College Football Playoff Quarterfinals: Expert Picks and Betting Odds
The College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals are about to light up the gridiron with four huge matchups, all tied to some of the sport’s most iconic bowl games.
This year’s quarterfinals look like a can’t-miss event. Four teams that earned first-round byes are making their CFP debuts, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Each one is scrapping for a shot at the semifinals.
Let’s get into some predictions, game breakdowns, and what might actually happen in these much-hyped clashes.
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Ohio State vs. Miami: Cotton Bowl Showdown
The action starts with No. 2 Ohio State facing No. 10 Miami in the Cotton Bowl. Ohio State, last year’s champs, are 9.5-point favorites going in.
Miami has talent and maybe even a bit of an edge up front, but Ohio State’s offense just feels like too much. The Buckeyes have rolled through their 2025 schedule, and while Miami’s pass rush could stir things up, Ohio State seems set to make enough plays to pull out the win.
Key Matchup: Ohio State Offense vs. Miami Defense
Ohio State’s got a dynamic quarterback and a deep group of receivers—that’s going to be the main thing to watch. Miami’s defense will have to shake up Ohio State’s rhythm if they want a shot.
But honestly, the Buckeyes’ balance and depth might just be too much for Miami to handle.
Texas Tech vs. Oregon: Orange Bowl Clash
Thursday’s tripleheader gets rolling with No. 4 Texas Tech taking on No. 5 Oregon in the Orange Bowl. Texas Tech is the only underdog among the bye teams, and Oregon’s a slight favorite here.
This one feels like a chess match from start to finish, with both teams looking for big plays against some pretty tough defenses. Expect it to stay close, but Oregon quarterback Dante Moore could be the guy who makes the difference late.
Strategic Battle: Elite Defenses on Display
Both teams have serious defenses, so it’s going to be a tactical battle. Whoever can set up and hit those explosive plays will probably take it.
If Moore can deliver in the clutch, that might be what tips the scales for Oregon.
Indiana vs. Alabama: Rose Bowl Thriller
The Rose Bowl brings No. 1 Indiana against No. 9 Alabama. Indiana’s trying to keep their unbeaten streak alive.
Indiana’s defense has been lights out, but they’ve shown some cracks against big passing plays—right where Alabama excels. Both offenses can move the ball, so the total for this one feels a bit low. I wouldn’t call it a shootout, but it should be competitive and maybe even a bit higher-scoring than folks expect.
Offensive Fireworks: Indiana vs. Alabama
Indiana’s defense will get tested by Alabama’s passing game. On the flip side, Alabama’s defense has to keep Indiana’s balanced offense in check.
It’s probably going to come down to which team can cash in on their chances and avoid the big defensive mistakes.
Georgia vs. Ole Miss: Sugar Bowl Rematch
The quarterfinals wrap up with No. 3 Georgia meeting No. 6 Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl. These two already met in the regular season, with Georgia winning 43-35.
Since then, Georgia’s defense has taken things to another level—just 7.25 points allowed per game in their last four. Ole Miss basically needs to play perfect football to get past this defense and punch their ticket to the semis.
Defensive Dominance: Georgia’s Path to Victory
Georgia’s defense, under Glenn Schumann, has turned into a real force—maybe even national title-worthy. Ole Miss has to find a way to repeat their earlier offensive success, but that’s a tall order now.
Georgia’s defense just seems likely to make the big stops when it matters and help the Bulldogs move on.
Expert Picks and Predictions
Here’s what the CBS Sports experts are picking for the quarterfinals:
- Ohio State -9.5 over Miami
- Oregon -2.5 over Texas Tech
- Over 48.5 for Indiana vs. Alabama
- Georgia -6.5 over Ole Miss
Ohio State and Georgia are both expected to cover their spreads. Indiana vs. Alabama? That one’s projected to go over 48.5 points. Oregon’s favored, but it should be tight against Texas Tech.
The College Football Playoff quarterfinals are shaping up to be wild. Four huge matchups, all set in some of the sport’s most iconic bowl games, are right around the corner.
Fans should probably buckle up. Ohio State’s offense can light up the scoreboard, while Oregon always seems to have a trick or two ready.
Indiana’s chasing perfection, which feels like a long shot—unless you believe in magic. And Georgia? That defense can suffocate just about anyone.
Every game has its own twist. Honestly, it’s tough to predict how things will shake out, but that’s half the fun, isn’t it?
For more detailed analysis and expert picks, visit CBS Sports.
