Week 9 College Football Betting Preview: Key Matchups and Best Bets

Welcome to Week 9 of college football, where the games are getting more intense, the rivalries are heating up, and the betting odds are looking pretty’ tempting! We’ve got everything from big-time matchups to sneaky underdog plays, so whether you're into high-scoring shootouts or defensive showdowns, this week's lineup has something for you. Grab some snacks, kick back, and let's jump into the some of the top game and best bets for this week.

No. 5 Texas (6-1) at No. 25 Vanderbilt (5-2)
The Texas Longhorns are looking to bounce back after their first loss of the season as they take on Vanderbilt. Texas, led by QB Quinn Ewers, should be too much for a Vanderbilt defense that has struggled to contain explosive offenses. On the other hand, Vanderbilt’s efficient, disciplined offense may have trouble keeping pace with the high-powered Longhorns. Both teams excel at protecting the ball, making turnovers a potential game-changer. However, Texas has too much firepower for the Commodores to handle.
Pick: Under 53.5 Points

No. 12 Notre Dame (6-1) at No. 24 Navy (6-0)
Notre Dame and Navy meet in a classic rivalry, but this game will come down to styles. Notre Dame’s balanced attack, led by dual-threat QB Riley Leonard, will challenge Navy’s defense, while Navy’s triple-option run game will look to control the clock and keep Leonard off the field. The key will be Notre Dame’s ability to contain Navy’s rushing attack. If the Fighting Irish can limit turnovers and handle Navy’s ground game, they should come out on top.
Pick: Over 26.5 1H Points

No. 20 Illinois (6-1) at No. 1 Oregon (7-0)
Illinois faces a tough task against the top-ranked Oregon Ducks. Oregon’s explosive offense, led by Heisman hopeful Dillon Gabriel, could overwhelm Illinois’ defense. The Illini offense, behind QB Luke Altmyer, will need to be near perfect against a relentless Ducks defense that excels at pressuring quarterbacks. The key for Illinois will be controlling the clock, but that’s a tall order in Oregon’s Autzen Stadium.
Pick: Illinois Over 16.5 Total Points

No. 21 Missouri (6-1) at No. 15 Alabama (5-2)
In this big SEC matchup, Missouri takes on Alabama with both teams jockeying for a top bowl spot. Alabama has been inconsistent on offense but remains dangerous with playmakers like Jalen Milroe and Ryan Williams. Missouri’s defense will have its hands full, especially if Alabama’s run game gets going. Meanwhile, Missouri QB Brady Cook and star WR Luther Burden will need to play their best against a strong Alabama defense.
Pick: Under 56.5 Total Points

No. 8 LSU (6-1) at No. 14 Texas A&M (6-1)
LSU’s high-powered offense, led by QB Garrett Nussmeier, will face a tough test against Texas A&M’s aggressive defense. The Aggies, led by QB Max Johnson, will try to control the game with a balanced attack. The home-field advantage of Kyle Field gives Texas A&M a boost, but LSU’s explosive offense may prove too much for the Aggies to contain.
Pick: LSU +2.5

Washington (4-3) at Indiana (6-0)
Washington and Indiana are heading in different directions, with Indiana undefeated and playing with confidence. Indiana’s balanced offense and strong defense will likely be too much for an inconsistent Washington squad, especially with Washington struggling with turnovers. Rebounding and ball security will be crucial for Indiana, and if they control both, they should handle business.
Pick: Washington +6.5

Penn State (4-3) at Wisconsin (4-2)
Both Penn State and Wisconsin play slower, methodical styles of football, setting the stage for a low-scoring game. Penn State’s offense lacks explosiveness, especially in the run game, while Wisconsin’s offense has struggled under backup QB Braedyn Locke. Both defenses are solid, and with a low projected score, the under looks like great value.
Pick: Under 48 Total Points

Bowling Green at Toledo
The Battle of I-75 between Bowling Green and Toledo is shaping up to be another intense rivalry game. Toledo’s offense has shown signs of improvement, and Bowling Green’s defense, led by a strong pass rush, will look to pressure Toledo’s QB. With tight end Harold Fannin Jr. being a key player for Bowling Green, Toledo’s ability to contain him will be crucial.
Pick: Toledo ML

Favorite Bets of the Week:

• Oregon State at California Over 49 Points
  Oregon State’s powerful ground game, led by Anthony Hankerson, faces a struggling Cal defense. Both teams should be able to run the ball effectively, making the over a smart play.

• Nebraska at Ohio State Under 48.5 Total Points
  Nebraska’s offense has been inefficient, especially under pressure, and Ohio State’s defense excels at creating havoc. With both teams likely to struggle to score, the under is the value play.

• Duke +11.5
  Duke’s defense has been the best in the ACC, and they’ll need to step up against SMU’s explosive offense. Even if SMU pulls ahead, Duke’s defense should keep it close.

Parlay of the Week:

• Wake Forest ML and Arkansas ML (+137)
  This parlay combines two solid matchups where Wake Forest and Arkansas are favored to win. Adding both moneylines together offers great value.