Joel Klatt, Fox Sports' lead College Football analyst, shares his insights on this weekend's must-watch games. He offers a deep dive into the high-stakes matchup between Alabama and Wisconsin at Camp Randall, plus a fierce Top-20 clash between Arizona and Kansas State. Klatt also discusses the thrilling SEC face-off of LSU vs. South Carolina, and the possible upset with Boston College challenging Missouri. Don't miss his take on rivalry games, highlighting Oregon's battle against Oregon State and Coach Prime's Colorado facing off with Colorado State!
The upcoming Alabama vs. Wisconsin game highlights the transformation of both teams, focusing on their effective rushing attacks and offensive line performance.
Rivalry matchups, such as Oregon vs. Oregon State and the Apple Cup, add emotional stakes that significantly impact team dynamics and season trajectories.
Deep dives
The Rise of College Football's Popularity
There is a growing belief that college football is entering a golden age, marked by heightened interest and engagement among fans. The recent thrilling games have reignited the passion for the sport, making it more enticing than ever for spectators. This surge in enthusiasm is reflected in the caliber and anticipation surrounding upcoming matchups, making each game feel monumental. With compelling teams and narratives, college football has successfully captivated a diverse audience, setting the stage for a memorable season.
Alabama vs. Wisconsin: A Highly Anticipated Showdown
The upcoming game between Alabama and Wisconsin is seen as a highly awaited clash, especially given Alabama's recent struggles in their last outing against South Florida. Alabama's rushing attack has been strong this season, averaging 264 yards per game, supported by key players like Jam Miller and Justice Haynes. Wisconsin, aiming for a better performance this year, has made significant adjustments, focusing on a solid running game rather than their previous pass-heavy approach. As both teams strive for dominance, the performance of their offensive lines will be critical in determining the outcome of this marquee matchup.
Big Matchups in College Football This Weekend
The upcoming weekend features several key college football matchups, including Kansas State facing Arizona, which brings anticipatory excitement due to both teams being ranked in the top 20. Kansas State's quarterback Avery Johnson and Arizona's Noah Fafita are expected to play pivotal roles, showcasing their strengths in both passing and rushing. The intriguing dynamic between the two quarterbacks, along with the competition between top talents like wide receiver Tetairo McMillan, promises an engaging showdown that could influence the prospects for both teams this season. Both teams enter the game with varying degrees of momentum, raising the stakes for this significant contest.
The Intensity of Rivalry Games
Rivalry games, such as the Civil War between Oregon and Oregon State, and the Apple Cup featuring Washington State and Washington, heighten the competitive spirit and anticipation among fans and players alike. These matchups often hinge on emotional stakes, with teams striving to uphold pride in their programs and histories. The unique challenges faced by teams in these rivalry games, influenced by past experiences and current dynamics, contribute to the unpredictability and excitement surrounding them. With both Oregon and Washington facing formidable opponents, the outcomes could have significant implications for their standings and momentum as the season progresses.
Fox Sports’ lead College Football analyst Joel Klatt makes his picks for the best games of the weekend. Klatt breaks down his game on Big Noon Saturday featuring #4 Alabama making a trip north to Camp Randall to face Wisconsin. He makes his pick for the Top-20 matchup between #20 Arizona and #14 K-State which kicks off FOX’s College Football Friday games. He breaks down the SEC matchup between #16 LSU and South Carolina and discusses if newly ranked Boston College can pull off another road upset at #6 Missouri. Then, he dives into 3 rivalry games slated for this weekend as #9 Oregon heads to Corvallis to face 2-0 Oregon State, the Apple Cup with Washington State going to Seattle and the Rocky Mountain Showdown as Coach Prime and Colorado look to get back on track against a Colorado State team that took them to Double Overtime last season.