College Football Picks: The Panel's Best Bets For Week 5 This Weekend

Our team of experts dive into the college football action, focusing on insights and odds from top betting sites ahead of another thrilling weekend.

Continue reading for The Panel's in-depth coverage and expert predictions as the CFB season gets underway.

Georgia Vs. Alabama Pick: This Seems Early 

Can Kalen DeBoer win the big game? For Kirby Smart and Georgia, this is another day at the office. 

Both teams have seen close scares, but does anyone remember that Georgia opener? Yes, they destroyed Clemson 34-3 to open the season.

Alabama can keep this close, but their error-prone ways will probably cost them a win. Many used to say the same thing about Georgia. 

The Panel Pick 1: Georgia -2 Points Vs Alabama - DraftKings -110

Our Picks For College Football Week 5

• The Panel Pick 1: Georgia -2 Points Vs Alabama  - DraftKings -110
• The Panel Pick 2: Illinois +17.5 Points Vs Penn State - FanDuel -105
• The Panel Pick 3: Louisville To Beat Notre Dame - Caesars +200

Illinois Vs. Penn State Prediction: So Many Points

This game feels odd for a Top 20 matchup. Illinois comes off an emotional win over Nebraska in overtime. 

Their defense can get to Drew Allar. However, Penn State ranks second in passing yards per completion at 17.3. The Nittany Lions can get the ball downfield.

Illinois can force Penn State to make enough mistakes to keep the game close. The pace of play is essential, and Bowling Green excelled at it to stay within a touchdown. 

If Illinois avoids crippling miscues and penalties, this contest could become uncomfortable for Penn State.

Meanwhile, the question is whether Penn State can score enough points to cover. While the weather will not be horrible, it will be raw, with some on-and-off-again showers. 

The game total is 47.5, down from 49, with money mostly trending toward the Under with betting apps.

Remember that the Nittany Lions average 41.3 points, but this is not Kent State. Illinois will find a way to grind their way to a cover.

The Panel Pick 2: Illinois +17.5 Points Vs Penn State - FanDuel -110

Louisville Vs. Notre Dame Preview: No Luck For The Irish?

Louisville head to South Bend on Saturday afternoon to take on Notre Dame. Both teams are in the Top 20, but the loser likely ends up on the outside looking in when it comes to the college football playoff.

Louisville ranks 28th against the run, and Tyler Shough is one of the best passers in the nation (8 touchdowns already). The Irish could get picked apart if the Notre Dame defensive front cannot create pressure. 

Riley Leonard and the Notre Dame passing game have shown little ability to keep defenses honest. The numbers have slid in Louisville’s favor (spread down to 6.5 and game total down to 45).

The Panel likes a mild upset special with Louisville on the road this Saturday.

The Panel Pick 3: Louisville To Beat Notre Dame - Caesars +200