NC State vs. Virginia Predictions: College Football Week 0 Odds & Best Bet

My NC State vs. Virginia predictions expect the circumstances surrounding this game to slow down both offenses on Saturday.

This ACC tilt should not be in Week 0 anymore, yet the NCAA has allowed the exception despite NC State and Virginia abandoning their plans to go to Rio de Janeiro. The current economic and political climates made planning that game with only months' notice a hurdle too high.

Kickoff from Scott Stadium in Charlottesville, Va., is set for 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Virginia is a 5.5-point betting favorite in the opening odds, but my early picks focus on the total.

🏈 Early NC State vs. Virginia prediction: Week 0

Stay ahead with the rest of our early college football picks.

Under 53.5 (-108 via Caesars)

Both defenses should have the advantage when on the field. NC State is led by quarterback CJ Bailey, but he should still be finding his way with a new offense. Similarly, Virginia should be conservative to start the season with Missouri transfer quarterback Beau Pribula.

This total has fallen from 54.5 only a few weeks ago, but it has not yet passed through a key number, so there is still value in grabbing this Under as long as it stays north of 52.

📊 Live NC State vs. Virginia odds: Week 0

See the latest college football odds for every game in real time.

NC State vs. Virginia line movement

Do not commit yourself too hard to Virginia against the spread, but if there is a side to prefer, it is the Cavaliers up to -6. They have the homefield edge and more program momentum.

But mostly, avoid this side. Use this game to learn about the middle tier of the ACC. You do not need to bet every game on a shortened slate. In fact, you should not bet every game on a shortened slate.

📺 How to watch NC State vs. Virginia

• Date: Saturday, Aug. 29
• Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Scott Stadium (Charlottesville, Va.)
• TV: ESPN