College Football Picks: Week 10 Predictions for Every Game
If college football were a horse race, the pack would be coming around the final turn right now for the stretch run. And as anyone who has watched the ponies run will know, a lot can and will happen during those last few furlongs.
The last month of the regular season is overloaded with huge games that will determine who plays for a national championship as well as who wins various FBS divisions and conferences. That starts this weekend, where we'll get three matchups of ranked teams, including pitting two unbeaten foes against each other. There are 10 perfect teams left in the country after Toledo fell Tuesday, and no more than eight will remain after Week 10.
Beyond just championship drives, though, many teams are fighting to become bowl-eligible and get in position to have an extra game some time over the holidays. There are only a handful of contests this week that won't have an impact on the overall college football landscape.
We have predictions for all of them, even a pairing of one-win teams in Ohio that only the most devoted of college football fans would care about. Check out our picks, then give us your own in the comments section.
NOTE: All rankings listed are from the College Football Playoff rankings.
Last week: 36-19 (.655)
Season: 436-137 (.761)
Akron at Massachusetts
1 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Kyle Pohl threw for 277 yards and two touchdowns in Akron's 30-6 home win over Massachusetts last November.
What to watch for
Akron (3-5, 1-3 Mid-American) has managed only 16 points in its past two games, both losses, including a 14-6 home setback to Central Michigan last week. The Zips actually play better on the road, where they have wins over Louisiana-Lafayette and Eastern Michigan, which are their only two performances against FBS competition this year where they've surpassed 12 points.
Massachusetts (1-7, 0-4) has lost four in a row overall and is winless in its last six MAC games, which should make getting kicked out of the league after this season easier to swallow. The Minutemen have a good quarterback-receiver combination in seniors Blake Frohnapfel and Tajae Sharpe, but Sharpe's FBS-leading 88 receptions haven't translated into wins.
UMass finally breaks through in league play.
Prediction: Massachusetts 23, Akron 20
FINAL: Akron 17, Massachusetts 13
Florida Atlantic at Western Kentucky
2 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Florida Atlantic scored 17 fourth-quarter points, including a 61-yard touchdown pass from Jaquez Johnson to Lucky Whitehead with 1:23 left, for a 45-38 home win over Western Kentucky in October 2014.
What to watch for
Florida Atlantic (2-6, 2-3 Conference USA) snapped a three-game skid with a 31-17 victory over rival Florida International on Saturday, scoring its most points since a 47-44 overtime loss at Tulsa to start the season. The Owls didn't commit a turnover against FIU but have 19 giveaways this season, including three occasions when they lost the ball five times in a game.
Western Kentucky (7-2, 5-0) has forced 20 turnovers in 2015, tied for fifth-most in FBS, which only adds to an offense that scores 42.6 points and gains 522.1 yards per game. Senior quarterback Brandon Doughty, who led the nation in passing yards and TDs in 2014, is back atop the list with 30 TD passes, and his 3,310 yards are third overall.
The Hilltoppers are on a collision course with defending C-USA champ Marshall, which is also unbeaten in league play, at the end of this month. There's nothing stopping them at this point.
Prediction: Western Kentucky 54, Florida Atlantic 24
FINAL: Western Kentucky 35, Florida Atlantic 19
UCF at Tulsa
3 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Justin Holman threw for 291 yards and three touchdowns in UCF's 31-7 home win over Tulsa last November.
What to watch for
UCF (0-9, 0-5 American) has lost 10 straight games, the second-longest streak in the country. Coach George O'Leary retired after the eighth loss; then interim coach Danny Barrett lost, 52-7, at alma mater Cincinnati last week. It was the sixth straight game the Knights have allowed at least 30 points while only reaching that point total once in 2015.
Tulsa (4-4, 1-3) topped 40 points for the fourth time this season to win at SMU and set itself up for a potential bowl bid with two more victories. The Golden Hurricane haven't been to a bowl since 2012, but with a fast offense that averages 532 yards and runs an FBS-most 89 plays per game, they've been competitive in most games in 2015.
This will be a total romp, with Tulsa running and throwing at will for its easiest victory of the season.
Prediction: Tulsa 54, UCF 20
FINAL: Tulsa 45, UCF 30
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Penn State at No. 21 Northwestern
4 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Trevor Siemian threw for 258 yards and added three rushing touchdowns in Northwestern's 29-6 win at Penn State in September 2014.
What to watch for
Penn State (7-2, 4-1 Big Ten) is coming off a 39-0 home win over Illinois, its first shutout against a conference opponent since 2009. It was also one of the few times this year the Nittany Lions offense has produced both on the ground and through the air, since it's normally been one or the other (or sometimes neither).
A healthy Saquon Barkley is essential for Penn State, and he's rushed it at least 20 times each of the past three weeks. This has enabled Christian Hackenberg to have more time to throw since defenses have to respect the run, and in the past two games, he's responded with 581 yards and five TDs. He's only thrown two interceptions this season after being picked off 15 times in 2014.
Northwestern (6-2, 2-2) was off last week, but before the break, it pulled out a 30-28 win at Nebraska for its most points since a Week 2, 41-0 win over Eastern Illinois. The Wildcats offense struggled mightily in October, averaging 252.8 yards per game in Big Ten play, and the passing offense has been a mess all year.
A strong defense that holds opponents to 4.5 yards per play has kept Northwestern in most games. The Wildcats have 10 sacks in four conference games and now face a Penn State line that has yielded 31 sacks, tied for third-most in the country.
Prediction: Northwestern 24, Penn State 14
Illinois at Purdue
5 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Akeem Hunt ran for 177 yards and a touchdown in Purdue's 38-27 win at Illinois in October 2014.
What to watch for
Illinois (4-4, 1-3 Big Ten) was shut out, 39-0, at Penn State last week, the first time it's failed to score in a conference game since October 2012. The Fighting Illini are winless on the road this season, giving up 38.7 points per game, while their offense has been plagued by 46 dropped passes, as head coach Bill Cubit told Matt Daniels of the Champaign News-Gazette.
Cubit did well to keep this team together early after Tim Beckman was fired six days before the season, but the lack of talent is becoming more evident on a weekly basis.
Purdue (2-6, 1-3) scored 55 points in beating Nebraska last week, ending a five-game losing streak and giving Darrell Hazell just his second Big Ten win in three seasons. David Blough threw four TD passes in that game, the most the Boilermakers have had against an FBS opponent in nearly two years.
The Boilermakers aren't going to go bowling, and Hazell might not be coming back next year, but there's a chance here for the program's first two-game Big Ten winning streak since winning three in a row late in 2012.
Prediction: Purdue 36, Illinois 30
FINAL: Illinois 48, Purdue 14
Charlotte at Florida International
6 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
Charlotte (2-6, 0-5 Conference USA) committed two more turnovers in its 34-10 home loss to Marshall on Saturday, its sixth consecutive defeat. The 49ers, playing their first season at the FBS level, have given the ball away 29 times.
Florida International (4-5, 2-3) fell at rival Florida Atlantic on Saturday, a game it needed badly to gain bowl eligibility. The Golden Panthers' remaining two games after this one are against Marshall and Western Kentucky, who combined are 15-3 overall and 10-0 in C-USA.
FIU is unbeaten at home this season and will get back to .500.
Prediction: Florida International 40, Charlotte 23
FINAL: Florida International 48, Charlotte 31
Texas Tech at West Virginia
7 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: West Virginia scored 17 points in the final 5:55, with Josh Lambert drilling a 55-yard field goal as time expired, in a 37-34 win at Texas Tech in October 2014.
What to watch for
Texas Tech (5-4, 2-4 Big 12) is averaging 43.8 points per game in conference play but has allowed at least 55 in four of those contests. That includes last week when it fell, 70-53, at home to Oklahoma State despite a 38-point first half.
The Red Raiders have an explosive offense behind Patrick Mahomes II at quarterback and underrated rusher DeAndre Washington, but they can't afford not to score every time because of how bad their defense is. Turnovers have caused issues, too, as they've given the ball away nine times in the past three games.
West Virginia (3-4, 0-4) is as happy to see the calendar switch to November as any team in FBS, since last month's slate came against a quartet of Big 12 foes who are a combined 30-1. This resulted in four straight losses, as the Mountaineers' previously strong defense was shredded to the tune of 44.8 points and 524.5 yards per game.
Uneven play from quarterback Skyler Howard hasn't helped, either. The junior has completed only 48.3 percent of his passes in Big 12 play while getting sacked 19 times this season.
This is the last team on the schedule that currently has a winning record, and it will serve as the start of a late surge for West Virginia after a rough middle.
Prediction: West Virginia 37, Texas Tech 26
FINAL: West Virginia 31, Texas Tech 26
Duke at North Carolina
8 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Marquise Williams had 374 yards of total offense and accounted for four touchdowns in North Carolina's 45-20 win at Duke last November.
What to watch for
Duke (6-2, 3-1 ACC) dropped to third place in the Coastal Division after losing a controversial home game against Miami, one in which it scored an apparent game-winning TD with six seconds left only to see the Hurricanes return the ensuing kickoff for a score thanks to eight laterals (and apparently one player who was down on the play).
The ACC determined Sunday that Duke should have won the game and suspended the officiating crew in the process, but it did not overturn the result.
Now the Blue Devils hit the road to play the division leaders, still smarting from that finish, though a win in Chapel Hill will make up for a lot since it will give them the edge in any tiebreakers with the Tar Heels.
North Carolina (7-1, 4-0) is alone at the top after winning at Pittsburgh last Thursday, holding an opponent under 20 points for the seventh time this season. The Heels defense is one of the most improved units in the country, allowing 4.94 yards per game compared to 6.53 (and 39 points) in 2014.
"Auburn hiring Will Muschamp was assumed to be the most impactful coordinator hire, but [Gene] Chizik—who was run out of Auburn two years after winning a national title—has upstaged him," Sports On Earth's Matt Brown wrote.
UNC's offense is doing big things, too, averaging 7.46 yards per play behind Williams and running back Elijah Hood.
Prediction: North Carolina 27, Duke 23
FINAL: North Carolina 66, Duke 31
Vanderbilt at No. 10 Florida
9 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Treon Harris ran for two touchdowns to go with 215 passing yards in Florida's 34-10 win at Vanderbilt last November.
What to watch for
Vanderbilt (3-5, 1-3 SEC) is all that stands between the East Division being wrapped up this weekend and it still being up for grabs, if only slightly. That's not the position a team like the Commodores expected to be in, especially right after getting shut out on the road by Houston.
That was the first time an SEC school had been blanked by a non-power team since Kentucky was by Louisville in 2004, and it marked the seventh time this season Vandy has failed to top 17 points. At 15.8 points per game, the Commodores are tied for 124th in FBS.
Florida (7-1, 5-1) can officially book its travel to Atlanta for the conference title game with a win here, something that was essentially assured after dominating rival Georgia last week. That victory showed the Gators will remain a force even without Will Grier at quarterback, and Harris won't be asked to take many risks as long as Kelvin Taylor runs the ball well.
Taylor had 121 rushing yards and two TDs against Georgia. His rushing, combined with Florida's defense, will be more than enough to clinch the Gators' first SEC title game appearance since 2009.
Prediction: Florida 28, Vanderbilt 13
FINAL: Florida 9, Vanderbilt 7
Kentucky at Georgia
10 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Hutson Mason threw four touchdown passes in Georgia's 63-31 win at Kentucky last November.
What to watch for
Kentucky (4-4, 2-4 SEC) has lost three in a row by increasing margins, going from a three-point setback to Auburn to blowouts against Mississippi State and Tennessee. It's starting to look a lot like the 2014 Wildcats, which started 5-1, then didn't win again.
The Wildcats converted only two of 16 third downs against Tennessee, and for the year, they are at 38.98 percent.
Georgia (5-3, 3-3) is a shell of the team it was before Nick Chubb injured his knee on the first offensive play against Tennessee in mid-October. That was followed by consecutive games without a TD, with the run game falling apart and even a switch at quarterback producing nothing.
Now the Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting that major changes will be coming to the program in the near future, noting that coach Mark "Richt has been issued a directive to fix it, according to several people familiar with the situation. His ability to do that over these final four weeks of the season...will determine not only the futures of some of the coaches on his staff, but Richt's as well."
A win here won't change much, but it will at least keep the ship from taking on any more water right now.
Prediction: Georgia 34, Kentucky 20
FINAL: Georgia 27, Kentucky 3
No. 5 Notre Dame at Pittsburgh
11 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; noon ET
Last meeting: Tom Savage threw two touchdown passes, and James Conner ran for two scores in Pittsburgh's 28-21 home win over Notre Dame in November 2013.
What to watch for
Notre Dame (7-1) is sitting in pretty good shape in the initial playoff rankings, no doubt getting a bit of a boost from its 24-20 win at previously unbeaten Temple on Saturday. The Fighting Irish's only loss is by two points in the rain at No. 1 Clemson, but with the number of unbeaten teams below them, they can't expect to make the top four with another loss.
This and the finale at Stanford are Notre Dame's last two opportunities to pick up strength-of-schedule points, and it can tap into how it's weathered previous storms on the road to get through this one. It needed a last-minute TD from DeShone Kizer to Will Fuller to win at Virginia in September, and the same duo hooked up late to beat Temple.
Pittsburgh (6-2, 4-1 ACC) had its six-game winning streak snapped at home last Thursday by North Carolina, knocking it out of first place in the ACC's Coastal Division. That has no impact on this game, since it's not associated with the league standings, but the Panthers will want to avoid falling into a prolonged slump after such a strong start to Pat Narduzzi's first season.
The Panthers offense is lacking in big-play ability, with just 91 plays of 10 or more yards and 34 that have gone for 20-plus yards. Notre Dame has 139 and 51, respectively.
Prediction: Notre Dame 31, Pittsburgh 20
FINAL: Notre Dame 42, Pittsburgh 30
Syracuse at Louisville
12 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 12:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brandon Radcliff ran for 110 yards and two touchdowns in Louisville's 28-6 win at Syracuse in October 2014.
What to watch for
Syracuse (3-5, 1-3 ACC) has lost five in a row after a 3-0 start, giving up at least 34 points in four of those games. The Orange faced Florida State without its starting quarterback and running back and still lost by 24. And with only one opponent left with a sub-.500 record, the chances of getting back to a bowl game after missing out in 2014 aren't looking good.
Eric Dungey has to be efficient for the Orange to have a chance, and he struggled mightily at FSU, going 11-of-24 for 120 yards.
Louisville (4-4, 3-2 ACC) has won four of five since starting 0-3, winning their last two by four total points against Boston College and Wake Forest. The Cardinals haven't looked pretty, and their offense doesn't look good if quarterback Lamar Jackson isn't running the ball well, yet after a disastrous start, they've been able to rely on defense to keep games close.
It's not how you'd expect a Bobby Petrino-coached team to look, but it's the state of Louisville football this season. And it will give the Cardinals another win to make for a great rebound.
Prediction: Louisville 27, Syracuse 14
FINAL: Louisville 41, Syracuse 17
North Carolina State at Boston College
13 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 12:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Tyler Murphy ran for 132 yards and two touchdowns in Boston College's 30-14 win at North Carolina State in October 2014.
What to watch for
North Carolina State (5-3, 1-3 ACC) lost, 56-41, at home to top-ranked Clemson last week despite scoring twice in the first five minutes against one of the best defenses in the country. It was a deflating second-half collapse for the Wolfpack, who started 4-0 but don't have a win against a team with more than three victories.
A toe injury to leading rusher Matt Dayes compromised the offensive balance and will be an issue for NC State going forward if he's not at full strength or unable to go. Shadrach Thornton, the No. 2 rusher, was dismissed from the team earlier this season, and Jacoby Brissett can only do so much himself at quarterback.
Boston College (3-6, 0-6) is mired in a horrible offensive slump that has seen it lose five straight and manage only 65 points against its seven FBS opponents. To contrast, the Eagles scored 100 points against FCS Maine and Howard to start the season.
A defense that allows only 13.3 points and 223.8 yards per game is the only reason they haven't been blown out every week, but any double-digit deficit has felt that way.
NC State should have enough to beat BC even without Dayes, but if it doesn't, it might struggle to get past six wins.
Prediction: North Carolina State 24, Boston College 14
FINAL: North Carolina State 24, Boston College 8
No. 11 Stanford at Colorado
14 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 1 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Kevin Hogan threw two touchdown passes in Stanford's 48-0 win at Colorado in November 2012.
What to watch for
Stanford (7-1, 6-0 Pac-12) survived a Halloween night trip to Washington State, coming from behind to win, 30-28, and remain firmly atop the North Division. The Cardinal weren't as impressive on offense as over the previous six games, but thanks to Hogan's freelancing as a runner, they were able to avoid the upset and remain the league's best hope to make the playoffs.
Colorado (4-5, 1-4) nearly won at UCLA last week, but even with a two-to-one edge in offensive snaps, its inability to finish drives—only two of six red-zone trips ended in TDs—did it in. The Buffaloes continue to be a tough out despite only two conference wins in Mike MacIntyre's three seasons, though a 1-7 record in one-score games has kept them from being more successful.
This is a pre-noon start locally, and Stanford played late the past weekend. It will look a little sluggish but has more than enough to avoid a letdown ahead of a final stretch at home against Oregon, California and Notre Dame.
Prediction: Stanford 35, Colorado 20
FINAL: Stanford 42, Colorado 10
Louisiana-Lafayette at Georgia State
15 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 2 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jamal Robinson caught a 21-yard touchdown pass from Terrance Broadway with 3:34 left to give Louisiana-Lafayette a 34-31 home win over Georgia State last October.
What to watch for
Louisiana-Lafayette (3-4, 2-1 Sun Belt) rallied from down 15 at halftime to beat rival Louisiana-Monroe at home Saturday. Brooks Haack came off the bench to rush for a score and throw the game-winning TD pass, and head coach Mark Hudspeth's plan now is to split snaps between Haack and the more mobile Jalen Nixon.
Georgia State (2-5, 1-2) has played better of late, winning at Ball State and leading in the second half against conference co-leader Arkansas State before falling by 14 on Saturday. The Panthers still struggle on defense, giving up more than 480 yards per game, and they allowed 296 rushing yards last week.
Lafayette's ability to run the ball with Nixon and Elijah McGuire should be the difference in this game, but it won't be easy.
Prediction: Louisiana-Lafayette 30, Georgia State 23
FINAL: Louisiana-Lafayette 23, Georgia State 21
Eastern Michigan at Miami (Ohio)
16 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 2:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Thomas Merriweather's nine-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth quarter gave Miami a 28-21 home win over Eastern Michigan in September 2011.
What to watch for
Eastern Michigan (1-8, 0-5 Mid-American) has dropped seven in a row and has given up at least 44 points in each of its last six games. That includes last week's 58-28 home loss to Western Michigan, the fifth time the Eagles have yielded 500 or more yards in 2015.
Miami (1-8, 0-5 Mid-American) is on an eight-game losing streak and hasn't beat an FBS team since October 2014. The RedHawks average only 15.4 points per game but had 24 last week against Buffalo, their third-most this season.
This is basically a battle to avoid the basement in the MAC, though both teams are likely to end the season at the bottom of their respective divisions. Eastern Michigan at least has some weapons to work with.
Prediction: Eastern Michigan 27, Miami 20
FINAL: Miami 28, Eastern Michigan 13
Idaho at South Alabama
17 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brandon Bridge threw a touchdown pass and ran for another in South Alabama's 34-10 win at Idaho in September 2014.
What to watch for
Idaho (3-5, 2-3 Sun Belt) blew a big lead at New Mexico State and lost in overtime on Saturday, missing out on a chance for its first three-game win streak since 2009. The Vandals will hope this road game goes similarly to their last trip to Alabama, when they won at Troy in overtime on Oct. 17.
South Alabama (3-4, 1-2 Sun Belt) has lost two straight and three of four but is coming off a bye and looking for a fresh start. Cody Clements, a transfer from UAB, has yet to complete 60 percent of his throws and has nine interceptions after throwing only eight picks in all of 2014.
The Jaguars have allowed 112 points in their last two home games, but this is a much more manageable opponent.
Prediction: South Alabama 31, Idaho 25
FINAL: South Alabama 52, Idaho 45
Colorado State at Wyoming
18 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Garrett Grayson threw for 390 yards and five touchdowns in Colorado State's 45-31 home win over Wyoming in October 2014.
What to watch for
Colorado State (3-5, 1-3 Mountain West) has lost three of four to start league play, but that's come against the four best teams in the conference. The Rams' schedule gets easier from this point on, with only one opponent currently holding a .500 record, but three of their remaining four are on the road.
Wyoming (1-8, 1-4) was outscored 92-41 the past two weeks by Mountain Division powers Boise State and Utah State, but even in those blowout losses, it continued to get strong running from sophomore Brian Hill. His 1,262 yards are second in FBS behind LSU's Leonard Fournette (1,352), though he's only scored four times on 205 carries.
Hill had the first of his 10 career 100-yard rushing games last year against rival Colorado State, and he'll be the reason the Cowboys are able to regain the Bronze Boot for the first time since 2012.
Prediction: Wyoming 33, Colorado State 27
FINAL: Colorado State 26, Wyoming 7
Virginia at Miami (Florida)
19 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Virginia scored 30 unanswered points in a 30-13 home win over Miami last November.
What to watch for
Virginia (3-5, 2-2 ACC) won for the second time in three weeks, knocking off Georgia Tech, 27-21, at home to take a little pressure off embattled coach Mike London. He and the Cavaliers aren't out of the woods yet, since they have to win three of four to make a bowl, but they now play consecutive road games after having gone 0-3 away from home this season.
The Cavs offense has turned more to the run the last few weeks, resulting in better production there, but the passing game is still off. Matt Johns has thrown 13 interceptions this season, tied with Hawaii's Max Wittek for most in the country.
Miami (5-3, 2-2) pulled off a miracle to win at Duke last week, lateraling it eight times on a kick return after allowing a touchdown with six seconds left. Despite replays showing a ball-carrier was down, the play was upheld, making Larry Scott a winner in his debut as interim coach following Al Golden's firing.
For the Hurricanes to play as well as they did last week—they led almost throughout—just days after being blown out, 58-0, at home by Clemson, resulting in Golden's firing, shows there is talent and desire with this team. That's more than enough to win here and keep Miami alive in the Coastal Division standings.
Prediction: Miami 34, Virginia 17
FINAL: Miami 27, Virginia 21
No. 16 Florida State at No. 1 Clemson
20 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Karlos Williams' 12-yard touchdown run in overtime gave Florida State a 23-17 home win over Clemson in October 2014.
What to watch for
The biggest game of the year in the ACC is the opportunity for Clemson to finally wrestle the crown away from Florida State after several years of playing second fiddle in the Atlantic Division. It's also Clemson's best remaining opportunity to show its No. 1 ranking from the playoff committee is worthy.
Florida State (7-1, 5-1) won comfortably last week against Syracuse despite not playing quarterback Everett Golson or running back Dalvin Cook because of injury. Backups Sean Maguire and Jacques Patrick put up big numbers in relief, which is promising for an offense that had been less than stellar this season.
If healthy, Cook is no doubt the best option in the backfield, as he's the first Seminoles rusher to go for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons since Warrick Dunn did it three years in a row in the mid-1990s. But could Maguire be a better fit than Golson, who had his worst game of the year before sitting out last week? Bleacher Report's Justin Ferguson wrote:
"Maguire did more in the vertical passing game than Golson had in most of his time as the Florida State starter thanks in large part to [head coach Jimbo] Fisher's willingness to open up the playbook with the longtime backup. Golson has plenty of experience playing in big games from his time at Notre Dame, and his track record with ball security is nothing to scoff at this season.
"
Clemson (8-0, 5-0) has no such uncertainty, knowing that quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Wayne Gallman are its stars. Watson has been getting better by the week, producing 437 yards of total offense in last week's 56-41 win at North Carolina. For the year, he has accounted for 24 touchdowns with a 70.3 percent completion rate.
Gallman, who is second to Cook in the ACC with 874 rushing yards, has five 100-yard games this season.
There are also plenty of defensive stars in this game, pacing units that both rank in the top 25 in yards allowed this year. Clemson's has been more dominant to this point, and that will make the difference.
Prediction: Clemson 30, Florida State 17
FINAL: Clemson 23, Florida State 13
Arkansas at No. 18 Ole Miss
21 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Arkansas recorded a second straight shutout against a ranked opponent, beating Ole Miss, 30-0, last November.
What to watch for
Arkansas (4-4, 2-2 SEC) is at .500 for the first time since it began the season 1-1 after romping over FCS Tennessee-Martin last week, its second consecutive win. The Razorbacks have scored 117 points the past two weeks, scoring on all 11 red-zone possessions with 10 touchdowns after struggling to finish drives earlier this season.
But now come consecutive road games against two of the top three teams in the West Division, teams they dominated at home last year.
Ole Miss (7-2, 4-1) has reverted to a defense-driven team to win games the last two weeks, beating Texas A&M, 23-3, at home and triumphing at Auburn, 27-19, while allowing only 22 total points in the process. This has been essential for the Rebels to hang in there, since Chad Kelly has become mistake-prone at quarterback and been responsible for the majority of their 21 turnovers on the season.
With its win over Alabama still playing a role in the West Division, Ole Miss is in control of its destiny and gets LSU at home in two weeks. If it can become more consistent on offense while maintaining its rising defense, the division is still there for the taking.
Prediction: Ole Miss 26, Arkansas 17
FINAL: Arkansas 53, Ole Miss 52 (OT)
Army at Air Force
22 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Kale Pearson threw two touchdown passes in Air Force's 23-6 win at Army in November 2014 to win the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy for the 19th time.
What to watch for
Army (2-6) is a loss away from missing out on bowl eligibility for the fifth consecutive year, thus freeing up a pre-arranged spot in the Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego. The Black Knights scored 58 points in a win at Eastern Michigan in September and just 135 in their other seven games.
Air Force (5-3) ran for 496 yards and seven TDs in Saturday's 58-7 win at Hawaii, the third time it has topped 400 rushing yards this season. The Falcons have the nation's No. 2 rushing attack, averaging 353.38 yards per game, with five players having scored at least four times on the ground.
While Army's bowl hopes die in Colorado Springs, Air Force soars to a second straight bowl bid.
Prediction: Air Force 47, Army 17
FINAL: Air Force 20, Army 3
Arizona State at Washington State
23 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Taylor Kelly threw four touchdown passes and D.J. Foster ran for three scores in Arizona State's 52-31 home win over Washington State last November.
What to watch for
Arizona State (4-4, 2-3 Pac-12) lost in triple overtime at home to Oregon last week, despite scoring 55 points with 742 yards. The Sun Devils allowed 7.26 yards per play and six TDs of 20 or more yards, and for the year, they've given up 10 plays of 50 or more yards.
The Devils have lost two straight despite being openly accused by league foes of stealing signs, something head coach Todd Graham freely admits, per Doug Haller of the Arizona Republic, but claims others do as well. Oregon went so far as to use large sheets to block their signal-callers from the opposing sideline.
Washington State (5-3, 2-3) isn't the kind of team you need to worry much about the signals with, since it's likely going to throw most downs. Its third-ranked pass offense throws 57.1 times per game, including 63 times in last week's 30-28 home loss to Stanford.
The Cougars might have upset the Cardinal had they not had to settle for five field goals on their first eight drives, one of the few games they haven't been able to come through in the red zone.
WSU has thrown for at least 303 yards in every game, and ASU is tied for 101st in pass defense.
Prediction: Washington State 38, Arizona State 33
FINAL: Washington State 38, Arizona State 24
No. 9 Iowa at Indiana
24 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jake Rudock threw two touchdown passes, and Mark Weisman ran for two scores in Iowa's 45-29 home win over Indiana in October 2014.
What to watch for
Iowa (8-0, 4-0 Big Ten) doesn't face a team that's currently better than .500 for the remainder of this season, which makes winning the West Division and going unbeaten seem doable. All that stands in the Hawkeyes' way might be complacency and taking opponents lightly, something it did a bit last week in a 31-15 win over Maryland.
The offense was sluggish coming out of a bye, but Iowa didn't allow any points until the fourth quarter, and it's currently ranked seventh in FBS in total defense.
Indiana (4-4, 0-4) has been a completely different team since Big Ten action began, and not in a good way. After a perfect preseason that included a solid win over Western Kentucky, the Hoosiers' shoddy defense has become a major liability in allowing 42.5 points per game during the four-game losing streak.
At 508.6 yards allowed per game, Indiana is ranked 120th nationally in total defense. It's better against the run, though, which is Iowa's strength, so this isn't as lopsided a matchup as it might seem.
Prediction: Iowa 34, Indiana 23
FINAL: Iowa 35, Indiana 27
Wisconsin at Maryland
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Melvin Gordon ran for 122 yards and three touchdowns in Wisconsin's 52-7 home win over Maryland in October 2014.
What to watch for
Wisconsin (7-2, 4-1 Big Ten) got back star rusher Corey Clement last week, which should mean a shift back to a more ground-oriented attack. The Badgers averaged better than 320 rushing yards last season but have topped 200 only twice this year, the second coming last week in a blowout of Rutgers.
A home loss to Iowa has the Badgers needing to win out and get help to win the West Division, but finishing the regular season 10-2 is doable if Clement is able to return to form and the defense keeps popping. Wisconsin ranks third nationally in total defense, with six opponents held to 10 or fewer points.
Maryland (2-6, 0-4) has lost five in a row, and this will be its fifth straight game in Big Ten play against a team with at least six victories. The Terrapins offense hasn't been able to produce to any level that would make them able to hang in most of those games, with their best weapon coming on special teams in the form of return man William Likely.
Likely has 1,024 return yards with three TDs, while quarterback Perry Hills has 1,255 yards of total offense.
Prediction: Wisconsin 30, Maryland 14
FINAL: Wisconsin 31, Maryland 24
Rutgers at No. 17 Michigan
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Gary Nova threw for 404 yards and three touchdowns in Rutgers' 26-24 home win over Michigan in October 2014.
What to watch for
Rutgers (3-5, 1-4 Big Ten) has been outscored 97-17 the past two weeks in losses to Ohio State and Wisconsin, and it's allowing 41.6 points per game in conference play. Leonte Carroo, a receiver who has three three-TD games as the Scarlet Knights' best weapon, missed two games because of suspension and the last one because of injury.
"It's not quite the senior year as far as playing-wise that I thought was going to be the case," Carroo told Ryan Dunleavy of the Asbury Park Press.
Michigan (6-2, 3-1) has had two straight games come down to the wire after breezing to three consecutive shutout victories, but this last one at least went the Wolverines' way. A goal-line stand provided a 29-26 win at Minnesota and kept them alive in the East Division race with upcoming games against Penn State and Ohio State.
Quarterback Jake Rudock suffered a rib injury in that game, and Michigan had to turn to redshirt freshman Wilton Speight, who threw the game-winning TD pass with 4:57 left. Rudock should be able to return, but he probably won't need to.
Prediction: Michigan 37, Rutgers 13
FINAL: Michigan 49, Rutgers 16
No. 8 TCU at No. 14 Oklahoma State
27 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Trevone Boykin threw for 410 yards with three touchdowns in TCU's 42-9 home win over Oklahoma State in October 2014.
What to watch for
TCU (8-0, 5-0 Big 12) begins its make-or-break November with some extra motivation after finding itself behind two one-loss teams (as well as Baylor) in the initial playoff standings. The presence of only one team with a winning record (5-4 Texas Tech) on the schedule so far is part of the reason the Horned Frogs are so low, but facing three teams with seven or more wins this month will allow for a rise.
Or it could keep the Frogs out again if they can't make it through the gauntlet that starts in Stillwater without a loss.
"The way I look at it right now is I watch and I think this year we're going to come down wishing that we had an eight-team playoff, not a four," TCU coach Gary Patterson said earlier this week, per Fox Sports.
Oklahoma State (8-0, 5-0) was even further discounted by the playoff committee in the first rankings, sitting behind mid-major Memphis and five teams that have already lost. That's not just because the Cowboys haven't faced the Big 12's other big boys, but also because they've had to edge past teams from the bottom half.
Of OSU's five league wins, three were by seven or fewer points, including one in overtime. And last week, it needed to score 70 points to get past Texas Tech.
Thanks to 30 sacks and 72 tackles for loss, OSU has managed to survive these close games with some big defensive plays down the stretch. Being able to contain TCU's Boykin is a completely different situation, and the same players who are doing it this year up front couldn't contain Boykin a year ago on the road.
Prediction: TCU 45, Oklahoma State 29
FINAL: Oklahoma State 49, TCU 29
North Texas at Louisiana Tech
28 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Cody Sokol threw five touchdown passes in Louisiana Tech's 42-21 win at North Texas in September 2014.
What to watch for
North Texas (1-7, 1-4 Conference USA) ended an eight-game losing streak by knocking off UTSA, 30-23, at home last week. It was the first win for the Mean Green since Dan McCarney was fired midseason and the first time they've hit the 30-point mark in 2015.
Louisiana Tech (6-3, 4-1) won 42-17 at Rice last time out to stay tied atop the West Division standings with Southern Mississippi, whom it will host to end the season in three weeks. Between now and then are two manageable games against C-USA teams who are a combined 4-12 and have two of the poorest defenses in the country.
That should be music to the Bulldogs' ears, particularly for quarterback Jeff Driskel (304 passing yards per game, 19 TDs) and running back Kenneth Dixon. Dixon, who has 14 total TDs this season and 75 for his career, is fourth all-time and eight behind Montee Ball's FBS record of 83.
Prediction: Louisiana Tech 59, North Texas 19
FINAL: Louisiana Tech 56, North Texas 13
Marshall at Middle Tennessee
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Rakeem Cato threw for 337 yards and accounted for four touchdowns in Marshall's 49-24 home win over Middle Tennessee in October 2014.
What to watch for
Marshall (8-1, 5-0 Conference USA) has won seven in a row and is allowing 11.4 points per game in league play. The Thundering Herd have only played two teams with winning records this season, losing at Ohio and beating Southern Mississippi, which has enabled them to get off to such a great start despite averaging fewer than 400 yards per game compared to 559.2 last season.
Middle Tennessee (3-5, 2-2) has played one of the toughest schedules of any mid-major team, particularly on the road. Its four away games have resulted in losses at Alabama, Illinois and C-USA division leaders Western Kentucky and Louisiana Tech, and it's also fallen at home to Vanderbilt.
The Blue Raiders have the most productive freshman quarterback in the country in Brent Stockstill, son of coach Rick Stockstill, who throws for 305.6 yards per game and completes 66.6 percent of his passes. He's already a grizzled vet based on the opponents he's faced, and he'll have his best game yet in a result that shakes up the C-USA East standings.
Prediction: Middle Tennessee 26, Marshall 21
FINAL: Middle Tennessee 27, Marshall 24 (3 OT)
Cincinnati at No. 25 Houston
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Mike Boone had three rushing touchdowns in Cincinnati's 38-31 home win over Houston last December.
What to watch for
Cincinnati (5-3, 2-2 American) has won two in a row by a combined 69 points, the latest a 52-7 victory against winless UCF. Gunner Kiel was perfect in that game, completing all 15 of his passes for 319 yards and five TDs. And in two games since returning from a neck injury, he's thrown for 646 yards with seven TDs.
The Bearcats have already played four teams with at least five wins, losing to Temple and Memphis by single digits.
Houston (8-0, 4-0) found itself at the bottom of the first playoff rankings despite a perfect record, the result of a weak schedule to this point where no opponent currently has better than a .500 record. That will change in November, as Cincinnati is the first of three foes with winning marks including upcoming games against Navy and Memphis.
Quarterback Greg Ward Jr. leads FBS with 16 rushing TDs, and his 710 yards on the ground are second among quarterbacks. He's averaging 333.1 yards per game of total offense, pacing the nation's No. 5 scoring offense at 45.9 points per game.
There's also an underrated defense at Houston's disposal, one that shut out Vanderbilt at home last week. The Cougars allow 17 points per game and have yielded 17 total over the last three games, holding opponents to 54.4 percent passing overall with 12 interceptions.
Prediction: Houston 34, Cincinnati 21
FINAL: Houston 33, Cincinnati 30
Louisiana-Monroe at Troy
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Justin Manton kicked a 29-yard field goal with 2:08 left to give Louisiana-Monroe a 22-20 home win over Troy in September 2014.
What to watch for
Louisiana-Monroe (1-7, 0-4 Sun Belt) is the only winless team in the conference after dropping its sixth straight at Louisiana-Lafayette last week. The Warhawks' only victory this season came against FCS Nicholls State, a 47-0 victory in Week 2, and they've dropped 12 of their last 14 after starting last year at 3-1.
Troy (2-6, 1-3) has had its offense come alive the past two games, scoring 52 in a win at New Mexico State and then 41 last week in an overtime loss to Sun Belt co-leader Appalachian State. The Trojans had managed only 119 points in their first six games, but quarterback Brandon Silvers' 553 passing yards and six TDs the past two games have provided a major spark.
That rise continues for Troy, while Louisiana-Monroe plummets further. Todd Berry could be the next FBS coach to get fired this season with another loss.
Prediction: Troy 34, Louisiana-Monroe 21
FINAL: Troy 51, Louisiana-Monroe 14
Utah State at New Mexico
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 3:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Utah State rushed for 272 yards and three touchdowns in a 28-21 home win over New Mexico last November.
What to watch for
Utah State (5-3, 4-1 Mountain West) scored a season-high 58 points to beat Wyoming last week, bouncing back from a turnover-filled loss at San Diego State. The Aggies are in a three-way tie for the Mountain Division lead with Boise State and Air Force, whom it visits next week.
New Mexico (4-4, 2-2) hasn't played since losing at San Jose State on Oct. 24. The Lobos are 12th in FBS in rushing offense at 248.38 yards per game. But in their past three games, they've averaged 179 yards per game on the ground and 4.4 yards per carry compared to their season rate of 5.28 yards.
The Lobos have been competitive this year and will give Utah State a significant test, but Utah State is too tough when it doesn't give the ball away.
Prediction: Utah State 30, New Mexico 20
FINAL: New Mexico 14, Utah State 13
New Mexico State at Texas State
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 4 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Terrence Franks scored a rushing touchdown and returned a blocked punt for another score in Texas State's 37-29 win at New Mexico State last November.
What to watch for
New Mexico State (1-7, 1-3 Sun Belt) ended the nation's longest losing streak at 17 games with a 55-48 overtime victory against Idaho last Saturday. The Aggies scored 34 points in the fourth quarter and OT, more than they'd managed in six other full games this season.
Texas State (2-5, 1-2) has lost four of five but starts a three-game homestand against teams with losing records, so bowl eligibility is still in the cards. The Bobcats give up 7.23 yards per play and are second-worst in the country in rushing defense, allowing 293.43 per game.
NMSU's Larry Rose had 212 rushing yards and four TDs last week and has piled up at least 180 yards four times this year. He'll get a lot of yards in a high-scoring game, but Texas State is the better overall team.
Prediction: Texas State 44, New Mexico State 34
FINAL: New Mexico State 31, Texas State 21
Connecticut at Tulane
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 4 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Nick Montana's seven-yard touchdown pass to Charles Jones in the first quarter was all Tulane needed in a 12-3 home win over Connecticut in October 2014.
What to watch for
Connecticut (4-5, 2-3 American) must win two of three to lock up its first bowl bid since 2010, when it won the Big East and reached the Fiesta Bowl. However, the Huskies finish with Houston and Temple after a bye, so losing this one would essentially kill those postseason hopes in Bob Diaco's second season.
Tulane (2-6, 1-4) has scored 44 points during a four-game losing streak. And last week, it led 13-0 at unbeaten Memphis before getting outscored 41-0 the rest of the way. The Green Wave have gained only 3.16 yards per carry and have managed one TD pass in the last three games.
Connecticut manages to stay alive for a 13th game, but just barely.
Prediction: Connecticut 22, Tulane 17
FINAL: Connecticut 7, Tulane 3
South Carolina at Tennessee
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 4 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Tennessee scored two touchdowns in the final 1:50 to force overtime and then won it on Aaron Medley's 32-yard field goal, beating South Carolina 45-42 on the road last November.
What to watch for
South Carolina (3-5, 1-5 SEC) held its own against Texas A&M on the road last week but fell, 35-28, its first loss under interim coach Shawn Elliott. The Gamecocks will need to go on a major run to make a bowl game since they still have to play two teams (Florida and Clemson) ranked in the Top 10 in the playoff standings, but they're not just going to roll over.
The problem is, they don't have much to work with other than all-purpose star Pharoh Cooper. He's tallied 713 yards from scrimmage and has accounted for five TDs.
Tennessee (4-4, 2-3) blew out Kentucky on the road last week, 52-21, and with no remaining team left on the schedule sporting an above-.500 record, the stage is set for another strong finish to a season. The Volunteers started a 4-1 run with the win at South Carolina last year, and if a similar push happens in 2015, it will be because quarterback Joshua Dobbs isn't having to do it all on offense.
Against Kentucky, Dobbs was strong throwing the ball, and he scored twice on the ground. But the Vols got balanced running from several other players. They also got two return TDs on special teams, giving them five this season.
Prediction: Tennessee 34, South Carolina 21
FINAL: Tennessee 27, South Carolina 24
No. 23 UCLA at Oregon State
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 4:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Sean Mannion threw for 379 yards and two touchdowns in Oregon State's 27-20 win at UCLA in September 2012.
What to watch for
UCLA (6-2, 3-2 Pac-12) escaped with a 35-31 home win over Colorado last week, a game that saw it squander a 21-3 lead and snap the ball half as many times as its opponent. But unlike several other games since the beginning of last year, the Bruins didn't completely blow it and instead came back at the end to remain in the South Division race.
With a game coming up at division leader Utah as well as rival USC, UCLA's season is still hanging in the balance between success and disappointment.
Oregon State (2-6, 0-5) isn't in the same position, as it knows another loss ensures that Gary Andersen's first season will end without a bowl game. This isn't surprising since the Beavers are one of the youngest squads in the country, but the complete lack of offense has been troubling.
The Beavers gain 338.6 yards per game, which ranks 114th.
Prediction: UCLA 31, Oregon State 16
FINAL: UCLA 41, Oregon State 0
Hawaii at UNLV
37 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 6 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Ikaika Woolsey threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Kemp as time expired to give Hawaii a 37-35 home win over UNLV last November.
What to watch for
Hawaii (2-7, 0-5 Mountain West) heads back to the mainland without its head coach, firing Norm Chow on Sunday after the Rainbow Warriors lost 58-7 at home to Air Force. Chris Naeole will serve as interim coach for the final four games, with this being the last one outside of Honolulu.
UNLV (2-6, 1-3) fell by 28 at home to Boise State last week, its third loss in a row but also just the third time it was beaten by double digits. The Runnin' Rebels have averaged only 350.7 yards per game against FBS opponents this season.
Hawaii has shown more life on the road lately than at home, but UNLV is more in need of a win and will do enough to achieve this.
Prediction: UNLV 33, Hawaii 23
FINAL: UNLV 41, Hawaii 21
Navy at No. 13 Memphis
38 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
Navy (6-1, 4-0 American) rallied to beat South Florida at home behind a pair of fourth-quarter rushing touchdowns from Keenan Reynolds. The senior quarterback has scored 77 times on the ground in his career, tying him with former Wisconsin star Montee Ball for the FBS record, and he's 556 yards behind Denard Robinson for the all-time mark of rushing yards by a QB.
He's not the only piece of the Midshipmen's run game, though, as Chris Swain and Quentin Ezell have both scored five times. Navy averages 319.71 rushing yards per game, fourth-best in FBS, but now it faces a run defense that allows only 3.22 yards per carry.
Memphis (8-0, 4-0) is the highest-rated of the non-power teams in the initial playoff rankings; if that holds, it would send the team to a New Year's Six bowl game. The Tigers have won 15 in a row but still have a lot of work left, as they start a three-week run against teams with a combined record of 21-2.
Paxton Lynch is the sixth-best quarterback in the country in passer rating, at 169.56, averaging 338.6 passing yards per game with 18 TDs and just one interception. He's been huge for Memphis all year, but of late, an improved run game has also been important, gaining 480 yards with eight TDs the past two weeks.
Memphis' defense has been poor for much of the season, but it's good against the run. Stopping an option attack will be tough, but the Tigers will be able to score enough to negate its effect.
Prediction: Memphis 34, Navy 23
FINAL: Navy 45, Memphis 20
Old Dominion at UTSA
39 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: None
What to watch for
Old Dominion (3-5, 1-3 Conference USA) lost 55-30 at home to Western Kentucky last week, its second straight defeat and fifth in six games. The Monarchs opened the season with a road win over Eastern Michigan but have been outscored by 49 points in their last two games outside of Norfolk.
UTSA (1-7, 1-3) dropped a third straight game last week, falling to previously winless North Texas. The Roadrunners have allowed 30 or more points in all of their home games and have failed to top 400 yards in five of eight games in 2015.
The progress head coach Larry Coker made in quickly building the UTSA program has completely evaporated, and now it's a team that others end skids against. However, it will manage to pull this one out to salvage a bit of pride.
Prediction: UTSA 31, Old Dominion 24
FINAL: Old Dominion 36, UTSA 31
Iowa State at No. 15 Oklahoma
40 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Trevor Knight had 376 yards of total offense and accounted for six touchdowns in Oklahoma's 59-14 win at Iowa State last November.
What to watch for
Iowa State (3-5, 2-3 Big 12) shut out Texas last week, only the third time giving up fewer than 30 points this season. The Cyclones made changes at quarterback and offensive coordinator before that game, but it was the play of a maligned defense that stood out.
The Cyclones allow 5.97 yards per play, which is 101st in FBS.
Oklahoma (7-1, 4-1) has the No. 6 defense in the country in yards allowed per play, which is going to come in handy during a difficult November that features upcoming games against unbeaten Baylor, TCU and Oklahoma State. It did well two weeks ago against Texas Tech by getting sacks and forcing turnovers, aspects of the Sooners' defensive game plan all season.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield has performed as well as Oklahoma could have asked, sitting at 10th in total offense at 333.5 yards per game. There's also the often-unused weapon of running back Samaje Perine to turn to, though he's only carried it 20-plus times in three games this season.
Prediction: Oklahoma 55, Iowa State 20
FINAL: Oklahoma 52, Iowa State 16
No. 7 Michigan State at Nebraska
41 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Michigan State built a 27-3 lead, then had to hold on late for a 27-22 home win over Nebraska in October 2014.
What to watch for
Michigan State (8-0, 4-0 Big Ten) was off last week, which might have been the only way senior quarterback Connor Cook was going to get slowed down. After a slow first month of the season, he was on fire in October, with three consecutive 300-yard passing games. He's thrown 17 touchdowns with just two interceptions on 254 attempts, and he needs 999 yards and three TDs to become the Spartans' career leader in both categories.
He's about to get a lot of that needed yardage against a pass defense that is fourth-worst in the country.
Nebraska (3-6, 1-4) appears headed for its first losing season since 2007 and just the third in 53 years, a disaster of a debut for Mike Riley after he replaced a coach (Bo Pelini) who won at least nine games in all seven of his years running the Cornhuskers.
Horrible defense and the inability to win close games have been their biggest problems, and then injuries to Tommy Armstrong and De'Mornay Pierson-El have made the problems even worse.
Armstrong might be able to return for this one, but Pierson-El is done for the year after he suffered a leg injury while celebrating a touchdown against Purdue.
MSU has had a tendency to take lesser opponents lightly this year, trailing at Rutgers in the first half and leading Indiana by just two in the fourth quarter. Nebraska can only be a spoiler from this point, so expect a relatively close game for most of the evening.
Prediction: Michigan State 38, Nebraska 27
FINAL: Nebraska 39, Michigan State 38
No. 12 Utah at Washington
42 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Bishop Sankey ran for 156 yards and two touchdowns in Washington's 34-15 home win over Utah in November 2012.
What to watch for
Utah (7-1, 4-1 Pac-12) is far down on the list in the first playoff rankings, making it unlikely that it will be able to climb into the top four unless some major chaos ensues. The South Division title remains the Utes' for the taking, but with only a one-game lead on UCLA (whom they play Nov. 21) and USC (whom they've lost to), there's little room for error.
That makes a long road trip to play a team coming off its most impressive win of the season a dangerous scenario. Utah is winless in seven trips to Seattle, most recently in 2011 when it lost, 31-14.
Washington (4-4, 2-3) dominated in a 49-3 home win over Arizona last week, making it 2-0 against the South Division and winless against its North foes. Jake Browning's return from a shoulder injury and Myles Gaskin's running are becoming a strong combo, one that will give Utah fits.
The Huskies only allow 3.2 yards per rush, which will make Utah have to look for more than just Devontae Booker to produce. That hasn't worked in its favor this season, though the Utes will still escape with the victory.
Prediction: Utah 27, Washington 20
FINAL: Utah 34, Washington 23
Auburn at No. 19 Texas A&M
43 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Kyle Allen threw four touchdown passes in Texas A&M's 41-38 win at Auburn last November.
What to watch for
Auburn (4-4, 1-4 SEC) is riding its second two-game losing streak of the season, falling at home to Ole Miss last week after dropping a four-overtime game at Arkansas the week before. The Tigers are a shell of the team they were projected to be, with the promise of a pass-oriented offense replaced by one that's on its second quarterback and riddled by receivers who are better at dropping than catching the ball.
And that doesn't even include what's happened on defense, or rather what has not happened. The hire of Will Muschamp as coordinator was universally praised in the winter and hyped throughout the offseason, but at this point, the Tigers are allowing more yards per play (5.79) than a year ago (5.67).
Texas A&M (6-2, 3-2) also got kudos for stealing defensive coordinator John Chavis away from LSU. While improvement was seen earlier this season, it's become less and less so of late. The Aggies allow 206.75 rushing yards per game, including 247 per game in the last three.
Yet the more troubling issue before last week's win over South Carolina was how the offense has struggled, mostly because Allen was becoming mistake-prone. That led to his benching in place of true freshman Kyler Murray, who had a strong debut throwing and running the ball.
A switch from the mobile Kenny Hill to the pro-style Allen midway through 2014 signaled a turnaround, and Murray's takeover will continue here.
Prediction: Texas A&M 35, Auburn 23
FINAL: Auburn 26, Texas A&M 10
South Florida at East Carolina
44 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Shane Carden threw for 250 yards and a touchdown in East Carolina's 28-17 win at South Florida in October 2014.
What to watch for
South Florida (4-4, 2-2 American Athletic Conference) gave up two fourth-quarter TDs to lose 29-17 at Navy last week, missing out on what would have been a huge win for its bowl hopes. The Bulls' remaining home games are against winning teams, while their two road games are against sub-.500 teams.
East Carolina (4-5, 2-3) has lost three of four including last week's 31-13 defeat at Connecticut, putting the Pirates in jeopardy of missing out on a bowl for the first time since 2011. They have only missed the postseason once since 2006, but a two-quarterback system that has produced mixed results is impacting their progress.
A critical game for both, being able to protect the home field is key. East Carolina fell to then-unbeaten Temple in its last home game, but this time, it's an easier task.
Prediction: East Carolina 28, South Florida 23
FINAL: South Florida 22, East Carolina 17
No. 2 LSU at No. 4 Alabama
45 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Blake Sims threw a six-yard touchdown pass to DeAndrew White in overtime to give Alabama a 20-13 win at LSU last November.
What to watch for
The College Football Playoff won't officially begin until New Year's Eve, but the annual Alabama/LSU game is in effect a playoff quarterfinal based on where the teams sit in the initial rankings. A loss might not eliminate either team from consideration, but a win in this major showdown will go a long way toward claiming one of those four spots.
"Alabama and LSU like to go toe-to-toe and see who blinks first, and the games usually come down to one possession," Bleacher Report's Christopher Walsh wrote.
LSU (7-0, 4-0 SEC) has the nation's best running back in Leonard Fournette, who right now is the heavy favorite for the Heisman, per Odds Shark, and the most unstoppable weapon in the country. His 193.14 rushing yards per game is 45 more than any other player in FBS, and his "worst" game was last time out when he had only 150 yards against Western Kentucky.
However, Alabama (7-1, 4-1) is third nationally against the run, allowing 78.5 yards per game and 2.6 yards per carry. Only two teams have gone for more than 100 yards on the ground against the Crimson Tide, and one of those was Georgia when it still had Nick Chubb.
Neither team has had particularly stellar quarterback play, but LSU's Brandon Harris has been showing improvement as the season went on. He's yet to throw an interception in 2015, serving as an asset rather than a liability.
Alabama's Jake Coker has been mostly good too, though he's being compared to the record-breaking performance that Sims had in 2014, which cuts into his evaluation.
This game will also feature two of the nation's top 20 defenses, with Alabama's unit rising to another level since giving up 43 points in a home loss to Ole Miss. Since then, they've yielded 61 points in five games, and in four SEC contests they've allowed 4.43 yards per play.
Defense is usually how games in the Alabama/LSU series get determined, and that's where Alabama has the clearer advantage that will give it the victory and create a logjam atop the West Division standings.
Prediction: Alabama 23, LSU 21
FINAL: Alabama 30, LSU 16
Kansas at Texas
46 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Tyrone Swoopes threw two touchdown passes and ran for another in Texas' 23-0 win at Kansas in September 2014.
What to watch for
Kansas (0-8, 0-5 Big 12) has lost 11 straight games, and three of the last four haven't been close. The Jayhawks had a 30-20 setback to Texas Tech three weeks ago but otherwise have been obliterated in conference play, most recently in a 62-7 home loss to Oklahoma.
On Homecoming.
Texas (3-5, 2-3) was shut out at Iowa State last week, a result that ISU coach Paul Rhoads said shouldn't have happened. "We shouldn't beat Texas, probably," Rhoads said, per Chris Hummer of 247Sports.
It's hard to imagine a lower point for the Longhorns, especially since they had shown such promise in the previous two games in defense-fueled wins over Oklahoma and Kansas State. Now they must win three of four to get back to a bowl, and they still have to play Texas Tech and Baylor.
At least this one's in the bag, right?
Prediction: Texas 33, Kansas 13
FINAL: Texas 59, Kansas 20
Minnesota at No. 3 Ohio State
47 of 62
When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: J.T. Barrett accounted for 389 yards of total offense and four total touchdowns in Ohio State's 31-24 win at Minnesota last November.
What to watch for
Minnesota (4-4, 1-3 Big Ten) plays its first road game under interim coach Tracy Claeys, tabbed to take over the team a week ago after Jerry Kill was forced into retirement due to his epilepsy. Claeys' first game almost resulted in a big win at home, but poor clock management and play-calling in the final moments resulted in 29-26 loss to Michigan.
Being able to score 26 points on that defense was promising, though, since the Golden Gophers have struggled to move the ball this season. Both of Mitch Leidner's career 300-yard passing games have come the last two weeks.
Ohio State (8-0, 4-0) had a bye week, but it was anything but uneventful, due to Barrett getting cited for operating a vehicle while impaired on campus. He's been suspended for this game, and his status as the Buckeyes' starting quarterback is up in the air, right after he'd taken over the job from Cardale Jones and raised the offense to another level.
Jones was inconsistent in starting the first seven games, and OSU's offense was the same; unlike when he and the Buckeyes dominated in the postseason with him at the helm.
"But with at least one more start ahead, Jones could very well rectify what's otherwise been a forgettable encore to last winter's national championship run," Bleacher Report's Ben Axelrod wrote.
Minnesota is a safe opponent to get to tinker against.
Prediction: Ohio State 40, Minnesota 17
FINAL: Ohio State 28, Minnesota 14
California at Oregon
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Marcus Mariota threw for 326 yards and five touchdowns in Oregon's 59-41 win over California in October 2014 in a game played in Santa Clara, California.
What to watch for
California (5-3, 2-3 Pac-12) has lost three in a row, most recently at home to USC, and the road keeps getting tougher. The Golden Bears still have three more games against teams with .500 or better records, so the prospect of bowl eligibility isn't as much of a certainty as it seemed after a 5-0 start.
The schedule has been only partly to blame, as Cal has lost the last three by only a combined 28 points. Jared Goff hasn't been as efficient throwing the ball while he's getting hit more than normal, and the Bears defense has stopped producing turnovers at the same rate as in the first half of the season.
Oregon (5-3, 3-2) won in triple overtime at Arizona State last Thursday, 61-55, for its second straight one-score victory. And despite a rough first half of the year, it's still alive in the North Division. The Ducks will need some help to catch Stanford, but they still get to play them. And with Vernon Adams back at full strength, the offense has retained its potent balance.
This isn't a great matchup for Oregon's struggling defense, which just gave up 742 yards to ASU and now takes on one of the better quarterbacks in the country. It allows 318 passing yards per game, which is third-worst in FBS.
Oregon has lost twice at home this year, to Utah and Washington State. Don't expect a third setback, at least not here.
Prediction: Oregon 44, California 30
FINAL: Oregon 44, California 28
Arizona at USC
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When: Saturday, Nov. 7; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Javorius Allen ran for 205 yards and three touchdowns in USC's 28-26 win at Arizona in October 2014.
What to watch for
Arizona (5-4, 2-4 Pac-12) has lost two in a row and allowed 94 points in those setbacks, falling 49-3 at Washington last week. The Wildcats won the South Division last season, but their only conference wins so far are against Colorado and Oregon State, and the remaining schedule offers them no gimmes.
Injuries have impacted the performance on both sides, but not enough to be the main culprit. Quarterback Anu Solomon has been tentative since returning from a concussion, and a split of snaps with run-first passer Jerrard Randall hasn't made a difference. The defense has been porous all season, now sitting 111th in FBS.
USC (5-3, 3-2) is playing with great confidence and poise under interim coach Clay Helton, even when it lost at Notre Dame in his debut. Last week's road victory against California was the kind of game the Trojans have lost the last few years, but they were both the better and more careful team.
The Trojans are still alive in the South by virtue of their win over Utah, so dropping a home game to a struggling opponent wouldn't be a good look. That's not likely to happen, not against an Arizona team that hasn't had a bye and has fared poorly in Rich Rodriguez's four seasons when playing on natural grass.
Prediction: USC 45, Arizona 24
FINAL: USC 38, Arizona 30
Kent State at Ohio
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When: Tuesday, Nov. 10; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Josiah Yadzani kicked a 44-yard field goal as time expired to give Ohio a 17-14 win at Kent State in August 2014.
What to watch for
Kent State (3-6, 2-3 MAC) dropped a second straight home game, giving up two fourth-quarter touchdowns to fall 18-17 to Buffalo. The Golden Flashes need to win out to avoid a third straight losing season, but they've managed only 39 points in their last four games.
Ohio (5-4, 2-3) lost for the third game in a row, 62-24 at East Division-leading Bowling Green. It's the Bobcats' longest skid since 2013, but with the next two at home to teams with losing records they are in line to be bowl-eligible for the seventh consecutive year.
Injuries have ravaged Ohio's lineup, but it should have enough to get this win and build some momentum for the end of the season.
Prediction: Ohio 26, Kent State 17
FINAL: Ohio 27, Kent State 0
No. 24 Toledo at Central Michigan
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When: Tuesday, Nov. 10; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Logan Woodside threw for 339 yards and two touchdowns in Toledo's 42-28 home win over Central Michigan in September 2014.
What to watch for
Toledo (7-1, 4-1 MAC) lost for the first time since November, falling at home to nemesis Northern Illinois on Tuesday to fall into a three-way tie for second place in the West Division behind Western Michigan. The Rockets had earned a spot in the initial playoff rankings but now have a fight just to stay in the hunt for their first MAC title game appearance since 2004.
Central Michigan (5-4, 4-1) hasn't played since Halloween, when it won a low-scoring game at Akron for its third straight win. Another victory will make the Chippewas bowl-eligible for the fourth year in a row, while their first West championship since 2009 is also still in the cards.
Toledo led almost throughout against Northern Illinois only to fall in the final minutes, and that loss might have taken the air out of its season. The Chips will capitalize on this vulnerability.
Prediction: Central Michigan 30, Toledo 24
FINAL: Toledo 28, Central Michigan 23
Northern Illinois at Buffalo
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When: Wednesday, Nov. 11; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jordan Lynch had 361 yards of total offense with four total touchdowns in Northern Illinois' 45-3 home win over Buffalo in October 2012.
What to watch for
Northern Illinois (6-3, 4-1 MAC) kept alive its run for a sixth consecutive West Division title by rallying late to win at Toledo on Tuesday. That puts the Huskies in a three-way tie for second place behind Western Michigan.
Quarterback Drew Hare was injured in the win, but freshman backup Ryan Graham led the comeback and showed great poise in his first extended action of the season. The Huskies have won four in a row including their last two on the road.
Buffalo (5-4, 3-2) scored twice in the fourth quarter to win 18-17at Kent State on Thursday, getting an eight-yard touchdown pass from Joe Licata to Matt Weiser with 58 seconds left. The Bulls have won three in a row and are looking in good shape to be bowl-eligible in coach Lance Leipold's first season.
The Bulls only have one win over a team with a winning record, though, and on a short week they'll be unable to keep rolling.
Prediction: Northern Illinois 27, Buffalo 21
FINAL: Northern Illinois 41, Buffalo 30
Bowling Green at Western Michigan
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When: Wednesday, Nov. 11; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Jarvion Franklin ran for 149 yards and a touchdown in Western Michigan's 26-14 win at Bowling Green in October 2014.
What to watch for
Bowling Green (7-2, 5-0 MAC) put up 62 points in a home win over Ohio on Wednesday, its sixth straight win during which it has won by an average of 30.3 points. The Falcons have scored at least 48 points on five occasions thanks to the passing of Matt Johnson, who averages 409.6 yards per game with 33 touchdowns and just three interceptions.
Johnson has 19 TDs and one pick in his last four games and has six 400-yard games, and if Bowling Green were to play 14 games this season he'd be on pace to challenge the FBS single-season passing mark of 5,833.
Western Michigan (6-3, 5-0) has won five in a row, most recently a 54-7 blowout at home against Ball State. The Broncos have a one-game lead over three other teams in the West Division but they have to play at two of those (Northern Illinois and Toledo) after this.
This is a potential preview of the MAC title game, since Bowling Green has all but clinched the East Division. It's a bigger game for Western, though, because of the tight race in the West and the upcoming contests, and it has played very well at home including during a season-opening 37-24 loss to Michigan State.
No one has been able to shut down Bowling Green's offense this year, though Western's attack has averaged 47.4 points per game during its win streak. This will come down to the last of many scores.
Prediction: Western Michigan 43, Bowling Green 42
FINAL: Bowling Green 41, Western Michigan 27
No. 22 Temple at SMU
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When: Friday, Nov. 6; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Garrett Gilbert had 635 yards of total offense and accounted for six touchdowns in SMU's 59-49 home win over Temple in October 2013.
What to watch for
Temple (7-1, 4-0 American) came within a few minutes of a milestone victory against Notre Dame on Saturday before falling by four points at home. That ended the Owls' hopes of an unbeaten season, but a division title is still there for the taking, as they are the only team without a loss in the East.
The Owls have to avoid dealing with a letdown, though, after the emotion of the Notre Dame game and now playing on the road against a struggling opponent but one that has strong scoring potential. It will be a significant test of their defense, which gave up nearly seven yards per play to the Irish.
SMU (1-7, 0-4) is a better team than it was a year ago despite having just as many victories as the 2014 team. The Mustangs have lost six in a row, however, mostly because of their tendency to trail off after a hot start. They have outscored foes, 86-75, in the first quarter but been outscored, 274-144, over the final three periods.
Temple has a two-game lead in the East, but a loss here could lead to a late spiral, thus ruining what's been accomplished to this point.
Prediction: Temple 41, SMU 20
FINAL: Temple 60, SMU 40
Rice at UTEP
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When: Friday, Nov. 6; 8 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Driphus Jackson threw for 227 yards and two touchdowns in Rice's 31-13 home win over UTEP last November.
What to watch for
Rice (4-4, 2-2 Conference USA) got crushed at home by Louisiana Tech last Thursday, effectively knocking it out of the West Division race. The Owls are 2-2 on the road this season, with both wins coming against C-USA opponents.
UTEP (3-5, 1-3) has lost three of four, including Saturday's game at Southern Mississippi, when it allowed more than 500 yards for the fourth time this season. The Miners give up 7.55 yards per play, which is last in FBS.
The Miners made a bowl game last year, but their offense has been unable to account for the woeful defense. That will prevent them from pulling off the upset at home.
Prediction: Rice 34, UTEP 24
FINAL: UTEP 24, Rice 21
BYU at San Jose State
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When: Friday, Nov. 6; 11:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: David Fales had 305 passing yards and three touchdowns in San Jose State's 20-14 home win over BYU in November 2012.
What to watch for
BYU (6-2) has locked up a bowl bid for the 11th straight year, and it will either be for the Hawaii or Las Vegas Bowl, per an arrangement set up in the offseason. The Cougars have won four straight, but those were all at home. The last time they played outside of Provo, they were shut out by Michigan.
Improvement in BYU's run game has led to a more balanced offense, taking pressure off freshman quarterback Tanner Mangum and thus making for more efficient play. This is most evident in the red zone, where the Cougars have scored on 30 of 31 possessions (which is second-best in FBS) with 22 TDs.
San Jose State (4-4) has 23 scores on 26 red-zone trips with 20 TDs, mostly because of the running of senior Tyler Ervin. He's third in the nation at 144.9 rushing yards per game, including 263 in the Spartans' last game Oct. 24 against New Mexico.
The Spartans are 116th nationally against the run but tops against the pass, allowing only 122.1 yards per game through the air with six TDs. Much of that is because teams don't throw much against them knowing the run option is there.
With the bowl bid already ensured, BYU doesn't have much left to play for. San Jose State does, needing to get at least two more wins to be in line for its first bowl appearance since 2012.
Prediction: San Jose State 28, BYU 24
FINAL: BYU 17, San Jose State 16
Buffalo at Kent State
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 7 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Branden Oliver ran for 185 yards and four touchdowns in Buffalo's 41-21 win at Kent State in October 2013.
What to watch for
Buffalo (4-4, 2-2 Mid-American) has won two in a row, most recently at Miami (Ohio) last Thursday, when Joe Licata threw for 289 yards and two TDs. A senior, Licata is the school's career leader in TDs with 70 and needs 357 yards to pass Drew Willy for the Bulls' all-time yardage mark.
Kent State (3-5, 2-2) was blanked, 48-0, at home by Bowling Green on Saturday, gaining just 166 yards in the process. The Golden Flashes have managed 22 points in their last three games and at 298.1 yards per game, rank 123rd in the country in total offense.
Last year's game was wiped out by snow in Buffalo, which kept the Bulls from being able to get to six wins. Their veteran offense will pace this victory.
Prediction: Buffalo 27, Kent State 16
FINAL: Buffalo 18, Kent State 17
Ball State at Western Michigan
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Zach Terrell's 12-yard touchdown pass to Daniel Braverman with one minute, 25 seconds left gave Western Michigan a 42-38 win at Ball State in October 2014.
What to watch for
Ball State (3-6, 2-3 Mid-American) ended a five-game losing streak by knocking off Massachusetts, 20-10, at home Saturday, but now its next two are on the road and the final three are against teams with winning records. The Cardinals are in jeopardy of missing out on a bowl for the second year in a row after winning 19 games between 2012 and 2013.
Western Michigan (5-3, 4-0) has won four straight since finishing a nonconference slate that featured losses to Michigan State, Ohio State and Sun Belt power Georgia Southern. In MAC play, the Broncos have scored 45.8 points per game, including 58 last Thursday at Eastern Michigan for their most points since November 2011.
The Broncos need to win to take a one-game lead in the West Division. This is their last game of 2015 that's not against a team currently holding a winning record.
Prediction: Western Michigan 41, Ball State 20
FINAL: Western Michigan 54, Ball State 7
Arkansas State at Appalachian State
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Marcus Cox ran for 229 yards and two touchdowns in Appalachian State's 37-32 win at Arkansas State last November.
What to watch for
The Sun Belt Conference title will likely be decided here, as the only remaining unbeaten teams in the league tangle for the right to get first dibs on bowl bids in Orlando, New Orleans and Alabama.
Arkansas State (5-3, 4-0 Sun Belt) has won four in a row since navigating a nonconference slate that included losses to USC, Missouri and Toledo. The Red Wolves have scored 45.8 points per game in Sun Belt play, and in their only road game during that stretch, they put up 29 fourth-quarter points at South Alabama to turn an 11-point deficit into an 18-point victory.
Appalachian State (7-1, 4-0) has won six in a row, its lone defeat coming in Week 2 at unbeaten Clemson. The Mountaineers are bowl-eligible for the first time and have won 10 consecutive league games as well as seven in a row at home. That includes an impressive 31-13 win against Georgia Southern two weeks ago when they shut down the nation's top rushing offense.
Running back Cox and quarterback Taylor Lamb are a potent duo that has gotten the job done all season. That will continue as Appalachian moves closer to the Sun Belt crown in its second year of FBS play.
Prediction: Appalachian State 33, Arkansas State 21
FINAL: Arkansas State 40, Appalachian State 21
No. 6 Baylor at Kansas State
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 7:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Bryce Petty threw for 277 yards and three touchdowns in Baylor's 60-14 home win over Kansas State last November.
What to watch for
Baylor (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) heads into a back-loaded final month of its schedule with a major change on offense, as true freshman Jarrett Stidham is now at quarterback following junior Seth Russell's season-ending neck surgery. Stidham, a highly regarded recruit who has dazzled (24-of-28 passing, 331 yards, six TDs) in limited action, now must make sure the Bears' top-ranked offense can continue to move at their explosive pace.
"Anyone who is 24-of-28 has got to be pretty decent at what he does regardless of when that time is on the field," Kansas State coach Bill Snyder said, per Kellis Robinett of the Wichita Eagle. "Anything that you hear about him is very, very positive. Watching him on tape, he doesn't seem to have any of those freshman miscues that you might anticipate a freshman would."
Baylor scores 61.1 points per game and gains more than 686 yards thanks to a diverse attack that's just as potent on the ground as through the air. Stidham won't lack for weapons to work with, most notably receiver Corey Coleman, whose 18 TD receptions are four more than anyone else in the country.
Kansas State (3-4, 0-4) is off to its worst start in conference play since 2001, and the results have become more pronounced as the year has gone along. After falling by a combined nine points to Oklahoma State and TCU, the Wildcats have been outscored 78-9 in their past two games including a 55-0 home shutout against Oklahoma.
There's been little offense to speak of at K-State. Injuries have led to constant shuffling at quarterback, and the unit overall has produced 314.6 yards per game, which is 121st in FBS.
Bill Snyder is a Hall of Fame coach who has worked wonders in Manhattan, but this has been one of his most frustrating seasons. That will continue Thursday.
Prediction: Baylor 41, Kansas State 20
FINAL: Baylor 31, Kansas State 24
No. 20 Mississippi State at Missouri
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 9 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Missouri posted a 47-30 win over Mississippi State in September 1984.
What to watch for
Mississippi State (6-2, 2-2 SEC) brings a three-game winning streak into its first road game since early October, when it matched a season-low with 17 points against Texas A&M. Since then, the Bulldogs have averaged 44 points per game with quarterback Dak Prescott doing the vast majority of the damage.
Prescott averages 302.4 yards of total offense, which accounts for 67.9 percent of the Bulldogs' production. Last time out, he had 465 yards and was responsible for all six touchdowns in a 42-16 win against Kentucky.
Missouri (4-4, 1-4) has been abysmal on offense this season, managing just 14.9 points per game and only 12 total during a three-game losing streak, its worst since joining the SEC in 2012. Horrible play at quarterback has been the main culprit, first by Maty Mauk and most recently by Drew Lock, who figures to have the job indefinitely after Mauk was suspended for the remainder of the year on Sunday.
Combined with a run game that averages 100.5 yards per game, Mizzou ranks 126th nationally in total offense. The Tigers defense has kept things from getting worse, but a mobile quarterback like Prescott is apt to do them in.
Prediction: Mississippi State 24, Missouri 14
FINAL: Mississippi 31, Missouri 13
Nevada at Fresno State
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When: Thursday, Nov. 5; 10:30 p.m. ET
Last meeting: Brian Burrell had 369 yards of total offense and accounted for five touchdowns in Fresno State's 40-20 win at Nevada last November.
What to watch for
Nevada (4-4, 2-2 Mountain West) begins a final stretch in which it plays on the road three times in four weeks, including at current conference division leaders San Diego State and Utah State. The Wolf Pack are still alive in the West despite trailing SDSU by two games, though they'll have to avoid playing down to the level of their opponent, as has recently been the case.
Their last two games resulted in a loss at previously winless Wyoming and a 10-point home win over Hawaii.
James Butler and Don Jackson have combined for 1,430 yards and 11 TDs, and they could feast against a Fresno run defense that is 118th in the country.
Fresno State (2-6, 1-4) has lost 16 of 25 games since starting the 2013 season at 10-0, when Derek Carr was piloting the offense. This year, the Bulldogs have shuffled through four quarterbacks who have produced only 166.1 passing yards per game.
It's been a turmoil-filled season for Fresno with several off-field incidents, most recently the arrest of freshman receiver Christian Malik Pryor for allegedly making a criminal threat involving gunfire, per Jim Guy of the Fresno Bee. But this is a winnable game and will keep the Bulldogs' faint bowl hopes alive.
Prediction: Fresno State 27, Nevada 21
FINAL: Nevada 30, Fresno State 16
All statistics from CFBStats.com unless otherwise noted.
Follow Brian J. Pedersen on Twitter at @realBJP.
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