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Two AL Central rivals will face off with a trip to the American League Championship Series on the line.

Let’s check out the Guardians-White Sox divisional series odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of Oct. 2, along with what to know about the matchup.

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  Series Winner

Guardians: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total)
White Sox: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total)

  Correct Score

Guardians win 3-1: +320 (bet $10 to win $42 total)
Guardians win 3-2: +330 (bet $10 to win $43 total)
White Sox win 3-2: +425 (bet $10 to win $52.50 total)
White Sox win 3-1: +450 (bet $10 to win $55 total)
Guardians win 3-0: +500 (bet $10 to win $60 total)
White Sox win 3-0: +750 (bet $10 to win $85 total)

  Game 1 (Oct. 3)

Spread: Guardians -1.5
Moneyline: Guardians -157, White Sox +130
O/U: 7

Here’s what to know about the Guardians-White Sox odds:

Season Series: This series won’t struggle from a lack of familiarity between the two teams. The Guardians and White Sox emerge from the same division, and in 13 matchups this season, Cleveland won seven and Chicago won six — about as even as it can get. The White Sox come into this series with momentum, however, having swept the favored Astros in the wild-card round. Now, they are an underdog once again. Is another upset in store? 

Playoff History: With that series victory over the Astros, the White Sox got their first playoff win since 2005 — the same year they last won the World Series. As for the Guardians, they’ve made it to the postseason in three of the last four years. They lost in the wild card last year, the ALCS in 2024 and the ALDS in 2022. Their last World Series appearance came in 2016, a seven-game loss to the Cubs.

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Another AL East rivalry matchup awaits in the American League Division Series.

Let’s check out the Rays-Yankees divisional series odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of Oct. 2, along with what to know about the matchup.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

  Series Winner

Yankees: -120 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
Rays: +100 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)

  Correct Score

Rays win 3-2: +370 (bet $10 to win $47 total)
Yankees win 3-1: +370 (bet $10 to win $47 total)
Rays win 3-1: +390 (bet $10 to win $49 total)
Yankees win 3-2: +390 (bet $10 to win $49 total)
Rays win 3-0: +600 (bet $10 to win $70 total)
Yankees win 3-0: +600 (bet $10 to win $70 total)

  Game 1 Winner (Oct. 3)

Spread: Yankees -1.5
Moneyline: Rays -136, Yankees +113
O/U: 7

Here’s what to know about the Rays-Yankees odds:

Season Series: The Yankees dispatched of one division rival in the wild-card round, and now they get another in the divisional round. New York and Tampa Bay went down to the wire in the AL East race during the regular season, but the Rays ended up pulling away in the end, winning the division by five games. However, in their 13 regular-season games, the Rays won seven and the Yankees won six. However, New York won four of the last five matchups between the two. On top of that, the Yankees dominated the Red Sox in the wild card, outscoring Boston 18-2 without Aaron Judge in the lineup. Can Tampa Bay slow down the Yankee train?

Playoff History: The Yankees have made the playoffs in nine of the last 10 years and have made it past the wild card in eight of those appearances. They won three straight World Series between 1998 and 2000, and have made it to at least the ALCS 10 times since 2001. They last won it all in 2009. As for the Rays, they last made it to the World Series in 2020, falling to the Dodgers. They have one other World Series berth, back in 2008, when they fell to the Phillies.

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UConn was picked to win the Big East by the league’s coaches on Thursday with defending champion St. John’s the second choice.

The Huskies, who made their third national championship game appearance in the last four seasons, are led by preseason Big East Player of the Year selection Silas Demary Jr.  As a junior in the 2025-2026 season, Demary averaged 10.1 points, 5.9 assists and 4.5 rebounds for the Huskies last season following a transfer from Georgia and the SEC.

The Red Storm received two first-place votes. St. John’s is coming off two consecutive Big East regular-season and tournament titles — the first team ever to do that. Rick Pitino’s squad made the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999. They are led by preseason first-team conference selections Tounde Yessoufou and Ian Jackson.

Villanova, Marquette and Providence were the next three in the preseason poll. Xavier was picked sixth. Creighton, led by new head coach Alan Huss, was seventh.

DePaul, which had its best finish in the Big East a season ago, was chosen eighth with Seton Hall and Georgetown behind them.

Butler, under first-year coach Ronald Nored, was the 11th choice. Here are the full Big East rankings:

Record: 16-16 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 16-18 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 21-12 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 16-16 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 16-18 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 15-18 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 15-18 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 12-20 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 24-9 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 30-7 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 34-6 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

The Big East held its annual media day at a local New York hotel instead of Madison Square Garden, which has hosted the event every year since 2014.

The event was presided over by new conference commissioner Tim Brosnan, who took over for Val Ackerman. Ackerman, who was the head of the conference from 2013-26, retired at the end of August.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Source

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UConn was in its familiar place — atop the preseason poll in the Big East.

The Huskies have won the regular-season conference title 25 times and the Big East Tournament 24, including both each year since UConn returned in 2021. Geno Auriemma’s team, which was a unanimous choice, is led by preseason Big East Player of the Year Sarah Strong. The junior won the conference’s Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year last season. She was the AP Player of the Year last season.

UConn went 38-1, including a perfect 20-0 mark in conference play last season.

UConn lost two starters to the WNBA this offseason, with guard Azzi Fudd selected No. 1 overall, and forward Serah Williams going in the third round. (Photo by Dakota Moyer/UConn Athletics/University Images via Getty Images)

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Villanova was picked second as the Wildcats are coming off their fifth consecutive 20-win season in which they reached the Big East Tournament title game. They are led by Jasmine Bascoe, who averaged 18.9 points and 4.0 rebounds last season. The Wildcats open their season against Notre Dame in Rome as part of the Eternal City Tip-Off.

Creighton, St. John’s and Seton Hall rounded out the top five.

Marquette was sixth with Providence, Georgetown and Xavier next. Butler, led by new head coach Maria Marchesano, and DePaul rounded out the poll. Here are the full Big East rankings:

Record: 8-24 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 12-19 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 11-19 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 14-17 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 15-18 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 18-12 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 19-13 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 22-12 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 16-15 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 25-8 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

Record: 38-1 (2025-2026)

Previous ranking: N/A

The Big East held its annual media day at a local New York hotel instead of Madison Square Garden, which has hosted the event every year since 2014.

The event was presided over by new conference commissioner Tim Brosnan, who took over for Val Ackerman. Ackerman, who was the head of the conference from 2013-26, retired at the end of August.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Can Kamario Taylor keep it rolling against No. 7 Alabama, or will Kalen DeBoer’s history of defeating ranked teams continue? Will Jon Sumrall and No. 8 Florida continue to climb the rankings?

In the Big Ten, No. 14 Iowa’s stingy defense will try to finally stop Ohio State superstar Jeremiah Smith, while No. 18 USC looks to bounce back against Washington.

Elsewhere, Minnesota hosts Michigan on “Big Noon Kickoff,” and Darian Mensah aims to continue building his Heisman Trophy case against Clemson. 

Week 5 brings another exciting slate of college football games, and we’re breaking down our straight-up picks and the matchups to watch closely throughout the weekend.

	RJ Young	Laken Litman	Michael Cohen	Ben Portnoy
Last Week	8-2	7-3	8-2	7-3
Overall	28-10	25-13	27-11	26-12

  No. 16 Mississippi State vs. No. 7 Alabama

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer owns the best record among active coaches against AP Top 25 teams as he is 20-6. (Photo by Jason Clark/Getty Images)

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When: Saturday, noon ET (ABC)
Where: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, Mississippi
Line: Alabama -6

RJ Young: Alabama
Kalen DeBoer has been spectacular on the road against Associated Press Top 25 teams with a 9-2 record, including 4-0 on the road during his Alabama tenure.

Laken Litman: Mississippi State
This game isn’t at night, but you know Starkville will be electric and rocking with those cowbells. Quarterback Kamario Taylor puts on a show at home, and the Bulldogs beat the Tide for the first time since 2007.

Michael Cohen: Alabama
There are plenty of bones worth picking with Kalen DeBoer, but his record against AP Top 25 teams on the road isn’t one of them. The Crimson Tide get it done amid the Cowbells. 

Ben Portnoy: Mississippi State
Mississippi State fans have been waiting a decade for another moment like this. Kamario Taylor is the best player this program has seen this side of Dak Prescott, and the cowbells will be out in full force on Saturday. As good as quarterback Keelon Russell has been, Alabama’s defense continues to give me pause. Also, my Mississippi State grad wife will give me hell if I don’t pick the Bulldogs.

  Minnesota vs. Michigan

Kyle Whittingham sustained his first loss as Michigan head football coach in Week 4 against Iowa. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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When: Saturday, noon ET (FOX)
Where: Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Line: Michigan -5.5

Young: Minnesota
P.J. Fleck’s Golden Gophers look like they’re rounding into a Big Ten title contender after a win against Washington last weekend.

Litman: Minnesota
P.J. Fleck literally wiped the blood off linebacker Maverick Baranowski’s mouth and smeared it on his face after beating Washington last week. The Golden Gophers’ only loss so far is to a hot Mississippi State team, and they can catch Michigan while they’re down at home.

Cohen: Minnesota
Even though Michigan has a 3-1 overall record, it feels like there is an undercurrent of dysfunction for the Wolverines. Expect the Gophers to score a second consecutive upset. 

Portnoy: Michigan
I’m about as down on Michigan as can be, but quarterback Bryce Underwood showed something passing the ball last week against Iowa. The Wolverines didn’t score the points to show for it, but I think the offense is getting more comfortable. I’ll take Kyle Wittingham’s bunch to win the Little Brown Jug.

  No. 14 Iowa vs. No. 5 Ohio State

When: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET (CBS)
Where: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, Iowa
Line: Ohio State -14

Young: Ohio State
The Buckeyes’ offense will prove too much for Iowa’s otherwise stifling defense.

Litman: Ohio State
Iowa leads the country in scoring defense — giving up just eight points per game, but it’s not smart to pick against Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith at this point.

Cohen: Ohio State
We’ve seen this game before: A highly ranked Ohio State team against a surging Iowa squad. And the result is almost always a blowout in favor of the Buckeyes. 

Portnoy: Ohio State
Weird things happen at Kinnick Stadium, but I think the Buckeyes’ offense is too much to overcome here. I’ve liked what I’ve seen from the Hawkeyes and quarterback Hank Brown. I just don’t think Iowa has the firepower to keep up in this one.

  No. 25 Missouri vs. No. 8 Florida

Jon Sumrall earned his most significant victory in his short tenure as Florida head coach when the Gators beat Ole Miss last week. (Photo by Dustin Markland/Getty Images)

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When: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC)
Where: Memorial Stadium, Columbia, Missouri
Line: Florida -5.5

Young: Florida
Florida has scored at least 40 points in every game it’s played this season, and Buster Faulkner looks like the best offensive coordinator in the country. 

Litman: Florida
Going with the Gators, who are a hot, unbeaten, top-10 team under coach Jon Sumrall. Not to mention, they have a scary backfield tandem of Jadan Baugh and Duke Clark, who combined to rush for 268 yards and four touchdowns in last week’s emphatic win over Ole Miss.

Cohen: Florida
Jon Sumrall is an early contender for Coach of the Year given what he’s done with the Gators thus far. They’re a high-scoring machine right now, and that’s enough to stave off Mizzou.

Portnoy: Florida
Jon Sumrall is absolutely steamrolling his way through SEC play so far this year. The Gators are about as fun to watch offensively as any, and I don’t think Missouri’s defense has the tools to slow down one of the nation’s best rushing attacks.

  No. 17 Tennessee vs. Auburn

Alex Golesh won his first SEC game as Auburn head coach in Week 4 against Vanderbilt. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images)

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When: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC)
Where: Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee
Line: Tennessee -7

Young: Tennessee
I think the Vols bounce back from being bloodied by Texas at Neyland Stadium.

Litman: Auburn
The Tigers take advantage of a hobbled Tennessee team and get the program’s first win at Neyland Stadium since 2013.

Cohen: Tennessee 
It wouldn’t be a shock if the difficult loss to Texas compounded into another defeat for the Volunteers. But at the end of the day, Tennessee has too much talent for a rebuilding Auburn. 

Portnoy: Tennessee
Vols quarterback Faizon Brandon looked the part of a freshman signal-caller against Texas, but his upside is still there. I’m skeptical of what I’ve seen from Auburn so far, and I think they’re more Paper Tiger (sorry for the pun) than an actual SEC contender. 

  South Carolina vs. No. 24 Kentucky

Will Stein has Kentucky football ranked for the first time since 2023. (Photo by Adam Davis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

–>

When: Saturday, 4:15 p.m. ET (SEC Network)
Where: Williams-Brice Stadium, Columbia, South Carolina
Line: South Carolina -2.5 

Young: Kentucky
Like Mississippi State, Kentucky is edging toward one of the best seasons it’s ever had after a brilliant start.

Litman: Kentucky
The Wildcats keep riding this momentum they’ve built under first-year head coach Will Stein and break a four-game losing streak vs. the Gamecocks, who are struggling right now.

Cohen: Kentucky
Will Shane Beamer be the first Power Four coach to get fired this season? With that question hanging over the Gamecocks, this one is ripe for Kentucky to take.

Portnoy: South Carolina
The Gamecocks have been a mess this year and Shane Beamer is squarely on the hot seat. So what better time than now for an upset? Say what you will about Beamer, but his squads have been known to pull off a win or two you didn’t expect. This feels like the time for it.

  TCU vs. No. 10 BYU

BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier holds a 15-2 record as the Cougars’ starter. (Photo by Andrew Wevers/Getty Images)

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When: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. ET (ESPN)
Where: Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, Texas
Line: BYU -6.5

Young: BYU
The Horned Frogs will have a tough time stopping the Cougars and their vaunted rushing attack.

Litman: BYU
Led by standout quarterback Bear Bachmeier, the Cougars move to 4-0 and continue to show why they are one of the best teams in the Big 12.

Cohen: BYU
The Cougars have the ninth-best rushing attack in the country at nearly 263 yards per game. Good luck to the Horned Frogs in trying to stop it. 

Portnoy: BYU
Speaking of hot seats, Sonny Dykes would do himself wonders to win a game like this one. Problem is, I don’t think it’s going to happen. BYU looks like the class of the Big 12 early this year, and they should roll in this one.

  Clemson vs. No. 4 Miami

Miami quarterback Darian Mensah leads the FBS with 14 passing touchdowns and an 88.7% completion percentage.(Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

–>

When: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. ET (ABC)
Where: Memorial Stadium, Clemson, South Carolina
Line: Miami -16.5

Young: The Hurricanes look like the program Clemson used to be in the 2010s and Clemson looks unrecognizable next to those teams.

Litman: Clemson may be Miami’s first Power Four opponent of the season, but the Hurricanes shouldn’t have any problems — they look like one of the most complete teams in the country right now.

Cohen: Far too much talent on a Miami team that has embraced modern roster building in ways Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney couldn’t even imagine. 

Portnoy: I’ll be in Clemson for this one, but I’m heading to the Upstate more for Darian Mensah than anything the Tigers are putting on the field right now. The Hurricanes look unstoppable offensively and Mensah should be atop just about every Heisman straw poll after this one.

  No. 18 USC vs. Washington

Lincoln Riley and USC are looking to bounceback from a loss to Oregon as they strive for their first CFP appearance. (Photo by Ronaldo Bolaños/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

–>

When: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. ET (NBC)
Where: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, California
Line: USC -9.5

Young: USC
No one needs a resounding victory more than Lincoln Riley right now.

Litman: USC
After an emotionally charged loss to Oregon last week, all the headlines surrounding the Trojans are about how coach Lincoln Riley still can’t get it right. Riley’s team will come through for him against Washington, but the defensive performance will still look shaky against Huskies’ quarterback Demond Williams Jr.

Cohen: USC
Man, this one is tough. Two teams that were dealt crushing defeats last week. Two defiant head coaches. But the Trojans are in a better position to salvage their season — for now. 

Portnoy: USC
The noise is growing louder around Lincoln Riley, but I do think USC is just a flat out more talented team than Washington right now. Nothing is coming easily to the Huskies offensively at the moment. This feels like a bit of a get-right game for the Trojans after last week’s prime-time loss.

  Arizona State vs. Baylor

Kenny Dillingham has gone just 9-6 after leading Arizona State to the CFP in 2024. (Photo by Bruce Yeung/Getty Images)

–>

When: 10:30 p.m. ET
Where: Mountain America Stadium, Tempe, Arizona
Line: Arizona State -4.5

Young: Arizona State
The Sun Devils are settled at quarterback while the Bears continue to wait for DJ Lagway to settle in.

Litman: Baylor
Bears’ quarterback DJ Lagway improves off last week’s uneven outing and leads Baylor to a big road win for Dave Aranda’s program.

Cohen: Arizona State
Kenny Dillingham seems to be working his quarterback magic again with Cutter Boley, the Kentucky transfer.

Portnoy: Baylor
The Bears are basically an inch away from being undefeated right now. DJ Lagway has been up and down, but I like what he brings to the Baylor offense. Give me Dave Aranda as he continues to cool his scorching seat.

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Are Ohio State & Alabama on upset alert? Will USC bounce back? and more College Football Picks

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The UCLA Bruins and UConn Huskies, who won the past two national championships, will both play in the third annual Coretta Scott King Classic this year.

The Bruins, who won the NCAA title last season, will face the Oklahoma Sooners in the opener on Jan. 18. The 2025 champion Huskies will face the Seton Hall Pirates in a Big East matchup in the second game.

“The Coretta Scott King Classic continues to bring my family’s enduring legacy into spaces where young people can see, experience, and embody the values my mother held so deeply,” said Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of Coretta Scott King and CEO of The King Center. “Through the power of women’s basketball, this event creates an opportunity to celebrate excellence while encouraging the next generation to lead with courage, purpose, and a commitment to community.”

The games, to be played in Newark, New Jersey, will be nationally televised on FOX.

It’s the second time in three seasons that the Bruins are playing in the doubleheader. Cori Close’s team played in the inaugural one against the Baylor Bears two years ago. The timing works out well for UCLA, which will play Big Ten opponents Rutgers and Maryland later that week on the road.

“We are proud to return to the Coretta Scott King Classic this season. It is such a blessing to be part of an amazing event that honors the legacy of the King family and brings us together through sport,” Close said. “We always look to compete against excellent competition, and we know Oklahoma will bring out the best in us.”

It’s not the first time that UConn and Seton Hall have faced each other in Newark. The two teams last played each other there in 2010.

Reporting by The Associated Press.

Source

There are several barnburners on tap for NFL Week 4. 

Here’s where I’m putting my money.

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Pittsburgh coach Mike McCarthy said he wanted to push the ball down the field more this year than the team did last year with Aaron Rodgers, and he has been true to his word so far. Rodgers’ average depth of target has been over 10 yards in two of the three games so far, including in a 30-27 win last week. I’ll go over the 38.5, as the Steelers take on a Browns team with some interesting young weapons and an underrated offense.

Hill’s Pick: Over 38.5

Don’t forget to set your alarms for this one, as we get our first 9:30 am ET kickoff of the season in London come Sunday. Both teams started 0-2 before winning in Week 3. With the winner getting to .500, I’ll take the 3.5 with the Commanders in what should be a close game.

Hill’s Pick: Commanders +3.5

It has not been pretty for the defending AFC champions, but it’s often a good idea to ignore the last thing you saw in the NFL to avoid overreacting. The Patriots will already be 3.5 games out of first place in the AFC East with a loss. They are desperate and getting 6.5 points. I’l bet on them to bounce back.

Hill’s Pick: Patriots +6.5

If the Titans aren’t the worst team in the NFL, they’re pretty close to it. At 0-3, their offense has been anemic, and I don’t expect it to improve this week in Baltimore.  

Hill’s Pick: Titans Under 15.5

The quarterbacks for this game are familiar with each other. Trevor Lawrence and Joe Burrow were picked first overall, respectively, in back-to-back years (2020 and 2021), and also played against each other in the 2019 college football national title game. The Jaguars look like a contender and could easily be 3-0. In a toss-up game, I’ll take the points.

Hill’s Pick: Jaguars +2.5

Panic time could officially hit the Rams if they lose again this week and fall to 1-3. The Eagles have had their number recently, winning all four meetings since the start of the 2023 season, and winning in Philadelphia isn’t easy, especially considering the onerous travel the Rams have endured already this season. 

Hill’s Pick: Eagles +3

The Giants are 2-1, but their offense has looked suspect since quarterback Jaxson Dart went down with a season-ending knee injury. With the total set at 44.5, I think we get a 23-20 type of game. I will go Under here considering the Giants’ lackluster offense.

Hill’s Pick: Under 44.5

The Cowboys’ defense was expected to be improved in 2026 after being dreadful in 2025, but we have yet to see that play out. The Cowboys’ elite offense and shaky defense make them a good Over team until proven otherwise.

Hill’s Pick: Over 48.5

The Jets lost and failed to cover last week vs. the Lions, but were tied with just a few minutes to go. Quarterback Geno Smith has played very well for the Jets, and I think they will keep it close this week against the Bears.

Hill’s Pick: Jets +3.5

Two desperate teams facing off here with each in dire need of a win. Undrafted rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels will make his first career start for the Buccaneers, and I expect points to be hard to come by.

Hill’s Pick: Under 38.5

The Vikings look to improve to 4-0 and are heavy favorites to do so against the hapless Dolphins. While it’s been an impressive start for the Vikings, they have struggled mightily on offense, and aren’t well-equipped to exploit the Dolphins’ weak secondary. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson might be sidelined for this one, and 10.5 points is a lot to lay for a struggling Vikings offense.

Hill’s Pick: Dolphins +10.5

Raiders’ tight end Brock Bowers is one of the best, and perhaps, still one of the most underrated players in the league. Coming off of 13 targets, 10 catches and 116 yards in his season debut, expect another big game from Bowers.

Hill’s Pick: Brock Bowers Over 76.5 Receiving Yards

The Chargers look broken offensively and could not defeat the Bills last week despite their defense forcing five turnovers. I don’t look for them to do much offensively on the road, in a hostile environment against an angry Seahawks defense coming off an upset loss to the Commanders.

Hill’s Pick: Chargers Under 17.5

The 49ers are undefeated and have been ultra impressive so far, but as usual, the injuries are starting to pile up. In what should be a close game, I’ll take the Broncos to keep it close.

Hill’s Pick: Broncos +3

The Lions have played three games and they’ve all gone Over. With an elite offense and very suspect defense, I like another Lions Over. 

Hill’s Pick: Over 51.5

The Saints gave up over 100 yards rushing last week and now face perhaps the most dynamic running back in the NFL. Look for Bijan Robinson to have another big game on the ground.

Hill’s Pick: Bijan Robinson Over 85.5 Rushing Yards

Source

No. 5 Ohio State hits the road for the first time since its loss to No. 1 Texas, traveling to Kinnick Stadium to face No. 14 Iowa in this week’s Big Noon Kickoff matchup.

Mississippi State isn’t on sleeper watch anymore, and quarterback Kamario Taylor has played his way into the Heisman conversation, leading the Bulldogs to No. 16 in the AP poll. This week, the stage is bigger than ever as Mississippi State hosts No. 7 Alabama in Starkville.

Those matchups headline a slate packed with conference and playoff implications, but there are five sleeper games worth watching — and wagering on — in Week 4 of college football.

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Spread: Penn State -2.5

The Outlook: The Nittany Lions fell out of the Top 25 and saw their undefeated season end with a 24-20 loss to Wisconsin. The good thing for Penn State is that everything is still in front of it, but the road doesn’t get any easier from here, and the pressure is increasing. Penn State was held to three points in the second half, while quarterback Rocco Becht finished with fewer than 125 passing yards for the fourth time in his career.

Northwestern almost joined Oklahoma State in pulling off one of the most surprising upsets of the year. A failed onside kick attempt ended the Wildcats’ upset bid against No. 6 Indiana. The Wildcats held the Hoosiers to a season-low 29 points but gave up 271 rushing yards. Quarterback Aiden Chiles threw for 293 yards, the second-most of his career, and completed 75% of his passes in the loss.

Playoff Implications: If Northwestern can have the defending champions on the edge of their seats until the last minute on the road, the Wildcats can definitely give Penn State a fight until the final second. The Nittany Lions can’t let the Wildcats hang around and keep this game close, because that’s where the danger lies. If Matt Campbell wants to get Penn State back into the playoff conversation, the Nittany Lions must run the table.

Spread: Virginia Tech -3

The Outlook: These undefeated ACC teams kick off under the Friday night lights, and the winner could make its first appearance in next week’s Top 25.

Pitt quarterback Mason Heintschel made history last week with his second game this season with at least six passing touchdowns. He became the first quarterback in ACC history to accomplish the feat and the first FBS player to do so since 2021. Heintschel ranks third in the ACC in passing yards with 1,191 and second in passing touchdowns with 13. Those numbers could be deceiving if you’re only looking at the stat sheet, though. In two games against Power 4 opponents, the Pitt quarterback has zero touchdowns, one interception and just 335 passing yards. In two games against non-Power 4 opponents, he has 956 passing yards and 13 touchdowns.

James Franklin has already accomplished something at Virginia Tech that hasn’t happened since 2017: starting a season 4-0. The Hokies moved to 4-0 after escaping Boston College with a 21-14 win, thanks in large part to running back Jeffrey Overton Jr.’s performance. Overton broke loose for a 76-yard house call, giving the Hokies the lead and helping him finish with a career-high 209 rushing yards.

Playoff Implications: After Louisville’s loss to Wake Forest, the ACC’s chances of sending a team other than Miami to the CFP got a lot smaller. The next-highest-ranked ACC team is SMU at No. 21. Pitt and Virginia Tech are two of the four remaining undefeated teams in the conference, and after this week, only three will remain.

Spread: USC -9.5

The Outlook: The hype around the Trojans has suddenly gone with the wind after their 41-24 loss to No. 15 Oregon. Now, talks and murmurs surrounding head coach Lincoln Riley’s tenure at USC are heating up, but that narrative can change with plenty of the season still left to play. The Trojans still have Ohio State, Indiana and UCLA on the schedule, but first, they have to take care of Washington. With senior quarterback Jayden Maiava leading the offense, the Trojans can be in any game. Maiava still leads the nation in passing yards (1,499) and passing touchdowns (14).

Head coach Jedd Fisch and Washington suffered their first loss of the season against Minnesota, and their path to the CFP just got a whole lot harder. The Huskies went 1-for-10 on third down and rushed for only 40 yards in the loss, and the run game has been a problem for them all year. Washington averages the second-fewest rushing yards per game in the Big Ten (107.3). It’s never a good sign when your quarterback is your team’s leading rusher, and that’s what Demond Williams Jr. is for the Huskies.

Playoff Implications: USC has shown an ability to bounce back from losses under Riley, going 10-6 in games following a loss, with an average margin of victory of 11.5 points across those 10 wins. But if the Trojans want to make a run at the CFP, they have to prove they can perform better against top competition. Since Riley took over the program in 2022, USC is 5-14 against AP Top 25 teams and 0-5 against Top 10 teams.

After losing to its first ranked opponent of the season, USC has three more current Top 25 teams on the schedule, two of which are in the Top 10. A loss to an unranked Washington team could completely derail the Trojans’ playoff hopes and make the hot seat even hotter for Riley.

Spread: Tennessee -7

The Outlook: The Vols were held to a season-low 17 points and 70 rushing yards last week, and a major part of that was freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon being sacked 10 times against No. 1 Texas. The Vols still had a chance to win at the end but ultimately lost by three points. The five-star quarterback had the worst game of his young career, completing only 58% of his passes while throwing for 145 yards and one touchdown in the loss. Brandon has the fewest passing yards among SEC starting quarterbacks, but the good thing for Brandon and the Vols is that this Auburn defense is among the worst in the SEC.

Auburn’s defense allows 365.8 total yards, 238.8 passing yards and 127 rushing yards per game, all of which rank among the top three in the SEC. Offensively, like Washington, Auburn’s top rusher is its quarterback, Byrum Brown, and that’s never a good sign. Despite all of that, the Tigers are 3-1, and head coach Alex Golesh earned his first SEC win last week against Vanderbilt. Golesh and the Tigers now head out for their first true road game, but these defensive struggles could rear their head despite their 3-1 record.

Another underlying issue that could tip this game in Tennessee’s favor is that Auburn has allowed 14 sacks through four games, the most in the SEC, while Tennessee is tied for the most sacks in the country with 19.

Playoff Implications: Head coach Josh Heupel is trying to get the Vols back to the CFP for the first time since 2024, and a three-point loss to the top-ranked team in the country won’t eliminate them from contention. Heupel’s offense should get back on track against this Auburn defense and run the ball at will. Tennessee is one of two SEC teams with two rushers ranked in the conference’s top 10: DeSean Bishop and Daune Morris.

But if the Vols fall to an unranked Auburn team this weekend, they’ll have to climb Mount Everest just to get back into the playoff picture.

Spread: Houston -12.5

The Outlook: Houston has scored 30 or more points in three of its first four games, averaging 44.5 points per game, the most in the Big 12. Leading the way is quarterback Conner Weigman. The senior signal-caller is tied for the most passing touchdowns in the conference with 11 while ranking in the top five in passing yards with 947. Weigman is coming off a four-touchdown performance against Georgia Southern, marking the fifth time in his career he’s thrown four or more touchdowns in a game.

Even after losing their starting quarterback in the second game of the season, head coach Scott Frost and UCF have found a way to win two straight games, opening conference play with a win over TCU last week. The Knights held the Horned Frogs to 33 rushing yards and forced four turnovers, including on TCU’s final two drives. UCF’s defense has forced seven turnovers over the last two games, including four interceptions and three fumble recoveries. The Knights have six interceptions this season, the most in the Big 12 and tied for fourth-most in the country.

Playoff Implications: The Cougars lost a heartbreaker to Texas Tech in Week 3, falling short after a failed two-point conversion, but they are still in the hunt for the Big 12 title. However, they can’t overlook UCF, even without its starting quarterback. With the Knights’ defense creating turnovers and giving their offense extra opportunities, Weigman and the Cougars will need to play a clean game to keep UCF from hanging around. Houston can’t afford another loss, especially to an unranked team, with two currently ranked teams still on its schedule.

Week 5 Parlay Slip

Bet $10 to win $202.82 if:

• Virginia Tech Moneyline vs. Pitt (-170)
• Penn State vs. Northwestern UNDER 45.5 (-110)
• No. 18 USC vs. Washington OVER 58.5 (-115)
• No. 17 Tennessee (-7.5) vs. Auburn (+100)
• UCF (+12.5) vs. No. 20 Houston (-114)

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Here’s how you know that the NFL drives the American sports betting bus: Steelers vs. Browns, which is not exactly a marquee matchup, will still draw plenty of eyeballs and action from the public betting masses.

“The NFL is still king,” Caesars Sports head of football trading Joey Feazel said. “Even as much as we complain about some of these Thursday night games, it’s still the NFL. We’re still all watching, and it’ll still be bet on.

“Being in a prime-time spot, Steelers-Browns should be in our top-three handle games of the weekend.”

Thankfully, there are a few more attractive matchups in NFL Week 4 odds, including Rams vs. Eagles on FOX and a Chiefs vs. Raiders battle of unbeatens.

Oddsmakers and sharp bettors serve up their midweek insights on those matchups and more, as we dive into NFL Week 4 betting nuggets.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

NFL Rocks On FOX, Part I

In Week 4, FOX gets a matchup perhaps worthy of the playoffs: Rams vs. Eagles, at 1 p.m. ET Sunday.

Los Angeles opened the season as the Super Bowl favorite but is 1-2 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) through three games. Philadelphia is 2-1 SU, but 0-3 ATS, among six teams that haven’t covered the spread this season.

And while both are coming off losses, Philly’s was far more alarming — a 27-7 blowout as a 3.5-point Monday night favorite at Chicago. 

L.A. lost to Denver 30-26 in the Sunday night game, with a questionable pass-interference call going against the Rams late.

Will Matthew Stafford and the Rams bounce back against the Eagles? (Getty Images)

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Caesars Sports opened Rams-Eagles at L.A. -2.5, and on Tuesday, the Rams climbed to -3, where the line remained Wednesday afternoon.

“These two teams are coming off two different types of losses. The public perceived that the Rams were robbed,” Feazel said. “We’ve taken a lot of Rams money, and we’re gonna see more Rams money.

“And I anticipate Over money, too, especially with this Rams team being able to move the ball up and down the field.”

That said, after the total opened at 45.5, it’s down to 43, largely as a reaction to the Eagles’ lackluster effort vs. the Bears.

   Divisional Dust-Up

NFL Week 4 odds kick off with an 8:15 p.m. ET Thursday meeting between the Steelers and Browns, both 2-1 SU and ATS.

Caesars opened Pittsburgh a 2.5-point road favorite and on Wednesday morning moved to -3, where the line sat Wednesday afternoon.

“There’s nothing too crazy yet, but we are seeing more Steelers action. No surprise there, and I anticipate that continuing,” Feazel said. “People are gonna say Steelers -3 is easy money.

“I anticipate needing the Browns at home, and probably Browns outright. There’ll be a good amount of moneyline parlays associated with the Steelers.”

NFL Sharp Side

Professional bettor Randy McKay is among those involved with Steelers-Browns. He’s not shying away from the home underdog, taking Cleveland +3.

“On a short week, I’m taking the home team. I like what the Browns have done the last two weeks, winning close games,” McKay said.

In Week 2, the Browns were 8.5-point road underdogs and upset the Buccaneers 23-19. In Week 3, the Browns were 2.5-point home ‘dogs vs. the Panthers and won 21-18.

McKay also likes Cleveland due to the recent history in this AFC North rivalry.

“Cleveland has won the last four at home vs. Pittsburgh. So it’s been a home-and-home series,” McKay said.

Indeed, the two teams have split the last eight meetings, with the home team winning every time.

NFL Rocks On FOX, Part II

The Texans made the playoffs last year, going 12-5 after opening the season with three straight losses.

This year, the Texans are again out to an 0-3 SU and ATS start. 

Still, Caesars opened the Texans as 2.5-point home favorites vs. the Cowboys (1-2 SU/2-1 ATS), and the spread is up to Houston -3 for another 1 p.m. ET kick on FOX.

So the risk room seems to have some faith in Houston. But the masses, not so much.

Currently, the public doesn’t believe in the Texans. (Getty Images)

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“The market doesn’t seem to be selling yet on the Texans. But the public is not believing in the Texans,” Feazel said. “Action-wise so far, it’s more on the Cowboys. But I anticipate this being closer to two-way action by Sunday, on the spread and the total.

“There’s not much sharp action and not much movement. It seems like a must-win for the Texans.”

   AFC West Test

With Patrick Mahomes healthy and Kenneth Walker III running wild, the Chiefs are 3-0 SU/2-1 ATS. That’s not a huge surprise.

But the Raiders being 3-0 SU and ATS is certainly surprising. Something’s got to give on Sunday in Sin City, for a 4:25 p.m. ET AFC West clash.

Caesars opened the Chiefs -4.5 and briefly advanced to -5.5 on Sunday night, then returned to -4.5. As of Wednesday afternoon, it was still Kansas City -4.5.

But the ‘dog is getting early attention, in no small part due to regional betting bias, with Caesars Sports’ big presence in Las Vegas.

“We’re already building up pretty decent liability on the Raiders. Everybody is kind of buying in,” Feazel said. “There’s heavy action on Raiders moneyline, too. So we’re probably gonna need the Chiefs to win and cover.”

Interestingly, Feazel said the Raiders are currently Caesars’ largest liability in Super Bowl futures odds, as well.

   Sunday Night Fight

As noted above, the Broncos (2-1 SU and ATS) were the beneficiaries of a key pass-interference call late in the Week 3 Sunday night game vs. the Rams. Denver went on to a 30-26 victory as a 1-point home underdog.

The 49ers are out to a 3-0 SU/2-1 ATS start, including an impressive 27-7 Week 1 blowout of the Rams. In Week 3, San Francisco held off the Cardinals 36-30 but failed to cover as a 7.5-point home favorite.

In Week 4 NFL odds, Caesars opened the Niners -3, and as of Wednesday afternoon, it was Niners -2.5 (-120) for an 8:20 p.m. ET Sunday kick.

Will the 49ers keep rolling in Week 4? (Getty Images)

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“These are two teams getting action every week,” Feazel said. “This week, action is pretty much balanced so far, and I think it’ll stay the same. The only liability we’re seeing on this right now is on the Over.”

And movement reflects that liability, with the total climbing from 45.5 to 48.5.

Even with two-way play on the spread, Feazel anticipates the book will have a preference by Sunday night.

“We’ll probably need the Broncos come game time. But we’re definitely gonna need the Under. We’re gonna need this to be a low-scoring affair,” Feazel said.

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We have Game 3 in the Wild Card Series between the Braves and Phillies. The winner moves on, and the loser heads home. And if the NL East champions want to stay alive, they’ll be leaning on an unlikely starter. 

The Braves will have left-hander Ray Kerr make his first career postseason appearance as the opener against the Phillies in Thursday night’s decisive game.

Braves right-hander Grant Holmes (10-6, 3.44) is expected to pitch in bulk relief behind Kerr. On Sept. 25, Kerr threw three scoreless innings as the opener at Miami and Holmes allowed one run in four innings of a 3-0 loss.

Kerr, 32, was recalled by Atlanta on Aug. 16 and he made his first major league appearance in more than two years the following day. Kerr underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024 and didn’t pitch at all in 2025.

Kerr posted a 1.47 ERA in nine games with Atlanta. He made two appearances against the Phillies in September, with the most recent a three-inning outing on Sept. 13.

Veteran right-hander Aaron Nola is expected to start for the Phillies. Nola was 7-12 with a 4.67 ERA in the regular season.

The Phillies beat the Braves 4-3 in 10 innings on Wednesday to force the decisive game of the best-of-three series.

Reporting by The Associated Press. 

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