By Skeeter Smith
We are officially in the final stretch of the college football season, and the stakes could not be any higher for many of the top teams in the country. With Playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, anticipate some highly competitive games throughout Saturday’s slate.
3 Michigan vs. 10 Penn State
The Wolverine’s Defense vs Drew Allar
Michigan’s defense has been on another level this season, allowing less than 7 points per game. While Penn State presents the Wolverines with their toughest offensive challenge yet, there are still questions surrounding quarterback Drew Allar’s ability to push the ball down the field. The Wolverines are likely to focus on defending the run, making it crucial for Allar to have a big game through the air.
12 Tennessee vs. 13 Missouri
Vols Run Game vs. The Tigers Defense
Tennessee arrives with the third-ranked rushing offense in the country, averaging 227 yards per game. Led by Jaylen Wright, their trio of running backs poses a serious threat when they get in open space. Expect Missouri to stack the box and challenge The Vols wide receivers to win one-on-one battles while putting pressure on quarterback Joe Milton to deliver accurate throws.
18 Utah vs. 5 Washington
Utah’s Defense vs. Washington’s offense
Washington’s explosive offense faces a tough test in Utah’s defense, which is allowing less than 16 points per game. The Utes play a physical but disciplined style of football, while the Huskies struggle with penalties and turning the ball over. If Washington comes out of the gates sloppy, this matchup could easily become a tight contest.
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9 Ole Miss vs. 2 Georgia
The Rebels Pass Rush vs. Carson Beck
Ole Miss, with a potent pass rush ranking 5th nationally in sacks, aims to disrupt Georgia’s Carson Beck. The Bulldogs have excelled in protecting Beck, conceding only eight sacks. The question to this game is how will Beck respond if he’s under constant pressure from Ole Miss. If the Rebels’ pass rush prevails, it could tip the balance in favor of the underdog.
USC vs. 6 Oregon
The Trojans Defense Vs. Oregon’s running attack.
USC’s struggling rush defense, which is giving up 186 yards per game, faces a daunting challenge against Oregon’s ground attack that’s averaging 209 yards. Oregon’s run game can not only wear down a defense, but it can also limit the Trojans’ offensive opportunities. USC must find something in the trenches defensively to contain Bucky Irving and counter Oregon’s potent running game for a chance at victory.
