4 Best College Football Betting Sites & Winning Strategies For College Football Betting

Last updated: July 4, 2023

Online college football betting has become increasingly popular among sports enthusiasts, providing an engaging way to take part in the action while potentially earning some money on the side. With numerous legal and licensed online sportsbooks available, fans of NCAA football can easily access a wide range of betting options, from choosing winners to predicting point spreads. As more states in the USA legalize online sports betting, the market continues to grow, offering an extensive variety of betting sites to cater to every type of bettor.

Understanding the basics of college football betting is essential for first-time participants who want to maximize their experience. More seasoned bettors can also benefit from refining their strategies and staying informed about NCAA teams, conferences, and seasonal events. It’s important to be aware of the legality and safety aspects of online college football betting and ensure that all transactions are conducted through trusted platforms. Additionally, bettors should compare college football to other sports betting options to determine the best fit for their preferences and skills.

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Key Takeaways

  • Online college football betting is a popular way for fans to engage with the sport, offering numerous betting options.
  • Familiarizing oneself with the basics and understanding NCAA teams, conferences, and seasonal events is crucial to a successful betting experience.
  • Prioritize legality, safety, and comparing various sports betting options when participating in online college football betting.

Top Online College Football Betting Sites

In recent years, online sports betting has gained popularity, and with the rise of college football, bettors have been searching for the top online college football betting sites. In this section, we will cover some of the most reputable and user-friendly websites in the industry.

BetMGM

BetMGM’s coverage of college football is top-notch! This operator appeals to bettors by offering a reliable sportsbook app and desktop version with competitive odds, numerous betting lines on college football games and the option to place in-play bets. Although player stats are not offered, you can watch college football games live through the streaming option.

Bonuses are another valuable characteristic of BetMGM, especially if you have an acquaintance who shares your passion for college football. In that case, this sportsbook will reward you for successful recruitment with a $50 Refer a Friend Bonus.

Pros:

  • Legitimate sportsbook
  • Generous welcome bonus
  • Comprehensive sportsbook app 
  • A large number of college football betting markets

Cons:

  • Customer service could be better
  • High juice

Caesars

Caesars ranks as one of the best US sportsbooks, and one foundation of that reputation is the exclusive coverage of college football. Registered bettors can place parlay bets by combining various college football games with attractive betting lines. 

Caesars covers special college football events, such as the playoffs, with dedicated bonuses and competitive odds. Moreover, new users can wager on the regular season college football matches by taking advantage of the sign-up offer of a 100% match on a first bet up to $1,250, functioning as a safety net for the initial wager.

Pros:

  • Frequent bonuses and odds boosts
  • VIP club with multiple benefits
  • Allows same-game parlays
  • User-friendly site

Cons:

  • Slow withdrawals
  • App lags at times

DraftKings

DraftKings is the place to be for college football fans. The coverage is top-notch, with regular matches and compatible odds. Bettors can create Same Parlay bets or use the slick app for in-play betting. You can enjoy college football live streaming, making it easier to follow the action in real-time. 

The intuitive design makes using different prop bets, totals, or college football futures appear seamless. The boost granted by the New Customer match deposit bonus of up to $1,000 applies to college football, and so do other available promotions.

Pros:

  • Competitive college football betting lines
  • Dedicated odds boost for college football
  • Encryption software
  • Low minimum withdrawal limits

Cons:

  • Slow withdrawals
  • Higher juice

BetRivers

BetRivers offers extensive college football coverage with early releases of odds and the option to stream certain games. If a wager on a highly anticipated college football game is not made ahead of the first whistle of the referees, bettors can place an in-play bet via the slick app or the website version of this emerging sportsbook.

Players preferring to bet on college football will receive a layer of protection through BetRiver’s welcome offer of a Second Chance Free Bet 100% match up to $500.

Pros:

  • Coverage of  US and international college football leagues
  • Live betting on college football games
  • Dedicated sportsbook app
  • Ongoing college football odds boost

Cons:

  • Cluttered website layout 
  • Mandatory KYC check 

FanDuel

FanDuel Sportsbook provides multiple features for a more exciting college football wagering experience. Apart from the broad coverage of college football games, bettors receive bonuses, boosted odds, and the option to make in-play bets, together with the standard catalog of conventional bet types. 

The college football odds offered at this online betting site mirror the betting lines of competing operators. FanDuel is a trustworthy sportsbook with a slick app and eye-catching $1,000 in Bonus Bets available for college football games. 

Pros:

  • Excellent range of sports leagues
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Reliable bet builder
  • DFS bets available 

Cons:

  • No VIP club 
  • Weak odds on same-game parlays 

All of these online sportsbooks provide bettors with an excellent selection of college football betting options and a secure environment for managing their accounts. Take your time to explore each website, ensuring that the features and benefits align with your preferences, and enjoy the exciting world of college football betting.

Understanding College Football Betting Basics

Point Spread

Point spreads are one of the most common types of bets in college football. In this betting market, oddsmakers assign a spread – a pre-determined number of points – to balance the odds between the favorite and the underdog. To win a point spread bet, the favorite must win by more points than the spread, while the underdog can either win outright or lose by fewer points than the spread. For example, if Team A is favored by 7 points, they must win by at least 8 points for a bet on them to be successful.

Moneyline

Moneyline bets are a simpler form of wagering on college football games, as they involve betting on which team will win outright, without any point spread involved. Odds are assigned based on each team’s perceived chances of winning, with the favorite typically having negative odds and the underdog having positive odds, such as -150 or +130. A bet on the favorite requires a higher stake to win a set amount, whereas a bet on the underdog has a greater potential payout with a smaller stake.

Over/Under

Over/Under bets, also known as totals, give bettors the opportunity to wager on the combined score of both teams in a college football game. Oddsmakers set a number, and bettors can choose whether the actual combined score will be over or under that number. For example, if the Over/Under line is set at 56.5, bets placed on the “Over” will win if the combined score is 57 or higher, while bets placed on the “Under” will win if the combined score is 56 or lower.

Props

Prop bets, or proposition bets, allow bettors to wager on various aspects of a college football game beyond the teams’ overall performance. These can include individual player statistics, such as passing yards, rushing yards, or touchdowns, as well as team performance measures like total first downs or successful field goals. Some prop bets might also focus on specific events happening during the game, such as which team will score first or whether there will be a safety.

Placing a Bet on NCAAF Games

Betting Types

When betting on college football games online, there are several types of wagers you can make. The three most popular options include:

  1. Point Spread: Here, the favorite team is given a points handicap, and the underdog is given points. You bet on whether the favorite can overcome the handicap or the underdog can keep the score within the points range.
  2. Moneylines: In this type of bet, you simply wager on which team will win the match. There’s no point spread involved; instead, you bet on the odds set by the sportsbook.
  3. Over/Under: Also known as the total, this type of bet focuses on the combined score of both teams. You bet on whether the total score will be over or under a predetermined number set by the sportsbook.

Choosing a Match and Team

The key to placing a successful bet on an NCAAF game is to first research the college football odds and matches available. Consider a few factors when choosing a match and team to bet on:

  • Team performance in the current season
  • Home vs. away games
  • Player injuries and how they may impact the game

Once you have gathered enough information, you should be able to make an informed decision on which team to bet on.

Using a Promo Code

Many online sportsbooks offer promotions and bonuses to attract new customers. When you sign up, be on the lookout for promo codes that can give you extra real money to bet with, such as a deposit bonus. For example, the sportsbook might match your initial deposit up to a certain percentage. Make sure to read and understand the terms and conditions for any bonus offers, as they may have specific requirements such as a minimum deposit amount or wagering requirements.

To place a bet on an NCAAF game online, ensure that you meet all legal age requirements and are in a location that allows online sports betting. With the right research, informed decisions, and smart use of promo codes, you can improve your chances of success when betting on college football games.

Maximizing Your Betting Experience

In this section, we will discuss different aspects of online college football betting that contribute to an enjoyable and successful betting experience. We will explore Bonuses and Rewards, Mobile Betting on IOS and Android, and Popular Betting Markets.

Bonuses and Rewards

One key aspect of enhancing your online college football betting experience is taking advantage of available bonuses and rewards. Several sportsbooks offer attractive welcome bonuses for new customers, such as free bets, deposit bonuses, and risk-free bets. For example, some sportsbooks offer a 50% bonus up to $1,000 when you sign up and make your first deposit. Remember to use the appropriate promo code at the time of registration to claim your bonus.

Besides welcome bonuses, sportsbooks also offer ongoing rewards and promotions for existing users. To maximize your winnings, always stay informed about current promotions by checking the sportsbook’s website regularly or subscribing to their newsletter.

Mobile Betting on IOS and Android

Online college football betting is made even more convenient with mobile betting apps. Most reputable sportsbooks offer their services on both IOS and Android devices, so you can bet on your favorite team from anywhere, anytime. Mobile apps tend to have an easy-to-navigate layout, making it simple to find college football odds and place your bets.

Additionally, mobile betting offers a unique feature called “in-play betting” or “live betting“, allowing you to place bets during the game as odds change dynamically. This feature adds a whole new dimension to college football betting and can be an exciting way to engage with live games.

Popular Betting Markets

Understanding popular college football betting markets is essential for making informed bets. Here are some of the most common sports betting markets in college football:

  • Point Spreads: This is the most popular type of bet in college football. In a point spread bet, you are betting on the margin of victory. The sportsbook sets a point spread, and you need to decide if a team will win or lose by more than the spread set by the bookmaker.
  • Moneylines: A moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on which team will win the game. While there are no point spreads involved, moneyline odds vary depending on team strength.
  • Totals: Also known as over/under bets, totals involve betting on whether the combined score of both teams in a game will be over or under a predetermined number set by the sportsbook.
  • Props: Prop bets are wagers on specific events or outcomes within a game that don’t directly impact the final score, such as which player will score the first touchdown or how many passing yards a quarterback will have.
  • College Football Futures: In this type of bet, you are wagering on future events, like which team will win a conference or the national championship. Odds for college football futures can change throughout the season based on team performance.

By considering these aspects and exploring each popular betting market, you can make informed decisions and maximize your online college football betting experience.

Key College Football Teams and Conferences

Powerhouse Teams

The college football landscape is dominated by several powerhouse teams that consistently contend for national championships. Notable among these teams are the Alabama Crimson Tide and the LSU Tigers. Both of these teams have a long history of success and are renowned for producing top NFL talent.

  • Alabama Crimson Tide: Hailing from the University of Alabama, this team has multiple national championships under their belt and has produced numerous NFL stars. They are known for their strong defense and excellent coaching.
  • LSU Tigers: Representing Louisiana State University, the LSU Tigers have won multiple national championships and are known for their explosive offense. They have also produced a number of NFL stars over the years.

Popular College Football Conferences

College football is divided into various conferences, with some being more prominent than others. The most popular conferences tend to feature powerhouse teams and generate the most interest from fans and bettors alike.

  1. SEC (Southeastern Conference): This conference is known for its strong football tradition, featuring powerhouse teams like the Alabama Crimson Tide and LSU Tigers. The SEC has a reputation for aggressive defense and competitive games, making it a favorite among college football enthusiasts.
  2. Big Ten: Consisting of predominantly Midwestern universities, the Big Ten includes teams like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. This conference is known for its physical style of play and top-tier talent.
  3. ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference): The ACC is home to Clemson, Florida State, and Miami, among others. This conference is known for its exciting offensive play and producing NFL-caliber talent.
  4. Big 12: The Big 12 is comprised of teams like Oklahoma, Texas, and Oklahoma State. Known for high-scoring games and potent offenses, the Big 12 is a fan favorite for those who enjoy explosive play.

Making Deposits and Withdrawals

Deposit Options

Online college football betting sites provide you with a wide range of deposit options to fund your account quickly and securely. Some common payment methods include:

  • Credit Cards: Most sites accept major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. These are usually fast and easy ways to deposit money.
  • E-Wallets: Another popular option is using e-wallets such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill. E-wallets offer a secure and convenient way to transfer funds online.
  • Debit Cards: Alternatively, you can also use your debit card to make deposits. Debit card transactions typically process quickly and securely.

Withdrawal Methods

When it comes to withdrawing your winnings, most online college football betting sites provide similar withdrawal methods as the deposit options. Some popular methods include:

  • Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are often available for withdrawals, though it’s essential to check the specific sportsbook’s terms and conditions before choosing this option.
  • E-Wallets: To withdraw your funds securely and promptly, you can choose e-wallets like PayPal, Neteller, or Skrill. These tend to be among the fastest and easiest withdrawal methods.
  • Debit Cards: Like with deposits, debit cards can also be used to withdraw your funds from online betting sites.

Keep in mind that withdrawal processing times and applicable fees may vary depending on the method you choose and the specific betting site’s policies. It’s important to always read the terms and conditions associated with withdrawals to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

Legality and Safety of College Football Betting

State-by-State Legalization

Betting on college football has gradually been gaining traction in the United States, with several states adopting legal frameworks to regulate the activity. While there is no federal law prohibiting betting on college football, the decision ultimately lies with individual states, as seen in the case of the PASPA ruling. As a result, the legality of online college football betting varies from state to state.

Some of the states where betting on college football is legal include:

  • Arizona (AZ)
  • Tennessee (TN)
  • Maryland (MD)
  • West Virginia (WV)
  • Wyoming (WY)

To place bets safely and legally, it is crucial to understand and adhere to the local laws and regulations of the state in which you are betting. Be sure to check if betting on the NCAAF is allowed in your state and follow the required legal age guidelines.

Secure and Trustworthy Platforms

Betting platforms have a responsibility to provide a secure and user-friendly experience for their patrons. When it comes to placing wagers on college football games, it’s essential to choose a reliable platform that ensures the safety of your personal information and funds. Several trusted NCAA football betting platforms are available for bettors, offering competitive odds and a broad range of betting markets.

When selecting a betting platform, some key aspects to consider are:

  • Security measures in place to protect your data and transactions
  • License and regulation from a reputable authority in the United States
  • User-friendly interface and ease of use
  • Availability of various betting markets and competitive odds
  • Transparency on rules, terms, and conditions

By adhering to these guidelines and doing your due diligence, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable casino betting experience while engaging with the exciting world of college football.

Seasonal Events and Championships

College Football Playoff

The NCAA football season is filled with exciting events and championships for fans and bettors alike. One of the most anticipated events each year is the College Football Playoff (CFP), where the top four teams in the U.S. compete for the national championship. The CFP was introduced in 2014 to replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) and has since become a major attraction for sports bettors.

The CFP selection process involves a 13-member committee that ranks the top 25 teams throughout the season, culminating in the announcement of the final top four in early December. The semifinal games are played at rotating bowl sites, with the winners advancing to the national championship game. Online sportsbooks like Odds Shark offer a wide range of betting options for the College Football Playoff, including point spreads, moneylines, and over/under totals.

Bowl Games

In addition to the CFP, there are numerous bowl games held throughout the U.S. from December to early January. These games provide additional betting opportunities for fans and bettors, as teams from various conferences face off in exciting matchups. Some of the most famous bowl games include the Rose Bowl, Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Cotton Bowl.

Different regulations apply to college football betting across different states, with some prohibiting bets on in-state college teams or events. It’s crucial to understand the laws and requirements in your area before placing wagers.

Online sportsbooks offer various betting options for bowl games as well, such as point spreads, moneylines, and over/under totals. Teasers are another popular betting option, allowing bettors to alter the point spreads in multiple games for a potentially higher payout, as described by Odds Shark. Additionally, futures bets can be placed on the winner of the College Football National Championship, with odds updated regularly throughout the season.

Comparing College Football vs. Other Sports Betting

NCAAF vs. NFL

College football (NCAAF) and the NFL both offer exciting sports betting opportunities, but there are some key differences to consider. First and foremost, the volume of games in NCAAF is much higher than the NFL. College football can have as many as 60 games in a day, while the NFL typically only has up to 16 games per week. This provides bettors with more options when it comes to selecting games to bet on.

Additionally, the level of competition and talent varies greatly in college football compared to the NFL. College teams can have significant talent disparities, which can result in more lopsided games and larger point spreads. In contrast, the NFL has a more level playing field, with closer games and tighter lines.

Lastly, NCAAF betting is heavily influenced by home field advantage, while the NFL is less so. College football teams often benefit from loud, passionate fan bases that give them a unique edge at home games.

NCAAF vs. Other Sports

Compared to other sports like baseball, basketball, golf, hockey, and soccer, college football betting has some unique aspects.

  • Baseball: College football betting differs from baseball in that it has a higher volume of games and larger point spreads. Additionally, college football features more variation in playing styles, as teams utilize different offensive and defensive schemes, which can impact the betting odds.
  • Basketball: While both college football and basketball have a large number of games and a wide range of talent levels, college football has a greater emphasis on home field advantage. Also, football games can be more weather-dependent, whereas basketball games are played indoors and have virtually no weather-related impact.
  • Golf: Golf betting is more individual-focused, with bettors placing bets on specific players, while college football betting revolves around team performance. Golf also requires bettors to have a deeper knowledge of specific players and courses, while college football betting relies more heavily on team dynamics, coaching strategy, and overall team strength.
  • Hockey: Similar to basketball, hockey games have a relatively consistent environment, as they are played indoors. College football’s outdoor playing conditions can significantly impact game outcomes. Additionally, hockey odds are usually based on moneyline betting, while college football typically uses point spread betting.
  • Soccer: Soccer has similarities with college football in terms of home field advantage and playing conditions. However, due to lower scoring rates in soccer, goal-based betting (such as over/under bets) is more common than point spread betting. Also, soccer’s global audience can lead to a wider range of betting options, while college football is primarily focused on the US market.

It’s important for bettors to consider these differences when comparing college football betting to other sports. Different sports require varying degrees of research and analysis, as well as specific knowledge of the sport in question. Always remember to select a reputable betting site with reliable customer service and a user-friendly experience to ensure a positive betting experience.

WINNING STRATEGIES WHEN BETTING ON COLLEGE FOOTBALL

When people think about betting on football, their attention immediately turns to the NFL. The NFL has fewer teams, consistent player rosters, and fewer changes in how teams play. Because of this, there is a lot of data to analyze, which improves the odds of placing a winning bet. But the NFL is much harder to bet on because anything can happen at any time.

College football, on the other hand, provides bettors who know what they are looking for opportunities to make a lot of money. Additionally, it is much easier to find games and bets that fit neatly into the conditions that bettors set. So, what strategies can you use to maximize your winnings on college football?

Betting on Overs When it Is Hot

Although most bettors know they need to check the weather before placing a bet, they often overlook the importance of temperature on game outcomes. In many cases, defenders slow down as the game progresses and temperature only makes things harder. This is why games played in temperatures of 80 and over are high scoring and dominated by high-scoring offenses.

Although sportsbooks will take this into account, you can still dig around to find some hidden gems.

Betting on the Underdog

Bettors have their biases, with one of the most prevalent ones being towards the favorite. It is common to see about 70% of all bets placed on a game placed for the favorite.

Another common bias is towards the home team. The home team is always overvalued by bettors and even though it can be profitable, the home advantage is not as big a factor in college football as many people make it out to be.

Betting on the underdog is all about weighing different circumstances and taking advantage of them. For example, if you have a favorite visiting an underdog, people’s bias will push them to place bets on the stronger team that might be the favorite. They do not take into account the effect of being on the road that, combined with the home advantage of the underdog, makes the underdog the favorite and these people end up losing.

Bet on Unknown Games

The colleges with the best record against the spread are actually those that a lot of people don’t pay attention to. This is because most sportsbooks don’t focus too much on them and this leaves opportunities for bettors to take advantage.

The same can be said for many of the smaller teams in the NCAA. If you focus on a smaller number of games and always source for the best College Football Odds at Odds Shark, it is possible to find some games you can take advantage of.

Find a Home Team with an Off Week

A team that has taken a week off is often better prepared because the coach takes the time to scheme. Additionally, the players are well-rested. In these circumstances, it is profitable to designate the home team as the favorite because these teams often score higher than other favorites.

College football is a tradition celebrated all over the United States as it gives viewers the chance to root for their colleges. For bettors, it can be the perfect opportunity to find hidden games, and, by using some winning strategies, win a lot of money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best apps for college football betting?

There are several high-quality apps available for betting on college football. Some of the top options include INQUIRERMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, as these offer user-friendly interfaces, attractive bonuses, and various betting markets. Make sure to check the eligibility and availability in your state before signing up to any app.

How do I understand betting lines?

Betting lines, or odds, represent the likelihood of an event happening and the amount of money you can win by placing a bet. They usually come in three formats: American, decimal, and fractional. Understanding betting lines is crucial for successfully placing bets and managing your bankroll. For detailed information about each format, consult a betting guide.

What are the most reliable predictions?

Reliable predictions are usually based on various factors such as team form, head-to-head statistics, injuries, weather conditions, and expert analysis. While no prediction is 100% accurate, using reputable websites and experts can increase the likelihood of success. Sites like RotoWire, ESPN, and SportsLine provide predictions, analysis, and advice from seasoned sports bettors and analysts.

Where can I find point spreads for the weekend?

Point spreads are available on popular sports betting websites, apps, and online sportsbooks. Make sure to check multiple sources to find the best lines and shop for the best odds. Keep in mind that point spreads can change throughout the week due to injuries or other factors, so staying up-to-date is crucial for successful betting.

Is betting on NCAA games legal?

Betting legality varies by state in the United States. With recent legalization trends, many states have regulated sports betting, allowing fans to bet on NCAA games legally. However, some states still have restrictions or prohibitions in place. Check your state’s specific regulations before engaging in any betting activities.

How to find trustworthy betting sites?

Finding a trustworthy betting site requires careful research and consideration. Start by looking for websites with strong reputations, user reviews, and proper licenses. The Odds Shark website offers a list of reputable college football betting sites. Pay attention to the deposit methods, customer support options, and overall user experience when choosing a site to place your bets.