College Football Week 3 Preview: Key Picks Against the Spread and Betting Insights
Week 3 of the 2025 college football season promises exciting matchups with significant playoff implications, including top 25 clashes and key conference showdowns. Sports models and experts have released their predictions against the spread, odds, and best bets for the weekend’s slate of games.
Texas Expected to Dominate UTEP with Huge Spread
The University of Texas Longhorns, currently No. 7, are favored by a massive 40.5 points over UTEP in their Saturday 4:15 p.m. ET kickoff. The Longhorns, led by quarterback Arch Manning, who recently threw five touchdowns in a dominant performance, are riding a 13-game home win streak against unranked teams, often winning by at least 21 points. Texas has a perfect 6-0 all-time record against in-state rival UTEP, averaging a margin of victory of 36.7 points. Given UTEP’s long winless streak against Power Five conferences this century (0-34), SportsLine’s model projects Texas to cover the spread in over half the simulations[1].
Oregon State as Value Underdogs Against Texas Tech
Oregon State, a notable underdog at +23.5 against No. 21 Texas Tech in the Saturday 3:30 p.m. ET kickoff, is another top pick. Former Duke QB Maalik Murphy’s recent career highs—371 passing yards and four passing touchdowns—boost the Beavers’ offensive outlook. The team features strong third-down defense (ranked 5th nationally) and promising players like rusher Anthony Hankerson and receiver Trent Walker, both projected to be top performers. The model forecasts that Oregon State covers this spread nearly 60% of the time while the Over 62.5 total points bet hits at a similar rate[1].
SEC Showdowns: LSU Favored Over Florida and Georgia vs. Tennessee Key Battle
In the SEC, LSU hosts Florida in a significant SEC contest on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET. LSU, coming off a strong road win at Clemson, is favored by seven points. Florida, recovering from a surprising loss to South Florida, aims to rebound. SportsLine’s model supports LSU covering the spread in 57% of scenarios, citing LSU’s 6-1 home success recently against Florida[2].
Also noteworthy is Georgia at home favored by 3.5 points over Tennessee. Early line movements indicate Georgia as favorites, with an over/under around 50.5 points, making this a potential close contest with strong implications for conference rankings and playoff positioning[7].
Other Notable Picks and Odds for Week 3
- USC is favored by 20.5 points over Purdue, with SportsLine backing the Trojans to cover at an away venue on Saturday[2].
- Clemson vs. Georgia Tech features a small spread with Clemson favored by 3.5 points, spotlighting an ACC matchup with upset potential[1][3].
- Alabama is recommended for backing at -20.5 against Wisconsin, following trend analyses from experts[3].
- Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M, with the Irish favored by 6.5 points, is another key showdown early in the season[3].
Betting Trends and Over/Under Insights
Several games feature intriguing over/under totals, with models predicting high-scoring affairs. For example, South Florida and Miami have an over/under near 56.5 points, with simulations backing the Over nearly 70% of the time[2]. Similarly, the Texas Tech vs. Oregon State game projects an Over of 62.5 points hitting near 60%[1].
Where to Watch and Follow Week 3 Action
Fans can watch the key games across various networks, with CBS Sports providing live updates, scores, and expert commentary. For instance, the Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia rivalry game draws attention, with details on broadcast times and betting promos available[5][10].
As the college football landscape begins to take shape, these Week 3 contests are critical for shaping playoff prospects and stirring college football enthusiasm. Bettors are advised to consider both modeling insights and situational factors when placing wagers this week.