College football conference play is in full swing, and the excitement is palpable as teams gear up for crucial matchups in Week 4. With ranked teams facing off in the Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC, the stakes are high as College Football Playoff contenders look to solidify their positions and underdogs aim to make a statement.
Here is a breakdown of the top 10 games of Week 4, starting with a few honorable mentions:
Honorable Mention: JMU at North Carolina, Rutgers at Virginia Tech, Memphis at Navy, TCU at SMU, Iowa at Minnesota
10. San Jose State (3-0) at Washington State (3-0), Friday, 10 p.m., The CW
Washington State pulled off an impressive upset against Washington last week, showcasing their potential in the Pac-12. Now, they face a tough challenge in San Jose State, a team that has surprised many with their undefeated start. With both teams looking to make a statement, this Friday night clash promises to be an exciting showdown.
Line: Washington State -11.5
9. NC State (2-1) at Clemson (2-1), 3:30 p.m., ABC
NC State is looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Tennessee and an injury to their starting quarterback. On the other hand, Clemson is coming off a bye week and aiming to prove their worth after a mixed start to the season. This ACC matchup will test both teams and provide insight into their playoff aspirations.
Line: Clemson -20.5
8. Arkansas (2-1) at Auburn (2-1), 3:30 p.m., ESPN
Arkansas and Auburn square off in a classic SEC showdown with both teams looking to stay in contention in a competitive conference. The quarterback battle between Taylen Green and Hank Brown adds intrigue to this matchup, as both teams seek a crucial win to boost their season.
Line: Auburn -3
7. Arizona State (3-0) at Texas Tech (2-1), 4 p.m., Fox
Arizona State has been a surprise package this season, led by a strong defense and efficient offense. Texas Tech, on the other hand, has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. This game will test both teams and provide a clearer picture of their potential in their respective conferences.
Line: Texas Tech -3
6. Georgia Tech (3-1) at No. 19 Louisville (2-0), 3:30 p.m., ESPN2
Georgia Tech aims to continue their positive momentum against a ranked Louisville team that is yet to face a tough challenge this season. With both teams looking to make a statement in the ACC, this game could have implications for their playoff aspirations.
Line: Louisville -10.5
5. No. 8 Miami (3-0) at South Florida (2-1), 7 p.m., ESPN
Miami has been in top form this season, led by quarterback Cam Ward who has been lights out. South Florida, coming off a tough loss to Alabama, will look to bounce back and test Miami’s playoff credentials. This primetime matchup promises fireworks and could shape the narrative of both teams’ seasons.
Line: Miami -16.5
4. No. 24 Illinois (3-0) at No. 22 Nebraska (3-0), 8 p.m. Friday, Fox
A ranked Big Ten showdown between Illinois and Nebraska promises to be a thrilling encounter. Nebraska’s quarterback Dylan Raiola has impressed, but Illinois poses a tough challenge with their strong defense. This game could have implications for both teams’ aspirations in the Big Ten.
Line: Nebraska -8.5
3. No. 11 USC (2-0) at No. 18 Michigan (2-1), 3:30 p.m., CBS
Michigan looks to bounce back with a new quarterback against a surging USC team that has impressed early in the season. With both teams aiming for a playoff berth, this matchup could be a season-defining game for both programs.
Line: USC -6
2. No. 12 Utah (3-0) at No. 14 Oklahoma State (3-0), 4 p.m., Fox
Utah’s quarterback Cam Rising looks to lead his team to victory against a tough Oklahoma State team in a crucial Big 12 matchup. With both teams unbeaten, this game could have playoff implications and provide a clearer picture of the Big 12 landscape.
Line: Utah -2.5
1. No. 6 Tennessee (3-0) at No. 15 Oklahoma (3-0), 7:30 p.m., ABC
The headline matchup of Week 4 sees Tennessee face off against Oklahoma in a highly anticipated showdown. With Tennessee’s high-flying offense led by Nico Iamaleava and Oklahoma’s solid defense under Brent Venables, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter with playoff implications on the line.
Line: Tennessee -7
As college football enters a crucial phase of the season, Week 4 presents fans with a slate of exciting matchups that could shape the playoff picture. Stay tuned for an action-packed weekend of football.
