The college football season rolls on in Week 3 with some high-level matchups and some intriguing upset possibilities. Last week, ranked teams Kansas, Notre Dame, NC State, Iowa, and Michigan all fell. Top-ten ranked Oregon nearly lost to Group of 5 opponent Boise State. This week is sure to provide captivating action once again. From ranked battles to century-old rivalries, Week 3 has plenty for fans to enjoy. I’ve listed my top five matchups going into the weekend.
5. Washington State @ Washington
Sure, these teams are no longer in the same conference. But don’t think for a second that the Apple Cup will lack the fire it’s held for over a century. Last season, the Cougars came within three points of ending the Huskies’ run to the College Football Playoff. The odds are much more even this time around, as Washington is just a five-point favorite. On a neutral field, I’d take the Cougars here. The Huskies’ home-field advantage leads me to lean their way.
WASH 27-24 WSU
4. UCF @ TCU
An underrated matchup sees Big 12 opponents UCF and TCU face off in Fort Worth on Saturday Night. Both teams are 2-0, and both teams will hope to push themselves into the top tier of the conference with a win this weekend. The Horned Frogs are currently favored by a single point. If Gus Malzahn can keep the Knights’ running game rolling, they’ll walk out with a minor upset victory.
UCF 35-32 TCU
3. LSU @ South Carolina
After losing a close one in their opener against USC, LSU bounced back in a convincing win over FCS opponent Nicholls State. The Tigers will look to gain momentum against SEC foe South Carolina in Columbia on Saturday. LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier should be able to dice up a relatively weak Gamecocks secondary. Although South Carolina will have the opportunity to take advantage of LSU’s subpar defense, I’ll take the Tigers by a touchdown.
LSU 31-24 SCAR
2. Boston College @ Missouri
Boston College is the newest benefactor of Florida State’s apparent collapse. After beating the Seminoles a week ago, the Eagles find themselves ranked in the nation’s top 25 for the first time since 2018. Missouri is ready to put an end to BC’s joy at home this weekend. Led by star receiver Luther Burden, the Tigers have looked like one of the best teams in the country so far this season. I’ve got Missouri in a blowout in this one.
MIZZ 34-17 BC
1. Arizona @ Kansas State
Week three’s biggest matchup comes a day early as Arizona and Kansas State face off on Friday night. The battle of the Wildcats will feature two top-20 teams, both firing on all cylinders early in the season. This game will have a major impact on the Big 12 title race and could push the winner into a playoff spot. I expect the running game of Kansas State to earn them the victory.
KSU 28-25 ARIZ
