The Minnesota Golden Gophers are massive underdogs when they travel to Columbus for a Big Ten matchup against the No. 1-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes.
Defense has been the calling card for both teams this season, and my Minnesota vs. Ohio State predictions and college football picks expect those units to excel at Ohio Stadium on Saturday night.
Minnesota vs Ohio State prediction
Minnesota vs Ohio State best bet: Under 44.5 (-110)
Saturday’s Big Ten matchup between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Ohio State Buckeyes is one where the respective defenses clearly outshine the offenses. Both teams rank in the Top 10 nationally in defensive efficiency, setting the stage for another low-scoring battle.
Minnesota’s defense has been formidable, giving up just 65.5 rushing yards and 164.5 passing yards per game while forcing six turnovers. Ohio State’s defense has been nearly impenetrable this season, allowing only two touchdowns and 132 passing yards per game.
Minnesota freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey operates a methodical passing attack, but his offense, possibly missing running back Darius Taylor, won’t have it easy moving the ball against this stout Buckeyes defense.
Ohio State’s offense can crush teams behind its potent rushing attack (181 yards per game) and efficiency on third down(50%), but Minnesota’s elite run defense and solid pass coverage should limit enough of OSU’s drives for this game to stay Under the 44.5-point total.
Minnesota vs Ohio State same-game parlay
In addition to our best bet, versatile Ohio State running back CJ Donaldson has two rushing scampers and one receiving score.
We’ll back the Buckeyes to cover the spread as they're 8-1-1 in their previous 10 games and 3-2 ATS in their last five games against Minnesota.
Minnesota vs Ohio State SGP
- Under 44.5
- Ohio State -23.5
- CJ Donaldson anytime touchdown
Our deep-ball SGP: Big day for the Buckeyes
Buckeyes sophomore wideout Jeremiah Smith has three receiving and one rushing touchdown this season. He's also scored in three straight games.
Minnesota vs Ohio State SGP
- Under 44.5
- Ohio State -23.5
- CJ Donaldson anytime touchdown
- Jeramiah Smith anytime touchdown
Minnesota vs Ohio State odds
- Spread: Minnesota +23.5 | Ohio State -23.5
- Moneyline: Minnesota +1300 | Ohio State -3000
- Over/Under: Over 44.5 | Under 44.5
Minnesota vs Ohio State trend to know
The Under has cashed in four of the last five meetings. Find more college football betting trends for Minnesota vs Ohio State.
How to watch Minnesota vs Ohio State
| Location | Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH |
| Date | Saturday, October 4, 2025 |
| Kickoff | 7:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | NBC |
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Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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