Best Picks for Week 7 of the 2025 College Football Season

Best Moneyline Pick: Illinois (+500) vs. Ohio State

Illinois comes into Week 7 as a big underdog to No. 1 Ohio State. The Buckeyes are opening around –15.5, making Illinois a +500 moneyline. That’s steep, but there’s reason to believe Illinois can stay in this game or even steal one.

Illinois has shown flashes on offense, especially in big spots. Their quarterback has been efficient and their run game can grind out yards when needed. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s defense has allowed some big plays this season. In past matchups, Illini have kept it within a couple of scores more often than not.

This is a classic dog play: you risk $100 to get $500. Given that many sportsbooks have inflated favorite pricing, Illinois has value on the moneyline. If Ohio State’s offense slips or the Illini find rhythm, this ticket pays big.

Best Spread Pick: Alabama (–3) vs. Missouri

Alabama is favored by about 3 points over Missouri. That spread is interesting because Missouri has talent but lacks consistency. The Tide have a powerful defense and balanced offense, giving them the tools to cover tight lines.

Missouri tends to play better in certain quarters but struggles when facing disciplined defenses. Alabama’s defensive line is among the best in stopping explosive runs. Also, the Tide have covered in durable fashion in close games this season. Against a team that can threaten in flashes but may sag late, taking Alabama –3 is a smart spread play.

If you’re scanning college football lines this week, this one stands out as a sharp spread to lean.

Best Totals: Indiana vs. Oregon – Over 55.5

The Indiana–Oregon game draws plenty of attention. Oregon is one of the favorites at around –7.5. But the total listed for the game is about 55.5, which looks workable.

Oregon’s offense is explosive, often producing big plays and quick drives. Indiana, likewise, has shown the ability to light up defenses through the air. In their recent matchups, this kind of game has often beaten the over. With minimal weather risk, taking the over feels like the right move.

If both offenses fire, this one could creep toward 60+ points. That gives you some cushion. For bettors watching live college football flows and betting odds movement, this totals bet has upside.

Our Parlay Picks

Safer Parlay: Alabama –3, Oregon –7.5, Over 55.5 in Indiana/Oregon

This three-leg parlay picks two favorites and one totals bet. Alabama covering feels legitimate. Oregon –7.5 taps into their offensive dominance. The Over 55.5 gives you upside if both sides hit. Together this ticket leans toward +500 to +650 depending on the book.

The mix of spreads and totals also hedges against one leg falling flat. It’s not crazy risky, but still juicy enough to make the week fun.

Riskier Parlay: Illinois Moneyline, Missouri +3, Over 55.5 in Indiana/Oregon

If you want to swing big, this one leans heavy on underdogs. Illinois moneyline gives a big payout if they pull the upset. Missouri +3 is backable in its own right, and mixing in the high total gives you exposure to offensive fireworks.

This parlay may hit closer to +1200 or more depending on line adjustments. It’s not for the faint of heart — but if one underdog hits and the over fires, you’re looking at a monster return.

Final Whistle

Week 7 is loaded with high-stakes matchups and shifting betting odds. On the board already, you’ve got Illinois against Ohio State, Alabama vs Missouri, and a high-scoring clash in Indiana–Oregon. Spread, moneyline, and totals value is available, especially if you catch lines early. Watch how college football odds move, track line shopping across online sports betting apps, and adjust when you see early market shifts. Throw in a solid safer parlay or take a stab at the riskier card, but always keep smart bankroll discipline at the forefront.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.