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Ohio State Buckeyes vs Minnesota Golden Gophers Game Preview
Top-ranked Ohio State welcomes Minnesota to Columbus for a Big Ten primetime battle. The Golden Gophers are trying to ride the momentum of last week’s dramatic win over Rutgers, but the challenge escalates against a Buckeyes defense that has been nearly untouchable through four games.
Line Movement and Odds
Week 6 of the 2025 college football season features Minnesota visiting No. 1 Ohio State on Saturday, October 4 at 7:30 PM ET on NBC.
The Buckeyes opened as −23.5 favorites, and the line has crept to −24.0. The total has held steady at 44.5, with bettors divided on whether Minnesota can score enough to push the game over.
Current odds:
- Moneyline: Ohio State −2837 / Minnesota +1248
- Spread: Ohio State −24.0 (−109) / Minnesota +24.0 (−110)
- Total: Over 44.5 (−112) / Under 44.5 (−108)
Track real-time adjustments on the NCAAF scores and odds board.
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Matchup Breakdown
Minnesota (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) leans on freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey, who threw for 324 yards and three touchdowns in the comeback win against Rutgers. His poise earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week, but facing the Buckeyes defense under the lights in Columbus is a massive step up. Receiver Cyrus Allen and a balanced group of pass-catchers will need to find space against elite coverage.
Ohio State (4-0, 1-0 Big Ten) comes off a 24-6 win at Washington, a game in which the defense again dominated. First-year starter Julian Sayin passed for 208 yards and two TDs, managing the game with efficiency, while freshman star receiver Jeremiah Smith continues to emerge as the go-to target. Running back CJ Donaldson adds balance to an attack that remains conservative but steady.
Defensively, the Buckeyes have been unmatched, allowing just 22 points total through four games. Linemen Caden Curry and Kayden McDonald headline a front that racked up five sacks at Washington. For roster-level comparisons, see the NCAAF teams page.
Injuries and Conditions
Minnesota
- RB Darius Taylor (leg) remains doubtful after missing two straight games. His absence takes away the Gophers’ most proven ground weapon.
- OL depth is also being monitored after minor injuries last week.
Ohio State
- No new major injuries reported.
- Secondary and defensive front remain at full strength.
Conditions at Ohio Stadium: mid-60s at kickoff, clear skies, and light winds. The night-game environment ensures a loud and hostile atmosphere.
Best Bets and Prediction
Minnesota has been opportunistic on defense and efficient with Lindsey under center, but asking a freshman quarterback to move the ball consistently against Ohio State’s top-ranked defense in a raucous environment is a tall order.
- Spread lean: Ohio State −24.0 — the Buckeyes have covered large numbers at home, and Minnesota’s offensive ceiling is limited without Taylor.
- Total lean: Over 44.5 — the projection sits near 48 points, with Ohio State capable of doing most of the scoring.
- Projected Final: Ohio State 38, Minnesota 10.
For expanded strategies and Big Ten wagering angles, check the expert betting guide.
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Handicappers and Service Plays
Ohio State is 4-0 ATS in its last four at home, while Minnesota has failed to cover in four of its last five against ranked opponents. Consensus service plays back the Buckeyes to cover and lean to the Over.
Compare consensus picks and service records on the college football picks page, and track expert results at the best handicappers leaderboard.
