Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Buffalo Bulls Picks and Predictions August 28th 2025

The Minnesota Golden Gophers and Buffalo Bulls open their 2025 campaigns Thursday night in Minneapolis with new quarterbacks steering both programs. Minnesota turns to sophomore Drake Lindsey, while Buffalo gives Kansas State transfer Ta’Quan Roberson his first collegiate start.

Oddsmakers have Minnesota installed as a 12.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 51.5 points.

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Opening Odds & Context

Oddsmakers have Minnesota listed as a -12.5 favorite over Buffalo, with the total set at 51.5 points. The Gophers are trying to build on an 8-5 season capped with a bowl win, while the Bulls ride in off a 9-4 campaign and a Bahamas Bowl victory. Both programs are starting fresh under new quarterbacks, which makes this line particularly intriguing for bettors.

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Minnesota Can Win If…

The Golden Gophers are counting on young QB Drake Lindsey to grow quickly in his debut start. The supporting cast around him—namely running back Darius Taylor (986 rushing yards, 10 TDs last season)—must carry the offensive load early.

“It’s not about just Drake Lindsey. It’s about how well the supporting cast can do around him,” coach P.J. Fleck said. “That’s ultimately going to be the story of the 2025 offense.”

Minnesota’s defense, led by dynamic DB Koi Perich, who had five interceptions in 2024, also gives them the edge at home. If Lindsey manages the game while Taylor and the defense control tempo, the Gophers should cover.

Buffalo Can Win If…

Buffalo proved itself last season under head coach Pete Lembo, going 9-4 and capping the year with a Bahamas Bowl victory. Running back Al-Jay Henderson is the centerpiece after a 1,000-yard campaign, and he’s a dark horse for national awards.

“This is a group of guys that has done all the right things,” Lembo said. “We’ve won some games when a lot of people didn’t expect us to. Now we’ve got a big challenge on the road to open the season.”

If Roberson avoids mistakes and Henderson finds space against Minnesota’s front seven, Buffalo has the balance to keep this close into the second half.

Key NCAAF Betting Trends

The Lean

Model Projection: Minnesota 30, Buffalo 20
Pick: Buffalo +12.5 (cover)
Total Lean: Under 51.5

Minnesota has the higher ceiling, but both teams are breaking in new quarterbacks, and Buffalo’s running game gives them enough stability to keep this within the number. Expect a hard-fought opener, with the Gophers pulling away late.

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