Minnesota vs Ohio State Picks and Predictions for Saturday, October 4, 2025

By: David Anicetti Updated 10/03/2025, 11:19 PM ET

The Minnesota Golden Gophers visit the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday at Ohio Stadium, with the opening kickoff at 7:30 PM ET on NBC and Peacock. Minnesota is 3–1 overall and 1–0 in the Big Ten after a 31–28 win over Rutgers. Ohio State is 4–0 and 1–0 in conference play, coming off a 24–6 win at Washington. Every matchup matters—see who’s favored in our expert college football picks.

Minnesota Preview

Quarterback Drake Lindsey has thrown for 958 yards with seven touchdowns and two interceptions while completing 66% of his passes. Javon Tracy leads the receivers with 204 yards and two scores, and the running game is paced by Fame Ijeboi with 173 yards and one touchdown. The Gophers have reached 30 or more points in three of four games.

On defense, Devon Williams leads the way with 31 tackles. Anthony Smith has 4.5 sacks, while John Nestor has two interceptions. Minnesota has been strong against Rutgers and Buffalo but allowed 27 points at Cal, showing that the secondary can be challenged by stronger passing attacks.

Ohio State Preview

Quarterback Julian Sayin has been sharp with 987 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions, completing nearly 79% of his passes. Jeremiah Smith has been the top target with 396 yards and four touchdowns. Bo Jackson adds balance in the run game with 297 yards and a touchdown, and CJ Donaldson has three rushing scores.

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The defense is led by Caden Curry, who has 25 tackles and five sacks. Caleb Downs has an interception, while the front seven has controlled the line in every game. Ohio State has held three of its four opponents to single-digit points and has not allowed more than 24 all year.

Minnesota vs Ohio State Prediction

Minnesota has shown balance on offense, but Ohio State is deeper and more physical on both sides of the ball. With Sayin performing well and the defense forcing mistakes, the Buckeyes should stay unbeaten with a decisive home win. Final Score Prediction: Ohio State Buckeyes win and cover ATS 35–7.