College football heats up this week with several marquee matchups that could shape conference races and playoff hopes. From Big Ten showdowns to Big 12 battles and critical SEC clashes, Week 7 features undefeated teams tested on the road, programs fighting to stay in the playoff conversation, and key games with major conference implications. Here’s a look at the games you don’t want to miss:
No. 8 Alabama (4–1) at No. 14 Missouri (5–0) — 12:00 PM
Missouri’s undefeated run faces its biggest test yet as Alabama visits Columbia. The Tigers have been efficient on both sides of the ball, but Alabama’s physicality and improving offense under Kalen DeBoer and Rising QB Ty Simpson make this a marquee SEC showdown.
No. 1 Ohio State (5–0) at No. 17 Illinois (5–1) — 12:00 PM
The top-ranked Buckeyes hit the road to face an Illinois team that’s risen in the Big Ten pretty fast this season. Ohio State’s defense has been elite, but Illinois’s balanced attack could make this a tricky early kickoff.
No. 6 Oklahoma (5–0) vs Texas (3–2) — Cotton Bowl Stadium, 3:30 PM
The Red River Rivalry never disappoints. Oklahoma has looked like a playoff contender, while Texas enters in must-win mode. Arch Manning and the Longhorns need this victory to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive after a rocky start to the season. Expect intensity, emotion, and plenty of fireworks in Dallas.
No. 7 Indiana (5–0) at No. 3 Oregon (5–0) — 3:30 PM
Indiana’s surge has been led by quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who’s been nearly flawless with 16 touchdown passes and just one interception through five games. His precision and command have fueled the Hoosiers’ undefeated start. Now he faces his biggest challenge yet, going on the road to a hostile Autzen Stadium against an Oregon team loaded with speed and depth.
Florida (2–3) at No. 5 Texas A&M (5–0) — 7:00 PM
Florida comes in hoping to build on last week’s win as they head into College Station. The Gators will need consistency and energy to challenge a disciplined and undefeated Texas A&M team that’s been dominant at home.
No. 15 Michigan (4–1) at USC (4–1) — 7:30 PM
A marquee Big Ten showdown under the lights in Los Angeles. Michigan’s physical, ground-and-pound identity meets USC’s high-tempo offense in a battle that could have major implications in the conference race. Both programs are looking to cement themselves among the Big Ten’s elite.
Kansas (4–2) at No. 10 Texas Tech (5–0) — 7:30 PM
Texas Tech continues its impressive run as a serious Big 12 contender. Kansas brings a potent offense of its own, but the Red Raiders’ depth and home-field advantage make them the favorites in Lubbock.
South Carolina (3–2) at No. 11 LSU (4–1) — 7:45 PM
LSU was off last week after suffering a loss two weeks ago, and the Tigers are still searching for answers on offense. They’ll need to find some rhythm quickly against a South Carolina team capable of capitalizing on mistakes.
No. 21 Arizona State (4–1) at Utah (4–1) — 10:15 PM
Now conference rivals in the Big 12, Arizona State and Utah square off in a late-night matchup with major implications in the league standings. Arizona State’s defense has been impressive, but Utah’s physicality and home-field advantage make this one a toss-up.