Week 2 College Football Picks: Iowa-Iowa State Under, Big Favorites to Cover
Week 2 of the college football season brings the annual showdown between Iowa and Iowa State, along with several marquee matchups that have bettors sharpening their pencils. After a rough Week 1 that saw favorites dominate and totals soar, this week offers a chance for correction. Here are the best picks against the spread for Saturday's slate, with a special focus on the Cy-Hawk Trophy game.
Iowa State at Iowa: Take the Under on 41.5
The biggest game for Iowa fans this weekend is the intrastate battle between the Hawkeyes and Cyclones. The point total is set at 41.5, and history says this one stays low. These two teams combined for just 29 points last year, 39 in 2024, 33 in 2023, and 17 in 2022. The 2021 game was a relative shootout with Iowa State winning 27-17, but the trend is clear: this rivalry is defined by defense and field position. Expect a physical, low-scoring affair that stays under the number.
Michigan State Should Roll Over Eastern Michigan
Michigan State is a 17.5-point favorite against Eastern Michigan, and the historical trend is hard to ignore. The Spartans are 7-0 all-time against the Eagles, with six of those wins being outright blowouts. The 2014 meeting ended 73-14, and the 2002 game was 56-7. Eastern Michigan just lost to San Jose State and struggled against Sacramento State, so this could get ugly early. Take Michigan State to cover.
Oregon at Oklahoma State: Cowboys Not Ready for Primetime
Oregon is a 23.5-point favorite on the road at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys lost to Tulsa last week and looked far from ready for the spotlight. Oregon had a mediocre outing against Boise State, but the Ducks historically bounce back strong after a tough fight. In 2024, Oregon followed a 37-34 win over Boise State with a 49-14 demolition of Oregon State. Expect a similar response here.
Indiana Could Run Up the Score on Howard
Indiana is a massive 56.5-point favorite against Howard. The Hoosiers have a history of running up the score against FCS opponents. Last season, they beat Indiana State 73-0, and in Curt Cignetti's first year, they crushed Western Illinois 77-3. While 56.5 points is a lot to lay, Indiana's offense is explosive and shows no mercy. Take the Hoosiers to cover.
Nebraska Should Handle Bowling Green
Nebraska is a 29.5-point favorite against Bowling Green. The Huskers were sluggish early against Ohio but figured things out in the second half and won by 28. Bowling Green lost to Tarleton State 20-13, a bad sign for a team facing a Big Ten opponent. Nebraska blasted MAC foe Akron 68-0 last year and should open things up again. Take the Cornhuskers.
Ohio State at Texas: Buckeyes the Value Side
Texas is a slim 1.5-point favorite over Ohio State in the marquee matchup of the week. The Buckeyes have been talked about all offseason as one of the most talented teams in the country. This is a chance for them to prove it on the road. At nearly a pick 'em, Ohio State is the value side.
Navy's Ground Game Too Much for Florida Atlantic
Navy is a 5.5-point favorite at Florida Atlantic. The Midshipmen ran for 397 yards and six touchdowns in a 42-32 win over the Owls last season. Florida Atlantic was gashed on the ground all of 2025, giving up over 200 rushing yards in multiple games. Navy will run the ball relentlessly, and the Owls have shown no ability to stop it. Take Navy.
Utah-Arkansas Over 55.5 Looks Safe
Utah and Arkansas have a point total of 55.5, and the over looks like the play. Utah beat Idaho 66-10 last week and has gone over 55.5 in six of its last seven games, scoring at least 44 points in all six. Arkansas has a better defense under new head coach Ryan Silverfield, but Utah is on a mission to prove it can win without Kyle Whittingham. The Utes should put up plenty of points.
USC Should Dominate Louisiana
USC is a 30.5-point favorite against Louisiana. The Trojans dominated Fresno State 39-0 last week and look like a special team. Louisiana struggled with interceptions in its win over Lamar, and the Ragin' Cajuns lost 52-10 at Missouri last year in a similar spot. USC should cover with ease.
LSU Will Keep Rolling Against Louisiana Tech
LSU is a 35.5-point favorite against Louisiana Tech. Lane Kiffin has transformed the Tigers into an unstoppable force, handing Clemson coach Dabo Swinney his worst loss as a head coach in Week 1. This LSU team is faster, more talented, and better coached than in recent years. Louisiana Tech won't be able to keep up. Take the Tigers.
Consensus line based on BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.