College Football’s 2025 Week 0 is almost here, and MAC action is right around the corner. Futures markets are still up, making now the time to lock in your favorite plays. Toledo has been the league’s frontrunner, but Northern Illinois and Miami (OH) have also raised trophies in recent years. With several contenders returning experience, the MAC race feels wide open. Let’s dive into the MAC Preview and highlight the Best Bets!
College Football 2025: MAC Preview and Best Bets
Odds to Win the MAC in 2025
Toledo +220
Ohio +350
Buffalo +550
Miami Ohio +600
Northern Illinois +1200
Bowling Green +1300
Western Michigan +1400
Central Michigan +1900
Eastern Michigan +2000
Massachusetts +5000
Ball State +5000
Kent State +30000
Buffalo Under 7.5 Regular Season Wins (-110)
Maurice Linguist brought strong recruiting to Buffalo, but consistent wins never followed during his three seasons. Now Pete Lembo enters year two facing roster challenges after his early classes underwhelmed. The Bulls impressed with a 9-4 finish in Lembo’s debut, sparking expectations for recruiting improvement that hasn’t materialized. Losing quarterback CJ Ogbonna adds further pressure during a delicate transition year for the program.
History suggests regression is coming: teams in similar situations rarely improve the following season. Over the past 12 years, only six of 42 squads improved when replacing a quarterback after such circumstances. Those teams averaged 2.4 fewer wins and dropped more than five percent against the spread. New starter Ta’Quan Roberson could develop long-term, but Buffalo’s slim scoring margin last season shows overachievement. Realistically, the Bulls may struggle to match last year’s success.
Massachusetts Under 3.5 Regular Season Wins (+105)
Instability is often a strong signal when targeting season win total Under bets. UMass certainly matches that profile this year. Only seven starters are back from last season’s 2-10 squad, which could be seen as a reset opportunity. New head coach Joe Harasymiak takes over a program with just eight total wins in six seasons.
The Minutemen now move to the MAC, but changing conferences won’t erase years of sustained struggles. UMass has topped 3.5 wins only twice since 2011, both ending with 4-8 records. Their recent track record and light schedule don’t inspire confidence in a breakthrough. For me, the 3.5 win total feels inflated, making UMass an appealing Under wager.
Toledo MAC Champions (+220)
Toledo enters 2025 as the MAC favorite thanks to elite consistency under head coach Jason Candle. The Rockets return strong quarterback play and a veteran offensive line, giving them balance and stability. Their offense ranked among the MAC’s best last year and brings back multiple proven playmakers. With talent across the roster, Toledo clearly owns the conference’s deepest and most experienced squad.
Defensively, Toledo boasts one of the MAC’s top units, anchored by disruptive linemen and a strong secondary. They’ve consistently limited explosive plays, positioning them as the league’s most complete team. The Rockets are projected favorites in nearly every conference matchup this fall. At +220, their blend of talent, depth, and proven coaching makes them the most logical bet to capture the MAC title.
