College Football Week 9 Best Bets, Picks & Odds: Favorites, Underdogs and Value Spots

The college football season is hitting the stretch run, and with it comes another loaded Saturday slate across the country. As odds continue to shift on major sports betting apps, now’s the time to identify where perception doesn’t match reality and gain an edge on oddsmakers.

Between evolving quarterback play, midseason fatigue and coaching adjustments, there are plenty of mispriced lines available for bettors who can read the market. Whether you’re shopping through sportsbook promotions or taking advantage of early-week line movement, Week 9 brings value on several underdogs and road favorites alike. There are plenty of games today, but we'll focus on four.

Here are the best college football bets to consider today for Week 9.

Memphis (+185) vs USF

Odds via BetMGM

USF has been a surprise CFB Playoffs contender, while Memphis has overall been one of the most impressive teams in the country, but it really has areas of weakness that have emerged in recent weeks. At nearly 2-to-1 odds, this is a live underdog with real upset potential, especially if you leverage BetMGM promo codes. This could end up being the upset of the week with how talented they are.

SMU -3.5 (-110) vs Wake Forest

Odds via bet365

SMU’s offense remains one of the most impressive units in the country, and the Mustangs have the personnel to dictate tempo against Wake Forest. Laying a field goal and the hook is reasonable given SMU’s balance and depth, particularly if they control the pace early. Wake Forest is a good team, but SMU is seemingly playing at an entirely new level.

Ole Miss (+165) vs Oklahoma

Odds via Caesars Sportsbook

Ole Miss has risen into the top 1o this season and has the kind of offensive creativity to keep Oklahoma uncomfortable. The Rebels’ ability to stretch the field horizontally could be a difference-maker, and their defense has improved enough to make timely stops. Lane Kiffin’s group thrives in these high-stakes matchups, making the plus-money price appealing.

Bet $1, Double your Winnings on your Next 20 Wagers. Up to $25 Max Bet Per Boost

Caesars Review

Play Now

21+ New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Gambling Problem? 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

BYU (+120) vs Iowa State

Odds via Caesars Sportsbook

BYU’s physical style travels well, which could be key against an Iowa State team that’s been vulnerable late in games. With the Cougars continuing to play disciplined football and showing resilience in close contests, this sets up as a strong value spot on the road. The Big 12 is still wide open, so this gam carries tremendous weight, especially since these two teams entered the season with aspirations to win the conference.

As the Week 9 college football slate unfolds, the betting market continues to swing based on perception rather than results. Public money tends to gravitate toward brand names, but that often leaves overlooked value on the board.

These college football Week 9 picks blend form, matchup edges, and market inefficiencies — the same ingredients sharp bettors use to identify value before the numbers adjust. Finding the weekly underdogs always makes it the most fun, rather than taking the teams that feel like a lock to win their games.

All Odds as of 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 24

Mandatory Photo Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images