The college football season is in full swing, and the first two weeks have brought plenty of excitement and drama. While Week 3 might not boast as many marquee matchups, there are still some hidden gems. Rivalries will be reignited, and key SEC games could shape the futures of several head coaches. Let’s dive into the five best games of the weekend, ranked in reverse order.
No. 20 Arizona at No. 14 Kansas State
Friday | 8 p.m. ET | FOX
The Big 12 might not grab the same headlines as the SEC or Big Ten, but don’t sleep on this matchup. Arizona has cracked the top 20 after a strong start to the season, and they face a formidable Kansas State squad. Expect fireworks, as both offenses are poised to trade blows. However, the key factor could be Kansas State’s dominant rushing attack, which averages a whopping 7.8 yards per carry. If the Wildcats can control the clock and keep Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita on the sidelines, they’ll have the upper hand.
Prediction: In a high-scoring battle, Arizona prevails, 33-30.
No. 24 Boston College at No. 6 Missouri
Saturday | 12:45 p.m. ET | SEC Network
Boston College’s upset win over Florida State and dominant victory over Duquesne has them ranked for the first time in six years. Now, they face their toughest challenge yet in a trip to Missouri. Both teams boast top-tier defenses, with Missouri leading the nation in yards allowed per game (127) and BC not far behind. The Eagles haven’t encountered a dynamic duo like Mizzou’s QB Brady Cook and WR Luther Burden, who could be the deciding factor in this defensive showdown.
Prediction: Missouri’s stars shine, and the Tigers pull away with a 24-13 win.
Texas A&M at Florida
Saturday | 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Both teams enter this matchup with something to prove. Florida wants to erase the memory of their Week 1 blowout loss to Miami, while Texas A&M is aiming for head coach Mike Elko’s first SEC victory. Florida’s defense will need to tighten up after allowing 41 points to Miami, especially as they face talented A&M freshman QB DJ Lagway, who lit up the field in his first start. Can Lagway replicate that magic against a tougher SEC defense?
Prediction: Texas A&M capitalizes on Florida’s defensive struggles, winning 24-17, putting more pressure on Gators coach Billy Napier.
West Virginia at Pitt
Saturday | 3:30 p.m. ET | ESPN2
The “Backyard Brawl” might not grab national headlines, but it’s one of the most heated rivalries in college football. West Virginia’s defense has been shaky, allowing over 400 yards per game, and that could spell trouble against a Pitt offense that’s been on fire, averaging 534 yards per game. If the Mountaineers can’t tighten up on defense, it’ll be a long afternoon for them in Pittsburgh.
Prediction: Pitt QB Eli Holstein has another standout performance, leading the Panthers to a 34-27 victory.
Colorado at Colorado State
Saturday | 7:30 p.m. ET | CBS
Last year’s matchup between these in-state rivals was an absolute thriller, and tensions remain high. Colorado, led by Deion Sanders, needs a convincing win after a shaky performance against FCS North Dakota State and a blowout loss to Nebraska. Colorado State’s secondary was torched by Texas QB Quinn Ewers in Week 1, and they’ll need to bring their A-game to slow down Shedeur Sanders and the Buffaloes’ offense. With only one sack in two games, Colorado State’s pass rush will be key, as Sanders was vocal about his protection issues after the Nebraska loss.
Prediction: Colorado State won’t be able to pressure Sanders enough, and Colorado walks away with a commanding 38-17 win.
