Stanford vs. BYU Prediction and Picks - September 6, 2025
Stanford Cardinal vs. BYU Cougars
College Football returns this Saturday with a matchup between the Stanford Cardinal vs BYU Cougars, look inside for our prediction and picks. The Stanford Cardinal (0-1) will face the BYU Cougars (1-0) on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, UT. The game kicks off at 9:15 PM EDT and will be broadcast on ESPN, with expected weather conditions of 74°F. Stanford is coming off a 23-20 loss to Hawaii in their season opener, while BYU dominated Portland State 69-0. Stanford’s starting quarterback Ben Gulbranson completed 15 of 30 passes for 109 yards with one interception, while BYU’s Bear Bachmeier went 7-of-11 for 97 yards and three touchdowns. ESPN’s matchup predictor gives BYU an 89.2% chance to win.
Stanford’s Season Opener Highlights Offensive Struggles
Stanford’s 2025 campaign began with a narrow 23-20 loss to Hawaii, extending their losing streak to five of their last six games dating back to 2024. The Cardinal offense managed just 286 total yards, with running back Micah Ford accounting for 113 rushing yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Ben Gulbranson struggled with accuracy, completing only 50% of his passes and throwing an interception. Defensively, Stanford allowed 210 passing yards and 96 rushing yards, though defensive lineman Clay Patterson recorded two sacks.
The Cardinal’s turnover margin sits at -1 after Week 1, a trend they must reverse to compete against BYU. Interim head coach Frank Reich acknowledged the team’s offensive inconsistencies, stating, "We need to execute better in critical moments." Stanford averages 20.0 points per game, 109.0 passing yards per game, and 113.0 rushing yards per game, with 5.0 penalties per game.
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BYU’s Dominant Start Showcases Elite Rushing Attack
BYU opened the 2025 season with a statement 69-0 victory over Portland State, showcasing a dominant rushing attack that amassed 468 yards and five touchdowns. Fourteen different players recorded carries, led by LJ Martin’s 131 yards on just eight attempts. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier was efficient, completing 63.6% of his passes for three touchdowns. The defense was equally impressive, holding Portland State to -5 rushing yards and 56 passing yards.
BYU’s turnover margin is +1, and they have no significant injuries to report. Head coach Kalani Sitake emphasized preparation, stating, "We’ve got to make sure we’re on top of our game." The Cougars lead the nation in rushing yards per game (468.0) and rank third in scoring offense (69.0 PPG), while allowing 0.0 points per game defensively.
Stanford vs. BYU Pick
Spread Pick for Stanford vs. BYU
- BYU - 20.5 (4 Units)
Stanford has struggled against the spread, going 0-1 ATS this season and 2-7-1 in their last 10 games. They are 2-3 ATS in their last five as underdogs. BYU, meanwhile, is 1-0 ATS this season and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games. The Cougars are 20-13 ATS over the last two seasons and have covered in 70% of their recent home games. Stanford’s ATS record as a double-digit underdog is 2-3, while BYU is 5-2 ATS as a double-digit favorite. Given BYU’s Week 1 dominance and Stanford’s offensive struggles, betting on BYU to cover the -20.5 spread with confidence is the recommended play.
| # | Handicapper | Profit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Rob Vincilleti | +1,502.00 |
| 2 |  Pro Sports Picks | +1,421.00 |
| 3 |  Brick Haus Sports | +634.00 |
| 4 |  David Delano | +492.00 |
| 5 |  Michael Briggs | +355.00 |
Over/Under Pick for Stanford vs. BYU
- Over 45.5 (4 Units)
Stanford’s games have gone under the total in 8 of their last 12, including their Week 1 matchup (total: 43.5, result: 43). BYU’s games have trended over, with 7 of their last 10 exceeding the posted total. The Cougars’ 69-point outburst in Week 1 skewed their offensive numbers, but their defense has yet to be tested. The current total is set at 45.5, with odds slightly favoring the under (-115). Stanford’s run-heavy approach could slow the game, but BYU’s explosive rushing attack may push the score higher. Given BYU’s offensive firepower and Stanford’s defensive vulnerabilities, betting the Over is the recommended play. Go OVER and Good Luck!
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