As the college football season ramps up, Week 3 presents a slate of enticing matchups with potential upsets and lucrative betting opportunities. With top-ranked teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State facing tough tests, bettors have a chance to capitalize on potential missteps and find value in underdogs. This week’s betting landscape offers a blend of traditional powerhouse programs and rising stars, creating a dynamic and unpredictable betting environment.
One of the most intriguing matchups of the week pits No. 1 Alabama against No. 20 Florida in Gainesville. The Crimson Tide have been dominant in recent years, but the Gators have a history of playing Alabama tough at home. Florida’s offense, led by quarterback Anthony Richardson, has the potential to put up points against Alabama’s defense, which has shown some vulnerability in the past. Bettors may want to consider taking a chance on the Gators to cover the spread or even pull off an upset.
Another game to watch is the clash between No. 5 Notre Dame and No. 18 California in South Bend. The Fighting Irish have a lot of talent, but they have also struggled with consistency in recent years. California, on the other hand, has a strong defense and a balanced offense led by quarterback Jack Plummer. If Notre Dame can’t get its offense going, the Golden Bears could be a live underdog to pull off the upset. With so many exciting matchups on tap, Week 3 promises to be a thrilling and lucrative one for college football bettors.
Power 5 Prodigies
Alabama Crimson Tide (-34.5) vs. UL Monroe Warhawks
The reigning national champions have looked every bit the part of a championship contender through the first two weeks of the season, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 103-24. Bryce Young has been every bit as good as advertised, throwing for 659 yards and 10 touchdowns with no interceptions. The Warhawks, meanwhile, are 1-1 on the season but have yet to face a Power 5 opponent. They’ll be in for a rude awakening on Saturday when they travel to Tuscaloosa to take on the Crimson Tide.
The spread for this game is -34.5 in favor of Alabama, the largest spread of any game in the country this week. While it’s certainly possible that UL Monroe can keep the game close early, it’s hard to imagine them being able to stay within striking distance for four quarters. Alabama is simply too talented and too well-coached. Look for the Crimson Tide to roll to an easy victory and cover the spread.
Clemson Tigers (-31) vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
The Tigers have also looked impressive through the first two weeks of the season, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 91-17. DJ Uiagalelei has taken a step forward in his development, throwing for 562 yards and seven touchdowns with no interceptions. The Bulldogs, meanwhile, are 1-1 on the season but have yet to face a Power 5 opponent. They’ll be in for a tough test on Saturday when they travel to Clemson to take on the Tigers.
The spread for this game is -31 in favor of Clemson, which is the second-largest spread of any game in the country this week. While Louisiana Tech is a solid team, they’re simply not in the same league as Clemson. The Tigers are one of the most talented teams in the country and they should have no problem covering the spread against the Bulldogs.
Ohio State Buckeyes (-26.5) vs. Toledo Rockets
The Buckeyes have been a bit underwhelming through the first two weeks of the season, but they should be able to get back on track against Toledo. C.J. Stroud is still one of the best quarterbacks in the country and he has plenty of weapons to work with. The Rockets, meanwhile, are 1-1 on the season but have yet to face a Power 5 opponent. They’ll be in for a tough test on Saturday when they travel to Columbus to take on the Buckeyes.
The spread for this game is -26.5 in favor of Ohio State, which is the third-largest spread of any game in the country this week. While it’s certainly possible that Toledo can keep the game close early, it’s hard to imagine them being able to stay within striking distance for four quarters. Ohio State is simply too talented and too well-coached. Look for the Buckeyes to roll to an easy victory and cover the spread.
Betting the Weather
Weather can play a significant role in football games, especially in the NCAA where weather conditions can vary greatly from region to region. Here are some tips for betting on games with weather in mind:
1. Consider the Wind
Wind can affect the passing game significantly, particularly when it’s blowing more than 15 mph. Strong winds can make it difficult to throw the ball accurately, which can lead to more interceptions and incomplete passes. In these conditions, it’s often better to bet on teams with strong running games or defenses that can force turnovers.
2. Monitor the Temperature
Temperature can also affect the game, especially in extreme heat or cold. In hot weather, players can become fatigued more quickly, which can impact their performance. In cold weather, the ball can become harder to handle, which can make it more difficult to throw accurately.
3. Check the Rain Report
Rain can make the field slippery, which can affect the footing of both players and the ball. Rain can also make it difficult to pass the ball, as the ball can get wet and slippery. In rainy conditions, it’s often better to bet on teams with strong rushing attacks or defenses that can force turnovers.
4. Look at the Historical Data
Historical data can provide some insights into how teams perform in different weather conditions. For example, some teams may have a better record in cold weather games, while others may perform better in warm weather. Use this information to make more informed betting decisions.
5. Follow the Weather Forecasts
As the game approaches, be sure to follow the weather forecasts closely. This will help you to gauge the potential impact of the weather on the game and make better betting decisions.
6. Consider the Stadium Conditions
The stadium conditions can also play a role in how the weather impacts the game. For example, a domed stadium will protect players from the elements, while an outdoor stadium will be more exposed to the wind, rain, and cold. Consider these factors when making your betting decisions.
| Stadium | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Domed |
| Michigan Stadium | Outdoor |
| Rose Bowl Stadium | Outdoor |
Best College Football Bets for Week 3
Look out for some excellent matchups and betting opportunities in Week 3 of the college football season. Here are a few of the best bets to consider:
- Over 60 points in Georgia vs. South Carolina: These two offenses are loaded with weapons, and the game is likely to be a shootout.
- Texas A&M -17.5 vs. Appalachian State: The Aggies are a much more talented team and should be able to cover this spread against an FCS opponent.
- Clemson -14 vs. Florida State: The Tigers are the defending national champions and have a much better team than the Seminoles.
- Alabama -28 vs. Ole Miss: The Crimson Tide is one of the best teams in the country and should roll over the Rebels.
People Also Ask About Best College Football Bets Week 3
What is the best way to bet on college football?
There are many different ways to bet on college football, but some of the most popular include point spreads, moneylines, and over/unders. Point spreads are the most common type of bet, and they involve betting on which team will win by a certain number of points. Moneylines are bets on which team will win the game, and over/unders are bets on whether the total number of points scored in the game will be over or under a certain number.
What are some good betting strategies for college football?
There are many different betting strategies that you can use for college football, but some of the most common include:
- Fading the public: This involves betting against the team that is getting the most public support. The theory behind this is that the public is often wrong, and that betting against them can be a profitable strategy.
- Looking for value: This involves finding teams that are undervalued by the oddsmakers. You can do this by looking at things like injuries, suspensions, and weather conditions.
- Managing your bankroll: This is one of the most important aspects of betting on any sport. You should only bet with money that you can afford to lose, and you should never chase your losses.
What are some good resources for college football betting information?
There are many different resources available for college football betting information. Some of the most popular include:
- Sportsbooks: Sportsbooks offer a variety of odds and betting options on college football games.
- Betting websites: There are many websites that provide college football betting information, including odds, analysis, and picks.
- Newspapers and magazines: Many newspapers and magazines cover college football and provide betting advice.
