By Skeeter Smith
Week 5 is here and gives us another slate of high-powered matchups. Here’s a preview of some key matchups’ in the biggest games of the weekend.
10 Utah at 19 Oregon State
Beavers’ Run Game vs. Utah’s Stout Defense
The Utes have been nothing short of remarkable defensively against the run this season, conceding only 51 rushing yards per game over the first four weeks. What makes this feat more impressive is that they’ve done it against formidable ground-oriented opponents like Florida and UCLA. Oregon State presents yet another challenge with its run game ranking in the top 10 nationally in rushing yards, averaging 224.8 per game. Anticipate Utah’s defense to focus on containing the Beavers’ ground attack, forcing DJ Uiagalelei to beat them with his arm.
8 USC at Colorado
Shedeur Sanders vs. the Trojans’ Secondary
Colorado had a game they’d soon like to forget after getting dominated by Oregon last weekend. Life won’t get much easier this Saturday as they prepare to host the nation’s most potent offense, led by Heisman winner Caleb Williams. USC is poised to light up the scoreboard, but the question is, can the Buffs resuscitate their offense to stay competitive? The Trojans’ secondary has shown vulnerability to big plays, and Colorado, by far, will be the best offense they’ve seen up to this point. Shedeur Sanders and the offense must find their rhythm again if they hope to keep this game within reach.
22 Florida at Kentucky
Kentucky’s Offense vs. Florida’s Offense
This matchup feels like a “first team to 21 wins” scenario, as both teams aren’t known for their prolific scoring. However, so far this season, both teams have impressed defensively, limiting opponents’ point production. While Kentucky has found the endzone more frequently than Florida this season, the Gators’ offense has been battle-tested, squaring off against two ranked opponents early on. The outcome may hinge on which transfer quarterback, Graham Mertz or Devin Leary, can make more plays.
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24 Kansas at 3 Texas
Jerme Robinson & Austin Booker vs. The Longhorns’ Offensive Line
The Jayhawks defensive line has been disruptive all season, but it all starts with the duo of Jereme Robinson and Austin Booker combining for 8 sacks between the 2. To have a shot in this matchup, Kansas must consistently apply pressure on Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers. The Longhorns have been pretty good about keeping Ewers clean, but Saturday may prove to be their biggest challenge yet.
13 LSU at 20 Ole Miss
The Rebels’ Pass Rush vs. LSU’s Offensive Line
Ole Miss has excelled in generating a pass rush this season, ranking second in the SEC in sacks. They sacked Jalen Milore five times last week and need a similar performance to contain Jayden Daniels and LSU’s high-powered offense, averaging 338 passing yards per game. If Ole Miss fails to create pressure in the pocket, Daniels could be poised for another big game.
11 Notre Dame at 17 Duke
Sam Hartman vs. The Blue Devils’ Secondary
The Fighting Irish aim to rebound after a heartbreaker against Ohio State last week. Quarterback Sam Hartman faces a tough task against a Duke secondary that has allowed just 143 passing yards per game, ranking second in the ACC in pass defense. Offensively, Duke likes to run the ball and control the clock, so Hartman will have to take advantage of his limited opportunities with the ball.
