The College Football Playoff is back. This time with the new 12-team format including first round home games and byes for four of the conference champions. As a college football fan this is one of the most exciting times of the year and this year will be no different. We’ve got blue bloods, new commers to the College Football Playoff, electrifying matchups and spreads that just beg for a little action. Whether you’re in it for the thrill, the bragging rights, or to pad your wallet for the New Year, this is the stage where it all goes down.
The first round has some very interesting lines with potential to make some money. You’ve got Tennessee as a touchdown underdog at Ohio State, Texas as a double-digit favorite over Clemson, Penn State -8.5 over the SMU team that barley snuck in and an interesting matchup between Notre Dame and Indianna with the Fighting Irish favored by 8.5 points. Whether you’re rooting for chaos or chasing a perfectly balanced parlay, there’s something here for everyone.
Texas -10.5 vs. Clemson
One of the most intriguing matchups in the College Football Playoff first round pits Texas as a 10.5-point favorite against Clemson. The Longhorns have been dominant this season, boasting a balanced offense and a vastly improved defense. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage has made them a tough team to beat. Add the home-field advantage in Austin, and you have a recipe for success.
Why Texas Has the Edge
Texas’ offense features a gunslinger in Quinn Ewers paired with a powerful running game. This balance has made them a nightmare for opposing defenses. The Longhorns also excel at protecting the quarterback, giving him time to attack defenses downfield. On the other side of the ball, Texas’ defense has consistently stepped up in big moments. Their ability to generate pressure and create turnovers could be the deciding factor in this game.
Clemson, meanwhile, comes into this matchup with something to prove. While they’ve been solid, their offense has lacked the firepower needed to compete with elite teams. Their defense remains a strength, but it has shown vulnerabilities against balanced offenses like Texas.
Can Clemson Cover?
For Clemson to keep this game close, they’ll need to control the tempo. Sustaining long drives and keeping Texas’ offense off the field is critical. They’ll also need to capitalize on every scoring opportunity and avoid turnovers at all costs. While Clemson’s defense has the talent to slow Texas down, asking them to contain the Longhorns for four quarters is a tall order.
The Verdict
The 10.5-point spread reflects the difference in quality between these teams. Texas is the more complete team, and their offensive firepower should overwhelm Clemson. I’m confidently picking Texas to cover the spread. This College Football Playoff clash looks set to highlight why the Longhorns are a legitimate title contender. Hook ‘em!
College Football Playoff Best Value: Tennessee +7 at Ohio State
Tennessee taking on Ohio State is shaping up to be one of the most exciting matchups in the first round. The seven-point spread gives the Volunteers a lot of value, especially considering their explosive offensive style. This game pits two football powerhouses against each other, and it’s all about which team can impose its will.
Tennessee’s offense has been electric as times this season and very inconsistent at others. When Nico Iamaleava is on he is on. Has the ability to extend plays with his legs and take the top off defenses with his arm. Combine that with a solid group of receivers and a creative play-caller in Josh Heupel, and you have an attack that can score from anywhere on the field. The Volunteers thrive on pushing the tempo, spreading defenses thin and capitalizing on mismatches. Ohio State’s defense has been effective overall but has shown some cracks when facing fast-paced offenses.
On the other hand, Ohio State’s offense is no slouch. They’re loaded with playmakers, including one of the best receiving corps in the country led by freshman phenom Jerimiah Smith. However, their offense has been inconsistent at times, and Tennessee’s defense will look to exploit weaknesses. If the Volunteers can generate pressure and force some mistakes, they’ll keep this game close.
This matchup feels closer than the seven-point spread indicates. Tennessee has proven they can compete with elite teams, and their ability to keep the scoreboard moving makes them a tough opponent. While Ohio State is playing at home, Tennessee’s offense might just have the firepower to outpace them. Taking the Volunteers with the points seems like a smart play, especially in a game that could easily come down to the wire.
Penn State -8.5 vs. SMU
I know what your thinking, James Franklin is a chocker and never wins a big game, while this is true, this might be Franklin’s last chance to change the narrative. Penn State is entering this matchup as a clear favorite, and for good reason. The Nittany Lions boast one of the most balanced rosters in the nation, with a stifling defense and an offense capable of moving the chains with ease. SMU, on the other hand, barely squeaked into the College Football Playoff. While their Cinderella story is commendable, this matchup feels like a steep uphill battle for the Mustangs.
Penn State’s defense has been the backbone of their success all season. Their front seven is relentless, consistently shutting down rushing attacks and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. SMU’s offensive line has shown vulnerabilities, especially against aggressive pass rushes. If Penn State’s defense can control the line of scrimmage, SMU’s ability to sustain drives will be severely limited.
On offense, Penn State has found a rhythm behind Drew Allar. He’s efficient in the passing game and a legitimate threat on the ground, which forces defenses to pick their poison. Their running game, led by a bruising backfield, complements the aerial attack perfectly. SMU’s defense has struggled to contain well-balanced offenses, and Penn State is poised to exploit that weakness.
SMU’s offense, while high-powered, faces a different level of competition in Penn State. The Mustangs have relied heavily on their quarterback to make big plays, but the Nittany Lions’ secondary is more than capable of neutralizing deep threats. Penn State’s ability to mix up coverages and force turnovers could prove to be the difference-maker in this game.
While SMU has had a magical season, Penn State’s physicality and discipline should be enough to cover the 8.5-point spread comfortably. This is a game where the James Franklin can make a statement, and they’re unlikely to squander that opportunity.
Notre Dame -8.5 vs. Indiana
Notre Dame enters this first-round College Football Playoff matchup as an 8.5-point favorite over Indiana, and it’s easy to see why. The Irish have been a model of consistency this season, boasting a well-rounded roster capable of making plays on both sides of the ball. This is not the same squad that had the embarrassing loss at home to Northern Illinois. On the other hand, Indiana, a team few expected to be here, is looking to prove they belong on this stage.
The Fighting Irish are built to thrive in a cold December game in South Bend. Their offense features a balanced attack led by a much-improved Riley Leonard and a relentless ground game that can wear down defenses. Against an Indiana defense that has struggled against the one good offense they played all year in Ohio State. Notre Dame has a prime opportunity to control the pace of the game. Expect the Irish to lean on their offensive line to open up running lanes and protect their QB, setting the stage for big plays downfield.
Defensively, Notre Dame is equally formidable. Their front seven is one of the best in the nation, consistently shutting down running backs and pressuring quarterbacks. For Indiana, this spells trouble. The Hoosiers rely on quick passes and short-yardage gains to keep their offense moving, but Notre Dame’s linebackers and secondary are more than capable of keeping them in check.
Indiana’s presence in the College Football Playoff is an impressive achievement, but they face a steep uphill battle against a Notre Dame team built for these moments. The Irish have been here before, and their playoff experience could be the deciding factor. Indiana might keep it close early, but Notre Dame’s talent and depth should pull them away as the game progresses.
Notre Dame -8.5 feels like a strong pick. This game has all the makings of a statement win for the Irish as they look to solidify their dominance in this year’s College Football Playoff.
Conclusion: Time to Cash in on the College Football Playoff
The College Football Playoff has always been about drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. With the new 12-team format adding home-field advantages and more games to the mix, this year feels especially thrilling. For fans and bettors alike, this is the perfect opportunity to dive into the action and make the most of some intriguing lines.
There’s plenty of potential to end this College Football Playoff round with a few extra dollars in your pocket. Whether you’re tailing these picks or taking your own path, the matchups promise to deliver the kind of excitement that makes college football the heart and soul of sports.
So grab your snacks, set up your screens, and place those bets—it’s time to let the madness of the College Football Playoff unfold. Here’s hoping your picks hit big and that your parlays pay off in spades
All odds listed were the opening odds, go to 2024 College Football Playoff bracket: Betting odds, lines – ESPN to check up to date odds to make a more informed pick.
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