As college football fans, we just experienced an exhilarating weekend filled with thrilling matchups. However, as we gear up for another Saturday, this week's slate may seem a tad underwhelming. Yet, history has shown that these seemingly less significant games can often spiral into chaos. One of the highlights will be the Michigan vs. Oklahoma Top-25 showdown, which is set to capture the attention of football enthusiasts everywhere.
The previous weekend featured the highly anticipated clash between No. 1 Texas and No. 3 Ohio State, offering fans an exhilarating taste of college football excitement. Additionally, Florida State's stunning victory over Alabama sent shockwaves through Tuscaloosa, igniting panic among Crimson Tide supporters. As we look ahead to this weekend's matchups, there's a palpable sense that we could witness a few surprising upsets that will make up for the lack of Top-25 contests.
Reflecting on the events of Week Two in the 2024 college football season, it's hard to forget the shocking outcome when Northern Illinois triumphed over No. 5 Notre Dame with a nail-biting 16-14 finish. Additionally, Illinois managed to defeat No. 19 Kansas in a close 19-17 game. Northern Illinois Coach Thomas Hammock even humorously assured Marcus Freeman that he wouldn't divulge any Notre Dame secrets to opponents. With such surprises fresh in our minds, it's crucial for fans to stay alert this weekend, as history tells us anything can happen.
The most significant game this weekend, both in terms of rankings and television viewership, will take place in Norman, where No. 15 Michigan will square off against No. 18 Oklahoma. This prime-time matchup, airing on ABC, features Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood, who is drawing attention reminiscent of Arch Manning's debut last weekend in Columbus. This game will serve as Underwood's introduction to the college football world as he faces off against the Sooners.
The anticipation builds for the Oregon vs. Oklahoma State matchup, especially following a week filled with verbal exchanges between coaches Dan Lanning and Mike Gundy about the financial implications of NIL deals. With Oklahoma State being 29-point underdogs, the odds-makers are skeptical about the Cowboys pulling off an upset, making this a measuring stick game for them.
Another intriguing game to keep an eye on is the Kansas vs. Missouri rivalry, which returns to the forefront of college football. Scheduled for 3:30 pm ET on ESPN2, the showdown is poised to deliver a thrilling matchup, showcasing the quarterback duel between Beau Pribula and Jalon Daniels.
In a highly competitive atmosphere at 12 pm ET on FOX, the Iowa vs. Iowa State game promises to be fiercely contested. With Iowa State seeking to end a long-standing losing streak against Iowa, fans can expect a charged environment as tensions rise in this state rivalry.
After a surprising victory over Boise State, South Florida heads into the Swamp to face Florida at 4:15 pm ET on the SEC Network. Despite Florida being favored by 18 points, South Florida's offense under coach Alex Golesh could make this a closer game than anticipated.
At 7:30 pm ET on ESPN2, the Mississippi State vs. Arizona State game could be a potential 'trap game' for the Sun Devils. With Arizona State's QB Sam Leavitt leading the charge, this matchup has the makings of a chaotic encounter, especially with Mississippi State's head coach Jeff Lebby ready to make a statement.
In another intriguing matchup, the Vanderbilt vs. Virginia Tech game kicks off at 7:30 pm ET on the ACC Network. With Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia looking to secure a road win against Virginia Tech, fans can expect an entertaining atmosphere, especially with the night game at Lane Stadium.
As the weekend approaches, the spotlight is on coaches like Kalen Deboer, Mark Stoops, and Bill Belichick. When Ole Miss takes on Kentucky, the Rebels seek revenge after last year's upset. Meanwhile, Kalen Deboer faces significant pressure, especially following Alabama's disappointing performance against Florida State. With fans growing restless, the stakes are high for these coaches as they navigate the challenges of their programs.
As we gear up for another thrilling weekend of college football, don't overlook the potential for surprises and upsets. Just like last year, anything can happen, and the excitement of the game is always around the corner!
