Washington State has had decent success while playing “home” games in Seattle, having won four of their last five there. This year they have a new coach, new system, and new starting QB. Oklahoma State has a solid program that has the unfortunate luck of playing in the Big 12 South.
Appalachian State at LSU
This is the only FCS team I will probably include all season. You all already know the storylines here. Appalachian State beat No. 5 Michigan last year as the first FCS to beat a ranked FBS team. Now it is the defending FCS champion vs. the defending FBS champion.
Alabama vs. Clemson (in Atlanta)
This one seems to be everyone’s must see game. Alabama is coming off a 7-6 season and a No. 1 recruiting class. Clemson always seems to underachieve and is the popular pick to win the ACC this season.
Michigan State at Cal
Cal suffered one of the worst meltdowns in recent memory last season, going 5-0 before winning only one more game in the regular season. Michigan State appears to be making strides toward competing for upper tier bowls and Big Ten titles. The Spartans finished off last season with conference wins over Purdue and Penn State before losing their bowl game to Boston College.
Illinois at Missouri (in St. Louis)
Missouri won last season by seven. This year the Tigers are a legit national title contender. Illinois is ranked but is not getting the same hype. They are a pick to possibly contend for the Big Ten title and challenge Ohio State, since they were the only Big Ten team to beat the Buckeyes last season.
Washington at Oregon
Washington will rely on sophomore do-everything QB Jake Locker and a group of young skill players. Last year's defense gave up 400-plus yards to Oregon on the ground and only appears marginally better. Then again, Oregon had Dennis Dixon and Jonathan Stewart last year. Oregon will uncharacteristically rely on the defense but will again try to control the clock by running.
Sunday, Aug. 31
Kentucky at Louisville
Louisville has owned this series lately, having won four of the last five. Last year's win by Kentucky was the one loss. It's a good rivalry game for a lazy Sunday.
Colorado vs. Colorado State (in Denver)
This series is actually tied at four wins each since moving to Denver. Colorado is in its third year under Dan Hawkins, while Colorado State is starting its time under Steve Fairchild.
Monday, Sep. 1
Fresno State at Rutgers
Anyone, anytime, anywhere: Fresno State is going to a Big East contender on a Monday to play on their home field. The motto isn’t just talk. Fresno State is another BCS buster favorite but has a heavy nonconference schedule that starts here.
Tennessee at UCLA
UCLA starts the Rick Neuheisel era in no easy terms by taking on the defending SEC Eastern Division champs. Tennessee didn’t fare well in last year's trip out west, losing to Cal.
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