BetMGM Sportsbook is offering new users up to $1,500 in bonus bets ahead of Friday’s college football slate, which features key matchups including Indiana vs. Northwestern and Cal vs. Clemson. The latest bonus code CBSSPORTS provides $150 in bonus bets if a bettor’s first wager wins, or as much as $1,500 in bonus bets if the initial wager loses, with the terms varying by location.
Friday’s five-game college football lineup has drawn attention from SportsLine experts, who have locked in selections based on simulations and analysis. Emory Hunt, a SportsLine analyst, is backing the California Golden Bears to cover as 1.5-point underdogs against the Clemson Tigers. Hunt cited Cal’s mental and physical toughness, pointing to their recent rebound victory over Syracuse after a loss to UCLA. He believes Cal’s quarterback advantage will be decisive in the game.
Meanwhile, the SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every FBS game 10,000 times, is backing Northwestern to cover the spread as 20-point underdogs against Indiana. Although neither team has lost on the scoreboard this season, Indiana has failed to cover the spread in all three of its wins, standing at 0-3 against the spread (ATS). Northwestern is 2-0 ATS so far. The model predicts Northwestern will cover in 55% of simulations.
Combining these two picks with a third NFL wager on the Bengals vs. Steelers game creates a parlay with a payout of +601 at BetMGM, meaning a $100 bet could return $601 in profit, though odds are subject to change.
SportsLine expert Adam Thompson is backing the Steelers to keep their game against the Bengals close. Thompson noted the Steelers’ defense has been solid through the first two weeks of the NFL season, allowing just 16.5 points per game. He highlighted Pittsburgh’s strength against the pass and suggested Aaron Rodgers’ style as quarterback for the Packers could be challenging for Cincinnati’s secondary, which allowed a high completion rate to Baker Mayfield in Week 1.
The SportsLine Projection Model has recorded a 22-19 start on top-rated college football picks at betting sites this season. It has been upgraded for 2026 to better incorporate transfer portal data. Bettors following these picks could have seen positive returns.
BetMGM encourages responsible gambling and offers features such as live chat support, gaming limits, and timeout options. They also provide contact information for helplines, including 1-800-MY-RESET, available 24/7 for those seeking assistance.
The bonus offer and expert picks are available now as bettors prepare for Friday’s college football games.
According to CBS.