Texas enters Week 8 of the 2024 college football season as the betting favorite to win the College Football Playoff, following an impressive 34-3 victory over Oklahoma. Dominating on both sides of the ball, the Longhorns saw their National Championship odds shift from +450 to +375. Texas is earning 12.2% of the tickets (the second-highest mark) and 11.9% of the handle (the third-highest), which points to the growing confidence in their title chances.
With quarterback Quinn Ewers back and healthy, paired with a defense loaded with playmakers, Texas has looked like the most complete team in college football this season. Steve Sarkisian’s squad is on track to make its strongest championship push since the Mack Brown era, as it eyes the program’s first national title since 2005.
If you're considering betting on the Longhorns, there are two scenarios to weigh. This weekend’s matchup against Georgia will have significant implications for their title odds. A win over the Bulldogs will likely drop their odds further, making +375 a number you won’t see again. Texas’ remaining schedule is relatively soft, giving them a solid chance to win out after this game.
However, if you believe Georgia will win in Austin, it might be wise to wait until after the game to bet on Texas, as their odds will significantly lengthen. Yet even with a loss, Texas would remain a strong contender for the College Football Playoff, given that many of the other top SEC teams also have one loss.
Longshot: Clemson +2000 (BetMGM)
For those looking at longshots, Clemson at +2000 is worth considering. After being embarrassed by Georgia in Week 1, the Tigers have responded by winning convincingly, scoring 40+ points in four of their last five games. While their competition hasn’t been the toughest, quarterback Cade Klubnik has made significant strides and now ranks fifth nationally in total QBR.
Clemson’s upcoming games against Virginia and Louisville, followed by road matchups with Virginia Tech and No. 20 Pitt, will reveal more about their true potential. But with Dabo Swinney’s championship pedigree, the Tigers could be primed for a surprising late-season run.
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