The College Football Playoff semifinals are finally here, and the excitement is at an all-time high! Four elite programs are left in the race, all aiming for a chance to compete for the national championship in Atlanta.

 

 

 

The action kicks off on Thursday night with the Orange Bowl, where Notre Dame will take on Penn State in what is sure to be an intense matchup. Both teams are coming off impressive wins, with Notre Dame defeating Georgia in a thrilling quarterfinal and Penn State showing their strength in earlier rounds.

Then, on Friday, the Cotton Bowl will feature a major showdown between Ohio State and Texas. The Buckeyes are riding high after a big win against top-seeded Oregon, while Texas, the last SEC team left, is ready to show they can compete for the title. What does this all mean for our College Football Playoff picks?

College Football Playoffs Predictions For 2025

This season's expanded 12-team playoff has already given us some unforgettable moments, and now we’re down to the most crucial games of the year.

With two Big Ten teams and the SEC's rich history of success in the postseason, this year's semifinals promise a mix of tradition and excitement. Let’s take a closer look at what we can expect as we make our College Football Playoff picks.

 

 

 

College Football Playoffs Picks & Odds

We’ve got a detailed look at our current College Football Playoff predictions below, but first, check out the College Football Playoff odds related to each of our bets at FanDuel Sportsbook:

  • Jordan Faison Props:
    • Receiving Yards - Over 42.5 (-114) vs. Under 42.5 (-114)
    • Touchdown Scorer +350
  • Matthew Golden Props:
    • Receiving Yards - Over 67.5 (-114) vs. Under 67.5 (-114)
    • Touchdown Scorer +125

 

 

 

Notre Dame vs. Penn State Preview & Best Bet: Jordan Faison O42.5 Receiving Yards (-114 at FanDuel Sportsbook)

Jordan Faison has become a dependable option for Notre Dame, and his recent play makes him an attractive choice against this Penn State defense. In the Sugar Bowl against Georgia, he made four catches for 46 yards, including a vital 14-yard reception.

During the quarterfinal win over Indiana, he achieved 89 receiving yards on seven catches, highlighted by a thrilling 44-yard reception that showed off his ability to make big plays. While Penn State’s defense is generally strong, they have shown slight weaknesses against fast, adaptable receivers like Faison.

As Notre Dame is likely to focus on their passing game to challenge Penn State’s tough run defense, Faison is set for another strong performance. His steady involvement in the offense and impressive playoff track record indicate he can surpass the 42.5-yard mark to start off our College Football Playoff predictions.

 

 

 

Ohio State vs. Texas Preview & Best Bet: Matthew Golden O67.5 Receiving Yards (-114 at FanDuel Sportsbook)

Matthew Golden has really stood out as a key player for Texas this season. With 936 receiving yards from 56 catches in the 2024 season, he averages an impressive 16.7 yards per reception, showcasing his ability to make big plays.

In Texas' thrilling double-overtime victory over Arizona State, he racked up 149 yards on seven catches, including an eye-popping 54-yard touchdown reception. In the SEC Championship, he tallied 162 yards on eight receptions against Georgia’s tough defense.

Even in a quieter first-round game against Clemson, he still managed to grab 49 yards on just two catches, one being a 43-yard gain. Ohio State’s defense has been dominant, but they’re not unbeatable, and they’ll definitely have a challenge trying to keep up with Golden’s explosive style.

With quarterback Quinn Ewers likely looking to him in this high-pressure semifinal, our College Football Playoff predictions expect Golden to have plenty of chances and be able to surpass the 67.5-yard mark.

 

 

 

How To Watch The 2025 College Football Playoffs

If you're wondering how to catch the 2025 College Football Playoffs, you're in luck! You can watch the CFP on ESPN.

So, whether you're interested in our College Football Playoff predictions or just want to enjoy the games, you'll have plenty of options to tune in from anywhere!

 

 

 

How To Bet On The College Football Playoffs At FanDuel Sportsbook & Score A $200 Bonus

Discover the exciting world of FanDuel! New users can take advantage of great daily promotions and a wonderful sign-up bonus.

Signing up is really simple using the link provided, and you don’t need a FanDuel promo code. Just make a quick $5 deposit and place a $5 bet on any market you choose to claim this fantastic offer, no matter if it involves College Football Playoff odds or not.

Whether you're interested in our College Football Playoff predictions or something different, the best part is you’ll receive $200 in bonus bets from FanDuel, regardless of whether your bet wins or loses. Click the link now to start your thrilling adventure!