AP Poll College Football 2011: The Make Or Break Game On Every Team's Schedule

Folks, we are inching closer and closer to kickoff 2011!

That being said, the AP released their preseason Top 25 poll on Saturday.

Needless to say, there weren't very many surprises, but maybe a few tweaks in comparison to the Coaches' poll.

Well when you look at the Top 25, you may begin to wonder which school's have legit title (national or conference) shot, as well as deciphering which ones that don't.

Therefore, to give a "snap-shot" perspective, you can bet on each ranked school on having that one game that could potentially define their season.

That game is, the "make-or-break" game.

And, here it is for each AP Top 25 school.

25. USC (at California)

When the Trojans travel to Berkeley, CA. in mid October, there's a good chance they could be 5-0.

And the week prior to the Golden Bears, USC has a bye-week.

So with two weeks to prepare for their up-state rival, it should be a easy win, no?

Not so fast (in my Lee Corso voice), because the Bears have proven they can play with the best, as they only lost 15-13 to Oregon last season.

In addition, the schedule doesn't get any easier with Notre Dame, Stanford, Washington, and Oregon all down the stretch.

If Lane Kiffin wants to get USC back to national respect, this game is a must win.

24. West Virginia (vs LSU)

This is a game that could get the respect back for the Big East in the college football world.

As we know, the SEC is the premiere conference, whereas the Big East gets slighted based on recent BCS performances.

Well, last season the Mountaineers took the trip down the Baton Rouge, but came up short in a 20-14 loss.

A win here will vehemently boost their confidence, while at the same time, really add some chaos and drama to the college football polls.

A loss, and it's back to the drawing board despite having the Big East title still alive.

23. Auburn (at Arkansas)

Heading into this game, don't be surprised if Auburn is 4-1 or 5-0.

However, with all the talent they've lost, 3-2 may be what actually happens.

Which is why this game is so important.

At this point the Tigers could very well be 0-2 in the SEC, as South Carolina and Mississippi State have both significantly improved.

Then with Florida, LSU, Georgia, and Alabama still remaining on the schedule, you don't want to head into that sequence with one more loss added on to your record.

22. Florida (at Kentucky)

It's the Gators' first road game of the season, but a very important one.

For one, the beasts of the SEC West follow directly after in three consecutive weeks ('Bama, LSU, Auburn).

Also, Georgia and South Carolina follow to close out conference play.

And you can't discount the Seminoles in the regular season finale.

As for Kentucky, they play much, much better at home, and will be looking to establish a season of their own.

If Florida falls in this one, it could be a very long season.

21. Missouri (at Kansas State)

When Missouri make the trip to play Kansas State, they'll most likely be 3-1.

Because let's be real, the Sooners aren't losing to them two seasons in a row.

So after Oklahoma there's a bye week, which gives them an extra week to prepare for the Wildcats.

And in having that additional week, there's really no legitimate excuse for losing.

However, if they do, that will put them at 0-2 in the conference with Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, and Texas still remaining.

But if they can get the W, it keeps them alive in the hopes that the Sooners get upset.

In addition, it gets their confidence back.

Which is a lot more important that the critics may think.

20. Mississippi State (vs LSU)

The week before LSU, Mississippi State plays the Auburn Tigers.

It's a game that's very winnable, but won't completely wipe-out all hope if they lose.

The game at home against the Bayou Bengals however, is arguably the biggest of the season.

The reason is because of the Bulldogs current situation.

They're an on-the-rise SEC West school looking to make a name for themselves, with an opportunity to defeat the No. 4 ranked team in nation.

Not to mention, it's a conference rival who's a national title contending team virtually every year.

Now if Mississippi State loses, not all is lost as they'll still finish around 7-5 or 8-4.

But if they win?

We're putting them in the SEC title contender discussion.

19. Georgia (at Ole Miss)

Chances are when Georgia travels to Ole Miss in Week 4, they'll have a 1-2 record.

With Boise State and South Carolina in games one and two, a loss to the Rebels would just demolish their confidence.

And that confidence will be needed, because they play Mississippi State and Tennessee in consecutive weeks, with Florida and Auburn later on.

Avoiding an all out catastrophic breakdown will be crucial, otherwise it will be a very disappointing year in Athens.

18. Ohio State (at Illinois)

Even though Ohio State still reels in a solid recruiting class in addition to the talent that remains, high expectations are unrealistic.

Now the non-conference schedule is easy, so before Big Ten play begins, they should be 4-0.

But then the Big Ten takes over, and it's not very nice.

The first four games consist of Michigan State, Nebraska (away), Illinois (away), and then Wisconsin.

Well, both Sparty and the 'Huskers have a lot returning, and will have played together since the beginning of the season.

Because, despite all the talent on the Buckeyes, building that chemistry is crucial, and you can't just expect to flip a switch.

So chances are they lose those two games, but can save the season with a win over Illinois.

Not to mention it would be a road win.

And if they do, they'll most likely finish 7-5, which will be huge after all the offseason ineptitude.

17. Michigan State (vs Michigan)

With games at Notre Dame and Ohio State beforehand, Sparty's worst-case scenario prior to Michigan will be a record of 3-2.

They will get the bye week to plan for the Wolverines, so the odds are even more in Michigan State's favor.

Now, it's an extremely important game, not only because it's their in-state rival, but because Wisconsin and Nebraska await thereafter.

And you don't want to be 3-3 (0-2 in conference) when having to play two consecutive conference title contenders in mid-season.

16. Notre Dame (at Pittsburgh)

When the Irish travel to Pittsburgh in Week 4, it's nowhere near their most difficult game on the schedule, or even within the first month of the season.

However, they play both Michigan and Michigan State prior, and those games aren't gimmes.

That said, if Notre Dame is 1-2 or 2-1 when playing Pittsburgh, getting out of there 2-2 (worst-case scenario) will be big.

The schedule doesn't get easier with Air Force, USC, Navy, and Stanford all mid or late in the year.

Losing this one would remove all hope for a solid season and bowl game.  All the while putting more pressure on head coach Brian Kelly.

15. Arkansas (vs Auburn)

Yes, much like Arkansas for Auburn, the Tigers are the make-or-break game for the Razorbacks.

Before this game, it'll be surprising if Arkansas is better than 3-2.

Why?

Because after three easy opening games, they play at No. 2 Alabama and No. 8 Texas A&M.

However, this is a very crucial game as much like Auburn, Arkansas has a new man under center.

Tyler Wilson played very well against the Tigers last season, so his confidence will be riding high.

If he dominates like he did in 2010, it'll be a giant boost to the team with South Carolina, Mississippi State, and LSU late in the season.

14. TCU (at San Diego State)

Prior to Boise State, only Air Force and San Diego State provide a legit challenge for the TCU Horned Frogs.

The Aztecs however, have dark-horse Heisman hopeful in RB Ronnie Hillman, who is a big game changer.

And by the time this game rolls around, coach Gary Patterson should be unbeaten.

However, if they fall to San Diego State, it could transfer them from conference title contenders, to Boise State spoilers.

In addition, it won't help as they move to the Big East in 2012.

13. Virginia Tech (vs Miami, FL.)

When you look at Virginia Tech's schedule, you don't see one team ranked in either poll.

So, it's basically a forgone conclusion that the Hokies will run the table.

Well, basically by process of elimination and default, the Hurricanes are the most worthy opponent (until Florida State in the ACC title game of course).

Some would say North Carolina, but the Tar Heels have done away with Butch Davis, and are in Ohio State-esque waters.

If coach Frank Beamer's team goes down in this one, there's a good chance they get upset thereafter.

Much like what happened in the beginning of 2010.

12. South Carolina (vs Auburn)

In 2010 the Auburn Tigers bested the South Carolina Gamecocks twice.

The first was close, the second was embarrassing.

Well, in addition to this being a "get over the hump" type game, a loss could signal a vulnerable/overrated scent throughout the SEC, and there will be blood.

Because Mississippi State, Tennessee (away), Arkansas (away), and Florida will be foaming at the mouth.

Now, you may be wondering why it's not Georgia in Week 2.

Well, losing one conference game won't completely kill the season, but falling a second time (in conference) makes it's so much more difficult on a completely different level.

11. Wisconsin (at Michigan State)

Last season the Big Ten finished with three schools (Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Michigan State) at 11-1.

Wisconsin beat Ohio State, Ohio State didn't play Michigan State, and Michigan State beat Wisconsin.

That was the game that ultimately put a damper on the Badgers' year.

Although they represented the Big Ten in the Rose Bowl, they couldn't win the conference outright thanks to Sparty.

Make no mistake about it, Wisky is very capable of running the table.

However, winning in East Lansing, MI. against one of 2010's co-Big Ten champion is the first step to taking sole possession of the conference.

10. Nebraska (at Wisconsin)

When the Cornhuskers make the trip to Madison, WI. for their Week 5 matchup against the Badgers, it will be shocking if they aren't 4-0.

Thus, welcome to the Mid West Nebraska, as you get your inaugural Big Ten game against the conference's Rose Bowl representative from 2010.

Not to mention it's on the road, and they must also play Ohio State and Michigan State, both of which we know shared the conference with Wisky.

This game will set the tone for both schools, but more importantly for the 'Huskers, as their schedule is arguably the most difficult in the Big Ten.

9. Oklahoma State (at Texas A&M)

Other than those evil Oklahoma Sooners (pretending to root for the Cowboys), who seem to ruin every party for the football folks in Stillwater. OK., the Texas A&M Aggies are the next toughest game.

Coincidentally, it's the game that can keep their hopes of battling the Sooners alive for the conference title as well.

Texas may give the Cowboys a challenge and winning against the Aggies is the first step to the Big 12 title.

If they lose this one, they won't control their own destiny when it comes to conference record.

8. Texas A&M (vs Oklahoma State)

Oh what a surprise, Oklahoma State is "that" game for Texas A&M as well.

Now yes, the Aggies do have the Arkansas Razorbacks of the SEC the following week.

If they lose this one, then it'll only make bouncing back versus Arkansas that much more difficult, but they're Big 12 title hopes are still alive.

Which is the main reason as to why the Cowboys' game is a bigger one.

They're the Aggies only legitimate threat prior to Oklahoma.  A loss here puts them on the back-burner of the conference, which would then position Oklahoma State very well.

7. Stanford (vs Oregon)

2010 was a year to remember in Stanford football history.

They finished 12-1 and ranked No. 4, including a dominating win in the Orange Bowl over Virginia Tech.

The only negative mark on that glorious year though, was the 52-31 beat-down they received in Eugene, OR. against the Ducks.

So, if Stanford wants to get to the next level, meaning a shot at the national title, they must beat the Oregon Ducks. Period.

Because all other opponents on their schedule are inferior to the Cardinal.

6. Florida State (vs Oklahoma)

This season the Florida State Seminoles shouldn't have too much trouble running the table in the ACC.

However, after winning the conference, the next goal should be to be dubbed the best in the land.

That being said, in 2010 the Oklahoma Sooners blasted the 'Noles 47-17 in Norman.

Coach Jimbo Fisher will definitely have his squad more prepared this time round, and it will be a big factor as to whether FSU jumps into the real national title contender discussion.

5. Boise State (vs Georgia)

For this first time, the Boise State Broncos are playing a team from the nation's best conference.

And although it's a Georgia team that's trying to get back into the SEC title mix, they will be better in 2011.

Thus, a win here for the Broncos and possibly a boost in their strength-of-schedule.

A loss would ruin any shot at a national title, unless something insanely absurd and crazy were to commence.  Like by season's end everyone having at least two losses.

And although a BCS bid would still be in sight, the national title wouldn't.

4. LSU (at Mississippi State)

Just they are for the Mississippi State, the LSU Tiger's make-or-break game are the Bulldogs in maroon.

For one, it's their first SEC game, and it comes sandwiched in between No. 3 Oregon and No. 24 West Virginia (not counting Northwestern State).

It's a game that isn't expected to be a loss, but will turn some heads as Mississippi State is still considered mediocre (at least in comparison to other SEC beasts).

The problem here lies in the fact that they could very well be 1-1 heading in, as the Ducks are very capable of defeating the Tigers.

In addition, West Virginia awaits after, and has the potential to upset the Bayou Bengals.

Even if the Mountaineers pull a fast one, it's better to be 2-2 (1-0 in conference) than beating WVU, and being 2-2 (0-1 in conference).

Because every SEC game is like a prequel to the conference championship.

3. Oregon (vs LSU)

After Oregon plays LSU in Week 1, they're only opponent on their level is the Stanford Cardinal, but that isn't until mid-November.

Other than that, the Ducks schedule is rather weak, thus the LSU Tigers as their biggest game.

And yes, I know I'm high on the SEC, but they've only won the previous five BCS titles, and have eight ranked teams.

If Oregon falls here, it'll be unlikely that they sneak into the BCS title game in being that they're schedule is somewhat weak.

So, if the Ducks want to really send a statement to the rest of the country, a win here wouldn't be a bad idea.

2. Alabama (at Florida)

The Florida Gators are arguably the Tide's roughest road game in 2011.

It's also Alabama's first, and could really send them rolling into the middle of the season.

Before the Gators, 'Bama does face Arkansas, but it's at home and therefore a major advantage.

After their trip to The Swamp, there's no real challenger until November where they see LSU, Mississippi State, and Auburn.

But if Will Muchamps' crew manages to steal one from Nick Saban, those games prior to November (Vandy, Ole Miss, Tennessee) won't seem nearly as easy.  It could ruin what most expect to be a perfect season, before any true momentum gets built.

1. Oklahoma (at Florida State)

Not until the Sooners battle Texas A&M and Oklahoma State late in the year, do they have a great opponent other than Florida State.

Both of those schools although on the rise this year, won't be a test like Florida State.

The Seminoles have a better defense, are sound offensively, and have one of the best return specialists in the country, DB Greg Reid.

Who in this game, may be the difference maker...

Also, until either the Aggies or Cowboys dethrone the Sooners, Oklahoma is the standard in the Big 12.

So, which opens the door for Chief Osceola's Seminoles from Tallahassee, FL.

If the Sooners are beat, college football just got more interesting (if that's possible), but if they win, it's just more evidence as to why Norman, OK. is No. 1.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report.

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