We’ve arrived almost exclusively in the land of conference play. And as league races go, we’ve got two absolutely massive games that kick off our October. It may not be a deep week, but what we’ve got at the top is as good as it gets.
All Time Eastern
Definitely good
Oklahoma vs. Texas (noon, ABC)
We’ve seen Texas on a big stage this season, but we’re yet to see Oklahoma play an opponent at a similar talent level. This Texas team certainly seems for real, but is it actually? Or is this all another September Longhorns smoke and mirrors operation? That’s what it’s time to find out in Dallas.
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Alabama vs. Texas A&M (3:30 p.m., CBS)
This Crimson Tide team is very much still finding its footing little by little this season. We know the defense is good—potentially great—but can the offense’s identity of a quarterback run-heavy attack actually hold up against a formidable front? The Aggies have been stoning teams with particularly fantastic defensive line play. The trenches are where this game is strength on strength.
Sneaky good (or at least with something of notable intrigue)
LSU vs. Missouri (noon, ESPN)
For the Tiger Bowl in Missouri, do not sleep on the Columbia Cats. Mizzou is real this season, with an offense that has produced plenty of fireworks thanks to stand out weapons in the receiving corps. LSU’s defense got ripped to shreds against Ole Miss, but its offense has shown it can go shot for shot with anyone. Defense may be optional in this one, and that’s just fine with us.
William & Mary vs. Virginia (noon, ACC Network)
Former Virginia head coach Mike London comes back to his old stomping grounds with a truly unique offense that could present problems for his old employer. If the Cavaliers aren’t adequately prepared, it could be on the receiving end of an upset from an in-state foe.
Washington State vs. UCLA (3 p.m., Pac-12 Network)
Wazzu hopes to keep the train rolling against a stout UCLA defense. Dante Moore gives UCLA’s offense a chance to be frisky, but if he’s really going to duel with Cam Ward, it’s going to take a lot more explosiveness in the passing game than the Bruins have shown to date.
Kentucky vs. Georgia (7 p.m., ESPN)
Kentucky proved it could manhandle Florida last weekend. What about the Dawgs? The Wildcats always find a way to play Georgia tough. They’ll need to bring their best against a UGA team that seems like it’s a little off the pace from the pure dominance of the last two years. But does that mean they’re actually gettable in this year’s seemingly wide open SEC?
