As the 2025 college football season barrels toward its midpoint, bettors are locking in their picks for who will hoist the national championship trophy come January, and future odds from online college betting sites are painting a clear picture: Ohio State is the team to beat.
Buckeyes Surge in Futures Markets
Ohio State has emerged as the dominant force in college football this season, boasting a perfect 7-0 record straight up and an impressive 6-0-1 against the spread. Their offensive firepower, averaging 36.4 points per game, has propelled them to the top of the futures board.
Bovada’s online sportsbook initially listed the Buckeyes at +450 to win the national title, but their odds have since shortened to +275, reflecting both their on-field dominance and heavy betting action.
The Buckeyes also lead in betting volume, commanding the highest ticket percentage (11.7%) and handle (13.8%) among all teams. That means more bettors are backing Ohio State than any other program, and they’re putting serious money behind those bets.
Futures Betting: A Long-Term Play
College football betting sites enable fans to wager on future outcomes that will be determined months in advance, such as who will win the College Football Playoff, conference titles, or individual awards. These bets are placed well before the season ends, often at odds that shift dramatically based on team performance, injuries, and public sentiment.
For example, Alabama opened at +650, Georgia at +550, and Oregon at +750. But surprise upsets and breakout performances have shaken up the board. Indiana, after stunning Oregon, saw its odds improve to +800, while Penn State’s odds plummeted following a string of disappointing games.
Value Picks and Risky Plays
While Ohio State is the clear favorite, savvy bettors often look for value in mid-tier contenders. Teams like Texas (+500), Notre Dame (+1600), and Miami (+2500) offer higher payouts if they can string together wins and sneak into the playoff picture.
Of course, futures betting isn’t without risk. Injuries, coaching changes, and late-season collapses can derail even the most promising campaigns. That’s why many bettors hedge their futures bets with weekly wagers or diversify across multiple teams.
Strategy Tips for Futures Bettors
- Bet early to lock in favorable odds before a team’s breakout.
- Monitor line movement; shrinking odds often signal rising confidence or heavy betting volume.
- Diversify your picks to balance risk and reward.
- Watch for schedule strength; teams with easier paths may offer hidden value.
With the playoff race heating up and odds shifting weekly, now is the time for college football fans to get strategic. Whether you’re backing the Buckeyes or hunting for a dark horse, futures betting offers an exciting way to stay invested for the remainder of the season.