College Football Playoff: Opening Odds and Predictions for First Round

The opening odds for the first round of the College Football Playoff have been set, highlighting several intriguing matchups. According to Sports Betting Dime, the Texas A&M Aggies are 3.5-point favorites against the Miami Hurricanes.

This game will take place on December 20 at 12 PM ET at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas. The Aggies finished the season with an 11-1 record and a strong offensive output, averaging 36.3 points per game.

In contrast, Miami, with a record of 10-2, is aiming to capitalize on its underdog status. The opening moneyline shows Texas A&M at -184 and Miami at +152, with a total set at 51.5 points. The matchup is expected to be competitive, especially given Miami's effective passing game, which could test Texas A&M's defense.

In another first-round game, Ole Miss is a significant 16.5-point favorite against Tulane, scheduled for the same day at 3:30 PM ET in Oxford, Mississippi. The Rebels, who finished 11-1, are aiming to make a statement after their previous loss to Georgia.

The opening odds feature Ole Miss at -950 on the moneyline, while Tulane stands at +625, with a total of 56.5 points. Additionally, Alabama faces Oklahoma in a rematch after losing to the Sooners earlier this season.

The current spread has Oklahoma as a slight favorite at -1.5, with the total at 42.5 points. This matchup will also take place on December 19 at 8 PM ET in Norman. Alabama, with a record of 10-3, is looking to rebound from their earlier defeat, while Oklahoma seeks to maintain its momentum after a strong finish to the season.

The odds for all matchups reflect the betting strategies as fans prepare to place their wagers, making this playoff an exciting opportunity for bettors to analyze trends and capitalize on early lines.