Opening Saturday for the 2023 College Football season is almost here, and many bettors have already taken advantage of season-long futures betting odds.
Popular bets include over/under for team wins and predicting conference winners. However, it can be risky to crown a conference winner before the season even begins.
For example, the Florida State Seminoles are currently listed at (+175) to win the ACC Championship. The ACC is known for its top-heavy competition, with Clemson and FSU ranked 8th and 9th, respectively, in the AP and Coaches Polls.
Choosing a winner between these two teams is much more challenging when they face off at the end of the season. That’s why betting on a team to make their conference championship game is a more precise option.
In most cases, plus money is essential when making futures bets and props. However, there are exceptions. Let’s take a look at some underdog teams with odds to make their conference championship and potentially challenge favorites like the Clemson Tigers (+105) to win the ACC. By investing (-200), we can play it safer if desired.
Doc’s Sports provides expert college football picks for every game on our college football predictions page.
Betting Odds to Make the ACC Championship Game
- Florida State: -200
- Clemson: -200
- North Carolina: +400
- Louisville: +400
- Miami: +800
- Pitt: +900
- NC State: +900
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
We have already discussed the ACC and mentioned Clemson and Florida State. The Clemson Tigers are the more favorable betting option here, as they are nearly even money to win the conference compared to FSU’s (+175) odds.
This year, Clemson will host the Noles and the North Carolina Tar Heels. UNC poses a threat with quarterback Drake Maye, who is NFL-ready. However, for just (-200), I believe Clemson will defeat at least one of these opponents while dominating the rest of the ACC.
Pick: Bet on Clemson to make the ACC Championship
Betting Odds to Make the Big 12 Championship Game
- Texas: -230
- Oklahoma: +130
- Kansas State: +240
- Texas Tech: +500
- TCU: +600
- Baylor: +650
- UCF: +750
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
The Big 12 is expected to be highly competitive in 2023, with five teams in the Coaches Poll Top 25. Although the Texas Longhorns are favored at (-230), I have doubts about their ability to come out on top.
The TCU Horned Frogs, who made the National Championship game last season, look enticing at 6 to 1. However, most of their significant conference games will be played on the road this year.
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have an advantageous schedule, as they don’t have to face Oklahoma and host games against Texas and Kansas State. Taking them at 5 to 1 could be a worthwhile flyer.
Nevertheless, the best bet is on the Oklahoma Sooners. They have a favorable schedule, skipping games against Kansas State and Texas Tech. Their matchup against Texas will be on neutral ground, and they will have a bye week beforehand.
Pick: Bet on Oklahoma to make the Big 12 Championship
Betting Odds to Make the Conference USA Championship Game
- Western Kentucky: -210
- Liberty: -170
- Middle Tennessee: +190
- Louisiana Tech: +325
- UTEP: +380
- New Mexico State: +1000
- FIU: +2800
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
The Liberty Flames have been consistently improving and are now playing in Conference USA. They’ve proven themselves against tough opponents like BYU and Arkansas, narrowly losing to Virginia Tech and Wake Forest last season.
Despite being in a weaker conference, the Flames have made significant strides and deserve consideration at (-170) odds.
Pick: Bet on Liberty to make the Conference USA Championship
Betting Odds to Make the Pac-12 Championship Game
- USC: -160
- Washington: +125
- Oregon: +130
- Utah: +275
- UCLA: +400
- Oregon State: +600
- Washington State: +1600
- Colorado: +4000
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
Although the Oregon Ducks fell just short of an undefeated regular season, they have a strong quarterback in Bo Nix. The attractive plus money may entice some, but beware of the sportsbooks’ tactics.
USC, the conference’s top team, has an easier schedule and talented players, including quarterback Caleb Williams. Investing slightly more may be worth it.
Pick: Bet on USC to make the Pac-12 Championship
In Conclusion
Place your bets now to enjoy the majority of the 2023 college football regular season. While some picks may seem chalky, remember that many of your futures bets likely offer plus money. Take a shot at favorites to play in their conference championship games.
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