Every Thursday during the college football season, I share insights on the most overvalued and undervalued teams across that week’s matches.

A case in point from last season is the Vanderbilt Commodores achieving an upset against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Commodores were returning home post two road losses, while Alabama had recently experienced an emotional win against Georgia. In that instance, Vanderbilt triumphed as a 23-point underdog.

Expect more scenarios like that as the season unfolds. My first detailed analysis will debut next Thursday for Week 1. Noting that only five games are scheduled for this Saturday, I’m gearing this week’s insights towards examining teams that are undervalued and overvalued based on the Week 1 odds.

Undervalued

Old Dominion Monarchs

The Old Dominion Monarchs pique my interest this season. I’ve backed them to win the Sun Belt Conference at +1000 and also placed a bet on ODU +23.5 in Week 1 against Indiana.
Last season they tallied a 5-7 record while only losing once by more than eight points, that being against Virginia Tech. With 13 returning starters, including sophomore quarterback Colton Joseph, they show promise. Joseph led the team to account for half of their touchdowns last season.

Kansas Jayhawks

The Kansas Jayhawks are a team I’m more optimistic about this season. Though they had an unsatisfying 5-7 record last season, they lost five games by six points or less. I placed a bet on Kansas -12.5 against a Fresno State team that is under transition.

UCLA Bruins

The UCLA Bruins made headlines this offseason as quarterback Nico Iamaleava transferred to their squad from Tennessee. His addition represents a significant upgrade, resulting in elevated expectations for UCLA in the Big Ten.

Overvalued

Ohio State Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes are my pick for overvaluation, simply based on the premise that they will be stronger in November compared to now. I wagered on Texas +3 and that number has shifted to +2.5. I still favor Texas at +2 or higher. Historically, the Buckeyes perform their best later in the season, but given the current matchup, I anticipate Texas as a formidable contender.

South Florida Bulls

While I think highly of the South Florida Bulls this season within the AAC, I disagree with the recent line shifts against Boise State. Initially at +9.5, the Bulls have since shifted to +6.5, suggesting to wait for a better betting opportunity leaning towards South Florida.