College Football

College Football Playoff 2024: Bets to make after initial rankings release

College Football Playoff 2024: Bets to make after initial rankings release

The latest College Football Playoff rankings were released Tuesday night with with Oregon claiming the top spot and traditional powerhouses jockeying for position. The road to the expanded 12-team playoff is more intriguing than ever and as we dive into the rankings and analyze the contenders, we’ll also explore some enticing betting opportunities in the futures market.

From the high-flying Oregon Ducks to the resilient Ohio State Buckeyes, the Georgia Bulldogs, and a surprising Notre Dame Fighting Irish team, this season’s playoff race promises to be one for the ages.

All odds are accurate as of timestamp. For the latest odds, go to ESPN BET.


Breaking down the contenders

No. 1 Oregon Ducks (+400)

Despite Oregon being No. 1 in the initial CFP playoff ranking release, the Ducks did not become betting favorites to win the national championship at ESPN BET.

Oregon has impressed with wins over Ohio State, Michigan and Illinois, but oddsmakers are likely considering the overall strength and depth of the Ducks’ remaining schedule (no ranked opponents over final four games).

Historical performance and playoff experience might also play a role in the discrepancy between odds and CFP ranking. Teams like Ohio State and Georgia have had more recent success in these scenarios, pushing them ahead in the betting odds, while this year marks Oregon’s first 9-0 start since 2012.

No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes (+325)

The Buckeyes are the current betting favorite to win the national championship because of their overall performance and potential. Ohio State’s only loss this season came in a narrow one-point defeat to Oregon, which they could avenge in the Big Ten championship game.

The Buckeyes face a challenge against undefeated Indiana in Week 13. If Ohio State were to lose to Indiana or even win by a narrow margin, it could affect their playoff chances with a loss would likely dropping them out of the top four in the CFP rankings.

However, Ohio State still has a good chance of making the playoff even with a loss or a close win. The Buckeyes’ strong performance throughout the season, including a quality win over No. 6 Penn State provides them with a buffer. Nonetheless, Week 13’s matchup with the Hoosiers presents a critical juncture in Ohio State’s season, potentially shaping the playoff seeding and overall narrative for the team heading…

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