College football is poised to make an immediate impact in 2025. Rather than gradually commencing the season with preliminary games, the schedule presents fans with a significant confrontation right from the start: the top-ranked Longhorns against the third-ranked Buckeyes.

This encounter serves as a rematch of the previous year's College Football Playoff semifinal, during which Ohio State eliminated Texas on their path to the national championship. The circumstances this time are altered, yet the stakes remain equally high, especially for #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. predictions.

Texas arrives as the preseason No. 1, with Arch Manning prepared to assume control permanently. Meanwhile, Ohio State, coming off a championship season, is undergoing adjustments on both offense and defense but continues to possess as much elite talent as any team nationwide.

 

#1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. Predictions for College Football Week 1, Saturday, 8/30

The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 30, at noon ET at Ohio Stadium, where over 100,000 fans are anticipated to transform the “Horseshoe” into one of the most intimidating venues in college football.

Regarding #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. picks, oddsmakers initially set this line nearly as a pick 'em, and it has remained relatively stable, with Ohio State favored by a slim margin of -1.5 at home. This indicates the close competition between the teams — however, playing in Columbus might prove to be the pivotal element.

Now, let us explore our #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. predictions, betting strategies, and significant narratives surrounding this early-season spectacle.

 

 

 

#1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. Spread Pick: Buckeyes -1.5 (-110 at Novig)

Although Ohio State is integrating new coordinators and a quarterback making his first start, this should not be interpreted as a rebuilding phase. Ryan Day’s roster remains formidable, featuring safety Caleb Downs — widely acknowledged as the premier player in college football — alongside wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who poses a significant challenge for any defensive secondary.

Freshman quarterback Julian Sayin is stepping into a prominent role, and despite having only a dozen passing attempts at the collegiate level, he will not be expected to carry the team single-handedly. 

With Smith, Carnell Tate, and dependable tight end Max Clare at his disposal, Sayin possesses sufficient offensive options to effectively stretch the field. If he can safeguard the football and rely on Ohio State’s bolstered offensive line, the Buckeyes have the potential to dictate the pace against a Texas defense that excels in creating disruptions.

On the other hand, Texas is entrusting the offense to Arch Manning, who demonstrated promise during limited appearances in 2024 but has yet to encounter a defense of this caliber. Last season, Manning recorded nine touchdowns against less formidable opponents, but Ohio State’s intricate coverages and unyielding pressure may accelerate his decision-making process in ways that UTSA and Mississippi State did not.

Compounding the difficulty: Texas is tasked with replacing four starters on its offensive line. Confronting an OSU defensive front that features agile edge rushers like Kenyatta Jackson and Caden Curry, Manning may find himself under significant pressure from the outset.

The outcome of this game may hinge on the line of scrimmage. Texas presents one of the top defensive fronts in the nation, led by Colin Simmons, while Ohio State’s offensive line features returning veterans, albeit with some players assigned to new positions. This matchup appears evenly matched, yet the advantage of home-field communication and the depth provided by transfer players could give the Buckeyes an edge.

Conversely, the significant changes to Texas’ offensive line raise serious concerns. Should Ohio State prevail in this contest, Manning may find himself making hurried decisions — a situation in which Caleb Downs typically excels.

The majority of national analysts seem to favor Texas, pointing to the Longhorns’ top ranking, the motivation for revenge, and Manning’s potential. However, it is important to note that this is still a young quarterback embarking on his first true road start against a formidable defense in one of the sport's most daunting environments. This represents a considerable challenge, even for a Manning.

On the other hand, Ohio State has cultivated a culture of success in high-stakes games at the ‘Shoe. Even if Sayin requires time to acclimate, the defense, spearheaded by Downs, possesses the ability to alter the course of the game with a single pivotal play. Our #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. predictions will stick with the Buckeyes to cover.

 

 

 

How To Watch #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. College Football Week 1

  • Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
  • Kickoff: Noon ET
  • TV: FOX
  • Location: Ohio Stadium - Columbus, OH

 

#1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

With our official #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. picks listed above, we now present the latest #1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. odds as provided by Novig:

  • Money Line (ML): Longhorns +100 | Buckeyes -120
  • Spread: Longhorns +1.5 (-110) | Buckeyes -1.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 47.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

 

 

 

#1 Texas vs. #3 Ohio St. Injury Report & Latest News

Texas Injury Report

  • OL Andre Cojoe (injury in August practice) expected to miss Week 1

Ohio State Injury Report

  • None

 

 

 

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