Pat McAfee's Surprising Pick: Indiana Hoosiers Upset Oregon Ducks on College GameDay

During the latest episode of ESPN's College GameDay, Pat McAfee made headlines by picking the Indiana Hoosiers to upset the Oregon Ducks, marking the first time this season he chose against the home team. This decision surprised many, as McAfee typically aligns with the home crowd, having previously picked the home team in all five of his prior appearances this season. His choice was influenced not by a belief in Indiana's superiority, but rather by personal ties—his wife, Samantha, is an Indiana alum, which he emphasized during his pick.

Pat McAfee more afraid of his wife than the Ducks, picks Indiana in an upsetSports IllustratedPat McAfee punks Oregon crowd with Indiana Hoosier pick to close out College GameDay

The College GameDay segment took place in Eugene, Oregon, where McAfee engaged with the enthusiastic crowd and praised the Ducks and their head coach, Dan Lanning. He stated, "I love Oregon. I love Dan Lanning, I was shirtless with that man this morning," before revealing his pick for Indiana. This moment was met with boos from the Oregon fans, who were expecting a different outcome. McAfee's prediction was bold, asserting that Indiana's victory would "change the trajectory of all of college sports."

Pat McAfee fakes out Oregon crowd with final pick to close out College GameDayPat McAfee hilariously picks Indiana football to upset OregonSports Illustrated

McAfee's pick was the only one among the College GameDay panel to favor Indiana, with other analysts, including Kirk Herbstreit, Nick Saban, and Desmond Howard, all selecting Oregon. Despite the overwhelming support for the Ducks, McAfee's choice reflected his deep-rooted connections to Indiana, stating, "But my wife is a Hoosier through and through, and so am I, baby!" This sentiment resonated with Indiana supporters, even as it alienated the home crowd.

Pat McAfee fakes out Oregon crowd with final pick to close out College GameDay

While McAfee's choice was celebrated by Indiana fans, it drew criticism from Oregon supporters who felt betrayed by his unexpected pick. The Ducks, ranked No. 3, were favored by 7.5 points against the No. 7 Hoosiers, making McAfee's prediction seem like a risky gamble. Critics pointed out that his decision was less about football analysis and more about personal loyalty.

Pat McAfee hilariously picks Indiana football to upset Oregon

• “In the biggest win of [Curt] Cignetti's career, the Indiana Hoosiers tell the world, we're for real .” — Pat McAfee, ESPN Analyst

Sports Illustrated

• “I love Oregon. I love Dan Lanning, I was shirtless with that man this morning. But my wife is a Hoosier, through and through, and so am I baby!” — Pat McAfee, ESPN Analyst

Sports Illustrated

The game between Indiana and Oregon is set to kick off at 3:30 PM ET at Autzen Stadium. Both teams are looking to maintain their undefeated records and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff, making this matchup critical for their respective seasons. As the game approaches, all eyes will be on whether McAfee's prediction will hold true or if the Ducks will continue their strong performance at home.

Pat McAfee hilariously picks Indiana football to upset Oregon