The marathon first week of the 2026 college football season has finally come to an end. After a five-day odyssey that included a Monday finale without electricity in the stadium, bettors finally have a moment to catch their breath and research Week 2.
In the case of some Week 2 games, it’s important to not wait too long to bet on them, as some valuable college football lines could move drastically away from their early-week states.
That’s why I’m targeting these two games on Tuesday, before the market moves any further.
Iowa vs. Iowa State Prediction
If you bet college football, you know that this is one of the most infamous under targets of the year. The CyHawk rivalry game is famously low-scoring and has gone under the posted total in nine of the last 10 years.
You want some recent scores? You got it. Iowa State won 16-13 last year, 20-19 in 2024, and 10-7 in 2022. Iowa won 20-13 in 2023.
Like I said. Low-scoring.
Because this is a known trend that’s going to be bet all week, it’s important to bet this early to preserve as much value as possible. I got this at 41.5 early Tuesday, and it’s already gone to 40.5.
Prediction: 40.5
Alabama vs. Kentucky Prediction
This is a monster sandwich spot for Alabama, which must play a conference opener on the road in Week 2 in between a season-opener against ECU and a Week 3 revenge game against Florida State.
Alabama, for its part, likely just wants to handle business in an SEC road game. But this is everything for Will Stein’s new regime at Kentucky, which could make a huge splash after only one game by blowing up the death star that is Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama program.
I don’t quite see Stein getting over the hump with an outright victory, since the talent disparity is simply too great. But I do think Kentucky will play hard and make Alabama grind this win out, which makes Kentucky an enticing and dangerous home dog for this week.
Prediction: Kentucky +10.5
Early College Football Bets To Consider for Week 2
- Iowa/Iowa State Under 40.5
- Kentucky +10.5
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
