Week 5 of college football promises more chaos, with several exciting matchups between top-ranked teams. Notably, there are four games featuring top-25 squads, including a highly anticipated top-five showdown between No. 2 Georgia and No. 4 Alabama.
No. 20 Oklahoma State vs. No. 23 Kansas State (12 PM EST on ESPN)
Game Setup: Two teams looking for a quick recovery in a competitive Big 12
After tough losses last week, both Oklahoma State and Kansas State aim to get back on track. Oklahoma State’s narrow loss to Utah stings, but Kansas State’s lopsided defeat to BYU could be harder to bounce back from. Both teams need a win to remain in the Big 12 race.
Key Matchup: Kansas State’s passing attack vs. Oklahoma State’s secondary
While Kansas State’s running game is a known strength, their passing game could be the X-factor. Oklahoma State’s secondary has struggled to contain big plays, and if Kansas State can successfully mix in downfield passes, they could control the game tempo.
No. 15 Louisville at No. 16 Notre Dame (3:30 PM EST on Peacock)
Game Setup: Notre Dame’s playoff hopes hinge on every game
With a loss already on their record, Notre Dame can’t afford another slip-up. Louisville, coming in with one of the most efficient offenses in the country, poses a significant challenge. A second loss would likely eliminate Notre Dame from playoff contention.
Key Matchup: Louisville’s offensive line vs. Notre Dame’s pass rush
Louisville’s balanced offense will be tested by Notre Dame’s formidable pass rush. Louisville’s offensive line must hold up to give their quarterback time, especially against a defense that thrives on creating pressure.
Colorado at UCF (3:30 PM EST on FOX)
Game Setup: Colorado faces its toughest test yet
After a series of wins against lower-tier teams, Colorado now faces a true challenge in UCF. This matchup will reveal whether Colorado’s improvements are enough to compete with stronger teams in the Big 12.
Key Matchup: UCF’s rushing attack vs. Colorado’s front seven
UCF leads the FBS in rushing yards, making this a true test for Colorado’s much-improved defense. Colorado’s ability to stop UCF’s dynamic ground game will be crucial to their chances of pulling off an upset.
No. 2 Georgia at No. 4 Alabama (7:30 PM EST on ABC)
Game Setup: A heavyweight showdown with playoff implications
This top-five clash between Georgia and Alabama is the biggest game of the season so far. Both teams are loaded with talent and coached by two of college football’s elite, with the winner likely securing a path to the College Football Playoff.
Key Matchup: Georgia’s offensive line vs. Alabama’s defensive front
Georgia’s ability to protect quarterback Carson Beck and establish a run game will be key against Alabama’s dominant defensive front. If Alabama can control the line of scrimmage, Georgia may struggle to sustain drives.
No. 19 Illinois at No. 9 Penn State (7:30 PM EST on NBC)
Game Setup: Illinois seeks validation against a Big Ten powerhouse
Illinois has surprised everyone with a 4-0 start but now faces a juggernaut in Penn State. A win here would solidify Illinois’ status as a contender, while Penn State looks to maintain their momentum toward a playoff run.
Key Matchup: Penn State’s passing game vs. Illinois’ single-high safety defense
Penn State has made great strides against single-high defenses this season, and they will need to continue that success against Illinois’ aggressive scheme. Drew Allar’s ability to hit big plays downfield will be critical.
Arizona at No. 10 Utah (10:15 PM EST on ESPN)
Game Setup: Can Utah survive without Cam Rising?
Utah’s starting quarterback Cam Rising is questionable for the game, and without him, the Utes will need to rely on their running game and defense. Arizona, eager for an upset, will try to capitalize on Utah’s offensive uncertainty.
Key Matchup: Arizona’s defensive line vs. Utah’s running game
With Rising potentially sidelined, Utah’s run game will be the focal point of their offense. Arizona’s defensive line must step up to contain the Utes’ ground attack if they want to pull off the upset.
