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It seems like there are weekends where you have to seriously search out quality college football games and then there’s weekends like this one where there are monster match ups at every turn. Let’s take a look at the biggest of the big.
#7 Kansas State at #6 TCU
This could be the game that determines the Big 12 championship. If K-State can go down to Fort Worth and take care of TCU, the Wildcats will almost certainly finish with at least a share of the conference crown. If the Horned Frogs take this one, the race would be on with as many as four teams vying for the crown. TCU has been pretty unstoppable offensively, and as everyone has gotten accustomed to over the years, K-State’s defense is strong again. This one has classic written all over it. Kick off is set for 6:30 CT on Fox.
#12 Baylor at #15 Oklahoma
Many probably had this game circled as the game that would determine the champion of the Big 12. Since KSU and TCU have emerged as contenders this year, and with Oklahoma’s brief skid, this game isn’t all that is was cracked up to be in the preseason. That said, this game still has major implications in the conference race with Baylor having the most to gain with a win, regardless of the outcome of the other "main event" in the conference. This is the early game and kicks off at 11:00 CT on Fox Sports One.
#5 Alabama at #16 LSU
Another week, another big game in the SEC West. Every time Alabama and LSU line up against each other, it’s must see TV, but with so much at stake in the conference, this is a vital game for the Crimson Tide. With games against Mississippi State and Auburn still left on the schedule, Alabama can set itself up nicely for a playoff spot. It all starts on Saturday in Baton Rouge. This game is slated for 7:00 CT on CBS.
#10 Notre Dame at #9 Arizona State
Alright, this game probably doesn’t have the allure that the three above do, but Notre Dame desperately needs to win this game to impress the college football gods. With less chances remaining to impress, Notre Dame has to make the most of this opportunity. The Sun Devils, meanwhile are quietly sitting atop the Pac-12 South. A win would just about cinch up a division title. This is the mid-afternoon appetizer for the monster games to follow. It starts at 2:30 CT on ABC.
#14 Ohio State at #8 Michigan State
The Big 10 East (Leaders or Legends?) is on the line in this one. Both teams are undefeated in conference play and the winner would more than likely get to the conference championship game. This is the last meaningful and possibly the last competitive game until then as well. If you’re going to watch the Big 10, this is your best opportunity to watch something good for a while. See it at 7:00 CT on ABC.