Ohio State Opens as Early Favorite for the 2025 College Football Playoff Title
After capturing their first national championship since 2014 with a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame, Ohio State enters the offseason as the betting favorite to repeat as College Football Playoff (CFP) champions in 2025. The Buckeyes are listed at +450 at DraftKings, leading a crowded field of perennial contenders.
Early Favorites for 2025 CFP Title
Ohio State (+450)
The Buckeyes, fresh off a dominant title run, are set to reload despite losing quarterback Will Howard. Head coach Ryan Day has built a pipeline of talent that includes incoming five-star quarterback recruit Bryce Underwood, who could step into the starting role. With a stacked roster and a national title under their belt, Ohio State is the team to beat.
Texas (+500)
After falling to Ohio State in the CFP semifinals, the Longhorns are positioned as the second favorite to win it all. Despite losing quarterback Quinn Ewers, Texas boasts a talented roster led by a star-studded recruiting class and offensive mastermind Steve Sarkisian. The Longhorns are looking to claim their first national title since 2005.
Georgia (+550)
The Bulldogs, winners of back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022, remain a force in college football. Although Georgia will also break in a new quarterback, head coach Kirby Smart has proven adept at maintaining the program’s dominance. The Bulldogs’ stout defense and deep talent pool make them a serious contender.
Oregon (+750)
Under head coach Dan Lanning, the Ducks have solidified their place as CFP regulars. Oregon faces the challenge of replacing quarterback Bo Nix, but with elite playmakers on both sides of the ball and one of the nation’s best recruiting classes, they’re expected to stay in the mix.
Penn State (+900)
With quarterback Drew Allar returning for another season, Penn State is seen as a dark horse contender. The Nittany Lions have steadily improved under head coach James Franklin and will aim to challenge Ohio State and Michigan in the Big Ten.
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Other Notable Contenders
Alabama (+1200)
The Crimson Tide had a “down year” by their lofty standards but remain a perennial powerhouse under Nick Saban. While they’ll also have a new quarterback, Alabama’s roster is loaded with blue-chip recruits who are primed to contribute.
Notre Dame (+1600)
The Fighting Irish reached the title game but fell short against Ohio State. With Marcus Freeman continuing to improve the program’s recruiting and defensive strength, Notre Dame will look to build on their success despite replacing quarterback Riley Leonard.
LSU, Clemson, Tennessee (+2000)
LSU, Clemson, and Tennessee round out the top tier of contenders, each boasting dynamic playmakers and elite coaching. Clemson, in particular, could bounce back if their young talent develops under Dabo Swinney.
Longshot Programs to Watch
Colorado (+10000)
Even with the departure of Heisman winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, Deion Sanders has revitalized Colorado’s program. The Buffs’ recruiting momentum could keep them competitive in the expanded 12-team playoff.
Kansas State and Arizona State (+9000)
These Big 12 programs aren’t traditional powerhouses but have emerged as dangerous teams. Both programs will look to build on recent success to make deeper playoff runs.
Boise State (+20000)
The Broncos were the lone Group of Five team to make a deep playoff run this year. While a title remains a longshot, Boise State has shown it can compete with the nation’s elite.
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Key Storylines for the 2025 CFP Season
- The Impact of New Quarterbacks: Each of the top four favorites—Ohio State, Texas, Georgia, and Oregon—will rely on new quarterbacks in 2025. Their success will hinge on how quickly these signal-callers adapt to starting roles.
- The Expanded Playoff: The second year of the 12-team format offers more opportunities for surprise runs by underdog programs like Boise State and Arizona State.
- Can Alabama and Clemson Return to Glory? Both programs have dominated college football for much of the past decade but have faced challenges in recent years. Their ability to bounce back will be a major storyline.
- Deion Sanders’ Second Act at Colorado: Sanders’ ability to sustain the Buffs’ momentum without Hunter and Sanders will be closely watched.
Early Predictions
While Ohio State is the favorite, expect significant competition from Texas and Georgia, both of which have the rosters to make deep runs. Don’t count out Alabama or a surprise team like Oregon, as the expanded format ensures unpredictability. With months of offseason development ahead, the 2025 CFP race promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
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