A Blockbuster Weekend of College Football: What to Watch
As college football fans gear up for an electrifying weekend, the anticipation is palpable. With a lineup packed with high-stakes matchups, this weekend promises to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments. The highlight of the slate is undoubtedly the Big Ten showdown between No. 2 Ohio State and No. 3 Oregon, but there’s a wealth of other compelling games to keep fans glued to their screens throughout the day.
Early Window: Alabama Seeks Redemption
The day kicks off with a noon matchup featuring No. 7 Alabama hosting South Carolina. After suffering a shocking upset against Vanderbilt, the Crimson Tide are eager to bounce back and reestablish their dominance. Alabama’s first-year head coach Kalen DeBoer faces a pivotal moment; how will the team respond to adversity? South Carolina, coming off a dismal performance against Ole Miss, will be looking to play spoiler. This game is not just about pride; it’s a chance for both teams to regain their footing in the national conversation.
Afternoon Action: The Red River Rivalry and More
As the afternoon unfolds, the excitement ramps up with two significant games. The first is the historic SEC edition of the Red River Rivalry, where No. 1 Texas takes on No. 18 Oklahoma at 3:30 p.m. This matchup is steeped in tradition, and last year’s upset by the Sooners adds an extra layer of intrigue. With Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers returning from injury, the Longhorns are favored, but anything can happen in this storied rivalry.
Simultaneously, No. 4 Penn State will clash with USC in a game that could have major implications for both teams. The Nittany Lions are looking to solidify their status as Big Ten contenders, while USC is desperate for a win after a controversial loss to Minnesota. The travel from Pennsylvania to California poses a challenge for Penn State, as teams making such journeys have struggled this season. This game is a must-watch for fans eager to see how these two programs stack up against each other.
Evening Showdowns: High Stakes and Playoff Implications
As the sun sets, the marquee matchup of the weekend takes center stage. No. 2 Ohio State visits No. 3 Oregon at 7:30 p.m. Both teams are undefeated and harbor aspirations for a national title. Ohio State has been dominant thus far, but Oregon is looking to prove it can compete at the highest level. The atmosphere in Eugene promises to be electric, and the winner will likely emerge as the top contender for the No. 1 ranking in the following week’s polls.
In another pivotal evening clash, No. 9 Ole Miss travels to Death Valley to face No. 13 LSU. This game carries significant College Football Playoff implications for both teams. LSU, coming off a bye week, will be well-rested and ready to defend its home turf against an Ole Miss squad that has faced tough competition recently. The intensity of a night game in Tiger Stadium is unmatched, making this matchup one to watch closely.
Late-Night Action: Kansas State vs. Colorado
For those looking to stay up late, No. 18 Kansas State will take on Deion Sanders’ Colorado team at 10:15 p.m. This game features contrasting styles: Kansas State’s ground-and-pound approach versus Colorado’s high-octane passing game. With Big 12 title implications on the line, this matchup promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a day filled with college football action.
Viewer’s Guide: Key Matchups and Broadcast Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the best games to catch this weekend, along with their broadcast details:
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South Carolina at No. 7 Alabama
Time: Noon on ABC
Streaming: fuboTV (try for free) -
No. 1 Texas vs. No. 18 Oklahoma
Time: 3:30 p.m. on ABC
Streaming: fuboTV (try for free) -
No. 4 Penn State at USC
Time: 3:30 p.m. on CBS
Streaming: CBSSports.com, CBS Sports App (Free), Paramount+ with Showtime -
No. 9 Ole Miss at No. 13 LSU
Time: 7:30 p.m. on ABC
Streaming: fuboTV (try for free) -
No. 2 Ohio State at No. 3 Oregon
Time: 7:30 p.m. on NBC
Streaming: fuboTV (try for free) - No. 18 Kansas State at Colorado
Time: 10:15 p.m. on ESPN
Streaming: fuboTV (try for free)
Best of the Rest
In addition to the marquee matchups, several other games deserve attention:
- No. 10 Clemson at Wake Forest — Noon on ESPN
- No. 21 Missouri at UMass — Noon on ESPN2
- California at No. 22 Pitt — 3:30 p.m. on ESPN2
- Purdue at No. 23 Illinois — 3:30 p.m. on FS1
- Stanford at No. 11 Notre Dame — 3:30 p.m. on NBC
- Mississippi State at No. 5 Georgia — 4:15 p.m. on SEC Network
- Florida at No. 8 Tennessee — 7 p.m. on ESPN
With so many exciting matchups on the horizon, college football fans are in for a treat this weekend. Whether you’re rooting for a powerhouse or an underdog, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grab your snacks, settle in, and prepare for a day filled with unforgettable moments on the gridiron!