As the calendar turns to August, it means the start of college football season is right around the corner. It's also a good time to discuss National Championship futures. 

Bettors are looking for value when placing a wager, especially in the futures market. However, betting longshots to win it all in college football is usually a losing proposition. Since the College Football Playoff format was introduced in 2014, it's been mostly chalk in the National Championship market. The only team with preseason odds greater than +1000 to win it all was 2019 LSU at +2000. 

A couple of variables that could change that trend are NIL and the transfer portal. The college football landscape is much different now than it was a decade ago. With all the player movement from year to year, more teams have a legitimate shot to win the National Championship. 

Another interesting factor heading into this season is five of the top six favorites to win the National Championship at FanDuel Sportsbook—Texas, Georgia, Ohio State, Oregon and Alabama—are starting new quarterbacks. Only Penn State returns an experienced quarterback, with Drew Allar entering his third season as a starter. 

Let's break down the 2025 college football National Championship odds with best bets, value plays, longshots and a team to avoid.

Which teams are the best bets to win the national title? Which longshot program is worth backing? And which school should you avoid in this futures market? Join SportsLine right now to see Thomas Casale's top college football futures plays and other insights, all from a proven expert!