Tre HarrisRich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Week 5: Kentucky at Ole Miss
Although the last three meetings between the SEC teams all went Ole Miss’ way, it was by a combined seven points. More of the same in 2024 would be unsurprising. Kentucky returns a ton of experience on defense and bolstered the roster with several impact transfers. This is a sizable jump in competition from Furman, Middle Tennessee, Wake Forest and Georgia Southern, even as Ole Miss’ explosive offense should be the best unit on the field.
Week 5: Ohio State at Michigan State
If you disagree, no problem. Michigan State is coming off a down season, and matchups with Iowa and Oregon are up next for OSU. Not only have the Buckeyes historically dominated MSU, the series hasn’t been competitive since 2016. Nevertheless, this is Ohio State’s first road trip of the year after a light stretch of Akron, Western Michigan and Marshall.
Week 6: Missouri at Texas A&M
Murray State, Buffalo, Boston College, Vanderbilt—all at home, too. Between a sensational 2023 season and that opening month in 2024, I cannot stop Mizzou fans from riding an optimistic high. The first big challenge, in theory, will arrive at the beginning of October at Texas A&M. Win there, and Missouri should be a major factor in the CFP rankings midway through the season.
Gambling problem? Call (877-8-HOPENY) or text HOPENY (467369).
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL/IN/MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO/NH), 888-789-7777/visiting ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-877-770-STOP (7867) (LA), visiting OPGR.org (OR), or calling/texting TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) or 1-888-532-3500 (VA).
Odds and lines subject to change. 21+ (18+ NH/WY). AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/LA/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.
