College Football Season Preview: Key Matchups, Playoff Expansion, Heisman Watch

Defensive lineman Patrick Payton speaks during the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Monday, July 22, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley)

As college football season approaches, fans are gearing up for an exciting lineup of matchups, an expanded playoff format, and the highly anticipated Heisman Trophy race.

Key Matchups

The season kicks off with several exciting games next Saturday, including No. 10 Florida State facing Georgia Tech in Dublin, Ireland. Other notable matchups include Norfolk State vs. Florida A&M and SMU vs. Nevada. Looking ahead, top-ranked teams like Georgia, Ohio State, and Notre Dame will face off in highly anticipated games throughout the season.

Expanded Playoffs

This season marks the expansion of the College Football Playoff from four to 12 teams. The top four seeds and a first-round bye are reserved for conference champions. The quarterfinals and semifinals will be played in traditional bowl games, leading up to the championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Jan. 20.

Heisman Watch

12-team College Football Playoff format introduced, with championship game in Atlanta.

College football season starting with top matchups like Florida State vs. Georgia Tech.

Top quarterbacks like Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, and Jaxson Dart in Heisman Trophy race.

Key games ahead include Georgia, Ohio State, and Notre Dame matchups.

First-round byes for top four seeds in expanded playoff system.

Speculation around the Heisman Trophy race is already heating up, with top quarterbacks like Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, and Jaxson Dart among the favorites to win the prestigious award. Fans can expect an exciting season as these talented players compete for college football's highest individual honor.

For more college football news and updates, visit AP college football.