The 2024 college football season reaches a crescendo this weekend with the drama and high stakes of the conference championship games. Old rivalries are rekindled, surprising contenders have emerged, and coveted College Football Playoff spots are on the line. Here’s a rundown of the marquee matchups and what to watch for.
SEC Powerhouses Collide: #1 Georgia vs #5 Texas
In the game everyone has circled, the defending national champion Georgia Bulldogs put their undefeated record to the test against resurgent Texas. The Longhorns, led by Heisman-contending QB Quinn Ewers, are out to prove they’re “back” on the national stage. But Georgia’s historically dominant defense, anchored by All-American DT Jalen Carter, presents the ultimate challenge.
“This is the kind of game you come to Texas to play in. We respect what Georgia has done, but we believe in ourselves and we’re here to make a statement.”
– Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian
Keys to the Game
- Can Ewers and the explosive Texas offense find cracks in the stifling Georgia defense?
- Will Texas’ young but talented secondary hold up against the efficient Georgia passing attack?
- Georgia’s punishing run game vs Texas’ suspect run defense could decide the game
Big Ten Battle: #2 Penn State vs #4 Oregon
In a fascinating contrast of styles, James Franklin’s physical, defensive-minded Penn State squad faces off against Dan Lanning’s high-octane Oregon offense. Freshman sensation Noah Fifita leads the nation in passing for the Ducks, but he hasn’t seen a front seven like Penn State’s, spearheaded by edge rushing terror Dani Dennis-Sutton.
“Oregon’s tempo and explosiveness present some unique challenges, but our guys are built for this. We’re excited for the opportunity to compete for a championship.”
– Penn State defensive coordinator Manny Diaz
Potential X-Factors
- Penn State’s battering ram running back tandem of Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen
- Oregon’s ball-hawking secondary that thrives on creating turnovers
- Special teams and hidden yardage – a strength for the disciplined Nittany Lions
Other Games to Watch
The revamped Big 12 takes center stage on Saturday afternoon, as #6 Iowa State battles #8 Arizona State. Both are looking to cap breakout seasons with a title. In the nightcap, get ready for offensive fireworks in the ACC championship between #7 Clemson and upstart #11 SMU.
A few non-power conference matchups also carry intrigue. Can Heisman dark horse Blake Watson carry high-scoring Western Kentucky past Jacksonville State in a CUSA shootout? And keep an eye on the late-night Mountain West tilt between perennial powers UNLV and Boise State.
Playoff Implications
With four CFP spots up for grabs, every result this weekend will send ripples through the championship picture. An upset or two could open the door for a surprise contender like one-loss Miami (OH) out of the MAC. Buckle up for a weekend of college football drama and high stakes that you won’t want to miss.
