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ESPN Reveals Favorite to Win College Football Playoff National Championship

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Dec 30, 2024 12:37 PM ET

The second round of the College Football Playoff is fast approaching, and anticipation is at an all-time high as the remaining eight teams prepare to battle for a spot in the semifinals. With some thrilling matchups lined up for Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, fans are eagerly awaiting the action.

Ahead of these pivotal games, ESPN has revealed the latest national championship odds for the eight teams still in contention. These updated odds have generated significant buzz as the playoff race intensifies.

According to ESPN BET, the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes currently lead the pack as the favorites to win the national title, with odds of +325 (19.8% chance). Following closely behind the Buckeyes is the Texas Longhorns, also at +325 (19.6%).

Interestingly, despite their undefeated season and No. 1 seed, the Oregon Ducks are not the frontrunners. The Ducks are currently listed at +450, with a 17.6% chance to claim the championship, trailing both Ohio State and Texas.

The best odds to win the CFP per ESPN. pic.twitter.com/mvyGEC18UF
— College Football Alerts  (@CFBAlerts_) December 29, 2024

However, while Ohio State, Texas, and Oregon are the favorites, the teams following them are also intriguing. The No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs and No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions are both listed at +500, with the Nittany Lions holding a slight edge in percentage. This could be due to their more favorable second-round matchup, while Georgia will face Notre Dame.

Lastly, Boise State and Arizona State are seen as long shots, with less than a 1% chance to win it all. Boise State is listed at +600, while Arizona State is way down at +7500. A national championship from either would be a historic achievement in the first year of the 12-team College Football Playoff format.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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