WEEK 1 SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, AUG. 28
Ohio Bobcats (0-0) vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 6:00 PM ET
Location: SHI Stadium, Piscataway, NJ
Broadcast: BTN
Team Overviews & Trends
The Ohio Bobcats finished 2024 with an 11–3 record and a Cure Bowl victory, averaging 29.3 points per game (53rd in FBS) while allowing just 18.1 (12th) on defense. They went 9–5–0 against the spread and saw six of their 14 games go over the total last season.
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights went 7–6 in 2024 and fell in the Rate Bowl, posting 28.9 PPG (55th) on offense and conceding 25.4 (70th). Rutgers finished 5–5–0 ATS and had seven of their 10 games with betting lines go over the O/U mark last year.
Key Matchups
Ohio’s defense vs. Rutgers’ balanced attack: The Bobcats ranked 12th in fewest points allowed, while Rutgers averaged nearly 29 PPG.
Rutgers’ front seven vs. Ohio’s running game: Rutgers limited opponents to 62 rushing yards per contest, testing Ohio’s ability to establish ground control.
Special teams impact: Both units excelled in hidden yardage creation, making field position swings a potential game-decider.
Game Odds
Ohio Bobcats 49.5
Rutgers Scarlet Knights – 15.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Buffalo Bulls (0-0) vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Location: Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
Broadcast: FS1
Team Overviews & Trends
The Buffalo Bulls finished 2024 with a 9–4 record, capped by a Bahamas Bowl victory. Offensively, they averaged 28.8 points per game (59th nationally) while allowing 26.4 points (80th). Buffalo went 7–5–0 against the spread and covered in seven of 12 games last season.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers closed 2024 at 8–5 and won the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. They produced 26.2 points per game on offense (75th nationally) and boasted a stingy defense that surrendered just 16.9 points (6th) per contest. Minnesota went 9–3–1 ATS in 2024 and enters as home favorites with strong defensive continuity.
Tactical Breakdown
Offensive Schemes
Buffalo: Pro-style balanced attack with power runs and timing-based passing
Minnesota: Run-centric ground game anchored by two veteran ball-carriers
Defensive Schemes
Buffalo: 4-2-5 nickel look focused on creating turnovers and disguising coverage
Minnesota: 4-3 base front with Cover-2 shell and aggressive edge rushes
Key Matchup
Buffalo’s offensive line vs. Minnesota’s front seven
X-Factor
Buffalo’s special teams flips vs. Minnesota’s red-zone defensive prowess
Players to Watch
Buffalo Bulls
C.J. Ogbonna (QB): Threw for 2,381 yards, 19 TDs and added 346 rush yards with 8 rushing scores in 2024
Al-Jay Henderson (RB): Dynamic dual-threat back who surpassed 1,000 total yards and 10 TDs last season
Red Murdock (LB): Tackling machine who spearheaded the Bulls’ run-stopping unit with over 100 tackles
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Darius Taylor (RB): Rushed for 986 yards and 10 TDs while catching 54 passes for 350 yards in 2024
Max Brosmer (QB): Completed 66.5% of his throws for 2,828 yards and 18 TDs, providing efficient leadership under center
Cody Lindenberg (LB): Defensive captain who recorded 76 tackles, 3 TFL and 1 INT last year
Game Odds
Buffalo Bulls 43.5
Minnesota Golden Gophers – 17.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Nebraska Cornhuskers (0-0) vs. Cincinnati Bearcats (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 9:00 PM ET
Location: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
Broadcast: ESPN
Team Overviews & Trends
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska closed 2024 at 7–6 and captured the Pinstripe Bowl, averaging 23.5 points per game (103rd nationally) while allowing just 19.5 (17th). They went 8–4–1 against the spread and covered in five of seven games as at least 6.5-point favorites.
Cincinnati Bearcats
Cincinnati finished 2024 at 5–7, scoring 25.2 points per game (89th) and conceding 24.6 (62nd). The Bearcats went 4–7–1 ATS and failed to cover in all three contests as underdogs of 6.5 points or more.
Tactical Breakdown
Nebraska will aim to control the line of scrimmage behind a revamped offensive front, leaning on Dylan Raiola’s dual-threat ability and a power-run mix to set up play-action.
Cincinnati seeks to push tempo with Brendan Sorsby’s arm strength and veteran receivers, attacking seams and forcing Nebraska into early substitutions.
Key matchup: Cornhuskers’ interior line vs. Bearcats’ defensive front; the outcome will dictate run-game success on both sides.
Players to Watch
Nebraska Cornhuskers
QB Dylan Raiola: True sophomore who completed 67.1 percent of his passes for 2,819 yards, adding 11 rushing scores in 2024.
RB Emmett Johnson: Averaged 5.1 yards per carry en route to 598 yards on the ground, plus 286 receiving yards.
WR Jahmal Banks: Broke out with 587 yards and three scores on 44 catches as a freshman.
Cincinnati Bearcats
QB Brendan Sorsby: Completed 64 percent of throws for 2,813 yards, 18 TDs and added nine rushing scores.
TE Joe Royer: Future NFL prospect who posted 715 yards and two touchdowns after transferring in 2024.
DL Dontay Corleone: Anchor of the Bearcats’ front, leading the team in pressures and run-stop grade.
Game Odds
Nebraska Cornhuskers – 6.5
Colorado Buffaloes 51.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Miami (OH) RedHawks 90-00 vs. Wisconsin Badgers (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 9:00 PM ET (8:00 PM CT)
Location: Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, WI
Broadcast: Big Ten Network
Team Overviews & Trends
The Wisconsin Badgers enter Week 1 looking to rebound from a 5–7 finish in 2024, their first bowl-less season since 2001. They averaged 22.6 points per game (108th nationally) while allowing 23.1 (42nd) and went 4–8–0 against the spread, including 0–2 as at least 17.5-point favorites. Wisconsin returns veteran running back Dilin Jones, whom new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes will lean on to reestablish the ground game and set a physical tone.
The Miami (OH) RedHawks come off a 9–5 campaign capped by an Arizona Bowl victory, posting 24.1 points per game (96th) and yielding 18.8 (15th). Head coach Chuck Martin’s squad returns just one offensive starter and ranks 135th in returning production, but its ball-hawking secondary forced 23 turnovers last season. Miami (OH) went 7–7–0 ATS in 2024 and was 1–0 ATS as underdogs of 17.5 or more points.
Players to Watch
Wisconsin Badgers
Dilin Jones (RB): Bullish back featured in Grimes’s ground-and-pound scheme; key for sustaining long drives.
Jack Nelson (WR): Veteran slot receiver who thrives in space and on quick-game throws.
Mike DeVito (LB): Anchoring a revamped front seven; expected to lead the team in tackles and TFL.
Miami (OH) RedHawks
Dequan Finn (QB): Former Toledo transfer with dual-threat upside; must limit turnovers to keep Miami in the game.
Eli Blakey (S): Ball hawk who led the RedHawks with six interceptions in 2024.
Zion Smart (CB): Physical cover corner tasked with slowing down Wisconsin’s short-to-intermediate passing lanes.
Game Odds
Miami-Ohio Redhawks 41
Wisconsin Badgers – 17.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
FRIDAY, AUG. 29
Western Michigan Broncos (0-0) vs. Michigan State Spartans (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, MI
Broadcast: FS1
Team Overviews & Trends
Western Michigan concluded 2024 at 6–7, falling in the Salute to Veterans Bowl. The Broncos averaged 28.9 points per game (53rd in FBS) on offense while allowing 31.3 (107th) on defense. They went 5–8–0 against the spread last season and covered once in two games as 20.5-point underdogs. Michigan State finished 2024 with a 5–7 record, missing postseason play. The Spartans scored 19.3 points per contest (123rd) and yielded 26.1 (77th). They entered 2025 at 0–0 and posted a 4–8–0 ATS mark last year, failing to cover as 20.5-point favorites.
Tactical Breakdown
Western Michigan aims to mix Brady Jones and Broc Lowry under center behind a veteran offensive line, while Michigan State will lean on the deep ball from Aidan Chiles and the Spartans’ pass rush to force early mistakes.
Players to Watch
Western Michigan Broncos
Brady Jones & Broc Lowry (QBs): Lance Taylor hasn’t named a starter, turning to his JUCO transfer duo to navigate Spartan pressure.
OL Jake Brown: Anchors a line that must sustain blocks against MSU’s front seven.
Michigan State Spartans
Aidan Chiles (QB): Returns for Year 2 after throwing 13 touchdowns and leading MSU’s offense through multiple shotgun sets.
Elijah Tau-Tolliver (RB): Sacramento State transfer poised as the Spartans’ new ground-and-pound weapon.
Game Odds
Western Michigan Broncos 49.5
Michigan State Spartans – 20.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Western Illinois Leathernecks (0-0) vs. Illinois Fighting Illini (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: Memorial Stadium, Champaign, IL
Broadcast: Peacock
Team Overviews & Trends
The Illinois Fighting Illini concluded 2024 with a program-record-tying 10 victories, capped by a 21–17 win over South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. Returning nine starters on offense and a veteran front seven on defense, Illinois enters ranked No. 12 in the AP Poll and looks to make a playoff push out of the Big Ten.
Western Illinois stumbled to a 4–8 finish last year, with its offense showing flashes but a defense that surrendered 42.9 points per game—the 121st-ranked scoring defense out of 123 FCS teams. The Leathernecks hope to control the clock early with a zone-read ground game but must shore up their secondary to avoid big plays.
Players to Watch
Illinois Fighting Illini
Luke Altmyer (QB): Threw for 2,717 yards, 22 TDs and just 6 INTs in 2024.
Aidan Laughery (RB): Rushed for 589 yards on 97 carries with 4 TDs.
Hank Beatty (WR): Caught 20 passes for 294 yards and a score.
Western Illinois Leathernecks
B.J. Curry (RB): Returned from injury to log 509 rushing yards in 2024.
Za’Marion Webber (WR): Led the team with 334 receiving yards and serves as the go-to target.
Game Odds
Western Illinois Leathernecks 63.5
Illinois Fighting Illini – 45.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
SATURDAY, AUG. 30
Texas Longhorns (0-0) vs. Ohio State Buckeyes (0-0)
Game Details
Kick off at 12:00 p.m. ET
Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio
Team Overviews & Trends
The No. 1 Texas Longhorns return riding a 13–3 finish in 2024, including a Cotton Bowl semifinal bid, averaging 33.0 points per game (ranked 29th nationally) while surrendering 15.3 (3rd) on defense. Arch Manning takes the reins under center, carrying Heisman Trophy favorite buzz but entering his first true road start.
Ohio State enters as the No. 3 Buckeyes, fresh off a 14–2 campaign and a National Championship, posting 35.7 points per game (12th) and leading the nation by allowing just 12.9 points (1st). OSU evened the all-time series with a 28–14 victory over Texas in last season’s CFP semifinal—evidence of the rivalry’s recent parity.
Tactical Breakdown
Texas employs a power-spread offense aiming to balance Arch Manning’s arm talent with an emerging running game.
Ohio State counters with a pro-style attack under new QB Julian Sayin, hoping to leverage its stout offensive line and play-action success.
Defensively, Texas leans on quick front rotations and speed off the edge, while Ohio State features a bend-but-don’t-break secondary anchored by safety Caleb Downs.
Key matchup: Texas’ pass rush vs. OSU’s front five—whichever side wins the line of scrimmage will dictate play-action effectiveness.
Players to Watch
Texas Longhorns
Arch Manning (QB): Heisman favorite who threw 95 career passes without a true road attempt, now facing The Shoe for the first time.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Julian Sayin (QB): Thrust into a starting role after just 12 college pass attempts, his poise under pressure will define OSU’s offensive ceiling.
Game Odds
Texas Longhorns 47.5
Ohio State Buckeyes – 1.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Ball State Cardinals (0-0) vs. Purdue Boilermakers (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 12:00 PM ET
Location: Ross-Ade Stadium, West Lafayette, IN
Broadcast: BTN
The Purdue Boilermakers host the Ball State Cardinals to kick off Week 1, with coverage on BTN at 12 PM ET.
Team Overviews & Trends
Purdue Boilermakers
After a 1–11 campaign in 2024, Purdue struggled on offense (15.8 PPG, 130th) and defense (39.9 PPG allowed, 131st), going 2–9–0 ATS last season.
Ball State Cardinals
Ball State finished 3–9 in 2024, averaging 25.3 PPG (88th) while conceding 40.1 PPG (132nd). The Cardinals posted a 7–5–0 ATS mark and aim to jump-start Chuck Martin’s offense with tempo and play-action elements.
Players to Watch
Purdue Boilermakers
Devin Mockobee (RB): Rushed for 687 yards and 4 TDs in 2024, the centerpiece of Odom’s revamped ground game.
Hudson Card (QB): Completed 58.1% of his throws for 1,641 yards, 9 TDs and 7 INTs; poised to command the pocket.
Ball State Cardinals
Kadin Semonza (QB): Threw for 2,900 yards and 25 TDs last season; his accuracy will test Purdue’s secondary.
Tanner Koziol (TE): Team leader in receptions (94); a reliable safety valve in short-to-intermediate passing attacks.
Game Odds
Ball State Cardinals 49.5
Purdue Boilermakers – 17.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
FAU at MARYLAND Noon | Big Ten Network
Florida Atlantic Owls (0-0) vs. Maryland Terrapins (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 12:00 PM ET
Location: SECU Stadium, College Park, MD
Broadcast: BTN (Streaming: FOXSports.com & FOX Sports App)
Team Overviews & Trends
The Maryland Terrapins return under .500 after a 4–8 campaign in 2024, averaging 23.7 points per game (100th nationally) while allowing 30.4 per contest (105th). Maryland went 4–8 ATS last season, covering just once (1–1 ATS) as at least 14.5-point favorites. The Florida Atlantic Owls finished 3–9 in 2024, putting up 25.9 PPG (83rd) and surrendering 30.3 (104th). FAU covered four of 12 games against the spread and looks to lean on a revitalized offense under new coordinator Zach Kittley to keep pace in a hostile road opener.
Florida Atlantic Owls
QB Caden Veltkamp: Western Kentucky transfer poised to orchestrate the Owls’ air raid.
WR Jalen McMillan: Speed threat who can turn short targets into explosive gains.
Maryland Terrapins
QB Malik Washington: Highly touted freshman with dual-threat upside in year-one action.
LB Jack Anthony: Veteran playmaker expected to lead Maryland’s blitz packages and turnover hunt.
Game Odds
Florida Atlantics Owls 61.5
Maryland Terrapins – 14.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
NORTHWESTERN at Tulane Noon | ESPNU
Northwestern Wildcats (0-0) vs. Tulane Green Wave (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 12:00 PM ET
Location: Yulman Stadium, New Orleans, LA
TV: ESPNU
Team Form & Trends
Tulane Green Wave
Tulane finished 2024 with a 9–5 record and a Gasparilla Bowl loss. The Green Wave ranked 16th nationally in scoring (35.1 PPG) and 23rd in scoring defense (20.6 PPG) while going 9–5 ATS. As 6-point-or-greater favorites, Tulane covered six of eight games, and eight of their 14 contests went over the total.
Northwestern Wildcats
Northwestern closed 2024 at 4–8, missing postseason play. The Wildcats averaged just 17.8 points per game (128th) and allowed 26.3 (79th). Northwestern went 4–8–0 ATS last year and covered twice as a 6-point-or-greater underdog; eight of their 12 games also went over the total.
Players to Watch
Tulane Green Wave
Makhi Hughes (RB): Rushed for 1,401 yards and 15 TDs, ranking among the nation’s elite backs.
Darian Mensah (QB): Threw for 2,723 yards with 22 TDs and added dual-threat value on the ground.
Northwestern Wildcats
Jack Lausch (QB): Completed 53.7% of his passes for 1,714 yards with 7 TDs in 2024.
Cam Porter (RB): Produced 500 rushing yards and 6 TDs, a bright spot in Northwestern’s ground game.
Game Odds
Northwestern Wildcats 45.5
Tulane Green Wave – 6
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Old Dominion Monarchs (0-0) vs. Indiana Hoosiers (0-0)
Game Details
Kickoff: 2:30 PM ET
Stadium: Memorial Stadium, Bloomington, IN
TV: Fox Sports 1
Team Form & Trends
Indiana closed 2024 at 11–2, earning a College Football Playoff berth before a first-round exit. The Hoosiers led the nation with 41.3 points per game (2nd) and ranked sixth in scoring defense, allowing just 15.6. Old Dominion went 5–7 last year, failed to qualify for a bowl, and averaged 28.0 points per contest (69th) while surrendering 28.0 (87th).
Key Matchups
Indiana’s high-octane offense vs. ODU’s bend-but-don’t-break defense
ODU pass rush vs. Indiana’s rebuilt offensive line
Special-teams field position swings: Monarchs’ return game vs. Hoosiers’ coverage units
Players to Watch
Indiana Hoosiers
QB Kurtis Rourke: Completed 69.4% of passes for 3,042 yds, 29 TDs and added 2 rushing scores in 2024
RB Justice Ellison: Rushed for 848 yds and 10 TDs, also contributed as a receiver out of the backfield
Old Dominion Monarchs
QB Colton Joseph: Threw for 1,623 yds, 11 TDs and ran for 647 yds with 11 scores in 2024
RB Aaron Young: Powered the ground game with 887 rushing yds and 8 TDs on 172 carries
Game Odds
Old Dominion Monarchs 54.5
Indiana Hoosiers – 23.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Nevada Wolf Pack (0-0) Penn State Nittany Lions (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 3:30 PM ET
Location: Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA
Broadcast: CBS
Team Overviews & Trends
Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State enters 2025 after a 13–3 finish capped by an Orange Bowl semifinal appearance. The Nittany Lions averaged 33.1 points per game (28th nationally) while allowing just 16.5 (8th) in 2024. Returning quarterback Drew Allar (3,327 yds, 24 TDs) leads a loaded offense, complemented by a top-20 defense that surrendered fewer than 17 points per contest last season.
Nevada Wolf Pack
Nevada struggled to a 3–10 record in 2024, ranking 105th in scoring offense at 23.1 points per game and 93rd in defense, conceding 28.8 points per contest. The Wolf Pack welcome back dual-threat QB Chubba Purdy and bolstered their backfield with Utah State transfer Herschel Turner, but they’ll face their toughest road test ever in Happy Valley.
Tactical Breakdown
Penn State will lean on downhill leads by Kaytron Allen and play-action to free up Allar’s deep targets. Nevada must create early turnovers to spark confidence and avoid a quick blowout.
Players to Watch
Penn State Nittany Lions
Drew Allar (QB): Poised for a third-year leap, Allar threw for 3,327 yards and 24 TDs in 2024 and adds NFL-caliber pass-protection up front.
Kaytron Allen (RB): Averaged 69.3 rushing yards per game with 8 TDS; his downhill burst sets up play-action.
Devon Ekwonu (OT): Anchor of PSU’s left side, posts a 90% pass-block win rate against elite fronts.
Nevada Wolf Pack
Chubba Purdy (QB): Leads a depleted Wolf Pack passing attack; under constant heat against PSU’s veteran front.
Herschel Turner (RB): Utah State transfer with 900+ yards in 2024; his vision will be key to sustaining drives.
Grant Gibson (LB): Lone returning starter in Nevada’s front seven; tasked with slowing Allen and Allen.
Game Odds
Nevada Wolfpack 55.5
Penn State Nittany Lions – 43.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Montana State Bobcats (0-0) vs. Oregon Ducks (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 4:00 PM ET / 1:00 PM PT
Location: Autzen Stadium, Eugene, OR
Broadcast: BTN
Team Overviews & Trends
Montana State vaulted to a 15–1 record in 2024, finishing as the FCS national runner-up behind a bruising ground attack that surpassed 300 rushing yards per game. The Bobcats lost star QB Tommy Mellott and RB Scottre Humphrey but return workhorse RB Adam Jones and dynamic WR Taco Dowler, leaning on a power-run, tempo-driven offense that believes it can hang with any opponent. Oregon comes off a College Football Playoff semifinal bid, boasting an FBS-elite blend of incoming transfers, top true freshmen and a loaded front seven. The Ducks must replace significant NFL talent at receiver and in the secondary, and true sophomore QB Dante Moore steps in under center. Despite the turnover, Oregon remains a title favorite, riding a defense ranked among the nation’s best into Autzen Stadium.
Players to Watch
Montana State Bobcats
RB Adam Jones: 1,100+ rush yards in 2024; will anchor the run-first attack.
WR Taco Dowler: FCS breakout receiver capable of big gains after catch.
QB Justin Lamson: Stanford transfer named starter; must protect the football under duress.
Oregon Ducks
QB Dante Moore: True sophomore stepping into a program of NFL QBs; arm talent matched by legs.
RB Makhi Hughes: Transfer portal addition expected to ignite Oregon’s ground game.
LB Bryce Boettcher: Veteran edge rusher poised to disrupt MSU’s backfield early.
Game Odds
Montana State Bobcats 56.5
Oregon Ducks – 27.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Iowa Hawkeyes (0-0) vs. UAlbany Great Danes (0-0)
Game Details
Kickoff: 5:00 PM CT / 6:00 PM ET
Location: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, IA
TV: FS1
Team Overviews & Trends
Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa ushers in a new era under center with former South Dakota State and FCS national champion Mark Gronowski leading the offense. The Hawkeyes look to stretch the field more than in years past while maintaining their Big Ten-elite defensive identity.
UAlbany Great Danes
The Great Danes reached the FCS playoffs in 2023 but slipped to a 4–8 mark in 2024. New head coach Jared Ambrose inherits a unit that struggled to find consistency but returns leading rusher Jojo Uga to anchor its ground game.
Players to Watch
Iowa Hawkeyes
Mark Gronowski (QB): The Walter Payton Award winner brings downfield explosiveness to Iowa’s pro-style attack for the first time at Kinnick.
Nate McNeil (RB): Tasked with replacing Kaleb Johnson’s production, McNeil’s early down work will dictate how often Gronowski must beat you through the air.
UAlbany Great Danes
Jojo Uga (RB): The Great Danes’ leading rusher in 2024 returns to power UAlbany’s spread-tempo ground game.
Jason Kelly (CB): Senior ballhawk who led the defense in takeaways; his ability to force turnovers is UAlbany’s best chance at swing plays.
Game Odds
Albany Great Danes 50.5
Iowa Hawkeyes – 38.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
New Mexico Lobos (0-0) vs. Michigan Wolverines (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, MI
Broadcast: NBC
Team Overviews & Trends
New Mexico finished 2024 at 5–7, failing to qualify for a bowl. Offensively, the Lobos ranked 23rd nationally with 33.5 points per game, but their defense surrendered 38.0 per contest (130th).
Michigan closed 2024 at 8–5 with a ReliaQuest Bowl victory, averaging 22.0 points per game on offense (113th) and allowing just 19.9 on defense (19th).
Players to Watch
Michigan Wolverines
Bryce Underwood (QB): Five-star freshman entering his first true road start, tasked with jump-starting Michigan’s aerial attack under Chip Lindsey.
Justice Haynes (RB): Alabama transfer expected to power the Wolverines’ ground game and open play-action opportunities.
New Mexico Lobos
Devon Dampier (QB): Led Lobos with 2,768 pass yards and 12 TDs, plus 1,166 rush yards and 19 scores last season.
Scottre Humphrey (RB): Ground-and-pound back who will try to sustain drives and keep Michigan’s defense honest.
Game Odds
New Mexico Lobos 49.5
Michigan Wolverines – 34.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Missouri State Bears (0-0) vs. USC Trojans (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 7:30 PM PT / 10:30 PM ET
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA
Broadcast: BTN (Streaming on FOXSports.com & FOX Sports App)
Team Overviews & Trends
Missouri State Bears
Making their FBS debut, the Bears went 8–4 in 2024 under Ryan Beard. Their explosive offense averaged 34.8 points per game (13th in college football), but the defense surrendered 30.2 (95th). Missouri State covered five of 11 spreads last season and returns veteran QB Jacob Clark, who threw for 3,604 yards, 26 TDs and 6 INTs in 2024.
USC Trojans
Lincoln Riley’s squad finished 7–6 in 2024, winning the Las Vegas Bowl. USC averaged 30.2 PPG (51st) on offense and allowed 24.1 (56th) on defense. The Trojans posted an 8–5–0 ATS mark last year. Jayden Maiava steps into the starting QB role after completing 60.1% of his passes for 1,201 yards, 11 TDs, 5 INTs and adding four rushing scores in 2024.
Players to Watch
Missouri State Bears
Jacob Clark (QB): The ex-Minnesota transfer commanded an FCS-elite passing game with 3,604 yards and 26 TDs.
Jacardia Wright (RB): Averaged 68.7 rushing yards per game and scored 14 TDs on the ground.
USC Trojans
Jayden Maiava (QB): Entering his first full season as starter, boasts dual-threat upside after four rushing TDs.
Jo’Quavious Marks (RB): Powered the Las Vegas Bowl win, rushing for 1,133 yards and nine TDs in 2024.
Game Odds
Missouri State Bears 59.5
USC Trojans – 35.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Colorado State Rams (0-0) vs. Washington Huskies (0-0)
Game Details
Kickoff: 11:00 PM ET
Location: Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium, Seattle, WA
Broadcast: BTN; Streaming on FOXSports.com & FOX Sports App
Team Overviews & Trends
Washington Huskies
The Huskies went 6–7 in 2024, falling in the Sun Bowl. On offense they averaged 23.4 points per game (104th nationally), while their defense allowed 23.8 (53rd). Washington covered just five of 13 games against the spread and went 1–1 ATS as a 21.5-point or greater favorite last season.
Colorado State Rams
Colorado State finished 8–5 in 2024, capped by an Arizona Bowl loss. The Rams scored 24.4 points per game (94th nationally) and surrendered 25.8 (73rd) on defense. They went 7–6–0 ATS last year but failed to cover when listed as 21.5-point underdogs (0–1).
Players to Watch
Washington Huskies
Demond Williams (QB): Lightning-fast playmaker who stretched defenses in 2024 with both arm and legs.
Jonah Coleman (RB): Dynamic runner adept at picking up chunks between the tackles and forcing missed tackles.
Colorado State Rams
Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi (QB): Veteran leader under center, poised to test Washington’s secondary with downfield throws.
Senior defensive end Jordan Johnson: Pressure specialist who led the Rams in sacks and pressures in 2024.
Game Odds
Colorado State Rams 53.5
Washington Huskies – 21.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
Utah Utes (0-0) vs. UCLA Bruins (0-0)
Game Details
Time: 7:30 PM MST / 10:30 PM ET
Location: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
Broadcast: FOX
Team Overviews & Trends
Utah Utes
Utah closed 2024 at 5–7 but showed defensive prowess, ranking fourth nationally in opponent success rate. New offensive coordinator Jason Beck installs an up-tempo spread built around dual-threat QB Devon Dampier, who rushed for 1,166 yards and 19 TDs at New Mexico last season. The Utes return eight starters on defense, including linebacker Kaelin Clayborn, anchoring a front seven that must set the tone.
UCLA Bruins
UCLA also went 5–7 in 2024 but returns seven starters in the front seven under DeShaun Foster. The biggest addition is Tennessee transfer Nico Iamaleava, who threw for 2,616 yards and 19 TDs with five interceptions in 2024. While the Bruins finished near the bottom nationally in pass defense, their veteran front seven will look to generate pressure and force Iamaleava into quick reads.
Tactical Breakdown
Utah will look to impose its rushing attack early, forcing UCLA into long third downs. The Bruins counter by mixing inside power runs with vertical shots to exploit any Utes’ secondary lapses.
Players to Watch
Utah Utes
Devon Dampier (QB): Seamlessly blends 2,400 pass yards with 1,166 rush yards, keeping defenses off-balance.
Spencer Fano (OT): 90% pass-block win rate against Power 5 rushers, vital for Utah’s tempo scheme.
Kaelin Clayborn (LB): Team-leading 112 tackles and a disruptive force against the run.
UCLA Bruins
Nico Iamaleava (QB): Dual-threat arm capable of vertical strikes; his development under pressure is key.
Jayden King (DE): Led the Bruins with eight sacks and 12 pressures; must finish drives.
Darius Phillips (WR): 789 yards and seven TDs; primary deep-ball target in clear-out concepts.
Game Odds
Utah Utes – 5.5
UCLA Bruins 51.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
BIG TEN. BIG NEWS.
The 129th season of Big Ten football will commence this week, as Minnesota, Nebraska, Rutgers and Wisconsin kickoff the season on Thursday. The Scarlet Knights welcome Ohio to Piscataway, N.J., at 6 p.m. ET, while the Gophers host Buffalo at 8 p.m. ET on FS1. The Huskers will face Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN and the Badgers welcome Miami (OH) to Camp Randall Stadium at 9 p.m. ET.
Illinois and Michigan State will make their debuts on Friday, as the Spartans play host to Western Michigan at 7 p.m. ET, and the Illini welcome Western Illinois at 7:30 p.m. ET on Peacock. Twelve teams will open the season with Saturday matchups, highlighted by No. 3 Ohio State hosting No. 1 Texas at noon ET on FOX. The full Week 1 schedule appears to the right.
The 2025 Discover Big Ten Championship Game will be held on Saturday, December 6, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis and will be broadcast by FOX. The winner will represent the conference as the Automatic Qualifier (AQ) to the College Football Playoff.
The National College Football Awards Association announced the 2025 watch lists July 28-Aug. 11. All 18 schools are represented with Oregon’s 21 honors leading the way, followed by Ohio State and Penn State’s 20, 18 for Indiana and Illinois with 14.
The conference announced its 14th annual football preseason honors list. A media panel selected the 16-member preseason list, with student-athletes representing seven programs.
The Big Ten will welcome a new coach to the sidelines for the 2025 campaign in Purdue’s Barry Odom.
The Big Ten claimed back-to-back national championship titles for the first time since 1942 last season as Ohio State defeated Notre Dame, 34-23, in the 2024 College Football Playoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The Buckeyes brought home their sixth national championship to the Horseshoe in Columbus and first since the inaugural CFP National Championship in the 2014-15 season.
In 2024-25, the four most viewed college football games of the season featured Big Ten teams, as did seven of the top 10, and 12 of the top 20. Three broadcast television partners – CBS, FOX and NBC – had at least one Big Ten matchup with more than 9.5 million viewers. Twenty-one Big Ten football games had an audience of more than five million viewers.
The Big Ten finished last season with five teams ranked in the AP Top 25, the second-most of any conference, including four teams ranked in the top 10. The 2025 AP Preseason Poll features six Big Ten teams in No. 2 Penn State, No. 3 Ohio State, No. 7 Oregon, No. 12 Illinois, No. 14 Michigan and No. 20 Indiana, while Iowa, Nebraska and USC received votes.
