Colorado vs. North Dakota State prediction, odds: College football Week 1 best bets, picks

It’s all in front of Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes in their opener Thursday night.

They roll into their clash with North Dakota State as 10-point favorites on Fanatics Sportsbook and are massive -375 favorites to win outright.

The Division I AA school has actually produced two top draft picks in the NFL, Carson Wentz and Trey Lance, while also seeing Easton Stick get into the league.

There is no top prospect awaiting the Buffaloes on Thursday, though.

North Dakota State bizarrely runs a two-quarterback system, led by passing quarterback Cam Miller and supported by Cole Payton, who plays a role similar to Taysom Hill of the Saints.

We’re going to target a first-half bet against the spread.

Colorado vs. North Dakota State prediction

Colorado should heavily rely on its defensive line this season.

The Buffaloes’ defensive front profiled as one of the best in college football last year, and overall return nine of their 11 key contributors.

Colorado will need to improve its tackling and run defense to take a step forward this year, but that continuity and a retooled roster littered with transfers should led to an improved football team after last year’s 4-8 disappointment that featured several collapses in close games.

Offensively, Colorado will need much better play from its offensive line to protect star quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

Thursday’s game should be his showcase performance that could vault him to early Heisman Trophy contention.

North Dakota’s defense, particularly their secondary, is abysmal.

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Two-way star Travis Hunter could also take a leap forward as a receiver. He’s among the best at the position and also shines on defense as a lockdown cornerback.

The Buffaloes should eventually pull away in this one, but the defense could have its hands full dealing with two different looks and completely opposite offenses.

In-game management isn’t exactly Coach Prime’s strong suit.

Back North Dakota State to keep it close in the first half, but it’s anyone’s guess how this one plays out in the second half.

PICK: North Dakota State first half spread +7.5 (-160, Fanatics)