College Football Picks: Week 9 Predictions for Every Game
The last weekend of October will serve as a chance to catch our breath before the final stretch of 2015's college football season. The November slate looks to be as good as ever, and the first playoff rankings set to be released on Tuesday will get the ball rolling.
But before we jump ahead too far, we shouldn't forget about a lineup of games that could provide plenty of intrigue even with five of the top seven teams taking the week off.
The only matchup of ranked teams is one few could have predicted before the season, with one-loss Notre Dame visiting unbeaten Temple in the game of the week. Another six ranked schools are on the road, some facing pretty difficult tests that could throw a wrench into their future plans.
There are 55 games on the docket for Week 9, including the first batch of our beloved annual #MACtion weeknight tilts on Tuesday and Wednesday. We've made a prediction for every matchup on the schedule, so check them out and then give us your picks in the comments section.
Note: Team rankings are based on their spot in the Associated Press Top 25.
Last week: 45-10 (.818)
Season: 400-118 (.772)
Western Kentucky at Old Dominion
1 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Brandon Doughty threw for 371 yards and five touchdowns in Western Kentucky's 66-51 home win over Old Dominion last October.
What to watch for
Western Kentucky (6-2, 4-0 Conference USA) lost 48-20 at LSU last week, and despite the rainy conditions, Brandon Doughty was able to top 300 passing yards for the seventh time this season. It took him 61 attempts, though, and not much of a run game to go with it kept the Hilltoppers from challenging for an upset.
They finish 2-2 in non-league play with a win over Vanderbilt and losses to Indiana and LSU, but in C-USA play, they've won by an average of 24.3 points.
Old Dominion (3-4, 1-2) lost 41-12 at Florida International last week, its fourth loss in five games. The Monarchs' run and pass attacks have yet to click together in the same game, and thus they are running out of opportunities to gain bowl eligibility for the first time.
Prediction: Western Kentucky 46, Old Dominion 24
FINAL: Western Kentucky 55, Old Dominion 30
UCF at Cincinnati
2 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
UCF (0-8, 0-4 American) has a change in leadership with longtime coach George O'Leary announcing his retirement on Sunday, the day after a 59-10 home loss to unbeaten Houston in which the Knights led 10-7. Interim coach Danny Barrett gets to pilot the No. 126 scoring offense the rest of the way, with two straight road games to start his tenure.
Cincinnati (4-3, 1-2) went back to Gunner Kiel at quarterback, and he responded with 327 passing yards and two touchdowns in a win over Connecticut. It was just the second FBS opponent the Bearcats have faced this season that doesn't currently have a winning record.
UCF barely has a pulse at this point, so expect Cincinnati to romp.
Prediction: Cincinnati 41, UCF 14
FINAL: Cincinnati 52, UCF 7
South Florida at Navy
3 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
South Florida (4-3, 2-1 American) has won three straight, its best run since opening the 2011 season with four consecutive victories. The Bulls have matched last year's win total but have bigger goals, namely their first bowl bid since 2010.
The Bulls have averaged 37 points per game during the win streak, their best offensive run during Willie Taggart's two-plus seasons as coach.
Navy (5-1, 3-0) breezed to a 31-14 home win over Tulane last week to remain perfect in its first season as a conference member. The Midshipmen did so despite only 133 rushing yards, their fewest in more than two years, though quarterback Keenan Reynolds scored twice to give him 75 career rushing TDs.
Reynolds needs two more to tie former Wisconsin star Montee Ball's FBS record. South Florida is 30th nationally against the run and has yielded only eight scores on the ground, but dealing with a triple-option attack is a different animal.
Prediction: Navy 27, South Florida 16
FINAL: Navy 29, South Florida 17
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Illinois at Penn State
4 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: David Reisner kicked a 36-yard field goal with eight seconds left to give Illinois a 16-14 home win over Penn State last November.
What to watch for
Illinois (4-3, 1-2 Big Ten) lost at home to Wisconsin last week, its first defeat in Champaign this season. The Fighting Illini have seen their offense dry up of late, failing to top 400 yards in any of their last five games, and they've rushed for only 101 total yards over their past two outings.
Penn State (6-2, 3-1) couldn't run the ball against Maryland, which last year would spell doom for its offense, but Christian Hackenberg managed his first 300-game of the season despite completing only 13 of 29 passes. Even with only 53 pass plays of 10-plus yards this season, the Nittany Lions have had 19 of those go at least 30 yards.
Look for Saquon Barkley to return to form on the ground, allowing Hackenberg to pick and choose when he goes deep since his short-passing game hasn't had much success.
Prediction: Penn State 27, Illinois 16
FINAL: Penn State 39, Illinois 0
Nebraska at Purdue
5 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Tommy Armstrong Jr. threw a touchdown pass and ran for another in Nebraska's 35-14 home win over Purdue last November.
What to watch for
Nebraska (3-5, 1-3 Big Ten) lost 30-28 at home last week to Northwestern, and though it didn't get decided on the opponents' final play (as was the case in its other four losses), it was another one-score defeat. The Cornhuskers have more losses this year than they did in any of former coach Bo Pelini's seven seasons.
At 5.96 yards allowed per play, Nebraska is tied for 98th nationally in that statistic. That's hardly something to be proud of.
Purdue (1-6, 0-3) isn't much better, allowing 5.7 yards per play, while its offense has only averaged at least five yards per snap twice this season. The Boilermakers have lost five in a row and nine straight in Big Ten play, with Darrell Hazell's league mark sitting at 1-18.
A loss to lowly Purdue would cinch this as a horrible debut for Mike Riley, while for Hazell, not being able to take this one will only further seal his likely fate.
Prediction: Nebraska 27, Purdue 21
FINAL: Purdue 55, Nebraska 45
Rutgers at Wisconsin
6 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Corey Clement and Melvin Gordon combined for 259 yards and four touchdowns in Wisconsin's 37-0 win at Rutgers last November.
What to watch for
Rutgers (3-4, 1-3 Big Ten) scored in the final seconds to avoid getting shut out at home by Ohio State, but it was still a 49-7 loss that showed the Scarlet Knights are a long way from truly competing with the league's top teams. Their wins in 2015 are against an FCS school, winless Kansas and an Indiana team that's on a four-game losing streak.
Leonte Carroo is Rutgers' only real weapon on offense, with three three-touchdown games, but if Chris Laviano can't get the ball to him, there's not much else to be done.
Wisconsin (6-2, 3-1) has allowed 54 points during a 6-1 stretch, moving up to second nationally in scoring defense at 11.1 points per game. That's similar to a year ago, but what isn't has been the Badgers' move to an offense more dependent on the pass than the run.
Even when Joel Stave suffered a head injury early last week at Illinois, the Badgers turned to backup Bart Houston, who threw for 232 yards and two scores. The Badgers are throwing it 35.6 times per game, up from 23.0 in 2014.
Prediction: Wisconsin 44, Rutgers 13
FINAL: Wisconsin 48, Rutgers 10
No. 19 Ole Miss at Auburn
7 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Cassanova McKinzy's recovery of a fumble in the end zone with 90 seconds left helped Auburn hold onto a 35-31 win at Ole Miss last November.
What to watch for
Ole Miss (6-2, 3-1 SEC) rediscovered its defensive mojo last week in dismantling Texas A&M, forcing three turnovers after having been run over by Memphis and Florida in its previous road games. The Rebels have seen their offense slip of late, but having the ability to fall back on their defense should come in handy during a final stretch that would end with an SEC title game appearance if they can win out.
The lack of a run game has plagued Ole Miss most of the season, but it ran for 230 yards at A&M and will need to continue trying to establish this area.
Auburn (4-3, 1-3) lost in four overtimes at Arkansas last week, yet another game in which its supposedly improved defense has been the problem. Will Muschamp's hiring as coordinator received major praise in the offseason, yet the Tigers are allowing 5.73 yards per game, up from 5.67 last season.
Now the Tigers are facing a very real possibility of missing a bowl game with only one certain win—Nov. 21 vs. Idaho—left on the schedule. It's a similar scenario to what Gus Malzahn's predecessor, Gene Chizik, faced by posting a losing record two years after winning a national title, after which he was fired.
"This is the mulligan year, and if the Tigers miss a bowl game, Malzahn should be coaching for his job when toe meets leather next year," Bleacher Report's Barrett Sallee wrote.
This is the game in which Ole Miss star receiver Laquon Treadwell suffered an horrific injury late in the home loss in 2014, and the junior has come back with a vengeance this season. He's going to go off on an Auburn defense that hasn't been able to slow anyone down.
Prediction: Ole Miss 34, Auburn 21
FINAL: Ole Miss 27, Auburn 19
South Carolina at Texas A&M
8 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Kenny Hill threw for 511 yards and three touchdowns in Texas A&M's 52-28 win at South Carolina in August 2014.
What to watch for
South Carolina (3-4, 1-4 SEC) plays its first road game under interim coach Shawn Elliott, and it has to hope the intensity he brought to the sideline in the win over Vanderbilt carried over during the bye week. The talent or scheme isn't going to get any better, not when the Gamecocks have used four quarterbacks and none have been very successful.
Texas A&M (5-2, 2-2) is at a major crossroads, having lost two in a row by a combined 38 points, as the offense has been the issue. Against Alabama, quarterback Kyle Allen threw four interceptions and had three returned for TDs. One week later, he was so inaccurate at Ole Miss that head coach Kevin Sumlin benched him. And phenom Kyler Murray didn't replace him; instead, he was passed over for Jake Hubenak.
The Aggies have managed 26 points and 508 yards in the past two games, and the only thing that figures to prevent another three-game skid like last season's is the competition.
Prediction: Texas A&M 34, South Carolina 17
FINAL: Texas A&M 35, South Carolina 28
Syracuse at No. 12 Florida State
9 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; noon ET
Last meeting: Jameis Winston threw for 317 yards and three touchdowns in Florida State's 38-20 win at Syracuse last October.
What to watch for
Syracuse (3-4, 1-2 ACC) has lost four straight, the latest on a late field goal by Pittsburgh at home. The Orange defense, which was a strength early on this season, has been getting picked apart the past month, and its offense can't keep up.
Amid a stretch of five road games in seven weeks, the Orange look to be heading for a second straight losing record, which could put head coach Scott Shafer's job at risk.
Florida State (6-1, 4-1) saw its 28-game win streak against ACC opponents come to an end last week at Georgia Tech when Roberto Aguayo's long field-goal try in the final seconds was blocked and returned for a touchdown. Even had the Seminoles survived, though, the first real chinks in their armor popped up.
Everett Golson had to carry the offense with Dalvin Cook shut down, and he threw his first interception of the season. Without Cook being productive and Golson being careful, the unit's youth and inexperience becomes even more of an issue.
Thankfully, this will be a game to get things right before going to Clemson next week.
Prediction: Florida State 40, Syracuse 13
FINAL: Florida State 45, Syracuse 21
Virginia Tech at Boston College
10 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 12:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Tyler Murphy accounted for three touchdowns in Boston College's 33-31 win at Virginia Tech last November.
What to watch for
Virginia Tech (3-5, 1-3 ACC) dropped its third home game of the season last week, a four-overtime setback to Duke in which even quarterback Michael Brewer's return from a broken collarbone wasn't enough. He threw for 270 yards and three touchdowns but completed only 24 of his 45 passes.
The Hokies play three of their last four on the road and are in serious risk of missing out on a bowl game for the first time since 1992. Even longtime head coach Frank Beamer is starting to accept reality, telling Andy Bitter of the Roanoke Times that "whatever is good for Virginia Tech, what is best for Virginia Tech, is what I'm into."
Boston College (3-5, 0-5) has scored 38 points in its five ACC games, with 31 coming in the past two losses at Clemson and Louisville. It's been shut out at home in both league contests, the product of an offense that has yet to find a quarterback, and produces only 3.99 yards per carry after going for minus-14 rushing yards last week.
The Eagles defense has kept most of their games from getting ugly, ranking second nationally in yards allowed per game and third in points allowed per game.
Steve Addazio's dudes get their first league win and push Beamer closer to his inevitable retirement.
Prediction: Boston College 19, Virginia Tech 13
FINAL: Virginia Tech 26, Boston College 10
Massachusetts at Ball State
11 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 1 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Blake Frohnapfel threw for 424 yards in Massachusetts' 24-10 home win over Ball State last November.
What to watch for
Massachusetts (1-6, 0-3 Mid-American) led unbeaten Toledo by 18 points at halftime and then fell apart, losing 51-35 for its third straight loss. Receiver Tajae Sharpe's 77 receptions are tops in FBS, but the senior has only scored four times.
Ball State (2-6, 1-3) fell 23-21 to Central Michigan, its third straight home loss and fifth consecutive loss overall. The Cardinals have allowed opponents to average at least six yards per play seven times this season.
Neither of these teams seems capable of winning out to achieve bowl eligibility, but Massachusetts at least showed some spark last week.
Prediction: Massachusetts 41, Ball State 31
FINAL: Ball State 20, Massachusetts 10
Central Michigan at Akron
12 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 2 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Zurlon Tipton ran for 243 yards with three touchdowns in Central Michigan's 35-14 home win over Akron in October 2012.
What to watch for
Central Michigan (4-4, 3-1 Mid-American) squeaked out a 23-21 win at Ball State last week, its second victory in a row and first on the road since last November. Quarterback Cooper Rush averages 300 passing yards per game, and he'll top 8,000 career yards in this one.
Akron (3-4, 1-2) has averaged just eight points per game in its losses compared to 44.7 points in its victories, two of which have come on the road. The Zips have been best against the run, giving up only 3.02 yards per carry.
Central Michigan doesn't run much, but it might need to since it will be dealing with a pass defense that has been strong at home.
Prediction: Akron 24, Central Michigan 17
FINAL: Central Michigan 14, Akron 6
UTEP at Southern Mississippi
13 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 2:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: UTEP scored touchdowns on a fumble, interception, blocked field goal and kickoff return in a 35-14 home win over Southern Mississippi last November.
What to watch for
UTEP (3-4, 1-2 Conference USA) won 27-17 at home against Florida Atlantic last week to match its second-highest point total of the season. The Miners offense has been in a prolonged slump, highlighted by the fact Aaron Jones remains the team's leading rusher despite only playing the first two weeks.
Southern Mississippi (5-3, 3-1) is a win away from being bowl-eligible for the first time since 2011, but that doesn't begin to tell the story. The Golden Eagles were 12-2 that season, after which Larry Fedora left to coach North Carolina. Over the next three years, they went 4-32, including a 23-game losing streak from 2012-13.
Nick Mullens has elevated this team back to respectability, as the junior quarterback is ninth in FBS at 326.6 passing yards per game with 21 touchdowns. He was hurt for last year's game in El Paso, so he has some production to make up.
Prediction: Southern Mississippi 43, UTEP 19
FINAL: Southern Mississippi 34, UTEP 13
Georgia Tech at Virginia
14 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Justin Thomas threw three touchdown passes in Georgia Tech's 35-10 home win over Virginia last November.
What to watch for
Georgia Tech (3-5, 1-4 ACC) hadn't caught a break yet this season until getting two in the final moments of its 22-16 upset of Florida State. First, it forced FSU to try a long field goal that it blocked. The Yellow Jackets then somehow managed to return the blocked kick 78 yards for a game-winning touchdown as time expired.
"It was our time," head coach Paul Johnson told reporters after the game, per ACCSports.com.
Heading into the Florida State contest, Tech had lost five in a row and had seen its triple-option run game fizzle during much of that. However, it has returned of late, and Tech is still eighth-best in FBS at 283.4 rushing yards per game.
Virginia (2-5, 1-2) has lost at least five games in eight straight seasons, including every one of Mike London's six in Charlottesville. With the kind of early action we've already seen in terms of FBS coaching changes, the fact London is still employed with a 25-43 record is a bit of a surprise.
The Cavaliers have only gained 400 yards once, in a last-second loss to Notre Dame, and their minus-11 turnover margin is tied for 123rd in the nation.
Tech has a chance to go on a run, but it can't experience a letdown after last week.
Prediction: Georgia Tech 30, Virginia 20
FINAL: Virginia 27, Georgia Tech 21
USC at California
15 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Cody Kessler threw for 371 yards and four touchdowns in USC's 38-30 home win over California last November.
What to watch for
USC (4-3, 2-2 Pac-12) let its talent trump any of the drama that has encircled the team this season with its best effort of the year, knocking off previously unbeaten Utah at home in impressive fashion. The Trojans were efficient on offense, made big stops on defense—freshman linebacker Cameron Smith snared three interceptions—and played like a team that has a distinct talent advantage over most opponents.
Whether they can string that together over multiple games, though, might go a long way in determining whether interim coach Clay Helton has a shot at landing the full-time job. The Trojans have averaged 36.5 points per game under his watch.
California (5-2, 2-2) has dropped two in a row, and with a very tough remaining schedule, it's starting to feel the pressure of not being able to get to six wins despite a hot start. The Golden Bears are 0-9 against Oregon, Stanford, UCLA and USC under Sonny Dykes, and most of those losses have been blowouts, including last week's 40-24 setback at UCLA.
Jared Goff has been facing more pass pressure the last two games, which resulted in five interceptions at Utah and five sacks at UCLA. However, the more troubling issue is a return to the defensive breakdowns that plagued Cal throughout last season.
USC is the better team, but Cal will rise up and get its first victory in the series since 2003.
Prediction: California 33, USC 30
FINAL: USC 27, California 21
Colorado at No. 24 UCLA
16 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brett Hundley scored on an eight-yard touchdown run in the second overtime to give UCLA a 40-37 win at Colorado last October.
What to watch for
Colorado (4-4, 1-3 Pac-12) ended a 14-game conference losing streak at Oregon State last week, though it wasn't the most impressive of victories. The Buffaloes scored a season-low 17 points and were outgained, but any win is big for Mike MacIntyre in his third season, especially with so many close losses.
The Buffaloes are 2-2 in games decided by one score. Last year, they lost four times in Pac-12 play by five or fewer points.
UCLA (5-2, 2-2) had one of its best performances of the season last week in beating California, 40-24, with quarterback Josh Rosen returning to top form and the defense notching five sacks. However, another series of injuries were added to the Bruins' growing list, with leading rusher Paul Perkins the most notable.
Perkins could miss this game or be severely limited, but that will just mean more opportunities for promising freshman Soso Jamabo. He ran for 79 yards and a touchdown against Cal, and against a defense that allows 209.5 rushing yards per game, he's in line for a big performance.
Prediction: UCLA 45, Colorado 21
FINAL: UCLA 35, Colorado 31
No. 3 Clemson at North Carolina State
17 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Deshaun Watson had 329 yards of total offense and accounted for four touchdowns in Clemson's 41-0 home win over North Carolina State last October.
What to watch for
Clemson (7-0, 4-0 ACC) is the lone unbeaten team left in the conference after Florida State fell at Georgia Tech last week, and with so many perfect teams across the country, this league could struggle to get a team in the playoffs with a one-loss record. That means the Tigers are officially the flag bearers for the ACC even before hosting FSU next week, which also means every opponent will be gunning for them.
Miami didn't put up any sort of fight last week, with Clemson cruising to a 58-0 road win that spelled the end of Miami head coach Al Golden's tenure. That was the latest in a string of games since the tight win over Notre Dame where Clemson established itself early and prevented the opponent from being able to fight back.
North Carolina State (5-2, 1-2) used a 28-0 first quarter to roll to a win at Wake Forest last week, ending a two-game losing streak. The Wolfpack went unbeaten in non-league play and looked really good doing so, but that came against weak competition and left them overconfident heading into the ACC slate. Unimpressive performances against Louisville and Virginia Tech saw them average barely four yards per play.
When playing well, NC State gets accurate passing from Jacoby Brissett and explosive running from Matt Dayes, who has 12 rushing touchdowns and averages 6.34 yards per carry. It also has a defense that allows just 4.4 yards per play and 251.1 yards per game, the latter of which ranks third in FBS.
Clemson is fourth nationally in total defense, so points could be at a premium. Last week's win was far too easy for Clemson, and with next week's visit from FSU looming, it will overlook the Wolfpack and take a dive in the first playoff rankings that come out on Tuesday.
Prediction: North Carolina State 20, Clemson 19
FINAL: Clemson 56, North Carolina State 41
Georgia vs. No. 11 Florida (in Jacksonville, Florida)
18 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Matt Jones and Kelvin Taylor combined for 389 rushing yards and four touchdowns in Florida's 38-20 win over Georgia last November in Jacksonville.
What to watch for
Georgia (5-2, 3-2 SEC) has had to re-evaluate its offense in the wake of losing Nick Chubb to knee surgery, and whatever it has planned can't be worse than what happened last time out. The Bulldogs won without scoring a touchdown against Missouri, their first game without a TD in nearly five years, and they had under 300 yards of offense for the first time since October 2013.
Sony Michel figures to be the answer to Georgia's problems, though he managed only 3.35 yards per carry against Mizzou. A hip injury slowed him in that game, but with a week off he should be at full strength to deal with a Florida defense that allows 3.46 yards per carry.
"Anybody is replaceable," Michel told the Associated Press (h/t USA Today). "But I'm comfortable playing that role as the starting running back."
Florida (6-1, 4-1) is also in the re-tinkering phase, just one game removed from losing starting quarterback Will Grier to a drug suspension. Treon Harris stepped in and threw for 271 yards and two TDs in the loss at LSU, but he had no run support. Taylor had only 25 yards on 15 carries in that game after averaging 94.7 yards with four scores in the previous three weeks.
The extra week will have allowed Jim McElwain to gear the offense more toward Harris' skills, which could mean more running on his part. If Florida's line can give him and Taylor lanes, it will claim a second straight win over the Bulldogs.
Prediction: Florida 29, Georgia 24
FINAL: Florida 27, Georgia 3
Marshall at Charlotte
19 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
Marshall (7-1, 4-0 Conference USA) is on a six-game winning streak and has found its groove on offense despite some injuries at the running back position. The Thundering Herd defense has become a force, allowing only 11.8 points per game over the last four.
Charlotte (2-5, 0-4) is on a five-game skid in which it's managed more than 14 points just once while giving up 41.6 points per game. The 49ers have an FBS-worst 27 turnovers, which has given their opponents far too many short fields.
Marshall has forced 19 turnovers, tied for second-most in FBS.
Prediction: Marshall 38, Charlotte 16
FINAL: Marshall 34, Charlotte 10
Florida International at Florida Atlantic
20 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Florida International scored four rushing touchdowns in a 38-10 home win over Florida Atlantic last October.
What to watch for
Florida International (4-4, 2-2 Conference USA) is unbeaten at home but 1-4 on the road, its only win away from Miami coming in the opener at UCF. The Golden Panthers have matched last year's win total and have averaged 42.3 points per game over their last three.
Florida Atlantic (1-6, 1-3) has lost three in a row, most recently at UTEP, and its only win came a month ago at FBS newcomer Charlotte. The Owls have lost six straight home games but are 2-1 in their home stadium against their rivals.
Despite the venue, look for FIU to get its fourth win in five years over FAU and move within a game of bowl eligibility.
Prediction: Florida International 27, Florida Atlantic 21
FINAL: Florida Atlantic 31, Florida International 17
No. 14 Oklahoma at Kansas
21 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Samaje Perine set the FBS record for rushing yards in a game with 427 yards and five touchdowns in Oklahoma's 44-7 home win over Kansas last November.
What to watch for
Oklahoma (6-1, 3-1 Big 12) rediscovered its run game just before setting out on the softest part of its league schedule, which makes it possible to continue to develop this area without much risk of losing. Perine ran for 201 yards and four TDs last week against Texas Tech after gaining only 167 on 37 carries with one TD in his first three league games.
Perine had been the forgotten weapon in the Sooners' move to the Air Raid offense, despite claims by coach Bob Stoops before the season that the switch would give Perine most opportunities to run. He's averaging 16.6 carries per game compared to 20.2 as a freshman, but he wasn't used much in their first three games in 2014.
Kansas (0-7, 0-4) lost 58-10 last week at Oklahoma State, and the game wasn't even that close. Aside from a 10-point home loss the game before to Texas Tech, the Jayhawks haven't provided much of a challenge to their opponents and look well on their way to the program's third winless record in the Big 12 in five years and first season without a victory since 1954.
Prediction: Oklahoma 44, Kansas 14
FINAL: Oklahoma 62, Kansas 7
No. 12 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech
22 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Daxx Garman threw four touchdown passes and ran for another in Oklahoma State's 45-35 home win over Texas Tech in September 2014.
What to watch for
Oklahoma State (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) is in control of how the conference race plays out over the final six weeks, and not just because of its own play to this point. In November, the Cowboys play host to TCU, Baylor and Oklahoma and thus will have a major say in who finishes at the top of the standings.
Having made it this far without a loss wasn't part of the plan, though, and now OK State is getting some serious attention thanks to a do-what-it-takes-to-win offense and a defense that controls the line of scrimmage. It leads the FBS in sacks per game and is third in tackles for loss per game, with Jimmy Bean and Emmanuel Ogbah doing most of the damage.
Texas Tech (5-3, 2-3) averages 46.6 points and 598.9 yards per game, but it cannot afford to squander any opportunities on offense with a defense that allows 6.79 yards per play and 561.5 per game. The Red Raiders have allowed at least 55 in all three of their losses, and though they scored 38 per game in those defeats, they had four turnovers in two of them.
Tech has given the ball away 13 times with quarterback Patrick Mahomes II throwing 10 interceptions. When he's on, he's really good, but he was picked four times last week at Oklahoma.
When the mistakes don't happen, such as against TCU, Tech is very dangerous. It avoids the miscues in this one and hands OK State its first loss.
Prediction: Texas Tech 45, Oklahoma State 41
FINAL: Oklahoma State 70, Texas Tech 53
Maryland at No. 10 Iowa
23 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: William Likely's 45-yard interception return touchdown early in the fourth quarter helped give Maryland a 38-31 home win over Iowa last October.
What to watch for
Maryland (2-5, 0-3 Big Ten) put up a spirited effort in its first game under interim coach Mike Locksley, putting up 30 points against Penn State's solid defense, but it still came up short. The gauntlet of tough opponents continues. The Terrapins' foes so far are a combined 38-13, and their next three are 21-2.
Iowa (7-0, 3-0) to this point has faced the toughest slate of any of the remaining 12 unbeaten teams in FBS, per SportSourceAnalytics. It's the only team to have beaten Pittsburgh and has road victories over six-win Wisconsin and Northwestern, allowing only 36 points in Big Ten play.
Jordan Canzeri will likely miss this game with an ankle injury suffered early at Northwestern, but the Hawkeyes should be fine with backup Akrum Wadley coming on to tie a school record with four rushing TDs in that game.
Iowa's remaining schedule is very winnable, so all that might stand in its way of claiming the West Division is complacency.
Prediction: Iowa 41, Maryland 17
FINAL: Iowa 31, Maryland 15
Boise State at UNLV
24 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: D.J. Harper had two rushing touchdowns in Boise State's 32-7 home win over UNLV in October 2012.
What to watch for
Boise State (6-2, 3-1 Mountain West) is in a three-way tie for first in the Mountain Division, but by virtue of a loss at Utah State, it's unable to lose again if it wants to play for the conference title. Against the Aggies, the Broncos were without TD machine Jeremy McNichols, who returned last week against Wyoming with rushing and receiving scores to give him 16 for the year.
UNLV (2-5, 1-2) has lost its last two by a total of nine points, one in overtime and the other in which a sudden rainstorm at Fresno State impacted its final drive. The Runnin' Rebels have been competitive despite averaging only 328 yards per game against FBS competition.
The Rebels are at least a year away under Tony Sanchez from being able to beat the Mountain West's big boys.
Prediction: Boise State 34, UNLV 20
FINAL: Boise State 55, UNLV 27
San Diego State at Colorado State
25 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Adam Muema ran for 105 yards and two touchdowns in San Diego State's 38-14 home win over Colorado State in October 2012.
What to watch for
San Diego State (5-3, 4-0 Mountain West) has won four in a row, blowing out Utah State at home in what could be a preview of the conference title game. Running back Donnel Pumphrey started this season slow, but with four straight 100-yard games, he's up to 20th nationally at 113.8 yards per game.
Colorado State (3-4, 1-2) is finishing up a three-game homestand against some of the best teams in the league, having lost to Boise State but then knocking off Air Force. Before that they lost at Utah State, so first-year coach Mike Bobo's introduction to Mountain West play has been a difficult one.
The Rams have been up and down, while SDSU is on a roll and seems destined to keep winning.
Prediction: San Diego State 29, Colorado State 27
FINAL: San Diego State 41, Colorado State 17
Troy at Appalachian State
26 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Marcus Cox ran for 123 yards and three touchdowns in Appalachian State's 53-14 win at Troy last October.
What to watch for
Troy (2-5, 1-2 Sun Belt) rolled to a 52-7 win at New Mexico State last week, its most-lopsided win since September 2013. Brandon Silvers threw for a career-best 288 yards with five TDs after missing the previous game because of injury.
Appalachian State (6-1, 3-0) won its ninth straight Sun Belt game in impressive fashion, handing Georgia Southern its first-ever league defeat. The Mountaineers have won five in a row by 32.8 points per game, netting at least 31 in every contest.
A home showdown with Arkansas State, likely for the conference title, is five days after this one. Appalachian might take it easy to rest its best for the bigger matchup, so it won't be as big a romp as it could be.
Prediction: Appalachian State 38, Troy 17
FINAL: Appalachian State 44, Troy 41 (3 OT)
Tulsa at SMU
27 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 4 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Dane Evans threw five touchdown passes in Tulsa's 38-28 home win over SMU last November.
What to watch for
Tulsa (3-4, 0-3 American) has lost four of five and last time out allowed 66 points at home to unbeaten Memphis. The Golden Hurricane have a strong offense, with quarterback Dane Evans throwing for 364 yards per game, but first-year coach Philip Montgomery's desire to remain balanced hasn't translated into efficient rushing.
The Hurricane average just 3.74 yards per carry despite running it 345 times.
SMU (1-6, 0-3) is on a five-game skid, the last two on the road, and the 14 points scored at South Florida were a season low. The Mustangs have turned it over seven times the past two weeks while their defense remains porous, allowing 7.51 yards per play.
Chad Morris' first season is going the way you'd expect for a program that had bottomed out before he arrived.
This is one of the last very winnable games for each team, so expect each to play with intensity. Just don't expect much on the defensive end.
Prediction: SMU 49, Tulsa 45
FINAL: Tulsa 40, SMU 31
Tennessee-Martin at Arkansas
28 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 4 p.m. ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
Tennessee-Martin (5-2) takes a four-game winning streak into this one, having defeated Murray State 52-45 last week. The Skyhawks are 4-1 in the Ohio Valley Conference, their only loss by seven points to the Jacksonville State team that took Auburn to overtime in September.
UT-Martin is 1-19 all-time against FBS opponents, including a 76-3 loss earlier this season at Ole Miss.
Arkansas (3-4) is coming off a thrilling four-overtime win at home against Auburn, and now it has the chance to put together its first winning streak of the season. This year hasn't gone as planned for the Razorbacks, both in terms of performance and health, as they have lost two running backs to season-ending injuries and are throwing far more than expected.
Brandon Allen has responded with 1,769 yards and 13 touchdown passes, including three against Auburn.
Arkansas still wants to establish the run, so expect a heavy dose of Alex Collins and Kody Walker ahead of a two-game road trip to Ole Miss and LSU.
Prediction: Arkansas 44, Tennessee-Martin 21
FINAL: Arkansas 63, Tennessee-Martin 28
Louisiana-Monroe at Louisiana-Lafayette
29 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 5 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Terrance Broadway threw two touchdown passes and ran for another in Louisiana-Lafayette's 34-27 win at Louisiana-Monroe last November.
What to watch for
Louisiana-Monroe (1-6, 0-3 Sun Belt) has lost five in a row, most recently losing at lowly Idaho. The Warhawks average 12.8 points per game on the road, and they gain less than 270 yards per game against FBS opponents.
Louisiana-Lafayette (2-4, 1-1) already has as many losses as in any of Mark Hudspeth's previous four seasons, but this team doesn't look as deep as the others. A lot depends on how junior quarterback Jalen Nixon develops, and he's coming off a 454-yard total offense performance in a loss at Arkansas State that included 201 rushing yards.
Nixon is fun to watch when he gets going, and in this rivalry game, he'll want to be at his best.
Prediction: Louisiana-Lafayette 34, Louisiana-Monroe 24
FINAL: Louisiana-Lafayette 30, Louisiana-Monroe 24
Georgia State at Arkansas State
30 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Fredi Knighten threw three touchdown passes and ran for another in Arkansas State's 52-10 win at Georgia State last October.
What to watch for
Georgia State (2-4, 1-1 Sun Belt) last played two weeks ago when it won at Ball State for the program's third win since moving to FBS in 2013 and its first against a non-FCS or non-Sun Belt team. Senior quarterback Nick Arbuckle is eighth in the country at 326.8 passing yards per game.
Arkansas State (4-3, 3-0) has won three straight since finishing up a tough nonconference slate that included losses to USC, Missouri and Arkansas. In Sun Belt play, the Red Wolves have averaged 45 points and 288.3 rushing yards per game.
The Red Wolves host Appalachian State with the league title likely on the line five days after this one, so expect them to build a big lead and then get the starters rested for the more important showdown.
Prediction: Arkansas State 44, Georgia State 18
FINAL: Arkansas State 48, Georgia State 34
Tulane at No. 16 Memphis
31 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Paxton Lynch threw a touchdown pass and ran for another in Memphis' 38-7 win at Tulane last November.
What to watch for
Tulane (2-5, 1-3 American) has scored 31 points during a three-game losing streak and for the year averages 18.7 per game. The Green Wave have only managed 300 yards of offense in three games this season.
Memphis (7-0, 3-0) started slow at Tulsa and then ended up with 66 points and more than 700 yards for its 14th consecutive win. The Tigers have moved up to sixth nationally in total offense, at 557.3 yards per game, and with both Doroland Dorceus and Jamarius Henderson rushing for 100-plus yards last week, their offense is becoming more balanced as the season progresses.
This will be the last cake walk for a while, as Memphis' next three games are against teams that currently are a combined 19-1.
Prediction: Memphis 57, Tulane 17
FINAL: Memphis 41, Tulane 13
Oregon State at No. 13 Utah
32 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Devontae Booker ran for 229 yards and three touchdowns in Utah's 29-23 double-overtime win at Oregon State last October.
What to watch for
Oregon State (2-5, 0-4 Pac-12) now holds the conference's longest losing streak at six after Colorado ended its 14-game skid against the Beavers last week. Gary Andersen's transition of OSU into a run-oriented team hasn't been successful to this point, though that's also due to having one of the youngest rosters in the country.
The Beavers average 342.4 yards per game, which ranks 111th in FBS, and they gain only 153.1 passing yards per game.
Utah (6-1, 3-1) suffered its first loss last week at USC, giving up 42 points despite only allowing 380 yards. Four Travis Wilson interceptions led to 14 points, including seven on a pick-six, while Devontae Booker had season lows in carries (14) and yards (62).
The Utes want to be balanced on offense, but Wilson isn't showing the ability to consistently make that happen, so Booker should be the focus and have him provide passing opportunities by drawing in the defense. Oregon State allows 5.01 yards per carry and 16 rushing TDs.
Prediction: Utah 40, Oregon State 17
FINAL: Utah 27, Oregon State 12
Vanderbilt at No. 18 Houston
33 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Vanderbilt used 17 fourth-quarter points to claim a 41-24 win over Houston in the 2014 BBVA Compass Bowl.
What to watch for
Vanderbilt (3-4) won its first SEC game since November 2013 last week, an ugly 10-3 decision over equally lethargic Missouri. The Commodores had a season-low 304 yards, but only turned it over once, sticking at minus-nine in turnover ratio.
The Commodores set up this game a year ago in hopes of using it to extend their recruiting footprint further into Texas, just months after beating Houston in a bowl game. They had no idea the Cougars would be unbeaten going into this contest.
Houston (7-0) has won at Louisville and is averaging 47.6 points per game, thanks to a spread-out offense that gains 5.77 yards per carry and completes almost 70 percent of its passes. First-year coach Tom Herman has transferred the scheme he ran at Ohio State to Houston, with Greg Ward Jr. serving as his J.T. Barrett with 344.4 yards of total offense per game.
Ward has accounted for 25 touchdowns this season. Vandy has scored 13 total TDs.
Prediction: Houston 37, Vanderbilt 17
FINAL: Houston 34, Vanderbilt 0
Miami (Florida) at No. 22 Duke
34 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brad Kaaya threw two touchdown passes in Miami's 22-10 home win over Duke in September 2014.
What to watch for
Miami (4-3, 1-2 ACC) showed Al Golden the door on Sunday after the worst home loss in program history, a 58-0 drubbing by Clemson. Golden wasn't likely to make it out of this season without a strong finish, but the result helped speed up the process and now leaves the job of trying to right the ship to interim coach Larry Scott.
Having his first game against one of three teams in the Coastal Division with zero losses isn't ideal.
Duke (6-1, 3-0) needed four overtimes to survive at Virginia Tech last week, a game where not much defense happened until the Blue Devils stopped a two-point conversion at the end. Thomas Sirk has cemented himself as their best offensive weapon, as the quarterback accounts for 67 percent of their production with 13 total TDs and a team-best 430 rushing yards.
Scott might bring some extra life to the Hurricanes, but not enough to get a victory against a Duke team on a four-game win streak.
Prediction: Duke 27, Miami 17
FINAL: Miami 30, Duke 27
No. 15 Michigan at Minnesota
35 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Minnesota held Michigan to 171 yards of total offense in a 30-14 road win in September 2014.
What to watch for
Michigan (5-2, 2-1 Big Ten) hasn't played since the shocking final snap of its 27-23 loss to Michigan State, and no doubt some extra practice during the break was spent on shoring up punt coverage and muff procedures. Otherwise, there's not much the Wolverines need to change since their time-consuming offense and lockdown defense have been stellar.
Getting better quarterback play couldn't hurt, though, since Jake Rudock averages just 186.1 passing yards per game with only five touchdowns and six interceptions.
Minnesota (4-3, 1-2) will be playing with heavy hearts after coach Jerry Kill abruptly retired for health reasons on Wednesday, per Joe Christensen of the Star Tribune. The 54-year-old Kill has epilepsy, which has caused him to miss time in the past. He's been replaced by interim coach Tracy Claeys.
The move comes after the Golden Gophers' bye and following a 48-25 home loss to Nebraska two weeks ago, the most points they'd allowed since losing 58-0 at Michigan in October 2011 in Kill's first season.
The Gophers rank 101st in total offense, and in their last two losses, they've gained only 2.36 yards per carry. Kill's departure could spark their attack or lead to further troubles, because of how sudden this came about.
Had Michigan not had a week off to get past the MSU loss, this would have serious letdown vibes. Instead, the Wolverines should be re-focused and win comfortably.
Prediction: Michigan 28, Minnesota 13
FINAL: Michigan 29, Minnesota 26
Texas at Iowa State
36 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Nick Rose kicked a 21-yard field goal with three seconds left in Texas' 48-45 home win over Iowa State last October.
What to watch for
Texas (3-4, 2-2 Big 12) has won two in a row and has used defense to get the job done. The Longhorns have allowed 26 points and 520 yards total in wins over Oklahoma and Kansas State after yielding more than 507 yards per game during the 1-4 start.
It's been an all-around improvement on defense during this short run, with the biggest upgrade coming on third down. Texas' first five opponents converted 52.6 percent of their third downs, but in the last two contests, that's dropped to 26.9 percent.
"Where quarterbacks were once standing in clean pockets able to look downfield with little harassment even deep into plays, opposing passers now must contend with blitzes coming from various angles and a defensive tackle group that is steadily improving," Wescott Eberts of SB Nation wrote.
Iowa State (2-5, 1-3) did some major housecleaning after losing 45-27 at Baylor, as coach Paul Rhoads fired offensive coordinator Mark Mangino and he made a change at quarterback. Though the Cyclones are averaging more points and yards per game and more yards per play than a year ago, with Rhoads' seat getting hotter, the moves might be a desperate attempt to save his job.
Now at quarterback is sophomore Joel Lanning, who threw three touchdown passes in relief of Sam B. Richardson against Baylor.
ISU could use an overhaul on defense, having allowed 156 points during a three-game losing streak that's going to extend to four.
Prediction: Texas 34, Iowa State 23
FINAL: Iowa State 24, Texas 0
UTSA at North Texas
37 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brandon Armstrong's 21-yard touchdown run with 4:18 left gave UTSA a 34-27 home win over North Texas last November.
What to watch for
UTSA (1-6, 1-2 Conference USA) lost 32-10 at Southern Mississippi last week, the sixth time it has allowed at least 30 points this season. The Roadrunners had a season-low 205 yards in that game and rank 114th in total offense at 338.9 yards per game.
North Texas (0-7, 0-4) is on an eight-game losing streak, its worst since 2007-08. Dan McCarney was fired after an 0-5 start and interim coach Mike Canales has been outscored 85-41 in his two games, but the 402 yards allowed at Marshall were a season low.
If the Mean Green are going to win a game, it's either this one or the finale against UTEP. In between are three straight road games, including a trip to Tennessee.
Prediction: North Texas 26, UTSA 23
FINAL: North Texas 30, UTSA 23
Tennessee at Kentucky
38 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Joshua Dobbs threw three touchdown passes and ran for another in Tennessee's 50-16 home win over Kentucky last November.
What to watch for
Tennessee (3-4, 1-3 SEC) put in a game effort at Alabama last week by taking a fourth-quarter lead, but it couldn't hold on down the stretch. That's been the Volunteers' story this season, having held the lead in the final period of three of their four losses.
Dobbs' running ability was negated by Alabama, but in two of the Volunteers' previous games, he topped 100 yards. If both he and Jalen Hurd can run effectively, the offense is solid.
Kentucky (4-3, 2-3) has dropped two in a row after a 4-1 start, and memories of last season's second-half collapse are starting to resurface. The Wildcats lost six straight after a 5-1 start in 2014, and the same could happen if they can't become more consistent on offense and get better at stopping the run.
Mississippi State's Dak Prescott just ran for 117 yards and three TDs on Kentucky, so either it will have learned from that performance or it means it is susceptible to mobile quarterbacks.
Prediction: Tennessee 27, Kentucky 23
FINAL: Tennessee 52, Kentucky 21
No. 9 Notre Dame at No. 21 Temple
39 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Thomas Rees threw three touchdown passes in Notre Dame's 28-6 home win over Temple in August 2013.
What to watch for
Notre Dame (6-1) has played five of seven at home while facing a collection of opponents who are a combined 25-24. That includes unbeaten Clemson, who handed the Fighting Irish their only loss, and in their other road game they needed a last-second TD pass from DeShone Kizer to Will Fuller to knock off Virginia.
Now the Irish will play four of five away from South Bend, starting with back-to-back road games on opposite sides of the state of Pennsylvania. The Temple trip wasn't expected to be such a big deal at the beginning of this season, but now with the backdrop of ESPN College GameDay and an unbeaten opponent, suddenly it's just the start of a tough final stretch.
Temple (7-0) is off to its best start in school history, ranked for the first time in 36 years, thanks to a penchant for second-half dominance and a defense that has been swarming. The Owls made an early splash by sacking Penn State's Christian Hackenberg 10 times in the season-opening win, and since then, they've posted quality wins at Cincinnati and East Carolina.
The Owls are 14th overall in total defense and sixth against the run, while their offense has been a lot of all-purpose back Jahad Thomas (14 total TDs) but also heady play from quarterback P.J. Walker in key moments.
Temple is right in the thick of the battle for the Group of Five's bid for a major bowl game, and downing a team like Notre Dame would be great for that cause. It will be close, but Notre Dame will pull it out late.
Prediction: Notre Dame 26, Temple 23
FINAL: Notre Dame 24, Temple 20
Idaho at New Mexico State
40 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jerrel Brown ran for 151 yards and a touchdown in Idaho's 29-17 home win over New Mexico State last October.
What to watch for
Idaho (3-4, 2-2 Sun Belt) has as many wins as in the past three seasons combined following a victory over Louisiana-Monroe, giving the Vandals their first two-game win streak since 2009. But since then, their best player, receiver Dezmon Epps, was suspended indefinitely after being accused of hitting his girlfriend, per Sports Illustrated's Thayer Evans.
Epps has 61 catches for 757 yards, while the rest of the team has accounted for 115 receptions and 1,086 yards.
New Mexico State (0-7, 0-3) has lost 17 in a row, most recently a 52-7 blowout at home to Troy. The Aggies have allowed 50 or more points five times this season, and their 7.44 yards allowed per play is third-worst in the country.
Epps' absence is significant, but New Mexico State just lost by 45 to a team that lost at home to Idaho two weeks ago.
Prediction: Idaho 30, New Mexico State 25
FINAL: New Mexico State 55, Idaho 48 (OT)
Air Force at Hawaii
41 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Air Force did not attempt a pass in a 21-7 home win over Hawaii in November 2012.
What to watch for
Air Force (4-3, 3-1 Mountain West) is winless in three road games this season, allowing 35.3 points per game in those defeats, but those were at Michigan State, Navy and in-state rival Colorado State. At 333 rushing yards per game, the Falcons rank third in FBS.
Hawaii (2-6, 0-4) has lost five in a row, but it's managed 61 points in the past three games after being shut out three times earlier this season. The Rainbow Warriors average 293.5 yards per game, which is 125th out of 128 schools.
Air Force hasn't been to the islands since 2001 and hasn't won there since 1997. It's a tough place to play if you're not used to it, and with the Falcons' struggles on the road, they will slip up.
Prediction: Hawaii 27, Air Force 23
FINAL: Air Force 58, Hawaii 7
No. 8 Stanford at Washington State
42 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Kevin Hogan threw three touchdown passes in Stanford's 34-17 home win over Washington State last October.
What to watch for
Stanford (6-1, 5-0 Pac-12) is probably the league's best hope to make the playoffs after Utah lost for the first time last week, but the Cardinal have to keep winning to make this happen. This seemed so far from reality in early September after they lost 16-6 at Northwestern, but the team that's played since then has been unstoppable.
Last week's 31-14 win over Washington was the first time they didn't outscore themselves from the week before, but they were still in complete control from the outset. Kevin Hogan is playing like a fifth-year senior, one who has nearly as many career wins as predecessor Andrew Luck, while rising sophomore Christian McCaffrey has a huge cushion on the field for FBS all-purpose yards-per-game lead with 259.7.
ESPN.com's David Lombardi wrote:
"The Cardinal's offensive performance against the Huskies may have been the most significant one yet, simply because the challenge was greater, and the requirement to conquer it demanded that Stanford return to its deliberate, road-grading roots—as opposed to the explosive fireworks display of the past month.
"
Washington State (5-2, 3-1) is deliberate in its own way, in that it will throw and throw and throw with only the occasional run to keep defenses honest. The Cougars have the No. 2 passing offense in the country behind sophomore Luke Falk, who has 26 TD passes and only four interceptions, while completing at a 72.9 percent clip on 55.3 attempts per game.
Falk has averaged 475.3 yards per game with 16 TDs during the Cougars' three-game league win streak, its best in 12 years. He's been sacked 15 times this year, but considering he's dropped back more than 400 times, that's not too shabby. And luckily, Stanford isn't nearly as adept at rushing the passer this year as in past seasons.
Stanford will be pushed to the limit in a game that screams #Pac12AfterDark craziness, but it will hang on for a seventh win in a row.
Prediction: Stanford 38, Washington State 34
FINAL: Stanford 30, Washington State 28
Arizona at Washington
43 of 55
When: Saturday, Oct. 31; 11 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Casey Skowron scored a touchdown on a fake field goal and also kicked a game-winning 47-yarder as time expired in Arizona's 27-26 home win over Washington last November.
What to watch for
Arizona (5-3, 2-3 Pac-12) has a quarterback controversy for the first time in Rich Rodriguez's four seasons, despite this being the first time in that span he had a returning starter to work with. Anu Solomon has thrown the most passes of any FBS QB this season (202) without an interception, but since returning from a six-quarter absence due to a concussion, he's been off.
Solomon has completed 51 of 87 passes with only two TDs in the last three games, and in the past two, he's been replaced by run-first QB Jerrard Randall. Randall averages 11.02 yards per carry, and if not for his inability to throw a touch pass, he might have already taken control of the job, thanks to his mobility.
Regardless of the quarterback, though, Arizona's defensive issues remain. Injuries have sapped depth at linebacker and contributed to allowing 5.73 yards per carry with only 15 sacks and 41 tackles for loss.
Washington (3-4, 1-3) has its own quarterback issues, but they're because of injuries. Before hurting his shoulder late in the home loss to Oregon, freshman Jake Browning had looked mostly good this season and was making steady improvement. He couldn't go the final drive of that game or last week at Stanford, and backup K.J. Carta-Samuels has gone 10-of-23 for 124 yards.
Myles Gaskin has three straight 100-yard rushing games and has averaged better than 6.8 yards per carry over that span, but without a pass game to balance this out, the Huskies haven't been able to score. At 19.8 points per game against FBS opponents, they rank 108th.
Arizona coach Rich Rodriguez has been critical of the Pac-12's late start times, particularly for a team like his that has no bye week and will be playing at 6 p.m. local time or later for the third straight road game. Maybe he'll change his tune after this win?
Prediction: Arizona 31, Washington 27
FINAL: Washington 49, Arizona 3
Northern Illinois at No. 20 Toledo
44 of 55
When: Tuesday, Nov. 3; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Cameron Stingily had two rushing touchdowns in Northern Illinois' 27-24 home win over Toledo last November.
What to watch for
Northern Illinois (5-3, 3-1 Mid-American) is on a three-game win streak, though that came against teams on the bottom end of the conference. The Huskies have won the West Division five straight times and are 41-3 in regular-season league games since 2010.
Toledo (7-0, 4-0) has won 10 straight games and is off to its best start since 1997, paced by early wins over Arkansas and Iowa State. The Rockets trailed by 18 points in the first half at Massachusetts in their last game but scored 41 after halftime behind Alabama transfer quarterback Phillip Ely and a potent run attack.
The Rockets' only MAC loss last season came in one of these #MACtion games at Northern Illinois, but now it's their time to take control of the West and continue their push toward a potential major bowl bid.
Prediction: Toledo 38, Northern Illinois 24
FINAL: Northern Illinois 32, Toledo 27
Ohio at Bowling Green
45 of 55
When: Wednesday, Nov. 4; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: James Knapke threw for 260 yards and two touchdowns in Bowling Green's 31-13 win at Ohio last October.
What to watch for
Ohio (5-3, 2-2 Mid-American) comes in on a two-game losing streak, getting blown out at Buffalo last time out. The Bobcats have been outscored 90-31 during the skid, after allowing only 94 points during a 5-1 start that included beating 7-1 Marshall.
Bowling Green (6-2, 4-0) has won five straight and scored 46.4 points per game during the run. Quarterback Matt Johnson is pacing the Falcons' attack to the tune of 415.1 passing yards per game, tops in FBS. He's thrown only three interceptions in 345 passes.
The Falcons already have a two-game lead on the rest of the East Division and, with a win here, would all but clinch a spot in the MAC Championship for the third year in a row.
Prediction: Bowling Green 34, Ohio 20
FINAL: Bowling Green 62, Ohio 24
Louisville at Wake Forest
46 of 55
When: Friday, Oct. 30; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brandon Radcliff ran for 129 yards and two touchdowns in Louisville's 20-10 home win over Wake Forest in September 2014.
What to watch for
Louisville (3-4, 2-2 ACC) has won three of its last four games, but its offense remains stuck in the mud. Last week, the Cardinals scored 17 points in a home win over Boston College, the fourth time they've scored 21 or fewer. Outside of a romp over FCS Samford, they've averaged 358.2 yards per game.
Lamar Jackson has only 47 rushing yards in the past two games, and Louisville needs him to gain more to avoid trying too hard as a passer. He was intercepted twice by BC and has seven interceptions against six TD throws.
Wake Forest (3-5, 1-4) has slid down to 105th in total offense, its only win in the past five weeks a 3-0 slugfest at Boston College. Kendall Hinton seems to be the answer for the Demon Deacons at quarterback, but he hasn't been able to produce consistent results.
The loser of this game all but eliminates itself from bowl contention based on what's left on the schedule. Wake probably still won't get to six wins in Dave Clawson's second season, but it will get this one.
Prediction: Wake Forest 21, Louisville 17
FINAL: Louisville 20, Wake Forest 19
East Carolina at Connecticut
47 of 55
When: Friday, Oct. 30; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Shane Carden threw for 445 yards and two touchdowns in East Carolina's 31-21 home win over Connecticut last October.
What to watch for
East Carolina (4-4, 2-2 American) gave up two late TDs to fall 24-14 at home to unbeaten Temple, missing out on a chance to get back into the league race. The Pirates continue to rotate Blake Kemp and James Summers at quarterback to maximize their rushing and passing abilities, respectively, but teams seem to have figured out Summers, as he's averaged just 4.4 yards per carry the past three games.
Connecticut (3-5, 1-3) has lost five of six, and its offense has continued to be the issue. The Huskies have topped 22 points once this season, scoring 40 at winless UCF, and are tied for 112th in total offense. They have converted only 36 of 110 third downs, getting the first down just two of 11 times last week in a 37-13 loss at Cincinnati.
The American Athletic Conference has eight bowl bids, so six wins are probably all that's needed to get an invite. A win here will get East Carolina close and push UConn to the brink of elimination.
Prediction: East Carolina 27, Connecticut 21
FINAL: Connecticut 31, East Carolina 13
Louisiana Tech at Rice
48 of 55
When: Friday, Oct. 30; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Cody Sokol threw four touchdown passes, and Kenneth Dixon ran for three scores in Louisiana Tech's 76-31 home win over Rice last November.
What to watch for
Louisiana Tech (5-3, 3-1 Conference USA) got Dixon back from injury last week, and he responded with three rushing TDs and a receiving score. That gives him 12 this season and 73 for his career, which is fifth best in FBS history.
The defending West Division champion Bulldogs are best when they have the duo of Dixon and Jeff Driskel, the Florida transfer who has thrown for 2,409 yards and 15 TDs.
Rice (4-3, 2-1) edged Army at home last week for its second win in a row, despite allowing 378 rushing yards. The Owls' biggest issues are on defense, as they allow 7.18 yards per play.
Tech's beatdown of Rice last year will light a fire under the Owls, but they've yet to show they can stop a qualified opponent.
Prediction: Louisiana Tech 38, Rice 30
FINAL: Louisiana Tech 42, Rice 17
Wyoming at Utah State
49 of 55
When: Friday, Oct. 30; 10:15 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Utah State used a 17-point first quarter to pace a 20-3 win at Wyoming last November.
What to watch for
Wyoming (1-7, 1-3 Mountain West) couldn't string consecutive wins together, losing 34-14 at Boise for the Cowboys' 14th straight road loss. Amid the rough season, though, sophomore Brian Hill's 1,061 rushing yards put him fourth in the country.
Utah State (4-3, 3-1) turned it over four times in a blowout loss at San Diego State last week, flipping the script from the game before when the Aggies forced eight takeaways in rolling over Boise State. Quarterback Kent Myers had his first bad performance since taking over the starting job, but in four starts, he's averaged 228.3 yards of total offense with eight TDs.
With 12 straight home wins, Utah State will easily take down the Cowboys.
Prediction: Utah State 42, Wyoming 22
FINAL: Utah State 58, Wyoming 27
North Carolina at No. 23 Pittsburgh
50 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: T.J. Logan's one-yard touchdown run with 50 seconds left gave North Carolina a 40-35 home win over Pittsburgh last November.
What to watch for
North Carolina (6-1, 3-0 ACC) is on its best win streak since 1997, and the hiring of former Auburn coach Gene Chizik as defensive coordinator has been a huge part of this rise. Even in the Tar Heels' season-opening loss to South Carolina, the improvement was seen on defense, and for the year, they're giving up 4.89 yards per play compared to 6.53 in 2014.
"North Carolina has held its opponents to 17 points or fewer in six of seven games this season—something that had happened just eight times in Larry Fedora's first three years on the job," ESPN.com's David M. Hale wrote.
UNC's offense is also different from a year ago, as Marquise Williams isn't flying solo. He still leads the team with 261.3 yards per game of total offense, but running back Elijah Hood has also contributed four 100-yard rushing games while gaining 6.46 yards per carry.
Pittsburgh (6-1, 4-0) is off to its best start since 2009, as first-year coach Pat Narduzzi has already matched the regular-season win total of each of the past four seasons. This has been done with a patchwork offense ever since bruising running back James Conner suffered a knee injury in the opener, along with a very staunch defense.
Five of the Panthers' seven games have been on the road, and their only loss came via a long field goal at unbeaten Iowa. Their past two victories, at Georgia Tech and Syracuse, have been won by late field goals from Chris Blewitt. They were scrappy wins, and the Syracuse game was the program's first fourth-quarter comeback since 2009.
The short week could lead to some sloppy play, but Pitt will be happy to be back at home after so much road time. North Carolina has played only one team that currently has a winning record, and faced with a tougher opponent, it will come up short.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 21, North Carolina 17
FINAL: North Carolina 26, Pittsburgh 19
West Virginia at No. 5 TCU
51 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jaden Oberkrom's 37-yard field goal as time expired gave TCU a 31-30 win at West Virginia last November.
What to watch for
West Virginia (3-3, 0-3 Big 12) has faced a rigorous opening slate in league play and now gets a fourth straight ranked opponent and third on the road. The only home game in that run had the Mountaineers falling in overtime to Oklahoma State.
After dominating on defense during the preseason, that unit has been ravaged by injuries and run over by explosive offenses. They've allowed 46.3 points per game in the Big 12, and combined with 10 turnovers from their offense, there's been very little going well.
TCU (7-0, 4-0) has had some wild adventures on the road this season, but when playing in Fort Worth, it's been smooth sailing. The Horned Frogs have scored at least 50 in every home game, and for the year, they average 50.1 points and 616.3 yards per game.
Trevone Boykin is doing his best to keep a quarterback involved in the rusher-heavy Heisman discussion, as he's outpacing his huge performance from a year ago. The senior has accounted for 425.6 yards of total offense per game with 30 touchdowns, and in Big 12 play, he has 15 touchdown passes and three rushing scores.
Prediction: TCU 46, West Virginia 24
FINAL: TCU 40, West Virginia 10
Western Michigan at Eastern Michigan
52 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Zach Terrell threw for 357 yards and four touchdowns and added a rushing score in Western Michigan's 51-7 home win over Eastern Michigan last November.
What to watch for
Western Michigan (4-3, 3-0 Mid-American) has flipped the switch since getting into conference play, winning three straight and averaging 45 points in the process. Terrell has thrown 10 TD passes with no interceptions in those wins, and he's yet to be picked off in any of the Broncos' victories this season.
Eastern Michigan (1-7, 0-4) has lost six in a row and seven straight at home. The Eagles are 121st in total defense and dead last against the run, allowing 340.5 yards per game with 30 TDs on the ground.
Jarvion Franklin has just three rushing scores this year after posting 24 TDs as a freshman, so watch for him to pace Western Michigan's attack.
Prediction: Western Michigan 40, Eastern Michigan 23
FINAL: Western Michigan 58, Eastern Michigan 28
Buffalo at Miami (Ohio)
53 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Anthone Taylor ran for 222 yards and three touchdowns in Buffalo's 35-27 home win over Miami in September 2014.
What to watch for
Buffalo (3-4, 1-2 Mid-American) romped to a 41-17 win over Ohio last week at home, ending a three-game losing streak. Joe Licata threw for 212 yards and now has 8,103 for his career, just 645 yards behind school record holder Drew Willy.
Miami (1-7, 0-4) has lost seven in a row overall and has dropped 10 straight to FBS opponents. At 14.4 points per game, the RedHawks are last in FBS in scoring offense.
Buffalo has bowl aspirations and can't afford to drop one here, even on a short week.
Prediction: Buffalo 33, Miami 21
FINAL: Buffalo 29, Miami 24
Texas State at Georgia Southern
54 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Matt Breida ran for 120 yards and two touchdowns in Georgia Southern's 28-25 win at Texas State last November.
What to watch for
Texas State (2-4, 1-1 Sun Belt) snapped a three-game skid with a 36-18 home win over South Alabama, and though it allowed 468 yards and 6.32 per carry, it was a huge improvement from the 573.2 and 7.46 per carry before that. The Bobcats are rushing for 220 yards per game, but they allowed 258.5 on the ground, including 272 last time out.
Georgia Southern (5-2, 3-1) had its triple-option game humbled at Appalachian State in a 31-13 loss, scoring a TD on the first drive but finishing with a season-low 188 yards. The Eagles remain the FBS leader in rushing offense at 368.9 yards per game with 31 scores on the ground.
The Eagles only play one more team with a winning record, when they visit Georgia next month.
Prediction: Georgia Southern 49, Texas State 21
FINAL: Georgia Southern 37, Texas State 13
Oregon at Arizona State
55 of 55
When: Thursday, Oct. 29; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Kenjon Barner ran for 143 yards and three touchdowns in Oregon's 43-21 win at Arizona State in October 2012.
What to watch for
Based on preseason projections, this could have been a preview of December's conference title game. Instead, it's a matchup of teams hanging on to a fleeting hope of winning their division with a very tough final month still to go.
Oregon (4-3, 2-2 Pac-12) is most effective when it's able to run and throw the ball with balance, but that's not been the case much of this year because of a finger injury to quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. His return last time against Washington showed what the Ducks should look like, his arm combining with Royce Freeman's running for a potent duo.
The Ducks' issues on defense have also impacted the year, as they have allowed 306.6 passing yards per game with 22 TDs.
Arizona State (4-3, 2-2) didn't score an offensive TD in its last game, a 34-18 loss at Utah in which it only gained 15 rushing yards. Mike Bercovici has been sacked 21 times while completing 58.6 percent of his passes.
An aggressive defense that blitzes more than anyone else has produced great results, including an FBS-leading 9.86 tackles for loss per game, but when it doesn't get to the quarterback or ball-carrier, it's resulted in plenty of big plays. ASU has allowed 11 plays of 40-plus yards, which is tied for 101st.
Prediction: Oregon 43, Arizona State 40
FINAL: Oregon 61, Arizona State 55 (3 OT)
Statistics courtesy of cfbstats, unless otherwise noted.
Follow Brian J. Pedersen on Twitter at @realBJP.
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