College football Week 8 presents an exhilarating lineup of matchups that fans won’t want to miss.
In a stunning turn of events, Oregon triumphed over the second-ranked Ohio State in a thrilling showdown at Autzen Stadium. Meanwhile, Penn State showcased their resilience by besting USC in a nail-biting overtime clash. Alabama managed to narrowly avoid back-to-back losses, edging out South Carolina 27-25 in a tense finish. Additionally, both Ole Miss and LSU, as well as Florida and Tennessee, found themselves in overtime battles, with the home teams emerging victorious in each case.
Such electrifying weekends spark extensive discussions among the dedicated team at FOX Sports as they prepare for Big Noon Kickoff. Each Sunday night, reflections on the previous day’s events lead to comprehensive emails shared with producers, researchers, and on-air colleagues, highlighting noteworthy performances and upcoming matchups.
This week, college football fans can look forward to seven ranked teams hitting the road against unranked opponents, along with three matchups featuring ranked teams squaring off against each other. A total of eight teams from the top 10 of the AP poll will be in action, and 20 of the top 25 will take the field.
Let’s explore the key matchups and insights for Week 8.
Another top five matchup: Georgia at Texas
College football enthusiasts are in for a treat this week as the Bulldogs travel to Austin for an anticipated showdown against Texas. After witnessing the Buckeyes’ visit to the Ducks last week, fans are eager to see if this game could potentially crown a national champion or a Heisman winner.
While Texas’ defense has garnered praise, it’s essential to consider the caliber of Power 4 offenses they have faced, including Michigan, Mississippi State, and Oklahoma, all of which have struggled significantly in terms of expected points added (EPA). The Wolverines rank 59th, the Sooners sit at the bottom in 68th, and the Bulldogs are 47th among Power 4 teams.
Injuries could play a pivotal role in this matchup, with key Georgia players like linebacker Smael Mondon and offensive linemen Tate Ratledge and Jared Wilson nursing injuries. For Texas, star receiver Isaiah Bond’s status remains uncertain after last week’s injury. This marks the third top-five matchup of the year, promising to deliver excitement akin to the previous encounters.
Huge matchup in Knoxville
In Knoxville, all eyes will be on the defensive strategies employed by Kane Wommack, who implements a 4-2-5 scheme, contrasting with Nick Saban’s traditional 3-4 base. Wommack’s previous success at Indiana, where his unit recorded 17 interceptions, hints at a formidable challenge for opponents. Currently, Alabama has six interceptions in six games.
Tennessee’s quarterback Nico Iamaleava has had a mixed season, throwing three touchdown passes but matching that with three interceptions against Power Conference teams. The Vols face an uphill battle, as their historical record against AP top 10 opponents since 2007 stands at 2-41, with only one victory against Alabama in the same timeframe. Will this be a defining game for the Tide, or can the Vols secure their second win against them in recent years? The answer awaits on Saturday.
Howlin’ Hoosiers
The Indiana Hoosiers are defying expectations, boasting a 6-0 record for only the second time in their history and scoring 40 or more points in five consecutive games for the first time ever. Under the guidance of Curt Cignetti, who previously transformed James Madison into a formidable FBS program, the Hoosiers are making waves. They face a Nebraska team led by freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola, who is part of a 5-1 squad enjoying its best start since 2016.
Power 4 Parity
The landscape of college football is marked by an unprecedented level of parity. Teams like Alabama, Michigan, Tennessee, and Notre Dame have already faced unexpected losses, highlighting the unpredictability at the top of the rankings. The ACC appears to be a contest between Clemson and Miami, while the Big Ten could see Oregon, Ohio State, or even Penn State emerge as contenders. In the Big 12, teams like Iowa State, Kansas State, and BYU are in the mix, while the SEC remains a powerhouse with Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas A&M all vying for supremacy.
Remarkably, eight top 10 teams have already fallen to unranked opponents this season, a phenomenon not seen since 2007. Fans should appreciate the current state of unpredictability in college football.
Servicemen keep winning
For the first time since 1960, both Army and Navy find themselves ranked in the AP poll’s top 25 during the same week.
The Black Knights are undefeated at 6-0, marking their best start since 1996, and they recently extended their winning streak to 10 games, the longest active streak in FBS. They enter this week as 15-point favorites against East Carolina.
Meanwhile, Navy stands at 5-0, facing Charlotte as 17-point favorites. If they secure a victory, it would mark the first time since 1926 that both Army and Navy started 6-0.
We’re not in Kansas anymore… or are we?
Kansas has struggled historically within the Big 12, holding a dismal .313 win percentage from 2000 to 2020. However, under the leadership of Lance Leipold, the program has experienced a remarkable turnaround. After a two-win season in 2021, they achieved six wins in 2022 and nine wins last season, their best record since 2000.
Unfortunately, this season has not started as hoped, with the Jayhawks sitting at 1-5 and 0-3 in conference play. The performance of dual-threat quarterback Jalon Daniels will be crucial as Leipold looks to rally the team following a disappointing start.
Trojans and Terps both need a win
USC and Maryland enter their matchup with matching 3-3 records, both looking to break two-game losing streaks. This game serves as a critical juncture for both programs, as they aim to avoid slipping below .500. Lincoln Riley’s Trojans have struggled recently, posting a 5-8 record in their last 13 games.
Several other matchups this week could be classified as “disappointment bowls,” where teams are looking to recover from close losses or injuries that have altered their seasons. These include TCU at Utah, Kentucky at Florida, Colorado at Arizona, NC State at Cal, and South Carolina at Oklahoma.
Fayetteville a trap… again!
Fayetteville has proven to be a challenging venue for visiting teams. After previously predicting it would be a trap for Tennessee, this week it poses a similar threat for LSU, who is coming off an emotional overtime win against Ole Miss. Sam Pittman’s Razorbacks had a bye week to prepare, which could give them an edge.
The status of quarterback Taylen Green is crucial; if he plays, it could be a formidable challenge for Brian Kelly’s squad. Green is among the few Power 4 quarterbacks with over 1,500 passing yards and 300 rushing yards, adding a dynamic element to the game.
Surprising Sun Devils
Arizona State has exceeded expectations this season, with many betting against their win total of four. The Sun Devils currently sit at 4-2, with close losses to an undefeated Pittsburgh and a strong Texas Tech team. The standout player for ASU is Cam Skattebo, who has amassed 1,023 scrimmage yards, ranking third in FBS.
Skattebo’s performance against Scott Satterfield’s defense will be a key storyline to watch.
Cardiac Canes take on last-minute Louisville
Miami and Louisville share a rich history, with both head coaches being alumni of their respective programs. Louisville’s success in recruiting South Florida has been notable, particularly with standout players like Ja’Corey Brooks, who previously played at Alabama and is now making waves in the ACC.
Tyler Terrific
Tyler Warren has emerged as one of the standout tight ends in college football. After an incredible performance against USC, where he recorded 17 receptions for 224 yards, he has solidified his place as a top player, regardless of position. His achievements this season have made him a player to watch as the season progresses.
Temperature gauge in Columbus
Buckeye fans are likely feeling frustrated after a near victory against a top-ranked opponent. Head coach Ryan Day’s record against top five teams has raised some questions, but his overall success in the Big Ten remains impressive. With key players like Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka contributing significantly, the Buckeyes are poised to rebound in their next game against Nebraska.
Trap game for the Aggies?
