Oregon State was essentially a team without a conference last year, as they only played two games in the Pac-12. The Beavers played 10 "other" games and went 1-9 in those contests, but with new coach JaMarcus Shephard and a revitalized conference, it's a new day for the program.
Speaking of new conferences, this will be Houston's fourth campaign in the Big 12, and head coach Willie Fritz is hoping to build on the massive leap the Cougars took a season ago. The No. 23 Cougars are hoping for a chance to push for a conference title in 2026.
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.
Oregon State vs. Houston game odds
All college football odds via BetMGM
- Spread: Oregon State +20.5 (-110), Houston -20.5 (-110)
- Money Line: Oregon State +910, Houston -1540
- Over-Under: Over 49.5 (-110), Under 49.5 (-110)
Oregon State vs. Houston prediction, pick:
Houston shouldn't have much trouble
putting points on the board this year, as quarterback Conner Weigman returns after throwing 25 touchdown passes in 2025. His top target, wide receiver Amare Thomas, is also back after finishing second in the Big 12 in receiving yards and touchdowns.
The Cougars also had a respectable defense playing in arguably the most offensive-minded conference in the country, which bodes well for their prospects of handling non-conference opponents and making a leap in 2026.
The Beavers are hoping that Mercer transfer quarterbackBraden Atkinson can give the team a jolt after throwing 34 touchdown passes a year ago and winning the Jerry Rice Award for being the FCS' top player. Atkinson should help Oregon State stay in the game, but Houston has too much talent.
Prediction: Houston 37, Oregon State 20
Best Bet: Over 49.5
Oregon State vs. Houston, start time, streaming:
Time: 12 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: ESPN app/Disney+/FuboTV
Watch Oregon State vs. Houston on FuboTV (Free Trial)
Get more betting analysis and predictions at Sportsbook Wire.
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Oregon State vs. Houston: Week 1 Betting Odds, Prediction
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