The first full Saturday slate of games in the 2024 college football season is set to kick off this weekend, featuring premier non-conference matchups between ranked teams that will help set the stage for what promises to be an impactful year of football. With an expanded playoff on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever for these early season games.
One of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend is between the 14th-ranked Clemson Tigers and the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs. The national title favorite, Georgia, will be playing close to home in Atlanta, boasting returning skill on both sides of the ball. However, they will face a strong Clemson defense that will test their offensive prowess. Questions remain about the Tigers‘ attack as they go up against a stout Bulldog pass rush. This game is scheduled for 12 p.m. on ABC and is sure to set the tone for the rest of the season.
Another key game to watch is the matchup between the 8th-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions and West Virginia. Neal Brown, head coach of the Mountaineers, was on the hot seat last year but managed to lead his team to nine wins, saving his job in the process. Now, with quarterback Garrett Greene leading an offense that averaged over 400 yards per game, they will face an elite PSU defense. The Lions, known for their top-flight rushing duo, will look to establish dominance early in this game, also scheduled for 12 p.m. on ABC.
In a battle of two teams under pressure, the 19th-ranked Miami Hurricanes will face off against the Florida Gators. Both teams have brought in key transfers to bolster their rosters, with Miami led by dual-threat quarterback Cam Ward and Florida looking to make a statement early in the season. This game, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on ABC, will be a major test for both coaches and could set the tone for the rest of their seasons.
The evening will feature a matchup between the 7th-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the 20th-ranked Texas A&M Aggies. Both teams will be introducing new quarterbacks and facing off under the lights in the SEC. Notre Dame’s strong defense will be tested by A&M’s front seven, making for an exciting and competitive game. This matchup is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on ABC and is one not to be missed.
As the weekend comes to a close, the 23rd-ranked USC Trojans will take on the 13th-ranked LSU Tigers in a game that could have significant implications for both teams. With new quarterbacks leading the way and both schools hoping for improvements on defense, this SEC vs. Big Ten matchup will be one to watch. Scheduled for Sunday, September 1 at 7:30 p.m. on ABC, this game will cap off an exciting opening weekend of college football.
Overall, the first full Saturday slate of games in the 2024 college football season promises to be an exciting and impactful start to what will be a historic year for the sport. With premier matchups between ranked teams and the anticipation of an expanded playoff, fans can expect high-stakes games and thrilling moments throughout the season. Be sure to tune in and catch all the action as these teams battle it out on the gridiron.