As the regular college football season approaches its climax, Rivalry Week takes center stage, with matchups that could shape the landscape for conference championships and influence the coveted four-team College Football Playoff (CFP). While next year’s playoff expansion looms, this week’s games continue to carry immense significance, per ESPN. Let’s dive into the key stakes leading up to these critical matchups.
No. 2 Ohio State (11-0) at No. 3 Michigan (11-0)
(noon ET, Fox)
A clash of titans with both regional and national ramifications. The winner secures the Big Ten East Division title and a spot in the league championship game, positioning themselves for a CFP berth. A loss, especially for Michigan, could spell the end of playoff aspirations.
No. 1 Georgia (11-0) at Georgia Tech (6-5)
(7:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
Two-time defending national champion Georgia aims to secure a CFP spot by maintaining its unbeaten streak. Georgia Tech, with an upset, seeks to finish the regular season with a winning record and enhance its standing in the ACC.
Washington State (5-6) at No. 4 Washington (11-0)
(4:30 p.m. ET, Fox)
Washington eyes a CFP berth, making a loss to a team with a losing record detrimental. The Apple Cup takes on added significance with the Huskies set to leave for the Big Ten next season, shaping the future dynamics of this rivalry.
No. 5 Florida State (11-0) at Florida (5-6)
(7 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Florida State, without star quarterback Jordan Travis, looks to keep its CFP hopes alive. For Florida, a win secures bowl eligibility, adding an extra layer of intensity to this rivalry clash.
No. 16 Oregon State (8-3) at No. 6 Oregon (10-1)
(Friday, 8:30 ET, Fox)
Oregon seeks a Pac-12 championship berth and a potential CFP spot, with a rematch against Washington on the line. Oregon State aims for a second consecutive win over its in-state rivals as a send-off to the Big Ten.
Texas Tech (6-5) at No. 7 Texas (10-1)
(Friday, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
Texas eyes a Big 12 championship game spot and maintains CFP aspirations with a win. Texas Tech, fueled by last year’s upset and coach Joey McGuire’s bold statements, seeks to play spoiler.
No. 8 Alabama (10-1) at Auburn (6-5)
(3:30 p.m. ET, CBS)
Alabama, already bound for the SEC championship, aims to bolster its CFP resume with a convincing win. A loss, however, could jeopardize playoff hopes, even with a victory against Georgia in the SEC title game.
As Rivalry Week unfolds, these matchups promise high stakes, intense competition, and potential playoff-altering outcomes. The college football landscape is set for a thrilling finale as teams vie for supremacy and a coveted spot in the postseason.
