Each week as college football heats up, it’s essential for fans to keep an eye on the entire scoreboard, ready to flip channels for surprising developments. This approach is especially critical now that we’ve hit Week 5, when conference play intensifies.
Our goal here is to help viewers navigate the best matchups from a packed schedule. Naturally, we’ll start with the marquee game in prime time, though with an interesting twist—it may not be as high-stakes as it seems.
No. 1 Georgia at No. 4 Alabama
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC.
Why Watch: It’s Georgia vs. Alabama, an automatic must-watch. This top-five showdown will bring a playoff atmosphere to Tuscaloosa, but oddly, a loss for either team might not be catastrophic. Georgia’s tougher SEC slate ahead may put more pressure on the Bulldogs, but Alabama is equally motivated in this first major spotlight game under coach Kalen DeBoer. Alabama QB Jalen Milroe, who’s been responsible for 14 touchdowns this season, will test Georgia’s defense, which has yet to allow a touchdown. On the other side, Georgia QB Carson Beck will have to navigate Alabama’s defense, led by LB Que Robinson.
Why it Could Disappoint: It likely won’t. Georgia’s defense showed vulnerability against Kentucky, so Alabama might move the ball effectively. The challenge will be Georgia’s ability to find an offensive rhythm, but this game should remain competitive throughout.
No. 21 Illinois at No. 8 Penn State
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC.
Why Watch: Illinois’ overtime win against Nebraska adds intrigue to this Big Ten showdown. Penn State, mostly untested so far, enters its first conference game. Illinois QB Luke Altmyer and WR Pat Bryant will face a tough Penn State secondary, while Penn State QB Drew Allar will test Illinois’ defense, led by DL Dennis Briggs.
Why it Could Disappoint: A close game is likely, but neither team seems poised for a blowout. It probably won’t match the epic nine-overtime thriller from 2021, but it should still be tightly contested.
No. 17 Louisville at No. 14 Notre Dame
Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, Peacock.
Why Watch: With Notre Dame’s playoff hopes on the line after one loss, the stakes are high. Louisville, fresh off an ACC win, looks to bolster its non-conference record. QB Tyler Shough has been flawless for the Cardinals, but Notre Dame’s defense, particularly DB Xavier Watts, will aim to keep big plays in check.
Why it Could Disappoint: Injuries to Louisville’s receivers may limit its offense. Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s defense should make it tough for Louisville to rack up points.
No. 20 Oklahoma State at No. 25 Kansas State
Time/TV: Noon ET, ESPN.
Why Watch: This Big 12 showdown is critical for both teams after early conference losses. Oklahoma State QB Alan Bowman and Kansas State QB Avery Johnson will be looking to bounce back from slow starts, with each team needing to find a rhythm quickly.
Why it Could Disappoint: Another sluggish start from either team could allow the game to slip away early, especially for Kansas State, which rarely has two bad performances in a row.
Arizona at No. 10 Utah
Time/TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN.
Why Watch: The Big 12 favorite Utah faces a potential upset threat in Arizona. Utes QB Cam Rising’s availability is uncertain, so RB Micah Bernard will need to step up. Arizona QB Noah Fifita aims to rebound after a tough game.
Why it Could Disappoint: Utah’s grind-it-out style could take the excitement out of the game early, though their fans won’t mind as long as it leads to a win.
Stanford at No. 15 Clemson
Time/TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN.
Why Watch: Stanford’s cross-country ACC success faces a major challenge at Clemson. QB Cade Klubnik and RB Phil Mafah have hit their stride for the Tigers, while Stanford will rely on DB Mitch Leigber and QB Ashton Daniels to stay competitive.
Why it Could Disappoint: Clemson’s talent advantage could make this a one-sided affair, especially with Stanford facing travel fatigue.
Washington State at Boise State
Time/TV: 10 p.m. ET, FS1.
Why Watch: In a late-night showdown, Washington State QB John Mateer and Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty will each look to impress. The winner is likely to crack the Top 25 next week.
Why it Could Disappoint: Neither defense has dominated this season, so a one-sided game seems unlikely. If you can stay awake, this matchup should provide plenty of excitement.
This week offers plenty of can’t-miss games, with top-ranked showdowns and critical conference battles. Whether you’re tuning in for Georgia-Alabama or an under-the-radar Big 12 matchup, Week 5 promises plenty of action.
