College football returns this week with Week 0 matchups, including North Carolina versus TCU and San Jose State against USC. The slate offers early-season betting opportunities, with analyses focusing on team performance, key players, and potential outcomes.
North Carolina vs. TCU
The North Carolina Tar Heels, under first-year head coach Bill Belichick, are looking to rebound from a disappointing 4-8 record last season. Their 2025 campaign began with a significant loss to TCU, 48-14. The team's limited wins last year were not particularly dominant, indicating a challenging rebuilding process ahead.
TCU enters the season with optimism surrounding quarterback Jaden Craig, a transfer from Harvard. Jeremy Payne is expected to be the featured running back. Last season, TCU secured a bowl victory over USC in overtime, 30-27. Betting analysis suggests TCU's team total over 27.5 points is a strong possibility, with expectations of consistent scoring against a North Carolina defense anticipated to struggle.
San Jose State vs. USC
USC faces San Jose State in a game expected to be heavily lopsided. USC has dominated past matchups, outscoring San Jose State 146-38 over their last three meetings. San Jose State finished 3-9 last season and failed to qualify for a bowl game.
USC, ranked 14th nationally, aims for its first College Football Playoff appearance. Quarterback Jayden Maiava returns after a strong 2025 season, throwing for 3,711 yards and 24 touchdowns. Running back King Miller is also back to lead the offensive backfield, though the team lost a key receiver to the NFL. Despite expectations of a large victory margin, betting predictions lean towards the USC team total falling under 50.5, with an additional prop bet favoring Miller to score two or more touchdowns.
