(#17)Texas Tech at (#16)Utah
Noon, FOX
This ranked vs. ranked match-up is the only thing saving an otherwise tepid noon timeslot. Still, did they really need to make this a 10 a.m. local kickoff? The Red Raiders have sunk a fortune into the program to try to become contenders in the age of NIL. They get their first real test of the season against one of the most consistent and physical teams that makes you fight for every yard. Expect some sloppy play early before things even out. Prediction: Utah-28,
Texas Tech-24
(#22)Auburn at (#11)Oklahoma
3:30 p.m., ABC
Two teams meet that are looking to head to the top of an unusually wide open SEC race. Both offenses have proven effective to start the season, so expect some fireworks in Norman. Both passed their first test, with Auburn taking down Baylor and Oklahoma besting Michigan and now look for separation to prove they are a contender.
Prediction: Oklahoma-38, Auburn-31
(#21)Michigan at Nebraska
3:30 p.m., CBS/Paramount+
It’s a grudge match to determine the true titleholder of a slip national championship in ‘97. Ok, not really, but brace yourself for repeated mentions of the season when both programs were at the top of the college football world. Nebraska has high hopes that this will finally be their breakthrough season if Matt Rhule can unleash his year three magic. It will also serve as an intriguing match-up of highly-coveted quarterbacks looking to break though and reach their star potential.
Prediction: Michigan-23, Nebraska-20
Tulane at (#13)Ole Miss
3:30 p.m., ESPN
The Green Wave are looking to become the G5 playoff team, and could have smooth sailing to an undefeated season if they can get past Ole Miss. The Rebels struggled to put away Kentucky and Arkansas so far, and could have a steep drop if those struggles continue against Tulane.
Prediction: Tulane-37, Ole Miss-33
(#9)Illinois at (#19)Indiana
7:30 p.m., NBC/Peacock
Could you imagine going back in time to explain to a college football fan that Indiana-Illinois is the top prime time game of the week in a battle of top 20 teams with major playoff implications? Illinois has been termed as “this year’s Indiana” but the Hoosiers may have something to say about it as they chase their second conecutive playoff apperance. We’ll learn quite a bit about both teams as they look to enter the conversation along the traditional Big Ten contenders.
Prediction: Illinois-30, Indiana-27
Check out odds for these five games, along with others from throughout the weekend on FanDuel.
