Week 3 College Football: Hawkeyes Huge Favorites, Cyclones Host Bowling Green
The 2026 college football season rolls into Week 3 with a loaded slate of games, and Iowa fans have plenty to watch. The Iowa Hawkeyes are massive home favorites against in-state rival Northern Iowa, while Iowa State looks to keep rolling as a big favorite against Bowling Green. With several ranked matchups on the docket, here is your complete guide to the Week 3 action.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Northern Iowa: A Dominant Spread
The No. 18 Iowa Hawkeyes host the Northern Iowa Panthers on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET. Iowa enters the game as a 31.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 48.5 points. The Hawkeyes have looked strong to open the season, and this matchup against an FCS opponent should provide another opportunity for the offense to build momentum.
For Northern Iowa, this is a chance to measure themselves against one of the top programs in the Big Ten. The Panthers will need a near-perfect performance to keep this game competitive, but the experience of playing in Kinnick Stadium is valuable for the program.
Iowa State Cyclones Look to Stay Undefeated
The Iowa State Cyclones host Bowling Green on Saturday at noon ET. The Cyclones are favored by 23.5 points, with the over/under at 44.5. Iowa State has started the season strong and will look to avoid a letdown against a Mid-American Conference opponent.
Head coach Matt Campbell has built a consistent winner in Ames, and this game is about taking care of business before conference play heats up. Expect the Cyclones to lean on their ground game and physical defense to control the clock and the scoreboard.
Top Ranked Matchups Headline Saturday's Slate
While Iowa fans focus on their home teams, the national spotlight will be on several marquee games. No. 7 LSU travels to face No. 8 Ole Miss in a game with major SEC implications. LSU is a 3-point road favorite, with the over/under at 58.5. This game features two explosive offenses and a quarterback matchup that could decide the Heisman race.
In the ACC, No. 23 Louisville hosts No. 16 SMU in a game that could shape the conference title race. Louisville is a slim 1.5-point favorite. The Cardinals are coming off a narrow loss to Ole Miss, while SMU knocked off Florida State on the road in Week 1.
Another key game sees No. 10 Alabama host Florida State. The Crimson Tide are 19.5-point favorites after rolling through their first two opponents. Florida State is coming off a bye week after a narrow home loss to SMU.
Betting Lines and Odds for Iowa Fans
For those looking to wager on the games, here are the key lines for Week 3 involving regional teams:
- Northern Iowa at No. 18 Iowa: Iowa -31.5, O/U 48.5
- Bowling Green at Iowa State: Iowa State -23.5, O/U 44.5
- Tulane at Kansas State: Kansas State -20.5, O/U 49.5
- North Dakota at Nebraska: Nebraska -32, O/U 55.5
As always, bettors should shop around for the best lines and take advantage of sportsbook promotions to maximize their bankroll.
Other Notable Games Across the Country
The Week 3 schedule is packed with compelling matchups. No. 3 Notre Dame hosts Michigan State as a 29.5-point favorite. No. 2 Georgia travels to Arkansas as a 25.5-point favorite in their SEC opener. No. 1 Texas hosts UTSA as a 29.5-point favorite.
In the Big Ten, No. 14 Penn State hosts Buffalo, and No. 6 Ohio State welcomes Kent State. Both are expected to win comfortably.
Responsible Gaming Reminder
While betting on college football can add excitement to the games, it is important to wager responsibly. All major sportsbooks offer tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion options. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, call 1-800-GAMBLER for free, confidential support.