College Football Picks: Key Predictions and Odds for Friday’s Opening Games

A closer look at the top Friday games that will help kick off Week 1 of the 2025 college football season

College football’s marathon opening weekend continues Friday night with more intriguing matchups, including two headline bouts pitting Power Four programs against each other. Among those in action will be coach Deion Sanders’ Colorado squad.

The Buffaloes took a giant leap in 2024 during Sanders’ second season by going 9-4 behind the play of Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Both have departed for the NFL, though, leaving the Buffs with some retooling to do as Sanders seeks to keep the Buffs heading in the right direction. Opening against a gritty Georgia Tech squad makes for a tough first assignment, as the Yellow Jackets enter with ACC dark horse potential behind the veteran leadership of quarterback Haynes King.

The night’s other big matchup pits Auburn against Baylor as the Tigers start a tough opening salvo with a trip to face a Bears squad that won six straight games to close the 2024 regular season. Baylor is led by veteran quarterback Sawyer Robertson, who will be pitted against Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold. The once-heralded prospect is seeking a fresh start with the Tigers, who are just 12-13 through two seasons under coach Hugh Freeze.

Be sure to stick with CBS Sports throughout the evening for college football coverage from the opening kickoff onward. Let’s take a look at our expert picks for the best games on Friday of Week 1.