Week 4 of the 2024 College Football Season: A Clash of Titans
As the 2024 college football season rolls into Week 4, fans are in for a thrilling weekend filled with high-stakes matchups featuring top-25 teams. This week’s slate includes three games that promise to deliver excitement, drama, and potential playoff implications. With several programs making their official conference debuts, the atmosphere is electric as teams vie for supremacy in their new leagues.
USC’s Big Ten Debut Against Michigan
One of the marquee matchups of the weekend is the clash between No. 11 USC and No. 18 Michigan. This game marks USC’s first official foray into Big Ten play, and they are set to face a Wolverines team eager to bounce back after suffering a loss in a previous top-25 matchup at home. Michigan’s motivation is palpable; they need a win to keep their College Football Playoff aspirations alive.
The Trojans come into this game as favorites, boasting a potent offense led by quarterback Caleb Williams. However, the Wolverines are not to be underestimated. With a new quarterback, Alex Orji, stepping in, Michigan will look to establish a run-heavy game plan. The key for USC will be their defensive performance under first-year coordinator D’Anton Lynn, who has shown promise in tightening up the defense. Expect a battle of wills as both teams aim to assert their dominance in this pivotal matchup.
Utah’s Big 12 Showdown with Oklahoma State
Another intriguing game features No. 12 Utah traveling to face No. 14 Oklahoma State in a Big 12 showdown. This marks Utah’s third conference game of the century, and they are looking to make a statement against a Cowboys team that has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in their run defense. The spotlight will be on Utes quarterback Cameron Rising, who missed the previous week due to an injured finger. Coach Kyle Whittingham has indicated that Rising is expected to return, but his health will be crucial for Utah’s success.
Oklahoma State has struggled against mobile quarterbacks, which could play into Utah’s hands if Rising is at full strength. The Utes will aim to exploit the edges and capitalize on any defensive lapses from the Cowboys. With both teams eager to establish themselves in the Big 12, this game promises to be a hard-fought battle.
Tennessee’s SEC Debut Against Oklahoma
The final highlight of the weekend features No. 6 Tennessee visiting No. 15 Oklahoma in a game filled with storylines. This matchup not only marks Oklahoma’s inaugural SEC game but also sees former Sooners offensive coordinator Josh Heupel return to Norman as the head coach of the Volunteers. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the College Football Playoff race, making this a must-watch contest.
Tennessee’s offense, led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava, faces a significant challenge as they navigate a hostile environment. The Volunteers have struggled in past big games on the road, and this matchup will test their mettle. However, Tennessee’s defensive line is one of the best in the country, which could give them an edge against an Oklahoma offensive line that has been inconsistent. Expect a physical battle, with both defenses looking to impose their will early on.
Expert Picks and Predictions
As the excitement builds for these pivotal matchups, expert analysts have weighed in with their predictions. For the USC vs. Michigan game, many believe that USC’s offensive firepower will be too much for the Wolverines, leading to a predicted victory for the Trojans. In the Utah vs. Oklahoma State clash, experts are leaning towards Utah, especially if Rising is healthy enough to play. Finally, the Tennessee vs. Oklahoma game is expected to be a closely contested affair, with analysts favoring Tennessee’s ability to make key plays on both sides of the ball.
Tune In for All the Action
With so much on the line, Week 4 of the college football season is shaping up to be a thrilling weekend. Fans can catch all the action on CBS Sports, with coverage starting from the opening kickoff. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or simply looking to enjoy the spectacle of college football, this weekend promises to deliver unforgettable moments and intense competition.