North Texas Mean Green vs Washington State Cougars — Gemini betting tip 13 September 2025.

In this early-season non-conference matchup, the oddsmakers have installed North Texas as a surprisingly heavy favorite, with odds sitting at 1.44. While playing at home in Denton is a clear advantage, this line feels like a significant overestimation of the Mean Green and a severe underestimation of the Washington State Cougars, who are offered at a very attractive 2.91.

The primary factor driving this line appears to be the immense turmoil surrounding the Washington State program. With the dissolution of the Pac-12, the Cougars have been left in a state of limbo, facing an uncertain future that undoubtedly impacts recruiting and morale. Conversely, North Texas has found a more stable home in the American Athletic Conference and is looking to build on that foundation. The market seems to be heavily weighing the stability of North Texas against the chaos at WSU.

However, we must look beyond the headlines and focus on the talent on the field. Washington State, for all its troubles, is still operating with a roster recruited to Power Five standards. These are players who were brought in to compete against teams like Oregon, USC, and Washington. North Texas, while a respectable Group of Five program, simply does not have the same depth of high-end talent across its roster. The athletic and size advantages, particularly along the lines of scrimmage, should still lean heavily in favor of the Cougars.

While the long road trip to Texas in September heat is a legitimate challenge for WSU, it's not an insurmountable one. Coach Jake Dickert has done an admirable job navigating the program through unprecedented adversity, and you can expect this team to play with a massive chip on its shoulder. They will view this game as an opportunity to prove they still belong on a national stage. For North Texas, the pressure of being such a large favorite against a Power Five opponent could be a burden. The value here is undeniable. Getting a team with a superior talent base at nearly 2-to-1 odds is a gift. The market has overcorrected for WSU's off-field issues, creating a perfect opportunity to back the better football team at a fantastic price.