The Southeastern Conference has historically been the epicenter of college baseball supremacy, and 2025 appears to be no exception. With Tennessee, Arkansas, and LSU commanding the national championship odds at different sportsbooks, the SEC’s grip on the sport remains as strong as ever.
Beyond the conventional players, there is a compelling array of dark horse hopefuls who have the potential to shake up the College World Series in Omaha.
2025 College Baseball World Series Dark Horses: Teams That Could Upset the SEC Favorites
According to the latest College World Series odds released by AL.com, betting firms including DraftKings, FanDuel, Bet365, and BetMGM perceive a definite top tier. Still, some fascinating schools remain in the shadows with enough firepower and reputation to pull off a Cinderella run.
Oregon State (+2000 to +3100)
The Beavers are no strangers to Omaha, having won three national championships in the past two decades. Despite being a West Coast team in a Southeastern-dominated market, Oregon State routinely recruits and develops top pitching talent.
With odds as high as +3100 on FanDuel, Oregon State could offer significant value, particularly if their youthful arms develop quickly.
Vanderbilt (+2200 to +3400)
While Vanderbilt may hardly scream “dark horse” based on its reputation, the Commodores are being overlooked because of an up-and-down 2024 season. Still, with FanDuel pricing them at +3400, there’s good value in a team that knows how to win in Omaha. Never underestimate Tim Corbin’s team when it matters the most.
Georgia Tech (+2200 to +4500)
Georgia Tech, one of the most unpredictable teams in the odds rankings, is at +2200 on DraftKings but drops to +4500 on Bet365. That difference highlights the uncertainty surrounding the Yellow Jackets. However, they have a potent offense that can compete with anyone, and if their pitching improves, Tech could surprise the field.
Florida State (+1600 to +2500)
The Seminoles are putting together something special under Link Jarrett. Following a solid performance in the ACC, FSU is lingering around +1800 on FanDuel, but DraftKings has them at +2500, which might be a deal for a team with Omaha history and a much-improved bullpen.
Wake Forest (+3000 to +4000)
The Demon Deacons, ranked first in 2023, mainly went unnoticed this season. They sit as high as +4000 on FanDuel, with a lot of upside if they can rediscover their recent form. Wake Forest’s strength comes from its balance, great pitching depth, and a lineup that grinds out at-bats.
California-Irvine (+3500 to +6600)
The Anteaters may be the longest bet on the board, but at +6600 on BetMGM, the potential payout is tempting. UC Irvine is frequently a mid-major nightmare in the postseason, and if they hit a hot streak at the correct time, their West Coast flair might irritate powerhouse SEC opponents in Nebraska.
Texas A&M and Auburn (Both +3500 to +7000)
These SEC programs may not be among the top picks, but cannot be overlooked. Auburn, in particular, is a wild card, with odds of up to +7000 on Bet365, despite having the talent to compete with anyone in the league. Texas A&M has a comparable upside if its bats come alive in the postseason.
Also Read: 2025 Florida Baseball Schedule: Gators Attempt To Compete in the SEC
While Tennessee (+450 to +500), Arkansas (+500 to +800), and LSU (+500 to +800) are at the top of the odds boards, the beauty of college baseball is in its instability. Several hot weekends, a clutch closer, or a breakout freshman can completely alter the script.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
