Finally, the first Saturday of the year with a full slate of College Football games! Thursday night brought us a fantastic set of games, and although I didn’t do too well betting on them (0-2), I still enjoyed having football back in my life. This weekend, though, I figure to do much better and have put more time, thought, and analysis into each bet I’m making.
Here are three bets I am locking in for the Saturday of Week 1 in this year’s CFB season.
College Football Bets to Make on Saturday
Arizona State vs Wyoming: WYO +7 (-110)
Wyoming is poised to cover the spread against Arizona State due to its rush-heavy offensive strategy and solid defensive lineup, which will allow them to control the time of possession and limit Arizona State’s scoring opportunities.
Wyoming’s strong defense, particularly their formidable defensive front led by 2023 All-Mountain West honoree Jordan Bertagnole, excels in stopping the run, ranking second in the Mountain West last season. The Cowboys’ secondary, featuring key players like Isaac White, Wyett Ekeler, Tyrecus Brown, and Wrook Brown, brings both experience and cohesion, enhancing their ability to contain opposing offenses.
Wyoming achieved a 9-4 record last year, including a victory in the Arizona Bowl, as they averaged 25.3 points per game while conceding just 22.3. In contrast, Arizona State is in disarray, coming off back-to-back 3-9 seasons and struggling to score, managing only 17.8 points per game last year while allowing 31.8 points on average.
Arizona will be starting newly transferred quarterback Sam Leavitt on Saturday. Despite improvements in their offensive line and skill positions, Arizona State’s passing game remains unproven and inconsistent, which could be a significant disadvantage against a Wyoming defense known for its speed, tackling, and ability to control the tempo.
Wyoming ranked 22nd in the nation in rush play percentage (57.6%), and 64th in rush yards per game (157.6). By leaning on their rushing attack and defensive prowess, Wyoming can effectively manage the clock, control field position, and keep Arizona State’s offense in check, giving them a strong chance to at least lose by less than a touchdown as the Sun Devils adapt to a new conference and work through their ongoing challenges.
Alabama vs Western Kentucky: u 59.5 (-110)
The total points for the Alabama vs. Western Kentucky game seem too high given the uncertainties surrounding Alabama’s offense and Western Kentucky’s defensive improvements. This matchup marks the first time in 17 years that Alabama will be led by a new head coach, Kalen DeBoer, whose tenure begins amidst several roster changes, including key players drafted or transferred (Dallas Turner, JC Latham, Isaiah Bond, Caleb Downs to name a few).
Alabama’s passing game struggled last season, ranking 68th in the FBS with 220.4 yards per game, and with new faces on the offense, it’s unclear how effectively they can move the ball. On the other side, Western Kentucky’s defense, which features returning leaders like linebacker Kylan Guidry and defensive back Anthony Johnson Jr., along with key transfers such as Terreance Ellis and players with SEC experience, should be improved and capable of limiting Alabama’s aerial attack.
This defensive fortitude from Western Kentucky will likely push Alabama to rely more on their ground game, effectively running down the clock and reducing scoring opportunities. With two head coaches meeting for the first time and a new offensive scheme being implemented by Alabama, there’s an element of unpredictability that further suggests the game will be a low-scoring affair.
Additionally, Western Kentucky’s familiarity with Alabama’s new quarterback Jalen Milroe, having seen him at Auburn and LSU, adds another layer of defensive preparation. The Crimson Tide are still the clear favorites to win, especially at home, but with a conservative offensive approach and a solid Western Kentucky defense that’s prepared to slow the game down, betting on the total points to go under appears to be the smarter play.
Georgia vs Clemson: Georgia -11.5 (-110)
Georgia is primed to blow out Clemson, as they are simply a stronger and more well-equipped team in nearly every aspect. The Bulldogs return 16 starters from a squad that narrowly missed a third consecutive College Football Playoff appearance, including quarterback Carson Beck, who is entering the season as the Heisman Trophy front-runner. Despite losing five players to the first and second rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft, Georgia’s roster remains loaded with talent, particularly on defense.
The Bulldogs’ defense is stacked with NFL-caliber players, including consensus All-American safety Malaki Starks, who is poised to be an early-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and disruptive edge rusher Mykel Williams, capable of altering the course of games single-handedly. This game, while technically at a neutral site, is being played in Atlanta, effectively giving Georgia a home-field advantage. The Bulldogs have not lost a regular-season game in over two years and have consistently dismantled quality opponents during that span.
Clemson, on the other hand, faces an uphill battle with an inexperienced quarterback, Cade Klubnik, who will be under relentless pressure from Georgia’s elite defensive front. Coupled with Georgia’s multifaceted offense that can score in a variety of ways, the Bulldogs are set to dominate Clemson, making them the clear choice to cover the spread.