College football fans, it’s finally here—playoff time! Normally, we wait until New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day to dive into the postseason action. But not this year. With the new 12-team playoff format, the excitement starts earlier. We’re kicking things off with first-round matchups, home-field advantages, and everything in between. And guess what? Thanks to the immortal Ben Rasa, who we’re basically tailing, we’re cooking up a parlay for the Saturday slate. In our College Football Playoff expert picks, Ben brings the heat!
Let’s pick our favorite sides or totals, string them together, and aim for a plus-money ticket.
Game 1: SMU vs. Penn State
- Spread: Penn State -9
- Total: 54 points
We’re starting with the over at 54 points. SMU has been one of my favorite teams all season, and while they face a significant step up in competition against Penn State, their fast-paced play (19th in seconds per play) should help them move the ball and rack up points. Even in their ACC Championship loss to Clemson, they found ways to score. Jennings has been stellar this year, and I expect him to keep it going here.
On the other side, Penn State’s methodical pace (105th in seconds per play) has sped up in competitive games, and their offense is averaging a healthy 6.7 yards per play. They’ll have success against SMU’s defense, especially in a pace-up spot. This total feels attainable, so let’s lock in the over 54 as the first leg of our parlay.
Game 2: Clemson vs. Texas
- Spread: Texas -6.5
- Total: 51.5 points
For this game, we’re going with the under at 51.5 points. Texas’ defense is elite, ranking first in the country in several key metrics: 3.8 yards per play, 3.1 yards per rush, and 5.1 yards per pass attempt. They also excel in takeaways and sacks, meaning Clemson’s QB Klubnik will face relentless pressure all game.
On the flip side, Texas’ offense isn’t overwhelming, and Clemson’s defense should hold its own. I expect a slower-paced, grind-it-out game, potentially ending in a 24-14 type of score. That’s why the under is the move for the second leg of our parlay.
Game 3: Ohio State vs. Tennessee
- Spread: Ohio State -7
We’re taking Ohio State -7 for the final leg. Tennessee’s offense, led by underclassman QB Nico, has struggled against strong competition. Against elite defenses like Georgia and Florida, Nico couldn’t produce passing touchdowns. Ohio State’s defense will likely shut him down as well.
Offensively, Ohio State has the weapons to control this game. If they limit mistakes and lean on their deep receiving corps and running game, they should comfortably cover the spread. Ohio State is built for a deep playoff run, and it starts here.
CFB Playoff Parlay Pick Recap
Here’s our 3-leg playoff parlay:
- Over 54 points in SMU vs. Penn State
- Under 51.5 points in Clemson vs. Texas
- Ohio State -7 against Tennessee
This nearly 6-to-1 ticket is a fun sweat for Saturday’s games. Betting isn’t easy, but it’s always a thrill to string together a winning parlay.
