As the college football season heats up, Week 3 brings a slate of exciting matchups that will play a crucial role in shaping conference standings and national rankings. With major rivalries, ranked showdowns, and powerhouse programs all in action, here are the seven must-watch games you don’t want to miss.
1. Arizona at Kansas State
Time/TV: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. ET, ESPN
Why Watch: This battle of the Wildcats promises offensive fireworks. Arizona, led by QB Noah Fifita, will try to air it out to standout WR Tetairoa McMillan, while Kansas State will lean heavily on the ground game with RB DJ Giddens. QB Avery Johnson adds versatility, giving K-State a balanced attack.
Why It Could Disappoint: Both defenses have struggled to consistently stop their opponents, which could turn this game into a high-scoring affair. However, turnovers might be the key to determining the victor.
2. No. 4 Alabama at Wisconsin
Time/TV: Saturday, 12:00 p.m. ET, Fox
Why Watch: Alabama faces its toughest non-conference test against a scrappy Wisconsin team. While the Badgers’ passing game hasn’t been dynamic, QB Tyler Van Dyke has been efficient and mistake-free. Alabama, on the other hand, is still finding its rhythm with QB Jalen Milroe, whose dual-threat abilities keep defenses on their heels.
Why It Could Disappoint: If Alabama jumps out to a big lead early, Wisconsin’s lack of firepower in the passing game could make a comeback unlikely.
3. No. 6 Oregon at Oregon State
Time/TV: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET, Fox
Why Watch: Rivalry games always bring extra intensity, and this clash between Oregon and Oregon State is no different. Oregon State, left out of the recent conference realignment, would love to spoil Oregon’s hopes of entering Big Ten play on a high note. The Ducks’ offense, led by QB Dillon Gabriel, has been slow to start this season, but they’re hoping to find their rhythm against the Beavers. Oregon State’s powerful rushing attack, featuring RBs Jam Griffin and Anthony Hankerson, will test the Ducks’ defense, which has struggled to contain the run.
Why It Could Disappoint: The Ducks have had difficulty putting games away early, so expect this rivalry to stay close deep into the fourth quarter.
4. Boston College at No. 8 Missouri
Time/TV: Saturday, 12:45 p.m. ET, SEC Network
Why Watch: Missouri has flown under the radar this season, but Boston College could provide a bigger challenge than anticipated. After a dominant win over Florida State, BC has momentum on its side. QB Thomas Castellanos leads a balanced Eagles attack that controls the clock and limits mistakes. Missouri’s offense, spearheaded by WR Luther Burden III, has explosive potential, but QB Brady Cook has yet to face a defense like BC’s.
Why It Could Disappoint: Neither team has been tested in comeback situations, so the first few drives will be crucial to setting the tone.
5. No. 22 Washington vs. Washington State (Apple Cup)
Time/TV: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET, Peacock
Why Watch: The historic Apple Cup rivalry moves up in the schedule due to the Pac-12 realignment, but the passion remains the same. Washington, featuring the balanced offense of QB Will Rogers and RB Jonah Coleman, looks to defend its home turf at Seattle’s Lumen Field. Washington State, led by QB John Mateer, already has a notable win over Texas Tech and will be aiming for another upset to secure the rivalry trophy.
Why It Could Disappoint: Washington’s defense could prove too much for the Cougars, especially if Mateer struggles to generate early offense.
6. No. 19 Notre Dame at Purdue
Time/TV: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS
Why Watch: Notre Dame faces the pressure of needing to run the table in a crowded playoff picture, but Purdue will see this as an opportunity to topple a national power. Purdue’s QB Hudson Card has been sharp, and the team comes into this game fresh off a bye week. Notre Dame’s QB Riley Leonard has yet to throw a touchdown pass this season, but the Irish offense has been buoyed by the strong play of RB Jeremiyah Love.
Why It Could Disappoint: Purdue’s ability to control the line of scrimmage remains a mystery, and Notre Dame has been inconsistent in the trenches, which could lead to a lower-scoring affair than expected.
7. No. 17 LSU at South Carolina
Time/TV: Saturday, 12:00 p.m. ET, ABC
Why Watch: South Carolina already has an SEC win under its belt and will look to add another against LSU. The Gamecocks are riding high after defeating Kentucky, while LSU is still working out some offensive kinks despite a victory over Nicholls State. QB Garrett Nussmeier and WR Kyren Lacy have formed a strong connection for LSU, but South Carolina’s defense could make this a tough battle.
Why It Could Disappoint: LSU might hope the Gamecocks struggle to keep up, as South Carolina’s passing game has been inconsistent.
FAQs:
1. Which is the biggest rivalry game in Week 3?
The matchup between Oregon and Oregon State stands out as one of the fiercest rivalries, with added intensity this year due to the Beavers’ exclusion from major conference realignment.
2. Why is Alabama vs. Wisconsin a must-watch?
Alabama will face its toughest non-conference opponent in Wisconsin, providing an early test before they dive into SEC play. This game will showcase Alabama’s ability to fine-tune its offense and Wisconsin’s strength in the trenches.
3. What is the most intriguing storyline in the Washington vs. Washington State game?
The Apple Cup has been moved up due to Pac-12 realignment, but Washington State will still be looking to upset their in-state rivals, making it a must-watch game.
4. Which game could be a surprise upset?
Boston College at Missouri has the potential to be closer than expected, especially with BC coming off a big win against Florida State. Missouri will need to avoid getting caught off guard.
5. What’s the key factor for Notre Dame against Purdue?
Notre Dame’s ability to establish control at the line of scrimmage will be vital. Purdue’s rested roster and sharp play from QB Hudson Card could create challenges for the Fighting Irish.
