Week 1 of college football set the stage for what promises to be an epic season, with some teams exceeding expectations and others using FCS opponents to boost hype and anticipation. Now, as Week 2 approaches, teams have the opportunity to solidify their narratives against tougher competition, including in-state matchups, historic rivalries, and top-10 showdowns.
Here are some of the key matchups to watch in Week 2:
10. USF at No. 4 Alabama
Alabama is heavily favored in this matchup, but USF has made significant strides under coach Alex Golesh. It will be interesting to see how quarterback Jalen Milroe and the Crimson Tide perform against the Bulls.
9. UTSA at Texas State
This is the I-35 Rivalry between two top Group of 5 contenders. Both teams are coming off underwhelming Week 1 victories and will be looking to establish themselves as contenders for a G5 College Football Playoff spot.
8. No. 17 Kansas State at Tulane
Kansas State showed their run-game potency in Week 1, but Tulane is a tough opponent, having dominated their FCS opponent with a strong debut by quarterback Darian Mensah. Tulane upset K-State two years ago, so this rematch is one to watch.
7. Appalachian State at No. 25 Clemson
Clemson is on upset alert after a rough showing against Georgia, while Appalachian State has a history of taking down top teams. This matchup will test Clemson’s resilience and App State’s potential as a giant killer.
6. Arkansas at Oklahoma State
Both teams had impressive Week 1 victories, and this matchup will provide a clearer picture of their potential. Arkansas looked strong in a shutout win, while Oklahoma State will aim to continue their winning ways against an SEC opponent.
5. Colorado at Nebraska
This renewed rivalry features a dynamic Colorado team and a Nebraska squad led by true freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola. Nebraska will be looking to avenge last year’s loss to Colorado, making this a must-watch game.
4. Boise State at No. 7 Oregon
Oregon dropped in the rankings after a lackluster win over FCS Idaho, while Boise State had a high-scoring victory in Week 1. This matchup will test Oregon’s potential as a top team and Boise State’s offensive prowess.
3. No. 14 Tennessee vs. No. 24 NC State
Both teams had strong performances in Week 1, setting up a high-octane matchup in the Duke’s Mayo Classic. Tennessee’s offense looked unstoppable, while NC State will be looking to build on their Week 1 win.
2. Iowa State at No. 21 Iowa
The Cy-Hawk series is known for low-scoring affairs, and this year’s matchup is expected to be no different. Both teams have dark-horse Playoff hopes and will be looking to establish themselves as contenders in this intrastate rivalry.
1. No. 3 Texas at No. 10 Michigan
This blue-blooded matchup features two powerhouse programs looking to assert their dominance. Texas shut out Colorado State in Week 1, while Michigan will need to improve their offense after a lackluster performance. This game will be a test for both teams as they aim for a spot in the Playoff.
These Week 2 matchups offer a mix of intrigue, rivalry, and potential upsets, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of college football action.
