This Louisiana vs Missouri prediction previews a cross-conference Week 3 matchup where Missouri, an SEC power at home, faces Sun Belt opponent Louisiana. On the surface it’s a one-sided game, but large spreads create value scenarios — especially if rotation, weather or late-game rest factors come into play.
Event Information
- Matchup: Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns at Missouri Tigers
- Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
- Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. CT / 1:00 p.m. ET
- Stadium: Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium — Columbia, MO
- TV: ESPN+/SEC Network alternate feeds (check local listings)
Betting Odds & Market Info
- Line you gave: Louisiana +27.5 — Missouri favored.
- Total (O/U): 47
Check the live market before you lock: Bovada.lv)— and track public ticket/money splits at the College Football Public Betting Chart.
Quick matchup notes
- Missouri strengths: SEC depth, home crowd, and the kind of athletes who can create and finish big plays. Expect Missouri to try to establish the run and push tempo early to open the game.
- Louisiana strengths: disciplined situational play, ball-control tendencies, and veteran reps in short-yardage/clock-management situations. Their best route to a competitive result is sustaining long drives and avoiding turnovers.
- Game swing factors: weather/heat (affects tempo), early injuries or starter rest, and whether Missouri leans on starters deep into the second half. Large spreads are most vulnerable to rotation/rest decisions late.
Prediction & Best Bet
Predicted Score: Missouri 34, Louisiana 14
Best Bet: Louisiana +27.5
Why this is the play (extra reasoning): Missouri is likely the better team and should win, but getting +27.5 on the road buys significant insurance. Big chalks in FBS are often softened by two real effects: (1) starters playing lighter minutes late if the game is out of hand, and (2) garbage-time scoring that can compress margins in ways the books don’t always fully price. If Missouri builds a big lead early and then eases up, Louisiana’s coaches can keep certain veterans on the field to preserve dignity and avoid total blowout frequency. Backing the Cajuns with nearly four full touchdowns is a value ticket if you expect Missouri to rotate or if you prefer buying a large cushion rather than laying heavy chalk.