5 Things to Watch in College Football Week 8

College football is back in full swing. There are always things to watch every week of the season. Here are 5 things to watch in college football week 8.

1. Ole Miss at Georgia

Ole Miss is undefeated this year and last season, they defeated Georgia for a big win. They were unable to make the CFP last season, but things could be different this year. The Rebels struggled with Washington State last week, but now need to refocus. Their offense ranks in the top 10 in passing yards, but they have struggled at times in the red zone. The defense has been solid and improving from the early season.

Georgia will be looking for revenge against Ole Miss. The Bulldogs have just one loss and can’t afford a few more if they want to make the CFP. Georgia has a better offense this season, but the defense has struggled. The Bulldogs are well-equipped to battle in a high-scoring game. The team that wins this one will likely be heading to the CFP and both teams could make it.

2. Tennessee at Alabama

Tennessee lost a shootout to Georgia, but otherwise hasn’t lost this season. The Volunteers have the best scoring offense in the sport, having scored at least 34 points in every game this season. Their defense has talent, although they have been leaky at times. A win over Alabama would put Tennessee squarely in CFP contention.

Alabama lost the first week of the season to Florida State in a game where they didn’t look ready to play. Since that point, they have played a lot better and stacked impressive wins. They have defeated Georgia, Vanderbilt and Missouri. Quarterback Ty Simpson has turned into a real Heisman threat for his play, as he has excelled at protecting the football and playing efficiently. The defense isn’t up to par with vintage Alabama squads, but they have showed better fight since the Florida State game. Another big win puts the Crimson Tide a lot closer to the CFP.

3. USC at Notre Dame

USC lost ot Illinois, but have since rebounded with a good win against Michigan. The Trojans have a good offense, led by quarterback Jayden Maiava at quarterback. The Trojans have scored more than 30 points per game in each contest this season and have a well-balanced attack. The defense has had some rough games in the Big Ten and will need to be locked in this week in a big rivalry game against Notre Dame.

Notre Dame lost their first two games of the season to Texas A&M and Miami. They need to win out to make the CFP and they have started things out well, winning their next four games. Notre Dame has started featuring star running back Jeremiyah Love more and quarterback C.J. Carr is progressing well. The defense has stepped up lately, as they have given up just 27 points over the last three weeks.

4. LSU at Vanderbilt

LSU notched a win over South Carolina last week, but still don’t look like they have things totally on the right track. The loss to Ole Miss exposed some flaws, but with just one loss, there is still a lot at stake. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier doesn’t look healthy, which is limiting the offense. The defense has been much improved this season and will have to be disciplined against Vanderbilt.

Vanderbilt lost to Alabama and then was off last week. The extra time to prepare will help them in this game. Diego Pavia’s dual-threat abilities and ability to read things quickly has helped Vanderbilt have a quality offense, although they did struggle against Alabama. The defense has given up a lot of points this season. If Vanderbilt wants to keep the Cinderella story alive, a win in this game would accomplish that.

5. The Holy War

Utah lost to Texas Tech, but are otherwise unscathed and are looking to push toward the Big 12 Championship Game. Quarterback Devon Dampier has led the offense with 1,131 passing yards and 378 rushing yards on the year. The defense has been stout, allowing just 13.8 points per game. They will have a tough matchup with a rival that is playing well so far this season.

BYU is undefeated to start the season, although they lack a notable win. The Cougars have rolled with freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier who has repaid them with 1,220 passing yards and eight touchdowns. Their defense has struggled recently, but they have done enough to help the Cougars win games. A win over Utah would give their undfeated record some more legitimacy.

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