Griffin Warner and Lonte Smith talk CFB betting for this holiday weekend.
College football opened with the intensity fans expect, and the week one slate stretched across Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. From powerhouse matchups to underdog angles, this breakdown delivered insight into key games, quarterback storylines, and best bets to carry into the long weekend.
The conversation began with the reminder that winning comes down to outblocking, outtackling, and outhustling opponents, setting the tone for a high-energy weekend. Griffin Warner and Lonte Smith guided the preview, starting with Texas at Ohio State. The Buckeyes entered as one-point favorites at home with a 47.5 total, but Texas had the advantage of returning proven playmakers. Arch Manning’s first season as a starter drew national attention, and Lonte argued his mobility and Sarkisian’s play-calling would give the Longhorns an edge. Ohio State’s receivers, led by Jeremiah Smith, remained the most dangerous unit in the nation, but the loss of eight defensive starters raised questions. Texas’ ability to limit Smith in their last meeting suggested value on the road dog.
Arch Manning’s development dominated the early discussion. While Griffin expressed concern about his limited experience and struggles in past big games, Lonte projected solid numbers, predicting over 250 passing yards, 40 rushing yards, and multiple scores. The noon kickoff in Columbus might soften the hostile environment, but the Longhorns’ more established identity contrasted with Ohio State’s uncertainty at quarterback and coordinator roles.
The preview moved to Clemson versus LSU, where the Tigers were slight underdogs in Death Valley. Brian Kelly’s 0-3 record in openers and LSU’s secondary issues made Clemson the sharper side. Lonte emphasized Clemson’s depth at wide receiver and a defensive line anchored by T.J. Parker and Peter Woods. LSU’s rebuilt offensive line posed risks against one of the nation’s toughest fronts. The projection leaned toward Clemson winning convincingly, 35-20.
Sunday’s slate featured Virginia Tech against South Carolina in Atlanta. With the Hokies catching 7.5 points, Lonte saw a live underdog ready to upset. Brent Pry’s job security hung in the balance, but the improved defense and veteran secondary could exploit South Carolina’s turnover-prone quarterback and depleted defense. Griffin noted the value of the extra hook at +7.5 and questioned whether South Carolina’s rating leaned too heavily on last year’s upset of Clemson.
The second Sunday matchup reignited the Notre Dame–Miami rivalry. The Hurricanes, slight 2.5-point underdogs, offered another opportunity to back a first-year starter. CJ Carr surprisingly won the Irish job, but against Miami’s experienced defense, his debut looked vulnerable. With Carson Beck running Miami’s offense and the potential to establish balance with the ground game, the Hurricanes appeared poised for an outright win. Notre Dame’s playoff pedigree and elite defense justified their short favorite status, yet uncertainty at quarterback suggested Miami’s value.
Best bets closed the show. Lonte went off the board with Florida State +7 in the first half against Alabama, banking on a fired-up Seminoles squad against a young Tide quarterback. Griffin backed Virginia Tech +7.5, trusting the Hokies to stay within a touchdown or pull the outright upset. Both analysts highlighted quarterback transitions, defensive mismatches, and betting value in the opening weekend.
From Arch Manning’s debut to Clemson’s defensive line dominance, Virginia Tech’s upset bid, and Miami’s chance to shock Notre Dame, the first true college football weekend showcased why bettors and fans alike circle these dates every year.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices