CFB betting: Week 7

The following article reflects the opinions of Joseph Granton and does not represent the views of CommRadio.

No. 1 Texas (-14.5) @ No. 18 Oklahoma

The historic Red River Rivalry is back, now under the banner of the Southeastern Conference. Texas enters as the No. 1 team in the country, riding an undefeated season with an electrifying offense. The Longhorns, led by quarterbacks Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers, rank seventh nationally in both total yards and points per game, averaging 45 points and over 500 yards of offense each week.

Oklahoma has struggled offensively this season, ranking last in the SEC in total yards and near the bottom in scoring. The Sooners, who have become accustomed to putting up 40 points per game, are averaging just 28.6. Head coach Brent Venables even benched former five-star recruit Jackson Arnold in a 25-15 loss to Tennessee due to their offensive struggles.

With Texas firing on all cylinders, Oklahoma may have too many internal issues to overcome the Longhorns. Even in a rivalry as intense as this one, a 14.5-point spread in a top-25 SEC matchup is way too suspicious.

Texas has proven it can dominate on the road, expect them to win, cover and solidify their place as a top team in the nation.

Pick: Texas -14.5

---

No. 2 Ohio State (-3.5) @ No. 3 Oregon

The defining matchup of the season so far features No. 2 Ohio State heading West to face No. 3 Oregon in a clash of two unbeaten powerhouses. The winner of this game could very well be the new No. 1 team in the country come Sunday morning.

Ohio State’s offense is explosive, averaging over 500 yards and 46 points per game. Complemented by the nation’s No. 1 defense, which has allowed the fewest points and yards in college football, the Buckeyes seem nearly flawless.

Oregon, however, brings a stout defense, ranking 10th in total yards allowed and 11th in sacks. Transfer quarterback Dillon Gabriel has been solid, throwing 11 touchdowns in the Ducks’ five wins. While Oregon’s offense hasn’t been overwhelming, it’s been effective.

This game will likely be won in the trenches, and Ohio State’s offensive line and defensive front are more than capable of controlling the pace. Oregon’s defense is solid, so they should keep this game close. However, the Buckeyes’ offense should rise to the occasion and pull away late to win by a touchdown or more.

Pick: Ohio State -3.5 (Over 54.5)

---

No. 9 Ole Miss @ No. 13 LSU

Saturday night in Death Valley will showcase an SEC showdown between two top-15 teams, as Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels take on Brian Kelly’s LSU Tigers. The Rebels feature a high powered, top five offense, averaging 44 points per game. Quarterback Jaxson Dart and wide receiver Tre Harris have developed a dangerous chemistry, connecting for an SEC leading 800 yards and five touchdowns so far this season.

After losing their fifth consecutive season opener, the Tigers have rebounded with four straight wins. Quarterback Grant Nussmeier has been a standout, amassing 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns, maintaining the Tigers' reputation of a powerful passing attack.

LSU may have a legitimate offense, but their defense has been a liability. Meanwhile, Ole Miss has been rock solid on both sides of the ball, ranking in the top 15 for yards allowed and third in points allowed.

Despite dropping a close one to Kentucky, the Rebels are still a powerhouse and should dominate every aspect of this game. LSU’s No. 13 ranking is inflated, thanks to a soft schedule and a string of upsets across the Power 4.

Ole Miss could potentially score and win by 100 points, covering the 3.5 easily. Also, the last five matchups between these teams have combined for 413 points—an average of about 83 points per game.

Pick: Ole Miss -3.5 & Over 63.5

If you have a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit https://www.pacouncil.com/helpline/ to get the help you need today.

Joseph Granton is a fourth-year broadcast journalism major. To contact him, email jlg6619@psu.edu.