Today's early best bets to target: Top MLB, NFL, college football picks, predictions include Mariners, Rockies

College football fans can look forward to five consecutive days of action starting Thursday, while the NFL kicks off next week with the 2025 NFL Opening Kickoff Game featuring the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys on September 4. Meanwhile, all 30 MLB teams are in action today, with notable matchups including the Seattle Mariners facing the San Diego Padres. The Mariners, currently 1.5 games behind the Astros in the AL West, are projected to win by a SportsLine model that predicts a 57% chance of victory.

In MLB betting, the Mariners are favored against the Padres, and the Rockies are expected to cover a +1.5 spread against the Astros in 56% of simulations. Additionally, the Yankees vs. Nationals game is predicted to exceed 8.5 total runs in 67% of scenarios.

For college football, Rutgers will play Ohio on Thursday, with Ohio projected to cover a +15.5 spread in 72% of simulations. The Bobcats are coming