The college football season starts in a little over two weeks, so it’s time to look over national title odds. Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf and senior editor Max Meyer each share their bet to win it all along with a sleeper pick ???? (+1000 odds or longer).
LEAF’S PICK TO WIN: Michigan (+700)
This team was in the national semifinal a year ago and only got better. The Wolverines have the same quarterback coming back, and they beat Ohio State twice in a row despite the Buckeyes having the superior quarterback in those matchups. Their combo of quarterback, coach and defense makes them a legit threat.
MEYER’S PICK TO WIN: Michigan (+700)
Let’s take a quick look ???? at the top 4 in title odds: Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State and Michigan. Three of them have to replace multi-year starters at QB, while Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy is back. Those same three also have new offensive coordinators. Meanwhile, Michigan may have the best tailback duo in the country (Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards) along with an elite offensive line and defense.
LEAF’S SLEEPER: Florida State (+1600)
Florida State is a great value and the Seminoles could possibly have two top-10 wins in the first four weeks of the season (vs. LSU, at Clemson). Mike Norvell has done a great job rebuilding this program that I think is ready to take another big step forward.
MEYER’S SLEEPER: Penn State (+2200)
Just like for Big Ten conference futures, I don’t think there should be that big of a national title odds gap between Penn State (+2200) and Ohio State/Michigan (+700). Penn State will have one of the best defenses in the nation, and the offense may have found its missing piece ???? with 5-star QB Drew Allar.
