College Football Playoff Predictions, Picks & Odds: Round 2, January 2025
As the College Football Playoff gets more intense, we're stepping into a new chapter with the exciting 12-team format that brings a whole new level of thrill to the game.
With four exciting quarterfinal games coming up, fans can't wait to see which teams will come out on top and chase the national championship! After a crazy first round where the top teams showed their strength, the competition is about to heat up even more, and so are our College Football Playoff picks.
College Football Playoffs Predictions For 2025
Big games at neutral sites like the Fiesta, Peach, Rose and Sugar Bowls will create epic showdowns that could change everything in the playoffs. This year's lineup is packed with talent, from the defending champions to surprising newcomers, making it really hard to guess who will win.
As we look forward to the upcoming matchups, let’s check out what we’ve lined up as our College Football Playoff predictions.
College Football Playoffs Picks & Odds
We have breakdowns for our actual selections below, but first, here are the College Football Playoff odds that pertain to each of our bets at DraftKings Sportsbook:
- Ashton Jeanty Props:
- 1+ Touchdown -360
- 2+ Touchdowns +150
- 3+ Touchdowns +550
- Texas vs. Arizona State Props:
- Longhorns To Score 1st/Money Line - Yes (-145)/No (+105)
- Sun Devils To Score 1st/Money Line - Yes(+600)/No (-1400)
- Jeremiah Smith Props:
- 1+ Touchdown -130
- 2+ Touchdowns +475
- 3+ Touchdowns +2000
Penn State vs. Boise State Preview & Best Bet: Ashton Jeanty 2+ TD (+150 at DraftKings Sportsbook) *0.75U
Jeanty, who was the Heisman runner-up this season, has consistently shown he can lead Boise State’s offense. For the Broncos to succeed against Penn State, it’s hard to imagine Jeanty not being a major factor. His performance in the 2024 season has been nothing short of impressive, totaling 29 touchdowns.
He averages 7.3 yards per carry with 2,497 rushing yards on 344 attempts and, in the Mountain West Championship, he rushed for 226 yards and a touchdown, demonstrating his ability to shine in crucial moments.
Now, as he faces Penn State’s tough defense, ranked 7th in points allowed and 4th in total yards per game, Jeanty will be challenged. Still, his consistent performance suggests he can score more than once.
I mean, we all saw him against Oregon earlier this season, right? Given his history and the importance of the game, the first of our College Football Playoff predictions at +150 odds appears to be a solid choice, especially with the number of touches he’s expected to receive.
Texas vs. Arizona State Preview & Best Bet: Texas 1st To Score/Money Line (-145 at DraftKings Sportsbook)
Texas is heavily favored by 12.5 points against Arizona State, and our second College Football Playoff picks give us sort of a safety net. If the Longhorns start strong and take an early lead, they should have no issue putting this one away.
This season, Texas ranks 17th in total yards per game (448.9) and 25th in points scored (33.9), with a well-rounded offense led by their passing game, averaging 275.4 yards per game (20th in the nation). Quarterback Quinn Ewers has thrown for 2,867 yards and 26 touchdowns, while their rushing game is also powerful.
Defensively, Texas is strong as well. They rank 3rd in total defense (261.4 yards allowed per game) and give up only 13.3 points per game (2nd in the nation). Their defense is balanced, excelling in both passing and rushing yards allowed, making it hard for any offense to score against them.
Arizona State has been decent offensively, scoring 33.1 points per game (31st in the nation), but they depend a lot on their rushing game, ranking 25th in rushing yards per game (198.8). Running back Cam Skattebo is their key player, with 1,568 yards and 19 touchdowns.
However, Texas’ defense is 10th in stopping the run, which should limit Skattebo's impact. With Texas’ offense performing well and their defense capable of containing Arizona State’s attack, this bet presents good value at -145 odds and a strong chance of success.
Ohio State vs. Oregon Preview & Best Bet: Jeremiah Smith TD (-130 at DraftKings Sportsbook)
At -130 odds, the last wager for our College Football Playoff predictions seems valuable, given Smith's strong performance this season. For Ohio State to have a shot at handing Oregon their first loss, Smith needs to perform at his best, just like he did in their last matchup.
He has been a key player for the Buckeyes, accumulating 1,037 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during the regular season. In his latest game against Tennessee, he recorded 103 yards and two touchdowns, proving he can perform when it matters.
Even in tight games, like the loss to Michigan, he was a dependable target, making five catches for 35 yards and a touchdown. His ability to make big plays, averaging 16.5 yards per catch, makes him a constant threat.
While the Oregon defense is solid, ranking 7th in passing yards allowed per game (175.7), they have struggled against explosive players like Smith. Given his production and the game's significance, he will be a key focus for the Buckeyes. A touchdown from him is not just probable – it’s essential for Ohio State's success.
How To Watch The 2025 College Football Playoffs
Curious on how to watch the 2025 College Football Playoffs? Fear not! The CFP is available for viewing on multiple channels, such as ESPN, ABC and TNT/Max.
So, whether you plan on following our College Football Playoff predictions or not, you’ll be able to watch these matchups wherever you are!
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