The struggling West Virginia Mountaineers travel to Provo, Utah, for a Big 12 Conference matchup with the BYU Cougars.
The Mountaineers' offense is in the tank, and my West Virginia vs. BYU predictions expect the Cougars' elite defense to shine brightly at LaVell Edwards Stadium.
Read on for my early college football picks for Friday, October 3.
West Virginia vs BYU predictions
Here are our early thoughts on the spread and total for this week’s game. We will have a full game preview (with a best bet and SGP) later in the week.
Early West Virginia vs BYU spread pick: BYU -19.5
The BYU Cougars enter this Big 12 matchup with a clear edge in efficiency, both offensively and defensively.
The Cougars' offense converts third downs at a strong 38.4%, while the West Virginia Mountaineers struggle at just 23.7%, meaning BYU can consistently extend drives and control the clock.
On defense, BYU is stingy on third downs, allowing only 29.7% conversions, compared to WVU’s 39.7%, making it tough for the Mountaineers to sustain drives and score points.
The disparity between these Big 12 foes is even starker when looking at yards per point allowed: BYU gives up 1.0 points per 23.1 yards, while WVU allows a touchdown every 13.1 yards.
BYU’s balanced offensive attack and disciplined defense are the perfect storm to exploit WVU’s vulnerabilities. It’ll score against West Virginia and get enough defensive stops to cover the spread.
Early West Virginia vs BYU total pick: Under 48.5
The Mountaineers' offense has scored fewer than 14 points in three of their previous five games because that offense is prone to stalls, and 1.3 giveaways per game won’t help them score against BYU.
BYU, on the other hand, is a disciplined, legit defensive team, allowing only 29.7% of third downs and giving up just one point per 23.1 yards gained.
The Cougars’ defense will control the tempo, while WVU’s inability to maintain drives means fewer possessions and scoring chances.
West Virginia can make some defensive plays, but its offense is why it's 1-4-0 to the Under this season.
West Virginia vs BYU odds
- West Virginia vs. BYU spread: BYU -19.5 (-118)
- West Virginia vs. BYU moneyline: West Virginia +890, BYU -1700
- West Virginia vs. BYU Over/Under: 48.5
How to watch West Virginia vs BYU
- West Virginia vs. BYU matchup
- Date: Friday, October 3, 2025, 10:30 p.m. ET
- City: Provo, UT
- Venue: LaVell Edwards Stadium
- TV: ESPN
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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