The 2025 college football season promises to be another thrilling chapter in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) era. With more teams vying for a spot, the competition is fiercer than ever. Here are four CFP bets that offer excellent value and intrigue for the upcoming season.

Iowa to Make the Playoff (+750)

Iowa has a challenging schedule, but it's strategically spaced to play to their strengths. Key home games against Penn State and Oregon, along with manageable road trips to Iowa State, Rutgers, and Wisconsin, could set the stage for a successful season. With transfer QB Mark Gronowski from South Dakota State, the Hawkeyes might finally have the offensive firepower to complement their stout defense. If they can grind out wins and build momentum, Iowa could sneak into the playoff.

Kansas State to Make the Playoff (+450)

Kansas State is a sleeper pick in a wide-open Big 12 conference. With an ascending quarterback in Avery Johnson, a top-tier defensive front, and a consistent coach in Chris Klieman, the Wildcats have all the ingredients for a playoff run. Their schedule is favorable, with key home games against UCF, TCU, Colorado, and Texas Tech. If Johnson can elevate his game and the defense holds steady, Kansas State could finish 11-1 and secure a Big 12 title.

South Carolina to Make the Playoff (+425)

South Carolina closed out last season with six straight wins, and dual-threat quarterback LaNorris Sellers is poised for a breakout year. With a creative new offensive coordinator in Mike Shula, the Gamecocks have the potential to build early momentum. The back half of their schedule is brutal, but if Sellers can take over games and the offense masks defensive shortcomings, South Carolina could be a serious CFP contender.

Texas to Miss the Playoff (+220)

Texas has talent, but their path to the playoff is fraught with challenges. Arch Manning's first road start at Ohio State, followed by tough games at Georgia and Florida, could derail their CFP hopes. Tricky road trips against Kentucky and Mississippi State add to the difficulty. With a new offensive line and young pass-catchers, the Longhorns' schedule feels more like a minefield than a march to the playoff. Fading the hype on Texas might be the smarter bet.