Week 1 of college football is finally here, and with it comes a plethora of exciting matchups to kick off the season. As teams gear up for what promises to be an action-packed year, fans are eager to see how their favorite teams will fare in the highly anticipated games ahead. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 matchups of Week 1, highlighting the key storylines and players to watch.
The 2024 college football season brings with it a new level of excitement, thanks to the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format. This change has elevated interest in conference title races and put a spotlight on Group of 5 conferences, with the top G5 league winner earning an automatic berth to the Playoff. As a result, this season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and thrilling in recent memory.
While the usual marquee matchups are always a draw for fans, this season also presents an opportunity to explore some of the lesser-known teams and conferences. From the Sun Belt to Conference USA, there is plenty of intriguing football to be found beyond the traditional powerhouses. As teams jockey for position in the new Playoff landscape, every game takes on added significance, making even the under-the-radar matchups must-see TV.
Now, let’s dive into the top 10 matchups of Week 1, starting with some honorable mentions before counting down to the most anticipated games of the weekend.
Honorable Mention:
– North Carolina at Minnesota (Thursday)
– Virginia Tech at Vanderbilt
– UNLV at Houston
– Georgia State at Georgia Tech
– Wyoming at Arizona State
10. Coastal Carolina at Jacksonville State
Kicking off the list is a matchup between Coastal Carolina and Jacksonville State. While neither team is the favorite in their respective conferences, both squads had solid seasons last year, finishing in the top portion of their leagues. Jacksonville State, in Year 3 under Rich Rodriguez, will look to build on a 9-4 record from 2023. Coastal Carolina, in its second season under Tim Beck, will aim to continue its success despite the departure of star quarterback Grayson McCall. This game promises to be a competitive showdown between two up-and-coming programs.
9. Boise State at Georgia Southern
Next up is a clash between Boise State and Georgia Southern. Boise State, led by standout running back Ashton Jeanty, is a preseason favorite to secure the G5 Playoff bid. However, the Broncos face a tough road ahead, starting with back-to-back road trips to Georgia Southern and Oregon. The Eagles, under head coach Clay Helton, are looking to make their mark in the Sun Belt conference. With both teams hungry for a win, this game is sure to be a test of strength and skill.
8. Florida State at Boston College
Florida State returns stateside after a tough loss to Georgia Tech and must regroup quickly for a conference showdown against Boston College. Despite low expectations, Boston College boasts a talented roster led by quarterback Thomas Castellanos and running back Kye Robichaux. Florida State, looking to bounce back from their season-opening defeat, will need a strong defensive performance and explosive plays from quarterback DJ Uiagalelei to secure a victory.
7. South Dakota State at Oklahoma State
In a matchup between the reigning FCS national champion South Dakota State and a top-20 FBS opponent in Oklahoma State, all eyes will be on the Jackrabbits as they look to continue their winning streak. Oklahoma State, led by Doak Walker-winning running back Ollie Gordon II, will aim to avoid an upset and start the season on a high note. With both teams hungry for success, this game promises to be a thrilling battle between two talented squads.
6. North Dakota State at Colorado
Deion Sanders has brought a renewed sense of excitement to Colorado football, and all eyes will be on the Bison as they look to make a statement under new head coach Tim Polasek. With star players like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter, Colorado is poised for a competitive season in the Big 12. North Dakota State, coming off a strong playoff run in 2023, will be looking to spoil the Bison’s season opener and showcase their own talent on the national stage.
5. Miami at Florida
A high-stakes matchup between Miami and Florida kicks off the season with Playoff implications on the line. Miami, under head coach Mario Cristobal, is eager to prove themselves as contenders despite a lukewarm start to the season. Florida, facing a tough schedule and pressure on head coach Billy Napier, will need a strong performance to silence the doubters. With both teams looking to start the season on a high note, this game is sure to be a thrilling battle between two powerhouse programs.
4. USC vs LSU
A neutral-site showdown in Las Vegas between USC and LSU highlights two programs with high expectations for the season. Both teams, led by head coaches Lincoln Riley and Brian Kelly, are looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons and make a statement in the new Playoff era. With talented quarterbacks and revamped defenses, this game promises to be a test of skill and strategy as both teams vie for early-season success.
3. Penn State at West Virginia
A classic rivalry game between Penn State and West Virginia is set to ignite the field in Morgantown. Penn State, a team with Playoff aspirations, will face a tough challenge from a resurgent West Virginia squad led by head coach Neal Brown. With dynamic offenses and talented playmakers on both sides, this game is sure to be a high-scoring affair with plenty of excitement for fans to enjoy.
2. Notre Dame at Texas A&M
Playoff implications loom large in this matchup between Notre Dame and Texas A&M. Notre Dame, without the safety net of a conference title race, will look to make a statement on the road against a talented Texas A&M team under new head coach Mike Elko. With injuries and inexperience on the offensive line, Notre Dame will need a strong performance from quarterback Riley Leonard to secure a victory. Texas A&M, with a revamped defense and high expectations, will aim to put pressure on the Fighting Irish and assert their dominance early in the season.
1. Clemson vs Georgia
The top matchup of Week 1 features a showdown between Clemson and Georgia, two teams with a storied history of success. Despite recent struggles, Clemson remains a formidable opponent with a chip on their shoulder. Georgia, coming off a strong season and hungry for redemption, is favored to win by nearly two touchdowns. This game will be a true test of each team’s strength and will provide valuable insight into their Playoff aspirations for the season ahead.
As college football fans gear up for an exciting Week 1, these matchups are sure to deliver thrills, upsets, and unforgettable moments on the gridiron. With Playoff implications on the line and talented players ready to showcase their skills, the stage is set for an unforgettable start to the 2024 season. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a weekend of college football action like no other.
