Ohio State and Texas: Betting Favorites for the 2025 College Football National Championship
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Texas Longhorns have emerged as the leading favorites to claim the national championship. Both programs have demonstrated exceptional performance in recent seasons, and their strong recruiting efforts have positioned them at the forefront of preseason predictions.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Defending Champions with a Strong Roster
The Ohio State Buckeyes enter the 2025 season as the defending national champions, having secured the College Football Playoff (CFP) title in January. Their victory underscored their dominance in the sport and set high expectations for the upcoming season.
Key Players and Departures
Ohio State boasts a roster filled with talent, including standout players such as wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and defensive back Caleb Downs. However, the team faces challenges with the departure of several key players to the NFL and the loss of both offensive and defensive coordinators. Despite these changes, the Buckeyes remain a formidable force, with new talent stepping up to fill the gaps.
Coaching Changes and Strategic Adjustments
The offseason has seen significant changes in Ohio State’s coaching staff, with Matt Patricia replacing Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator and Brian Hartline stepping in for Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator. These adjustments bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the team, aiming to maintain the program’s high standards and competitive edge.
Betting Odds and Expectations
According to various sportsbooks, Ohio State is favored to repeat as national champions. BetMGM lists the Buckeyes at +500 to win the 2025-26 CFP title, reflecting their status as preseason favorites. This confidence is further supported by their strong recruiting class and the presence of key returning players.
Texas Longhorns: Rising Contenders Under Steve Sarkisian
The Texas Longhorns have experienced a resurgence under head coach Steve Sarkisian, moving from a 5-7 record in his first season to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances. The team’s impressive 13-3 season and 28 players drafted over three years highlight the program’s upward trajectory.
Quarterback Transition: Quinn Ewers to Arch Manning
A significant development for Texas is the transition at quarterback. Quinn Ewers, who was drafted in the seventh round by the Miami Dolphins, departs after a successful tenure. His replacement, Arch Manning, steps into the spotlight as the new leader of the offense. Manning’s arrival brings renewed optimism and high expectations for the Longhorns’ offense.
Recruiting and Depth
Sarkisian’s recruiting efforts have bolstered Texas’ roster depth, with 27 new recruits joining the program. This influx of talent enhances the team’s competitiveness and provides a solid foundation for the upcoming season. The Longhorns’ defense remains a strong point, ranking in the top four nationally in multiple defensive categories.
Betting Odds and Outlook
Texas enters the 2025 season as one of the top contenders for the national championship. ESPN BET lists the Longhorns at +450 to win the title, making them the preseason favorite. This positioning reflects the program’s recent success and the anticipation surrounding Manning’s leadership.
Comparative Analysis: Ohio State vs. Texas
| Aspect | Ohio State Buckeyes | Texas Longhorns |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Record | National Champions | 13-3, CFP Semifinalist |
| Key Departures | NFL Draft, Coordinators | QB Quinn Ewers |
| Key Returnees | WR Jeremiah Smith, DB Caleb Downs | QB Arch Manning, Strong Defense |
| Betting Odds | +500 (BetMGM) | +450 (ESPN BET) |
| Coaching Changes | New Coordinators | Continuity with Sarkisian |
| Recruiting Class | Strong, Top-Tier Talent | 27 New Recruits |
Both Ohio State and Texas have the talent, coaching, and resources to vie for the national championship. Ohio State’s experience and recent success provide a solid foundation, while Texas’ resurgence and the addition of Manning inject new energy into the program. The matchup between these two powerhouse programs promises to be a defining feature of the 2025 season.
