Week 5 College Football Preview: Top 5 Must-Watch Games
Week 5 of the college football season is packed with thrilling matchups between ranked teams, offering plenty of excitement. From a highly anticipated SEC championship rematch to critical showdowns in the Big 12 and Big Ten, this weekend promises to be pivotal as we get a clearer picture of the true College Football Playoff contenders.
As we approach the end of September, the stakes are getting higher, and every game counts. Let’s dive into the top five games to watch this weekend:
1. No. 12 Michigan vs. Minnesota (Noon ET on FOX)
Michigan’s ground game is their bread and butter, and Minnesota will have to step up defensively to stand a chance. First-year Michigan coach Sherrone Moore continues to rely on QB Alex Orji, focusing on a run-heavy offense. The Wolverines had a massive win last week, driven by RB Kalel Mullings’ 159-yard, two-touchdown performance. Minnesota’s defense, while strong against the pass, has struggled to stop the run, giving up 125 rushing yards per game. QB Max Brosmer may give the Gophers a boost in the air, but Michigan’s defensive strength could prove too much.
2. No. 20 Oklahoma State vs. No. 23 Kansas State (12 p.m. ET on ESPN)
Both teams remain in the Big 12 title hunt despite tough losses last week. Oklahoma State fell to Utah in a 22-19 nail-biter, while Kansas State lost 38-9 to BYU. Wildcats QB Avery Johnson needs a rebound after a poor outing, but OSU’s porous defense—allowing over 460 yards per game—could be the opportunity he needs. On the other side, Oklahoma State’s offense has struggled, and RB Ollie Gordon II will face another tough defense, which could mean continued challenges on the ground.
3. No. 15 Louisville vs. No. 12 Notre Dame (3:30 p.m. ET on Peacock)
Notre Dame is in must-win mode as they fight to stay relevant in the CFP race after a stunning early-season loss. Louisville, boasting one of the nation’s top offenses (47.3 points per game), will challenge Notre Dame’s stout defense. Louisville QB Tyler Shough has been flawless this season, with eight touchdowns and no interceptions. However, Fighting Irish QB Riley Leonard is coming off an impressive performance and will need to deliver another strong game to keep Notre Dame’s playoff hopes alive.
4. No. 2 Georgia vs. No. 4 Alabama (7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN)
The most anticipated game of the weekend, this SEC showdown features a rematch of last year’s conference title game, which saw Alabama edge out Georgia 27-24. Alabama’s new coach, Kalen DeBoer, faces his first major test against Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs. Alabama has one of the highest-scoring offenses, averaging 49 points per game, but Georgia’s defense is ranked second in the nation. QB Carson Beck will need to step up and lead Georgia against an Alabama secondary that’s still finding its footing.
5. No. 19 Illinois at No. 9 Penn State (7:30 p.m. ET on NBC)
Penn State is gearing up for a Saturday night “White Out” against Illinois in their first conference game of the season. Illinois has already upset two ranked opponents this season, and they won’t be intimidated by Beaver Stadium’s atmosphere. Penn State is looking for a statement win after dominating Kent State last week. Both teams are undefeated and hungry to solidify their CFP resumes.
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