The Bowl Season is underway and the first round of the College Football Playoffs get underway on Friday, Dec. 19. Ninth-seeded Alabama will travel to No. 8 Oklahoma for a rematch of a regular season game won by the Sooners. The other three first-round games take place on Saturday, Dec. 20.

Ohio State is the betting favorite to win the national championship once again. The Buckeyes are the No. 2 seed after losing to Indiana in the Big Ten championship game. Both Ohio State and Indiana, as well as Georgia and Texas Tech, get this week off with first-round byes. Those four teams will await the winners of this weekend’s college football playoff’s first round games.

As always, the experts at ScoresandStats will be here to carry you through this round, the quarterfinals, semifinals, and, ultimately, the national championship. Check the updated College Football Championship odds and predictions daily!

College Football CFP First Round Schedule

College Football CFP First Round Odds

Keep an eye on the latest College Football odds from the top online betting sites and monitor how the lines change throughout the week.

There was plenty of talk as to whether or not Tulane and James Madison actually belonged in the playoff. Regardless, the Green Wave and the Dukes are in and they are the No. 11 and No. 12 seeds, respectively.

JMU is the biggest underdog this week, getting 21.5 points from Oregon. Tulane is next on the board getting 17.5 from Ole Miss. Those two are the only double digit underdogs this weekend.

The shortest line belongs to Alabama-Oklahoma. The Sooners are actually a 1.5-point home underdog. Remember, Oklahoma beat the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa earlier this season.

The game totals this week are highly reflective of postseason play. The highest total on the board actually belongs to the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, which features Memphis and NC State. Both teams average over 30 points per game and the Wolfpack have had some issues defensively, allowing 28.8 points per game.

The Alabama-Oklahoma matchup features two of the best defenses in the country. The Sooners won the regular season meeting 23-21. Another relatively low-scoring game is expected with a total that opened at 41.5 and is already down to 40.5. That, of course, is this weekend’s lowest total.

Make sure you check ScoresandStats top handicappers each week of the college football season. They can help you understand how to approach some of these point spreads and game totals.

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College Football CFP First Round Predictions

Let’s take a look at the featured College Football Playoff First Round games and make our NCAAF picks for each game.

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Oklahoma Sooners Odds

We’ve already mentioned the meeting earlier this season. Oklahoma went on the road and won in impressive fashion 23-21. The Crimson Tide did gain 406 total yards (326 passing), but the Sooners got the stops when they needed them in the fourth quarter.

In the series, Oklahoma leads 5-2-1. That includes this year’s win and a win in Norman last season. Alabama was a double-digit favorite and got waxed by the Sooners, 24-3. That’s two straight meetings where Alabama was favored and Oklahoma won outright.

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Oklahoma Sooners Predictions

This first-round game is in Norman at the site of the higher seed, which is Oklahoma. We’ve already mentioned the two straight wins in the series for the Sooners. There’s reason to believe that Oklahoma can do it again.

The Sooners don’t play many December home games, but when they do they are 8-3 all-time. The big factor in this game is defense. Oklahoma is seventh in points allowed per game (13.9). Alabama ranks 16th (17.4). One number that sticks out for Oklahoma is 47 percent. That’s the percentage of opponent plays that yield one or fewer yards.

Oklahoma’s offense is adequate, but it has struggled against SEC competition. The Sooners averaged just 21.5 points per game in conference play. That may be enough to win here. The game total has dropped to 40.5. Keep in mind, last year’s total was 46.5 and this year’s regular season game closed with a total of 45.5. Now, we’re seeing 40.5.

This should be a defensive slugfest. The Under has cashed in each of Alabama’s last five games. The Under is 11-2 in Oklahoma games this season.

Bet: Oklahoma -108, Oklahoma +1.5 (-115), Under 40.5 (-112)

Miami Hurricanes @ Texas A&M Aggies Odds

These two programs have only met five times in all of college football history. Miami holds a slight 3-2 advantage. That is thanks to their 48-33 win over the Aggies at the beginning of the 2023 season. The teams met the year before, 2022, in College Station where Texas A&M won 17-9. The previous three meetings were in 2008, 2007, and 1944.

There was some talk about Miami getting into the playoff. Ultimately, it was their win over Notre Dame early in the season that earned the Hurricanes the No. 10 seed. Texas A&M ran the table until its final regular season game of the season against rival Texas.

The Aggies did not qualify for the SEC title game as a result. Miami got knocked out of the ACC championship game by a very weird tiebreaker. Still, both teams now have a shot at a national championship.

Miami Hurricanes @ Texas A&M Aggies Predictions

The line for this game opened at Texas A&M -4 and has adjusted to -3.5. Don’t be surprised if you see it adjust even more in favor of the Hurricanes prior to kickoff. The ‘Canes rank No. 6 in scoring defense, holding teams to just 13.8 points per game.

Texas A&M also has a very good defense. They are outstanding on third down and can pressure the quarterback. The Aggies are tied with Oklahoma with 41 sacks, the most in the nation.

However, the Aggies also give up some points. They rank 40th in scoring defense, allowing 21.9 points per game. In four of their last six games, Texas A&M gave up at least 25 points. Carson Beck and the Miami offense are on a four-game heater and have scored 38, 41, 34, and 38 points in those wins.

The Aggies offense can get after it too. QB Marcel Reed leads a unit that scores 36.3 points per game. Prior to their 27-17 loss to Texas, the Aggies scored 31 or more in seven straight games.

The total reflects the strengths of both offenses and defenses. Ultimately, the offenses will have the edge, especially with the extra prep time.

Bet: Texas A&M -175, Miami +3.5 (-112), Over 51.5 (-105)

Tulane Green Wave @ Ole Miss Rebels Odds

This series actually dates back to 1893. It is Tulane’s second-oldest rivalry behind the “Battle for the Rag,” which is the series between the Green Wave and LSU. Ole Miss has a rather large lead in the series – 44-29.

One of those games was played earlier this year. In September, the Rebels added another victory – its 14th in a row – over the Green Wave. Ole Miss won 45-10. It was the sixth straight win by double digits (dating back to 2000) for the Rebels.

Since 2021, the two schools have played three times. Ole Miss, of course, won all three games. They won by margins of 35, 17, and 40 points.

Tulane Green Wave @ Ole Miss Rebels Predictions

Two things stand out in this matchup in Round 1. First, the two teams played back in September and Ole Miss rocked the Green Wave 45-10. The Rebels held a +266 total yards advantage. The other big thing is the departure of Lane Kiffin and the installation of Pete Golding as the Rebels new head coach.

Golding was the team’s defensive coordinator, so don’t expect too much of a drop-off. Tulane has improved throughout the season, especially defensively, but they are still vulnerable against the pass. That’s how Ole Miss gets it done.

The line opened at -16 in favor of the Rebels and it appears the sharps are okay with laying the points. The line is already up to -17.5.

Be wary of the total. Yes, Ole Miss can score, but the total in the regular season game was 61.5. It’s at 55.5 now. Consider that the last eight times Ole Miss has been favored by at least 17.5 points the Under has cashed seven times. Plus, the Under is 7-2 in Tulane’s last nine games.

Bet: ML pass, Ole Miss -17.5 (-108), Under 55.5 (-108)

James Madison Dukes @ Oregon Ducks Odds

James Madison’s rise from FCS power to now FBS playoff team is unprecedented. Unfortunately for the Dukes, they get a first-ever meeting with No. 5 Oregon, a school JMU has never played.

The Dukes won the Sun Belt championship and finished the season 12-1. The only loss was to Louisville early in the season. The Ducks only loss came against No. 1 Oregon.

James Madison Dukes @ Oregon Ducks Predictions

Laying 21 points in a playoff game is not easy, but the numbers back the Ducks. There are two FBS teams that rank in the top five in scoring offense, scoring defense, total offense, and total defense. Oregon is one of them.

The Ducks offense generates a lot of explosive plays. They have 82 plays of 20 yards or more. That ranks third in the nation. Oregon also limits those types of plays on defense. The Ducks lead the FBS in fewest explosive plays, allowing just 24 all season.

The other big issue is the game is being played at Autzen Stadium, where Oregon holds the nation’s longest active home non-conference winning streak at 37 games. The Ducks have won 110 consecutive games when allowing 14 points or less, a feat they have accomplished eight times this season. With JMU making a 2,800-mile trip, the Ducks have a huge advantage.

The key here is getting the best number. There are still -21s out there and our experts recommend that you find 21 rather than 21.5. With the total dropping from 51 at opening to 49.5 now, the game favors an Oregon blowout. Keep in mind, JMU is 0-2 SU and ATS in its last two games as at least a 21-point underdog.

Bet:ML pass, Oregon -21 (-115), Under 49.5 (-115)

College Football Playoffs Odds

Keep an eye on the latest College Football Odds and monitor how the lines change throughout the upcoming weeks.

Despite losing to Indiana in the Big Ten championship game, the Ohio State Buckeyes are the betting favorites to win the College Football Playoff national championship. Not surprisingly, right behind the Buckeyes are the Hoosiers who are the only other team given less than +550 odds to win it all.

Bettors can take advantage of some great plus-money odds in the Semifinals market. The top five teams, of course, are all given odds reflecting a higher probability of making the semifinals. The interesting one is Texas Tech.

The Red Raiders are tied with Oregon for the fourth-best odds to win the national championship. The two teams share the same odds to make the title game. However, Texas Tech is given -130 odds to make the semifinals. Oregon is listed at -115.

To help you make more sense of these markets and odds, check out the best handicappers in the industry with their proven track records in betting on College Football all season long.

College Football Playoff Teams

Before we make our  College Football Picks for these various championship prop bets, let’s take a look at each of the CFP teams and how they got here.

Ohio State Buckeyes

• Championship: +225
• Title Game: Y (-110)/N (-110)
• Semifinals: Y (-280)/N (+215)

The 2025 Ohio State Buckeyes season was a tale of two narratives: one of overwhelming, historic dominance, and another of a shocking, season-defining collapse in the Big Ten Championship. They finished the regular season undefeated and ranked No. 1, but the recent 13-10 loss to Indiana has shifted the focus from perfection to resilience as they head into the College Football Playoff.

Ohio State finished the season with a stellar 12-1 overall record and a perfect 9-0 record in the Big Ten Conference. Their 16-game winning streak was snapped by Indiana, but the team’s statistical profile throughout the year highlights why they were considered the top team in the nation for so long.

Ohio State’s defense was one of the best of the last few decades giving up just 8.2 points per game. That ranked first in the nation. The offense averaged 34.9 ppg, which was 21st nationally. QB Julian Sayin led the nation in completion percentage and threw for 31 touchdowns.

The most defining characteristic of this team was its defense. Allowing just 8.2 points per game, the Buckeyes ranked 1st nationally in opponent scoring. This unit, led by defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, was the backbone of the team, ranking 2nd nationally in opponent red zone touchdown rate (35%).

Offensively, the team was driven by the exceptional play of quarterback Julian Sayin, who led the nation with a 182.1 QB Rating and tied for second with 31 passing touchdowns. However, the offense was not as explosive as past Ohio State teams, ranking 69th in rushing yards per game, which proved problematic against elite defenses.

The 13-10 loss to Indiana on December 6th was a stunning defeat that ended Ohio State’s undefeated season and cost them the Big Ten title. The game exposed several underlying issues that had been masked by their dominance over lesser opponents.

The most critical issue was the offense’s inability to convert scoring opportunities into touchdowns. While Ohio State scored touchdowns on nearly 70% of their red zone trips during the regular season, they were a dismal 2-for-4 in the red zone against Indiana.

The Buckeyes had two crucial red zone possessions late in the Big Ten championship game that resulted in zero points. A decisive fourth-and-1 from the Indiana 5-yard line was overturned on replay review, resulting in a turnover on downs. A late drive that reached the Indiana 4-yard line ended when Coach Ryan Day opted for a field goal attempt on fourth-and-1.

The offensive line had a disastrous performance, allowing five sacks in the championship game. This is a staggering number considering the team had only allowed Julian Sayin to be sacked six times all season prior to the Indiana matchup.

The pressure clearly affected Sayin, who threw an interception on the first possession for the second consecutive week. The inability of the offensive line to protect the quarterback or generate push for short-yardage runs (like the failed 4th-and-1 sneak) was a major factor in the loss. The coaching staff even pulled offensive lineman Tegra Tshabola late in the game due to his struggles.

The final dagger came with 2:48 remaining when kicker Jayden Fielding shanked a 27-yard field goal wide left that would have tied the game. This decision to settle for a field goal on 4th-and-1 from the 4-yard line, combined with the subsequent miss, highlighted the unreliability of the kicking unit in high-pressure situations.

Ohio State entered the game as the only team in the country to have not trailed in the second half all season. When Indiana took a 13-10 lead in the third quarter, the Buckeyes finally faced meaningful adversity—and, as some analysts noted, they “crumbled.”

Despite the disappointing finish, several Buckeyes had outstanding individual seasons: Sayin led the nation in QB rating (182.1) and was highly efficient, throwing for 3,323 yards and 31 touchdowns. His performance was Heisman-worthy until the final game, where he struggled under pressure.

RB Bo Jackson topped the 1,000-yard mark, finishing with 1,035 rushing yards, providing a solid, if not spectacular, ground attack. WR Jeremiah Smith led the team with 1,086 receiving yards, showcasing his elite talent throughout the year.

The entire defensive unit was exceptional, holding opponents to just 8.2 PPG. Defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. and edge rusher Caden Curry were instrumental in generating pressure, though they were often held in check by Indiana’s offensive line.

Despite the loss, Ohio State’s 12-1 record and strength of schedule helped them to secure the No. 2 seed in the College Football Playoff, earning a first-round bye.

Indiana Hoosiers

• Championship: +250
• Title Game: Y (-105)/N (-135)
• Semifinals: Y (-300)/N (+225)

The 2025 Indiana Hoosiers season is arguably the most improbable and monumental turnaround in modern college football history. Under second-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers transformed from the program with the most losses in FBS history into the undisputed Big Ten Champion and the No. 1 overall seed in the College Football Playoff.

They finished the season with a perfect 13-0 record (9-0 in the Big Ten), culminating in a stunning 13-10 victory over previously undefeated Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship game. This victory secured their first outright Big Ten title since 1945 and their first Rose Bowl berth since 1967.

The foundation of this historic season lies in the vision and confidence of Coach Curt Cignetti. Just two years ago, Indiana was considered a perennial cellar-dweller. Cignetti, who famously told the Big Ten Network he would be playing in the title game the following year, delivered on his bold promises by leveraging the transfer portal to bring in battle-tested talent, including several players from his former program at James Madison.

The Hoosiers’ success was built on a potent combination of a high-powered offense and an elite, suffocating defense. They ranked among the nation’s best in both scoring offense and scoring defense, demonstrating the balance needed for a championship run.

The defense, in particular, was the backbone of the team, allowing just 10.8 points per game, ranking second nationally. This unit, led by Defensive Coordinator Bryant Haines, also led the entire country in opponent red-zone touchdown rate (27.8%), forcing opponents to settle for field goals when they got close.

Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a transfer from California, was the catalyst for the offense and was just named the winner of the Heisman Trophy. He was voted the Big Ten’s Most Valuable Player by coaches and media, showcasing his impact on the team’s success. Mendoza’s season was defined by efficiency and clutch playmaking: 33 TD passes, a 181.4 QB rating, and 2,980 yards.

Mendoza’s toughness was immediately tested in the Big Ten Championship, where he was injured on the first offensive play but returned after missing just one snap. His performance in the second half against Ohio State was legendary, featuring two game-changing throws.

One was the go-ahead touchdown. Trailing 10-6, Mendoza delivered a 17-yard, back-shoulder touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt, giving the Hoosiers the 13-10 lead they would never relinquish.

Then, facing a critical third-and-six from their own 24-yard line with 2:40 left, Mendoza eschewed the conservative play and fired a perfect 33-yard strike to wide receiver Charlie Becker, allowing Indiana to run out the clock. Coach Cignetti noted, “I wasn’t going to play not to lose. We were playing to win.”

While Mendoza was the star, the offense featured several key contributors: RB Bo Hemby finished the season with 918 rushing yards. WR Omar Cooper led the team in receiving with 804 yards. Charlie Becker, another wide receiver, stepped up in crucial moments, hauling in six passes for 126 yards in the Big Ten Championship, including the game-sealing catch.

Indiana’s defense was instrumental in neutralizing the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense and Heisman candidate Julian Sayin. The Hoosiers pressured Sayin relentlessly, recording nine tackles for loss and five sacks in the game. Indiana’s run defense limited Ohio State’s rushing attack to just 58 yards, well below their season average.

The defense came up with two massive stops in the second half when Ohio State drove deep into Indiana territory. Late in the third quarter, the defense stopped Sayin on a fourth-and-1 quarterback sneak from the 5-yard line, securing a crucial turnover on downs. After the defense held strong on a late drive, Ohio State kicker Jayden Fielding missed a 27-yard field goal that would have tied the game with 2:48 remaining.

The win was a testament to the team’s “battle-tested” nature, as Coach Cignetti noted, allowing them to remain confident when the game was on the line in the fourth quarter.

By finishing 13-0 and winning the Big Ten, Indiana secured the No. 1 overall seed in the College Football Playoff. This gives them a first-round bye and a guaranteed spot in the Rose Bowl on January 1st for the CFP Quarterfinal.

Georgia Bulldogs

• Championship: +550
• Title Game: Y (+240)/N (-330)
• Semifinals: Y (-250)/N (+200)

The 2025 Georgia Bulldogs season was a resounding success, culminating in a dominant SEC Championship victory and securing the No. 3 seed in the College Football Playoff. Finishing the year with a 12-1 overall record and their second consecutive conference title, the Bulldogs have established themselves as a perennial powerhouse, driven by an elite defense and the maturation of their quarterback.

Georgia’s success was built on a classic Kirby Smart formula: suffocating defense and efficient, ball-control offense. They finished the season ranked highly in all major polls (AP #2, Coaches #2, CBS Sports #3) and earned a crucial first-round bye in the expanded CFP.

The statistical profile clearly shows where Georgia wins: defense and the running game. Their defense ranks 4th nationally against the run, making them incredibly difficult to sustain drives against. While the offense ranks 95th in passing yards per game, the focus has been on efficiency, which is reflected in their quarterback’s high rating.

The defining moment of the season was the 28-7 victory over Alabama in the SEC Championship on December 6th. This win was significant for two major reasons: it avenged a regular-season loss to the Crimson Tide and showcased the sheer dominance of the Georgia defense.

The Bulldogs’ defense put on a clinic, holding Alabama to a mere 209 total yards for the entire game and allowing only one scoring drive. This level of defensive shutdown against a top-tier opponent reinforced the narrative that this unit is championship-ready.

\The victory marked Georgia’s second straight conference championship and provided massive late-season momentum. Over their last five games, the Bulldogs have posted a point differential of plus-101, allowing an average of just 12 points per game. This late-season surge is a key reason why many analysts feel this 2025 team is better positioned for a national title run than the 2024 squad.

Quarterback Gunner Stockton was the centerpiece of the offense’s success and development this season. After taking over the starting role, he has grown into one of the nation’s most reliable signal-callers. Stockton threw for 2,691 yards with 23 touchdowns against just five interceptions. His 85.8 quarterback rating ranks 6th in the nation.

Stockton is also a significant threat on the ground, leading the team with 8 rushing touchdowns and contributing 442 rushing yards to the offense.

The offense featured a balanced attack, with several players contributing significantly to the team’s 31.9 PPG average. WR  Zachariah Branch was the team’s most dynamic playmaker, leading Georgia with 1,113 total yards (85.6 YDS/G) and 5 total touchdowns. This includes 744 receiving yards, 205 kick return yards, and 157 punt return yards.

Nate Frazier led the team in rushing with 861 yards. Dillon Bell is a versatile threat who contributed 388 total yards and 4 touchdowns, split between rushing (109 YDS, 2 TD) and receiving (279 YDS, 2 TD).

By winning the SEC Championship, Georgia secured the No. 3 seed in the College Football Playoff and earned a first-round bye. Their quarterfinal game will be played in the Sugar Bowl on January 1st, where they will face the winner of the first-round matchup between the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels and the No. 11 Tulane Green Wave

If Tulane wins, Georgia is expected to be heavily favored. The Bulldogs have a strong history against non-Power Four opponents. If Ole Miss wins, it would be a rematch of Georgia’s 43-35 regular-season victory. While Ole Miss recently lost their head coach, the familiarity of the opponent and the neutral site setting still favor the Bulldogs.

Oregon Ducks

• Championship: +900
• Title Game: Y (+300)/N (-400)
• Semifinals: Y (-115)/N (-105)

The Oregon Ducks made quite the impression in their Big Ten debut season. Not only did they go unbeaten in conference play, which included beating Ohio State, but they also defeated Penn State to win the Big Ten Conference Championship.

The Ducks are the #1 seed in the country and the Playoffs as well. They will have a first-round bye before taking on the winner of Tennessee vs. Ohio State. It’s possible we get a rematch between the Ducks and Buckeyes, which would be thrilling for the CFP considering their first matchup came down to a last-minute FG.

When you think of Oregon, you think offense. And, that applies to this year’s team as well. The Ducks are 7th in the nation for scoring (36.9 ppg), 12th in total yards (446.8 ypg), and sixth in third down conversion (49.66%).

However, they have a top-notch defense as well. The Ducks only allow 18.1 ppg (9th), 309 total yards per game (11), and just 176.3 passing yards per game (10th).

Oregon is the most balanced team in the game. It’s going to take a perfect game from one of the other teams to take down the Ducks in the Playoffs.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

• Championship: +900
• Title Game: Y (+300)/N (-400)
• Semifinals: Y (-130)/N (+100)

The 2025 Texas Tech Red Raiders season was nothing short of monumental. Under head coach Joey McGuire, the Red Raiders achieved their first-ever Big 12 Championship, secured their first outright conference title since 1955, and earned the No. 4 seed in the College Football Playoff. Finishing the season with a dominant 12-1 record, Texas Tech has positioned itself perfectly for a national title run.

The Red Raiders’ success is the culmination of a massive commitment to building a championship-caliber roster. This turnaround was fueled by significant investment, reportedly over $25 million total, including $12 million spent on 21 transfers alone. This financial commitment, spearheaded by booster Cody Campbell, led to an “overnight success” story that delivered the program’s first Big 12 title.

Coach Joey McGuire, a popular Texas high school coaching legend, delivered on his promise, leading the team to a 34-7 thumping of BYU in the Big 12 Championship game. The victory over BYU secured Texas Tech’s first Big 12 Championship since the conference’s formation in 1996.

The Red Raiders’ 12 wins were characterized by overwhelming dominance. Ten of those victories were by at least 20 points, with an average margin of victory of 33.8 points.

By securing the No. 4 overall seed, Texas Tech earned a crucial first-round bye in the College Football Playoff, allowing the team to rest and recover before the quarterfinals.

Texas Tech’s 12-1 record is backed by an elite statistical profile, showcasing a rare balance of top-tier offense and defense. They rank among the top three nationally in both scoring categories.

The defense, in particular, has been the backbone of this team, ranking 3rd nationally in opponent scoring. They were also noted as the nation’s No. 1 run defense earlier in the season, making them incredibly difficult to move the ball against consistently.

The Red Raiders’ defense is anchored by Butkus, Lombardi, and Bednarik Award winner Jacob Rodriguez. The defense held BYU to just 200 total yards (63 passing, 137 rushing) for the entire game. The Red Raiders also forced four turnovers in the second half, completely flipping the game’s trajectory. This added to their FBS-leading total in takeaways.

QB Behren Morton managed the game efficiently despite battling a leg injury that has plagued him since October. Morton threw for 215 yards and two touchdowns, including a 33-yard strike to Coy Eakin. His ability to play through injury and maintain ball control (only five interceptions all season) has been critical.

Running back Cameron Dickey finished the season with 1,097 rushing yards. In the conference championship win, the ground game took over in the second half, capitalizing on the defensive turnovers.

Morton’s season was defined by efficiency and toughness. He passed for 2,643 yards and 23 touchdowns, ranking 6th nationally in QB rating. The 25-day break before the CFP is crucial for him, as he has been practicing in a boot while battling a leg injury. Coach McGuire believes getting Morton healthy will unlock “another gear” for the team.

As the No. 4 seed, Texas Tech has earned a first-round bye and will play in the Capital One Orange Bowl on January 1st in Miami Gardens, Florida. Their opponent will be the winner of the first-round matchup between the No. 5 Oregon Ducks and the No. 12 James Madison Dukes.

Texas A&M Aggies

• Championship: +1400
• Title Game: Y (+750)/N (-1400)
• Semifinals: Y (+375)/N (-550)

The 2025 season for the Texas A&M Aggies was a monumental success, marking a significant leap forward for the program under head coach Mike Elko. Finishing the regular season with an impressive 11-1 record and securing the program’s first-ever College Football Playoff berth, the Aggies finally reached the heights that have long been promised in College Station.

The Aggies’ success is a direct result of the culture instilled by Coach Mike Elko, who took over just two years ago. Elko’s focus on the “GRIND” acronym (Grit, Relentless effort, Integrity, Now, and Dependability) resonated with the players, leading to a rapid transformation.

The 11-1 record earned Texas A&M the No. 7 seed in the College Football Playoff, a historic achievement for the program. The Aggies went 7-1 in the SEC, with quality wins over ranked opponents like Notre Dame, LSU, and Missouri.

The team opened the season 11-0, the first time they had done so since the 1992 season. A key moment of the season was the massive comeback win against South Carolina, where the Aggies overcame a 30-3 halftime deficit—the biggest comeback in school history—to maintain their undefeated status.

Texas A&M’s 11-1 record was built on a balanced attack, featuring a top-15 scoring offense and a defense that ranked 45th nationally in opponent scoring, but was far more dominant in generating pressure and turnovers.

The only blemish on the Aggies’ record was the 27-17 loss to rival No. 16 Texas in the regular-season finale on November 28th. This defeat was particularly painful as it spoiled their perfect season and knocked them out of the SEC Championship game.

Quarterback Marcel Reed, who had been a Heisman contender, struggled under pressure, throwing two fourth-quarter interceptions, including one deep in Texas territory. Reed also briefly left the game in the first quarter with a rolled ankle, highlighting the physical toll of the rivalry game.

Even the elite pass rush, led by Cashius Howell, failed to record a sack against Texas, the only SEC game where Howell was held without one. The loss served as a wake up call according to Coach Elko, which he hopes will refocus the team for the CFP run.

Reed was the engine of the offense, throwing for 2,932 yards and demonstrating significant dual-threat capability. The Aggies’ offense reached another level when Reed was causing havoc on the ground and in the air, averaging 44 points per game in those explosive wins. His ability to return to this dual-threat form will be crucial in the CFP.

The Aggies rely heavily on their playmakers to generate explosive plays. WR KC Concepcion was a first-team All-SEC selection who led the team with 886 receiving yards and 12 total touchdowns. He also became the first A&M player in the modern era to score via rush, reception, and punt return in the same year.

The running game, which hasn’t been great recently, is hoping for a boost with the expected return of star running back Le’Veon Moss, who has been out since October with an ankle injury. If Moss can return to form, it will open up the entire offense. Currently, Rueben Owens II leads the team with 618 rushing yards, but his production dipped significantly in the last two games (76 combined yards).

The defense is anchored by an elite defensive line. Howell was the SEC Defensive Player of the Year and was a sack machine, recording at least one sack in eight of the Aggies’ 12 games. His battle against Miami’s highly-rated offensive line will be a key factor in the CFP matchup.

The Aggies’ defense has historically responded well after a bye week. Texas A&M has held opponents to 10 and 17 points in their two games following a bye this season. This trend bodes well for their matchup against Miami.

The team is focused on putting the Texas loss behind them and achieving their ultimate goal. As offensive lineman Trey Zuhn stated, “We didn’t come here just to get to the playoffs. We came here to win it all.” The Aggies are looking to rewrite the ending of their season and prove that their 11-1 record was no fluke as they aim for their first national championship since 1939.

Ole Miss Rebels

• Championship: +2000
• Title Game: Y (+850)/N (-1600)
• Semifinals: Y (+180)/N (-230)

The 2025 season for the Ole Miss Rebels was a landmark campaign, culminating in the program’s first-ever College Football Playoff berth. Under the leadership of Coach Lane Kiffin, the Rebels finished the regular season with a stellar 11-1 overall record and a 7-1 mark in the SEC, securing the No. 6 seed in the CFP. This achievement was built on an explosive offense, a rapidly improving defense, and a remarkable ability to block out external noise.

The 2025 season delivered several historic milestones that solidified Lane Kiffin’s legacy in Oxford. The Rebels recorded their first-ever 11-win regular season in program history, a feat completed with a dominant 38-19 victory over Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl.

Ole Miss secured its first appearance in the College Football Playoff, earning the right to host a first-round game. Kiffin became the first coach in Ole Miss history to lead the Rebels to 10 wins in three consecutive seasons, demonstrating a new standard of sustained success for the program.

A major narrative throughout the latter half of the season was the constant speculation surrounding Coach Kiffin’s future, particularly after his name surfaced as a top candidate for the Florida vacancy. Despite this potential distraction, the team showed incredible resilience.

The Rebels went 5-0 following their lone loss of the season (a heartbreaker at Georgia), proving their ability to block out the noise, a mantra Kiffin has preached to his players. The team’s performance, particularly the gritty 34-24 win over Florida, spoke volumes about their focus.

The Rebels’ success was driven by the emergence of a new quarterback and a record-breaking running back. QB Trinidad Chambliss is a senior transfer from Ferris State who took over as the starter in Week 3 and quickly became a success. Chambliss finished the season with 3,016 passing yards and was named the SEC Newcomer of the Year.

Since taking over at quarterback, Chambliss has averaged 340.6 yards of offense per game and has a 9-1 record as the starter. He has accumulated 3,486 combined yards passing and rushing, along with 24 total touchdowns. In the Egg Bowl victory, Chambliss threw for 359 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform in high-stakes rivalry games.

Running back Kewan Lacy was the workhorse of the offense and a record-breaker for the program. Lacy led the team with 1,279 rushing yards and broke the school’s single-season rushing touchdown record, finishing with 20 rushing touchdowns (5th nationally).

His performance against Florida was critical, where he rushed for 224 yards and three touchdowns, including the go-ahead score in the fourth quarter. The Rebels are 6-0 in games where Lacy logs 20 or more carries.

As the No. 6 seed, Ole Miss will host the No. 11 Tulane Green Wave in the CFP First Round on Saturday, December 20th, at 3:30 PM ET at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. This is a rematch of a Week 4 contest that Ole Miss won decisively, 45-10. However, the stakes are far greater now, and both teams have developed since then.

The matchup heavily favors the Rebels’ passing attack against a Tulane defense that has struggled against the pass. However, Tulane is opportunistic, tied for the 12th-most interceptions nationally (15), and their dual-threat quarterback, Jake Retzlaff (610 rushing yards, 16 rushing TDs), presents a unique challenge that the Rebels’ defense must contain.

Alabama Crimson Tide

• Championship: +2200
• Title Game: Y (+1000)/N (-2200)
• Semifinals: Y (+400)/N (-600)

The 2025 season for the Alabama Crimson Tide was a classic, marked by a grueling schedule, a historic run of wins, and a late-season stumble that ultimately cost them the conference title. They finished the regular season with a 10-3 overall record but secured the No. 9 seed in the College Football Playoff.

Alabama’s season was defined by their ability to navigate the brutal SEC schedule, though they ultimately fell short of their championship goals. The Crimson Tide made history by becoming the first team in SEC history to defeat four ranked opponents on four subsequent Saturdays. This impressive stretch showcased their resilience and talent against top-tier competition.

The season culminated in a disappointing 28-7 loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship on December 6th. The loss, which followed a 2-2 finish over the final four games, was a major setback but did not prevent them from earning a spot in the expanded CFP field.

Alabama’s three losses came against quality opponents: a season-opening loss at Florida State (31-17), a narrow home loss to Oklahoma (23-21), and the SEC Championship loss to Georgia.

Alabama’s 10-3 record was built on a strong defense and an efficient passing attack, which had to compensate for a struggling ground game. The defense, ranking 12th nationally in opponent scoring, was the team’s anchor. However, the rushing offense, ranking 142nd nationally, was a clear weakness that put immense pressure on the passing game to perform consistently.

Quarterback Ty Simpson led the offense, relying heavily on his top receivers to move the ball. Simpson finished the season with 3,268 passing yards and 26 touchdowns against just five interceptions. His 64.3% completion rate and 146.1 passer rating highlight his efficiency, especially given the lack of a dominant run game to lean on. He also added 98 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns.

WR Germie Bernard was the team’s most productive playmaker, accumulating 863 total yards and 9 total touchdowns (7 receiving, 2 rushing). He led the team with 762 receiving yards on 57 receptions. Ryan Williams served as the deep threat, averaging 15.0 yards per reception on his way to 631 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. Jam Miller led the running backs with 493 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns over nine games, averaging 4.0 yards per carry.

As the No. 9 seed, Alabama will travel to face the No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners in the CFP First Round on Friday, December 19th, at 8:00 PM ET. This game is a highly anticipated rematch, as Oklahoma defeated Alabama earlier in the season, 23-21, in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide will be looking to avenge that narrow loss and prove they belong in the next round of the playoff.

Miami Hurricanes

• Championship: +2500
• Title Game: Y (+1100)/N (-2200)
• Semifinals: Y (+600)/N (-1000)

The 2025 season was a landmark year for the Miami Hurricanes, culminating in the program’s first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff. Finishing with a strong 10-2 overall record and a 6-2 mark in the ACC, the Hurricanes secured the No. 10 seed and are now preparing for a massive first-round matchup.

Under Coach Mario Cristobal, the Hurricanes achieved a level of sustained success not seen in nearly a decade, proving their mettle against a chaotic ACC landscape. The biggest story of the season was Miami’s dramatic entry into the CFP field.

Miami earned an at-large berth into the 2025 College Football Playoffs as the No. 10 seed, marking the first time in school history they have reached the expanded field. For the first time since joining the ACC in 2004, Miami has put together back-to-back 10-win seasons, signaling a significant upward trajectory for the program.

The Hurricanes are entering the postseason with significant momentum, having won their previous four games by a combined score of 158-41, including a dominant 38-7 victory over Pittsburgh in the final game of the regular season.

Miami’s selection was highly debated, as they jumped two spots from No. 12 to No. 10 to take the final at-large spot, primarily at the expense of Notre Dame. The deciding factor was Miami’s Week 1 victory over Notre Dame (27-24). CFP Chairman Hunter Yurachek confirmed that once BYU lost its second game to Texas Tech, the committee finally compared Miami and Notre Dame side-by-side. The head-to-head result was the “one metric we had to fall back on” to justify Miami’s inclusion.

The Hurricanes felt they were under-ranked for five weeks, starting the CFP rankings at No. 18 despite their early win over Notre Dame. The committee’s process was criticized for waiting until the final week to consider the head-to-head result.

Miami’s 10-2 record was anchored by an elite defense that ranked among the best in the nation, complemented by an efficient offense led by quarterback Carson Beck. The defense, allowing just 13.8 points per game, was the clear strength of the team, ranking 6th nationally. This unit, featuring the single best defensive player in the country in edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., was instrumental in keeping the Hurricanes in every game.

The offense was driven by Beck, who led the passing attack, accumulating 3,072 yards over the season. His consistent play was vital to the team’s success, especially in high-stakes games like the Week 1 win over Notre Dame and the victory over Florida State.

Malachi Toney was the team’s leading receiver, finishing the season with 970 receiving yards. He is widely regarded as the “single best freshman in the country,” providing a dynamic threat that helped the offense rank 24th nationally in passing yards per game.

Despite their 10-2 record and No. 10 ranking, Miami was excluded from the ACC championship game due to complex tiebreaker rules. Miami finished 6-2 in ACC play, part of a five-way tie for second place. The tiebreakers ultimately sent 7-5 Duke to the championship game against Virginia.

As the No. 10 seed, Miami faces a challenging road test against the No. 7 Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday, December 20th, at 12:00 PM ET.This game marks the first CFP appearance for both programs. Miami leads the all-time series 3-2, having won the last meeting 48-33.

Oklahoma Sooners

• Championship: +5000
• Title Game: Y (+1800)/N (-15000)
• Semifinals: Y (+650)/N (-1100)

The 2025 season was a monumental success for the Oklahoma Sooners, marking a dramatic turnaround under head coach Brent Venables. After two sub-.500 seasons in three years, the Sooners defied low preseason expectations (with an over/under set at 6.5 wins) to finish the regular season with a strong 10-2 record and secure the No. 8 seed in the College Football Playoff. This is the program’s first CFP appearance since 2019.

The defining characteristic of this team is its rugged, aggressive defense—a stark departure from the high-scoring, defensively porous Oklahoma teams of the past.

The Sooners’ run to the College Football Playoff was considered unlikely given the preseason perception and a grueling schedule that included two October losses (to Texas and Ole Miss) that nearly derailed their season. However, the team embraced its own style of play, focusing on winning rather than style points.

The 10-2 finish represents one of the most impressive year-over-year turnarounds in the country. Oklahoma was coming off a 6-7 campaign in their first SEC season in 2024. The Sooners went 4-0 in November, including a gutsy 17-13 win over LSU in the regular-season finale, proving their ability to win when they had zero margin for error.

As the No. 8 seed, Oklahoma earned the right to host a CFP First Round game in Norman, a massive advantage. Coach Venables noted that the night-game environment at Gaylord Family—Oklahoma Memorial Stadium will be electric.

Unlike previous CFP-bound Oklahoma teams known for their offense, the 2025 Sooners are defined by their defense, which ranks among the nation’s elite in several key metrics after Venables took over defensive play-calling duties this season.

The defense featured several All-Conference caliber players. DT Taylor Wein led the team with 14 tackles for loss. DE Mason Thomas paced the team with 6.5 sacks, despite missing the last three games due to a hamstring injury. LB Kip Lewis led the team with 72 tackles.

In the first meeting, Alabama committed three turnovers (including an 87-yard interception return for a touchdown), while Oklahoma committed zero. Alabama players have emphasized the need for better ball security in the rematch. Oklahoma is 2-0 against Alabama in the last 13 months.

This matchup is a highly anticipated rematch of the November 15th game where Oklahoma defeated Alabama 23-21 in Tuscaloosa, ending the Tide’s 17-game home-winning streak.

As the No. 8 seed, Oklahoma will host the No. 9 Alabama Crimson Tide on Friday, December 19th, at 8:00 PM ET in the CFP First Round. The winner advances to face No. 1 Indiana in the Rose Bowl.

James Madison Dukes

• Championship: +40000
• Title Game: Y (+15000)/N (NA)
• Semifinals: Y (+5000)/N (NA)

The 2025 season for the James Madison Dukes was a huge success. It’s one of the most remarkable rises of a program in modern college football history. Under head coach Bob Chesney, the Dukes finished with a 12-1 overall record and secured their first-ever Sun Belt Championship and College Football Playoff berth. They enter the postseason as the No. 12 seed.

James Madison’s season was defined by their ability to dominate the Sun Belt Conference and achieve historic milestones just three years after transitioning from the FCS level. The Dukes finished 8-0 in conference play and capped the season with a decisive 31-14 victory over Troy in the Sun Belt Championship game on December 5th.

The Dukes become the first program ever to participate in both the CFP and the FCS playoffs in the same decade. JMU has now gone 11-1, 8-5, and 12-1 in their first three seasons with full postseason eligibility, something considered not normal for a transitioning program.

The season ended with a major coaching change, as head coach Bob Chesney, the architect of this championship run, will leave to take the head coaching job at UCLA. The Dukes moved quickly to hire former Florida coach Billy Napier as his replacement. Napier, who previously won two conference championships at Louisiana-Lafayette, is expected to provide stability and maintain the program’s high perch in the Sun Belt.

The Dukes’ 12-1 record was built on a foundation of elite defense, particularly against the run, and a highly efficient, balanced offensive attack. The offense was highly effective, averaging 448.3 total yards per game, split almost evenly between the run and the pass:

The Dukes’ success was powered by a dynamic dual-threat quarterback and a record-setting running back. Junior QB Alonza Barnett III was the engine of the offense, accounting for 38 total touchdowns, passing for 2,533 yards and 21 touchdowns, and completing 59.9% of his passes.

Barnett ran for 544 yards on 115 carries and had 14 touchdowns. Barnett’s ability to extend plays and gash defenses on designed runs made him the Sun Belt’s version of a problem for opposing defensive coordinators.

Running back Wayne Knight was the team’s leading rusher and a major offensive weapon. He rushed for 1,263 yards on 190 carries, averaging a stellar 6.6 yards per carry, with nine rushing touchdowns. Knight accumulated 1,642 total scrimmage yards (1,263 rushing + 379 receiving) and 10 total touchdowns.

The defense was led by several standout players: LB Jacob Dobbs was the “quarterback of the defense.” Dobbs finished the season with 112 tackles and 12 tackles for loss. DE Jalen Green was a major disruptor up front. Green recorded 10.5 sacks on the season.

As the No. 12 seed, James Madison will travel to Eugene, Oregon, to face the No. 5 Oregon Ducks in the CFP First Round on Friday, December 20th, at 7:30 PM ET.

Tulane Green Wave

• Championship: +50000
• Title Game: Y (+17500)/N (NA)
• Semifinals: Y (+4000)/N (NA)

Tulane finished with an impressive 11-2 overall record and secured their second consecutive American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championship, culminating in a historic berth as the No. 11 seed in the College Football Playoff.

This season was defined by a powerful rushing attack, opportunistic defense, and the leadership of a dual-threat quarterback, all achieved despite the mid-season news of their head coach’s departure.

The defining moment of the season was the 34-21 victory over North Texas in the AAC Championship game on December 5th. This win secured the program’s second consecutive conference title and was a testament to the team’s defensive tenacity.

The Green Wave defense completely shut down North Texas’s prolific offense, which was known for its high scoring offense. Tulane forced five turnovers (three interceptions and two fumble recoveries), while committing zero themselves. The turnover margin was the key to the victory.

Tulane’s defense held North Texas’s nation-leading scoring offense to just 21 points, their lowest point total all season. Safety Jack Tchienchou was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player after recording an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Defensive back Chris Rodgers also contributed a crucial 35-yard interception return for a touchdown, marking the team’s first non-offensive touchdown of the season.

While the defense stole the show, the offense controlled the clock and dominated the ground game. Tulane rushed for 199 yards on 52 carries, compared to North Texas’s 121 rushing yards. Running back Jamauri McClure led the way with 121 yards on 22 carries.

QB Jake Retzlaff passed for 145 yards and rushed for 49 yards and two short touchdowns, including a 1-yard sneak as time expired in the first half to extend the lead to 24-7.

Tulane’s 11-2 record was built on a balanced offensive attack and a defense that excelled at creating disruption, ranking 56th nationally in opponent scoring.

The team’s success is also reflected in their ability to win the turnover battle, a key indicator of Coach Sumrall’s philosophy. Tulane has won 36 of its last 43 games when forcing a turnover and 15 consecutive games when committing fewer turnovers than the opponent.

Retzlaff, a transfer from BYU, was the undisputed leader of the offense, showcasing a rare dual-threat ability that powered the Green Wave’s success. He threw for 2,862 yards, 14 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, and had a 62.4% completion rate. He also led the team with 610 rushing yards and set a school record for a Tulane quarterback with 16 rushing touchdowns

As the No. 11 seed, Tulane is set for a challenging CFP First Round matchup against the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels on Saturday, December 20th, at 3:30 PM ET. This will be a rematch of an earlier season contest where Ole Miss defeated Tulane 45-10 on September 20th. The Green Wave will be looking for a massive upset to advance to the CFP Quarterfinals.

Sumrall accepted the head coaching job at Florida, but has committed to coaching Tulane through the College Football Playoff.

Which CFP Teams Make the Semifinal Games?

The College Football Playoff, like college basketball’s March Madness, isn’t necessarily about the “best” team. It’s more about which team can play at a peak level over a series of games.

Ohio State and Indiana are the favorites to win this year’s national title, but it’s likely that one of them won’t get the opportunity. Remember a year ago, top-seeded Oregon lost its first game of the CFP.

Alabama is the type of team that, if it gets hot, can challenge Oklahoma. The Tide’s offense is tough for anyone to stop and Alabama’s defense is elite. We like this year’s surprise team to be the Crimson Tide, who pull the upset over Indiana.

Texas Tech will win its quarterfinal game and the same holds true on the other end of the bracket. Both Ohio State and Georgia win their matchups to get to the semifinals. 

Bet: Ohio State, Georgia, Texas Tech, Alabama

2025-26 College Football Playoff Exact Matchup

It’s not easy for teams to play a full regular season, play in a conference championship game, and then play in the College Football Playoff. Last year, Oregon went unbeaten in the regular season and beat Penn State in the Big Ten championship. The Ducks were beaten in the first round of last year’s playoffs.

Will that happen to Indiana? Curt Cignetti’s squad has been very hard to bet against, but the margin for error is slim in these playoff games. The Hoosiers’ closest game was against Penn State on the road.

Indiana won’t play at home either. They will play their first playoff game in Pasadena, Calif., in the Rose Bowl. That is one of the reasons why we think Indiana gets beat either in the Rose Bowl or the following week in the Peach Bowl.

That said, we like Ohio State to take care of its half of the bracket. Either Georgia or Texas A&M would emerge from the other side and we like the Red Raiders. Texas Tech might be the most complete team in the country.

In the end though, Ohio State proves too much for the Red Raiders.

Bet: Ohio State to beat Texas Tech (+1000)

College Football Championship Predictions

We’ve broken down some of the matchups. We’ve shared the teams we think might make the semifinals and/or the championship game. Now, comes the time when we predict the overall winner, the 2025-26 college football national champion.

Ohio State is the overall betting favorite to win it all. There are a number of teams this year that are built similarly. The top four or five teams in the nation – the top four to five seeds in the CFP – are all elite on both sides of the ball.

Only two, however, rank in the top five in the following categories: scoring offense, scoring defense, total offense, and total defense. Those two teams are Indiana and Texas Tech.

In the current bracket, those two teams would meet in the Capital One Orange Bowl in one of the national semifinals. Texas Tech lost earlier this season when QB Behren Morton missed the Arizona State game with an injury. Barring another injury, he’ll play against Indiana.

The Hoosiers and Red Raiders are nearly identical – outstanding, high-scoring offenses and fast, physical defenses that suck the life out of offenses. The winner of this game is the next national champion and at +900, we like the underdog Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Bet: Texas Tech Red Raiders (+900)

College Football Playoffs Schedule

This year’s College Football Playoffs schedule is as follows.

First Round

• Friday, December 19, 2025: Alabama vs. Oklahoma
• Saturday, December 20, 2025: James Madison vs. Oregon, Tulane vs. Ole Miss, Miami vs. Texas A&M

Quarterfinal Round

• Wednesday, Dec. 31: Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, Ohio State vs. TBD
• Thursday, Jan. 1: Capital One Orange Bowl, Texas Tech vs. TBD
• Thursday, Jan. 1: Rose Bowl, Indiana vs. TBD
• Thursday, Jan. 1: Allstate Sugar Bowl, Georgia vs. TBD

Semifinal Round

• Thursday, Jan. 8: Vrbo Fiesta Bowl
• Friday, Jan. 9: Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl

CFP National Championship Game

• Monday, Jan. 19: College Football National Championship Game