the WNBA. Whether she's unleashing a barrage of threes, delivering a slick no-look pass, or getting involved in a scuffle, the Clark propaganda machine springs into action instantly.</p><p>But what happens when injuries, turnovers, and a shooting slump derail the first half of Clark's sophomore season? Crickets.</p><p>The basketball phenom has dealt with various injuries throughout the season and has failed to perform like the player sports fans fell in love with. While little criticism is directed her way, the Fever's slide in the standings and on the oddsboard is noticeable.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Fever still have the third-best odds to capture the title on <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+futures&amp;tags=3309432&amp;tags=Clark%2CFever+falling">ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong>, likely due to the volume of bets and money on Indiana propping up its championship price. It was +300 at the end of May and currently sits at <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+futures&amp;tags=3309432&amp;tags=Clark%2CFever+falling">+500</a></strong>.</p><p>Indiana is tied with three teams for the WNBA's seventh-best record. Another way to look at it: The Fever are tied with three teams for the league's fifth-worst record.</p><p>That hasn't stopped the flow of tickets coming in on the Fever, who have received 46% of the handle (money wagered) on the championship market and 35% of the total bets, more than double any other team in each category.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+futures&amp;tags=3309432&amp;tags=Clark%2CFever+falling">Championship 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>New York Liberty</td>
<td>+155</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Minnesota Lynx</td>
<td>+190</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Indiana Fever</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Phoenix Mercury</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Atlanta Dream</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seattle Storm</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Las Vegas Aces</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Golden State Valkyries</td>
<td>+6600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Washington Mystics</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Los Angeles Sparks</td>
<td>+25000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dallas Wings</td>
<td>+30000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chicago Sky</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Connecticut Sun</td>
<td>+50000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fwnba%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=WNBA&amp;tags=WNBA+futures&amp;tags=3309432&amp;tags=Clark%2CFever+falling">Check out the odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>While the Lynx have the best record and four more wins than the Liberty, the defending champs are still considered the best team. The Lynx and Liberty are likely on a collision course for a Finals rematch. The Mercury are also in the mix with the league's second-best record at 14-6. However, the Mercury would have to defeat the Lynx en route to the Finals, while the Liberty have an easier path in the Eastern Conference.</p><p>There's plenty of time for the Fever to turn their disappointing season around. Clark has only played in 10 of their 19 games. Indiana is 5-5 without Clark (including the Commissioner's Cup title game, a Fever win that isn't listed as an official game).</p><p>Before she missed five games with a groin injury, Clark had more turnovers (eight) than points (six) while shooting 0-for-6 from three in a June 24 contest. In her return Wednesday, Clark only managed 10 points on 4-for-12 shooting in a 19-point loss to the Valkyries, who entered the game with the same record as the Fever.</p><p>The Iowa product has made only<strong> </strong>three of her last 28 threes, and she has 35 turnovers in her past six games. Before this recent groin injury, Clark missed time with a quad injury. Being unable to stay on the court has disrupted her rhythm and likely led to this season's struggles.</p><p>The Fever's other talent has kept them afloat in Clark's absence. Kelsey Mitchell leads Indiana in scoring, averaging nearly 19 points per game. Aliyah Boston averages 16 points and eight boards, while Natasha Howard also averages double figures.</p><p>Indiana's roster beyond Clark is stacked - one reason the team remains atop the oddsboard and could easily soar up the standings. This group hasn't shown its championship potential, but it can emerge as a title threat if Clark remains healthy and hits her stride. A whole bunch of bettors are counting on 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/31755427/related

Fever falling as contenders, but bettors aren't wavering

The NBA's offseason activity has slowed down, allowing oddsmakers to post next season's NBA win t...

<p>The NBA's offseason activity has slowed down, allowing oddsmakers to post next season's NBA win totals on <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA"><strong>ESPN BET and theScore Bet</strong>.</a></p><p>Unsurprisingly, the Thunder are at the top with a 62.5 win total, the highest preseason total since the Warriors in 2018. Oklahoma City won 68 games last year, and its entire rotation returns. The Jazz have a wildly low win total of 18.5, one year removed from winning 17 games.</p><p>Let's take a look at every posted win total and identify five of our favorites with over three months remaining before next season tips off.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">NBA win totals</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>win total</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>62.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>55.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>54.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>53.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>53.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Magic</td>
<td>51.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>50.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>48.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>46.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hawks</td>
<td>46.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>45.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>45.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>44.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Spurs</td>
<td>43.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>76ers</td>
<td>43.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>43.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>40.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>39.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mavericks</td>
<td>39.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Heat</td>
<td>37.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kings</td>
<td>36.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Raptors</td>
<td>34.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Blazers</td>
<td>33.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bulls</td>
<td>32.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suns</td>
<td>31.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pelicans</td>
<td>31.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hornets</td>
<td>24.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nets</td>
<td>21.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wizards</td>
<td>20.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jazz</td>
<td>18.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Odds available at ESPN BET and theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Cavaliers under 55.5 wins (-115)</a></h3><p>"We could go 82-0 (next season), no one will care," Donovan Mitchell said after the Cavaliers' disappointing second-round exit in May, according to <a href="https://www.si.com/nba/cavaliers/news/donovan-mitchell-admits-hard-truth-about-cleveland-cavaliers">Sports Illustrated's Spencer German</a>.</p><p>Cleveland's star admitted the hard truth: This group's regular-season success is irrelevant until it prevails in the postseason, even after winning 64 games.</p><p>The Cavaliers hope to take the next step by running it back with the same core in a weakened East as the Celtics and Pacers take a step back without their respective best players.</p><p>Cleveland should prioritize staying healthy for the playoffs, especially since injuries derailed its last two postseason runs. That could lead to more rest for some of its stars throughout the regular season and less emphasis on earning a top seed. Perhaps a worse regular season will lead to more playoff success.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Heat over 37.5 wins (-110)</a></h3><p>The Heat won 37 games in 2024-25 while dealing with the distracting Jimmy Butler trade saga for months. Now that's in the past and Miami improved its roster by adding Norman Powell, who averaged nearly 22 points per game on over 41% 3-point shooting for the Clippers last season.</p><p>The Pacers and Celtics, two teams ahead of the Heat in the standings, got markedly worse. The Heat improved their rotation, got rid of unnecessary distractions, and still have the league's best coach. It's hard to envision them not winning more games than last year.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Celtics under 43.5 wins (-105)</a></h3><p>The Celtics have eclipsed their win total in four straight seasons but haven't had a win projection this low since 2014. Boston is nearly stripped to the studs after championship pieces Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet all departed in free agency or via trade (with Al Horford also set to exit). The biggest loss is Jayson Tatum, who will likely miss all of next season with a torn Achilles.</p><p>While Jaylen Brown and Derrick White are a solid one-two punch, Boston doesn't have nearly enough pieces to emerge as a top seed in the East and should struggle to be better than .500.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Knicks over 53.5 wins (-105)</a></h3><p>The Knicks needed to assemble a deeper bench this offseason. They did exactly that and hired a coach willing to play that bench.</p><p>New York won 51 games last year despite Jalen Brunson missing 17 games and Mitchell Robinson missing most of the season. The Knicks' core is returning. Meanwhile, Mike Brown is an innovative coach who should be able to help an offense that sputtered in the latter half of last season by utilizing Mikal Bridges more and unlocking the Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns two-man game in a way Tom Thibodeau struggled to do.</p><p>Brown prioritizes the regular season and will have a deeper roster, allowing him to rest some of his starters for longer stretches. New additions Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele create a solid rotation to pair with an ultra-talented starting five. The Knicks will be solely judged on playoff success, but they'll have one of the NBA's best records in a weak conference.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fplayoff_specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3309485&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals&amp;tags=NBA+win+totals+first+look&amp;tags=NBA">Spurs over 43.5 wins (-120)</a></h3><p>Victor Wembanyama took a noticeable jump from Year 1 to Year 2. If he continues on that trajectory, he'll emerge as one of the league's best players in his third season. The Spurs have surrounded him with the right mix of veterans and young pieces.</p><p>De'Aaron Fox will have a full season to develop chemistry with Wembanyama, and rookie Dylan Harper should contribute immediately. The Spurs improved their frontcourt depth by adding Luke Kornet and Kelly Olynyk to help San Antonio stay afloat in the non-Wembanyama minutes, which have been disastrous the last couple of seasons.</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/31746633/related

NBA win totals 1st look: Knicks, Cavs lead weak East

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Sam Oshtry

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Brenden Deeg

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Eric Patterson

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