The first-ever Big Ten matchup between No. 2 Ohio State and USC highlights the Week 9 college football schedule as the programs meet for the 25th time. The Buckeyes are 6.5-point favorites over the Trojans, according to the latest odds.
In the SEC, Florida visits Georgia in a rivalry that has seen the Bulldogs win the last five meetings. Georgia is a 12.5-point favorite with both teams coming off a bye. Top-ranked Miami travels to North Carolina as a 14-point favorite, marking Bill Belichick's first game against a No. 1 team. Other undefeated teams include No. 6 Utah, a 6.5-point favorite at Cincinnati, and No. 7 UCLA, favored by 22.5 points against Nevada.
Model Predictions
SportsLine's proven computer model, which entered Week 9 on a 68-59 run on top-rated picks, recommends Mississippi State (+20.5) to cover at No. 11 Texas. The model projects the Bulldogs to stay within the spread in over 70% of simulations, citing Texas quarterback Arch Manning's nine turnovers this season and the Longhorns' 3-9-1 against-the-spread record following a win since Manning became starter.
Another top pick: Oregon (-3.5) to cover at home against No. 20 Northwestern. The Ducks are projected to win by a touchdown, with the model forecasting over 160 scrimmage yards for the Oregon backfield duo of Jordon Davison and Dierre Hill. The Over on the 47.5-point total is also projected to hit 60% of the time.
Week 9 Notable Games
Other key matchups include Auburn at Ole Miss (-12.5), Clemson at Florida State (-6), South Carolina at Oklahoma (-4.5), and Notre Dame at Navy (+30.5). The full slate features games from Thursday, Oct. 29 through Saturday, Oct. 31, with odds subject to change.
