- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Fresno State (0-0) at Kansas (0-0)
- When: Aug 23 2025, 6:30 PM
- Where: David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, KS
- Where to watch: FOX
- Last Meeting: No previous meeting
Fresno State vs Kansas Preview & Prediction
Spread: Kansas -14.0
Moneyline: Kansas -625
Total: 50.0
Fresno State Bulldogs Betting Outlook
Fresno State enters Saturday’s clash in Lawrence as a heavy underdog against Kansas (+14 spread, total 50), but the Bulldogs bring intrigue under center. Senior quarterback E.J. Warner, son of Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, won the starting job after edging out Carson Conklin and Jayden Mandel in a tight battle.
Warner, who transferred from Rice, has plenty of experience but also a history of mistakes — ranking near the top nationally in interceptions over each of the last three years (37 in total). What he does bring is poise, leadership, and confidence, traits Fresno State coach Matt Entz emphasized as critical for stabilizing an offense still searching for rhythm.
Defensively, Fresno State will need to force turnovers and limit explosive plays if they hope to hang around in a tough road environment.
Kansas Jayhawks Betting Outlook
Kansas heads into 2025 with renewed expectations after an inconsistent 5-7 campaign last season. The Jayhawks are led by sixth-year quarterback Jalon Daniels, who posted 2,454 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and six rushing scores last season despite missing time due to injuries. Durability has been his biggest concern, but when healthy, he elevates KU’s attack to one of the Big 12’s most dangerous.
Cole Ballard, son of Colts GM Chris Ballard, is now the backup and a clear sign that Kansas has depth at the position. Beyond the quarterbacks, Kansas will showcase the first phase of a $450 million renovation at David Booth Memorial Stadium, giving this opener a true “event” feel.
Coach Lance Leipold stressed focus amid the hype, pointing out that the Jayhawks need to prove they can start fast after last year’s bowl miss.
Prediction and Gambling Angle
Fresno State’s Warner brings an interesting storyline, but turnovers have been his kryptonite. Against a Kansas defense eager to pressure, mistakes could snowball quickly. Daniels, if healthy, gives the Jayhawks a significant edge both in the air and on the ground.
Final Score: Kansas 34, Fresno State 17
Lean: Kansas -14.0
Total: Over 50.0
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
