The college football season continues with a slate of compelling Week 2 matchups, featuring several high-profile non-conference battles. FOX Sports analysts RJ Young, Laken Litman, Michael Cohen, and Ben Portnoy have released their expert picks and predictions for key games across the nation.
Missouri at Kansas
Missouri enters its Friday night matchup against Kansas as a 5.5-point favorite. Analysts anticipate a strong performance from Missouri quarterback Austin Simmons, who impressed in his Week 1 debut. Simmons threw for 252 yards and four touchdowns in his first start for the Tigers. All four analysts picked Missouri to win, citing the team's quarterback play and offensive capabilities.
Oklahoma at Michigan
The highly anticipated game between Oklahoma and Michigan at Michigan Stadium has Oklahoma as a 5.5-point favorite. Concerns linger around Michigan's quarterback Bryce Underwood following a close and controversial win in Week 1. Analysts lean towards Oklahoma, with the Sooners' perceived advantages at quarterback, wide receiver, and defensive line being key factors. The consensus among the experts is that Oklahoma's defense will pose significant challenges for Michigan's young signal-caller.
Oregon at Oklahoma State
Oregon faces Oklahoma State as a heavy 22.5-point favorite on the road. Despite a closer-than-expected Week 1 victory over Boise State, Oregon's roster is considered one of the nation's strongest. Analysts expect the Ducks to dominate an Oklahoma State team that suffered an upset loss to Tulsa in its season opener. The experts widely expect Oregon to secure a comfortable win.
BYU vs. Arizona
BYU is favored by 7.5 points at home against Arizona in a Big 12 Conference opener. Analysts expressed confidence in BYU's defense and its ability to manage the game against Arizona's offense, led by quarterback Noah Fifita. The consensus pick is BYU, with the expectation that the Cougars need to win such games to remain competitive in the Big 12.
Illinois vs. Duke
Illinois is a 5.5-point favorite over Duke in a matchup that has drawn significant attention. Duke features running back Nate Sheppard, who rushed for 227 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1. However, analysts are split, with some favoring Duke's running game and others leaning towards Illinois, citing quarterback Katin Houser's early success and the potential impact of a home crowd at Memorial Stadium.
Syracuse vs. Cal
Syracuse is a 3.5-point favorite against Cal at home. The analysts are divided on this game. Those picking Syracuse point to quarterback Steve Angeli's health and potential, along with a coaching advantage for Fran Brown against Cal's Tosh Lupoi. Conversely, some experts are sticking with Cal, believing the team will bounce back from its Week 1 loss.
Boise State vs. Memphis
Boise State, an 8.5-point favorite at home, is coming off a near-upset of Oregon. Analysts were impressed by Boise State's performance against the Ducks and see them as one of the top teams in the Group of Six. The experts overwhelmingly picked Boise State to defeat Memphis, citing the team's experience and perceived advantage.
Ohio State vs. Texas
In one of the week's marquee matchups, Texas is a 1.5-point favorite at home against Ohio State. The game features a highly touted quarterback matchup and significant national championship implications. Analysts are split on the outcome. Some believe Ohio State's offensive coordinator Arthur Smith will introduce strategic wrinkles that Texas isn't prepared for, while others expect Texas, with the support of its home crowd, to leverage its talent against Ohio State's defense and secure a crucial victory.