The 2023 college football season is here, and fans are eager to witness some thrilling matchups and exciting plays on the field. As the first full week of games unfolds, let’s take a closer look at the top games, predictions against the spread, odds, and what to expect from Week 1.
The Start of a New Era
The final season of college football as we currently know it kicks off with the first full day of games on Saturday. For nearly every FBS team, College Football Playoff hopes are still alive, conference championships are up for grabs, and the season ahead can be anything and everything the players and coaches will make of it.
Tennessee vs. Virginia
- Date: Saturday, [Date]
- Time: Noon
- TV: ABC
- Location: [Stadium Name]
No. 12 Tennessee looks to continue the strides it made last season under Josh Heupel as it hosts Virginia with Joe Milton taking reigns under center. Virginia is trying to establish a foundation under Tony Elliott following a three-win 2022 campaign that was abruptly ended.
The Cavaliers should make strides this season, but this is a brutal opening matchup. Tennessee has routinely blown out overmatched foes under Heupel and should have no trouble doing so here. Even if it’s not firing on all cylinders out of the gate, the Volunteers’ explosive offense can put up big numbers and put this game out of reach early in the third quarter — if not earlier. Prediction: Tennessee -28.
Ohio State at Indiana
- Date: Saturday, [Date]
- Time: 3:30 p.m.
- TV: CBS
- Location: [Stadium Name]
It’s hard to form a strong opinion about anything here, given the mystery surrounding Ohio State’s QB battle. But if it is a true competition and both guys are getting an equal shot, I love the over. If Kyle McCord was the cemented starter and Ohio State built up a big lead, the Buckeyes could send out the backups to kill the clock and go home safely.
But with both Devin Brown and McCord fighting it out, the Buckeyes will keep their starters in as long as possible and allow both guys to play. After all, you can’t learn about either one by handing it off repeatedly. The Buckeyes could finish with at least 50 points themselves. Prediction: Over 59.
Sunday and Monday Action
But that’s not all. Week 1 lasts five days (!) with action continuing into Sunday and Monday. The highlight of the week’s final two days — and the only game between top-10 opponents in Week 1 — comes Sunday night as No. 5 LSU takes on No. 8 Florida State in the Camping World Kickoff for the second straight year. The Tigers, in Year 2 under Brian Kelly, are looking for revenge against the Seminoles, who have renewed optimism of competing for a conference and perhaps national title in Year 4 under Mike Norvell.
LSU vs. Florida State
- Date: Sunday, [Date]
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- TV: ABC
- Location: Camping World Stadium, Orlando
The season opener between these two in New Orleans in 2022 was one of the best games of the whole season. For those who don’t remember, Florida State edged LSU 24-23 when it blocked an extra point that would’ve tied the game late.
I don’t know if this year’s game will have as much insanity baked into it, but I expect it to be close again. I also expect LSU will be the team to come out on top. To be clear, I’m high on both of these teams and believe they’ll compete for their conference titles and the College Football Playoff berths that could come with them. However, Florida State was active in the transfer portal during the offseason, and I always worry a little more about teams working with a lot of new faces.
Meanwhile, LSU has a bit more roster consistency from last year. While I have concerns about the Tigers secondary, LSU matches up well with Florida State everywhere else. The Bayou Bengals get their revenge. Prediction: LSU -2.5.
Monday Night Showdown
Be sure to stick with CBS Sports all day Saturday for college football coverage from the opening kickoff onward. Let’s take a look at our expert picks for the best games in Week 1.
North Carolina at South Carolina
- Date: Monday, [Date]
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- TV: ABC
- Location: [Stadium Name]
Given how porous these defenses were last year, I won’t blame you for taking the over if it looks more appealing, but I prefer this route. Frankly, I’m not sold on North Carolina this season. When I look at this roster, all I see is Drake Maye and a lot of question marks.
While Maye is incredible, I worry about how this squad will stack up against good teams. While South Carolina isn’t going to win the SEC East, it’s a solid team with talent on both sides of the ball.
The Gamecocks have gotten the better end of this rivalry in recent years. If you bet the SEC team against the ACC team every time, you’re going to make money in the long run. Prediction: South Carolina +2.5.
Conclusion
As the 2023 college football season kicks off, fans can look forward to an action-packed Week 1 with exciting matchups and thrilling moments. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or looking to make some well-informed wagers, these expert predictions against the spread offer valuable insights into the games ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does the 2023 college football season start?
The 2023 college football season begins with the first full day of games on Saturday, [Date].
Which game is the highlight of Week 1?
The highlight of Week 1 is the matchup between No. 5 LSU and No. 8 Florida State in the Camping World Kickoff on Sunday, [Date].
Who are the key players to watch in the Tennessee vs. Virginia game?
Keep an eye on Joe Milton for Tennessee and the Virginia defense in the Tennessee vs. Virginia game.
What is the prediction for the Ohio State vs. Indiana game?
The prediction for the Ohio State vs. Indiana game is “Over 59.”
Which team has the edge in the North Carolina vs. South Carolina matchup?
South Carolina has historically performed well in this rivalry, making them a favorable pick with a +2.5-point spread.
Enjoy the start of the college football season and may your favorite team emerge victorious!
