North Dakota State vs. Colorado: Picks, Predictions and Odds

One of the headline matchups of Week 1 of the 2024 College Football season is perennial FCS powerhouse North Dakota State taking on a revamped Colorado Buffaloes program under head coach Deion Sanders.

With Sanders at the helm, the Buffaloes have attracted top-tier talent through the transfer portal and are looking to make a statement in this season opener.

On the other side, North Dakota State, with nine FCS championships in the last 13 years, has the experience and consistency to challenge even the most talented FBS teams.

This game will be a clash between the grit and tradition of North Dakota State and the flash and elite talent of Colorado.

North Dakota State vs. Colorado betting picks and predictions

Colorado -10.0 (-110)

The Colorado Buffaloes come into this game as 10-point favorites, and despite the respect North Dakota State has earned over the years, this line is justified.

While question marks remain, Colorado hopes to move on from its struggles in the trenches last season. Thanks to Sanders’ aggressive approach in the transfer portal, the Buffaloes have addressed critical needs, especially on the offensive line and the run defense.

The addition of five-star freshman tackle Jordan Seaton, along with a revamped offensive line, should give quarterback Shedeur Sanders some protection needed to pick apart the North Dakota State defense.

Shedeur Sanders had an impressive 2023 season, throwing for 27 touchdowns and just three interceptions despite being under constant pressure. With a new offensive line, he could be even better this year.

On the outside, Colorado’s skill positions are loaded with playmakers like Travis Hunter, LaJohntay Wester and Ohio State transfer Dallan Hayden. The speed and talent at these positions could overwhelm a North Dakota State defense that has shown vulnerability in making tackles in the open field.

While North Dakota State’s defense is experienced and capable, this is a tall task in Week 1, especially with a new head coach in Tim Polasek. The Bison’s physicality and consistency are their strengths, but the sheer talent and speed of Colorado could create mismatches that the Bison can’t counter.

The Buffaloes will be eager to make a statement, especially with a tough Big 12 schedule looming and a high-profile game against Nebraska coming up in Week 2. Expect Colorado to cover the spread as they pull away late in the game, leveraging their talent advantage to secure a convincing win.

Under 60.0 Total Points (-110)

Given the offensive firepower on both sides, it might be tempting to take the Over on a 60.0-point total, but a closer look suggests the Under is the smarter play.

North Dakota State’s offense is built around a potent run-first attack, led by quarterback Cam Miller and wildcat QB Cole Payton. The Bison will look to control the clock and limit Colorado’s possessions by grinding out long drives. This approach naturally lends itself to a lower-scoring game as it keeps the clock moving and minimizes the number of plays.

On the other side, Colorado’s offense, while talented, may take a more conservative approach in Week 1. Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, who served as interim OC last season, prefers a balanced, pro-style offense that doesn’t rush to the line.

With so many new pieces on the offensive line and at the skill positions, Colorado may use this game to settle in, avoiding risky plays that could give North Dakota State momentum.

Additionally, the Buffaloes' defense, led by Hunter and a retooled front seven, should be strong enough to temper the Bison’s ground game, especially as the game wears on.

In the first half, expect a feeling-out period as both teams try to establish their game plans. North Dakota State will likely focus on clock control, while Colorado tests its new-look offense without forcing the issue.

As a result, scoring opportunities could be limited early on, leading to a game that stays Under the 60.0-point total.

North Dakota State vs. Colorado odds

North Dakota State	+290 ML
Colorado	-370 ML
Spread	Colorado -10.0
Total Points	O/U 60.0

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.