College football fans, Week 7 is here, and the Saturday schedule is packed with exciting matchups that will significantly impact the playoff landscape. The spotlight shines on the Big Ten and SEC, two power conferences featuring a pair of ranked clashes and contests ripe for upsets. This viewer’s guide also highlights a couple of Big 12 games that deserve your attention.
As we’ve seen, surprises can emerge from anywhere, so keep an eye on the scoreboard and your remote handy in case an unexpected game suddenly heats up. Let’s dive into the key games to watch this week!
No. 7 Indiana at No. 2 Oregon
Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS.
Why watch: Both teams are coming off an open date, fueling anticipation for this unexpected top-10 showdown. The Oregon Ducks return home for this Big Ten clash. Indiana aims to handle a tough road environment like they did in Iowa. Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza needs to be sharper against LB Matayo Uiagalelei and Oregon’s pass rush. Oregon QB Dante Moore is utilizing his receivers effectively, challenging Hoosiers LBs Isaiah Jones and Louis Moore.
Why it could disappoint: This game is unlikely to disappoint. Indiana is prepared for the spotlight, and Oregon won’t be overwhelmed at home. Expect plenty of action despite strong defenses.
No. 8 Alabama at No. 14 Missouri
Time/TV: noon ET, ABC.
Why watch: Alabama, back in the top 10, faces the unbeaten Missouri Tigers. LB Justin Jefferson and the Crimson Tide defense will focus on Missouri QB Beau Pribula, who benefits from RB Ahmad Hardy’s impressive running. Alabama QB Ty Simpson has WR Jermie Bernard and RB Jam Miller as key offensive weapons. LB Josiah Trotter is a defensive leader for the Tigers.
Why it could disappoint: If one team proves physically superior, a rout could occur. Alabama has been pushed around at times, while Missouri faces its toughest test yet.
No. 6 Oklahoma vs. No. 19 Texas in Dallas
Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC.
Why watch: Both teams enter the Red River Showdown with questions, especially Texas, which seeks offensive consistency. QB Arch Manning needs to improve his accuracy, while the ground game must find its rhythm. DE Taylor Wein and the Sooners’ defense pose a challenge. Oklahoma’s offense, likely led by backup QB Michael Hawkins, faces a significant test. LB Anthony Hill Jr. leads the Longhorns’ defense.
Why it could disappoint: Expect a low-scoring affair, with both teams potentially struggling to recover from a double-digit deficit.
No. 1 Ohio State at No. 17 Illinois
Time/TV: noon ET, Fox.
Why watch: Illinois rebounded from a tough loss to win its next two games. However, Ohio State’s dominant play might lead to a repeat of that earlier defeat. The Buckeyes’ defense, featuring DE Caden Curry and LB Sonny Styles, has been impenetrable. Illinois QB Luke Altmyer has multiple scoring options, but Buckeyes QB Julian Sayin and WRs Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate pose a significant threat. Illini DBs Matthew Bailey and Miles Scott face a busy afternoon.
Why it could disappoint: Illinois needs a near-perfect game to compete with Ohio State. The Buckeyes will aim to eliminate any drama.
No. 15 Michigan at Southern California
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC.
Why watch: Michigan puts its undefeated record on the line against a USC team needing a signature win. Michigan QB Bryce Underwood and RB Justice Haynes lead the ground game. USC’s defense, led by LB Eric Gentry, struggles on third down. USC QB Jayden Maiava and RB Waymond Jordan provide offensive support, but Wolverines LB Ernest Hausmann presents a challenge.
Why it could disappoint: Michigan’s defense is more trustworthy despite the long trip. Shutting down Michigan’s ground game for four quarters will be difficult for USC.
Kansas at No. 10 Texas Tech
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, Fox.
Why watch: Texas Tech seeks to continue its strong start to Big 12 play against Kansas. Texas Tech QB Behren Morton distributes the ball effectively to WRs Coy Eakin and Caleb Douglas. Jayhawks LB Trey Lathan will be active. KU QB Jalon Daniels relies on WR Emmanuel Henderson and TE Boden Groen. Red Raiders DB Brice Pollock has been effective in pass coverage.
Why it could disappoint: Kansas must improve its third-down conversion rate to control the clock. If it becomes a shootout, Texas Tech’s depth at ball-handling positions will be decisive.
No. 23 Arizona State at Utah
Time/TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN.
Why watch: The day concludes with this Big 12 matchup. ASU seeks to continue its conference success, while Utah aims to rebound. QB Sam Leavitt and WR Jordyn Tyson lead ASU’s big-play threat, with RB Raleek Brown providing ground support. Utah LB Johnathan Hall and DB Nate Ritchie will be key. Utah QB Devon Dampier targets WR Ryan Davis and TE Dallen Bentley, while ASU LBs Jordan Crook and Keyshaun Elliott will try to contain them.
Why it could disappoint: Another close game for ASU is likely. Utah needs more explosive plays from its offense.
No. 9 Georgia at Auburn
Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC.
Why watch: Georgia seeks to maintain momentum after a strong performance. They face a rested Auburn team needing a win. Auburn’s defense has been solid, with LB Xavier Atkins potentially disrupting Georgia QB Gunner Stockton. Auburn’s offense, led by QB Jackson Arnold, has struggled. Georgia’s pass rush hasn’t been effective, but LB Chris Cole can generate pressure.
Why it could disappoint: Georgia is unlikely to take this rivalry game lightly. A dominant performance by the Bulldogs could overwhelm Auburn.
Week 7 of college football promises a slate of compelling games that will undoubtedly shape the playoff picture. From top-10 clashes in the Big Ten and SEC to intriguing matchups in the Big 12, there’s no shortage of action to keep fans glued to their screens.
Be sure to tune in and witness the drama unfold as these teams battle for supremacy on the gridiron. With potential upsets and statement games on the horizon, Week 7 is set to be an unforgettable chapter in the 2025 college football season.
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