As the 2025 college football season kicks off, betting odds and expert predictions highlight key matchups and potential playoff contenders. Ohio State is favored by 1.5 points over Texas at home, while Clemson holds a 4-point advantage against LSU in a Saturday night game. Notre Dame is a 2.5-point favorite on the road against Miami, and Auburn is favored by 2.5 points on the road versus Baylor. Analysts and bettors are focusing on teams like Penn State, Texas, Arizona State, and Miami as potential winners in the power conferences, with Boise State projected as the top non-power conference team to reach the playoffs. Arch Manning, a highly anticipated player, is generating considerable hype and is a leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy. The Texas Longhorns, led by Manning, are favored to win the national championship with odds of +550 at multiple sportsbooks including Bet365 and FanDuel Sportsbook. The opening week of college football is expected to dominate Labor Day weekend sports coverage, with top games and potential upsets drawing significant attention.