P.J. Fleck's Minnesota Golden Gophers were two different teams at home and on the road last season. They went 7-0 at home and 0-5 away from their friendly confines.
Fortunately for Fleck and Minnesota fans, the Gophers' first game of the season comes at home against Eastern Illinois of the Ohio Valley Conference in FCS. Eastern Illinois already played their first game of the year, which was a 28-14 victory against fellow FCS squad Murray State.
If you are looking for some betting advice for the matchup, we've got you covered. Here are the latest odds for the game, courtesy of BetMGM.
Eastern Illinois vs. Minnesota game odds
All college football odds via BetMGM
- Spread: Eastern Illinois +42.5 (-110), Minnesota -42.5 (-110)
- Money Line: Not available
- Over-Under: Over 50.5 (-110), Under 50.5 (-110)
Eastern Illinois vs. Minnesota prediction, pick:
The Panthers won their first game of the season despite losing the turnover battle, which is something that they can't reasonably
afford to do against Minnesota. Quarterback Collin Shannon had a nice day despite two interceptions, throwing for 257 yards and two touchdowns.
That might be a lot to ask against a Minnesota defense that is bringing back two stalwarts that terrorized the Big Ten a season ago. Defensive lineman Anthony Smith led the Big Ten in sacks in 2025 with 12.5, and defensive back John Nestor tied for the Big Ten lead in interceptions last year with six.
With the Golden Gophers' defense expected to be at least as good as last year if not better, it doesn't bode well for Eastern Illinois to move the ball up and down the field.
Prediction: Minnesota 58, Eastern Illinois 10
Best Bet: Over 50.5
Eastern Illinois vs. Minnesota, start time, streaming:
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Live Stream: Peacock
Watch Eastern Illinois vs. Minnesota on Peacock
Get more betting analysis and predictions at Sportsbook Wire.
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Eastern Illinois vs. Minnesota: Week 1 Betting Odds, Prediction
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