College Football Preview Week 3

Important Storylines to Watch

Cole Cleveland, Reporter

College Football Week 3 is almost underway. Week 2 had some pretty shocking games such as #8 Notre Dame dropping to 0-2 after losing at home to Marshall, #20 Kentucky beating #12 Florida, and #21 BYU knocking off #9 Baylor in double overtime. Here are the games of the week:

#25 Oregon vs #12 BYU (Oregon -3.5)

Does BYU have what it takes to continue its CFP push? The Cougars beat #9 Baylor last week with a game-winning field goal in double overtime. Their offense looked stunning and their defense played well above expectations. On the other side, Oregon bounced back after a crushing defeat in week one, winning 70-14.  Expect a very close, balanced game in Oregon this week.

#22 Penn State vs Auburn (Penn State -3) (Game of the Week)

Penn State and Auburn are two storied franchises that are always on the cusp of great success but continue to fall short year after year. Both of these teams have started the year out hot and looking to continue that success into this week. This is about as even of a match as you can get.

#11 Michigan State vs Washington (Washington -3)

Can Washington take down the Spartans in Husky Stadium? The Huskies have been rebuilding ever since their College Football Playoff Appearance back in 2016. With former Indiana QB Michael Penix Jr, Washington can reinstate themselves among the top teams in the Pac-12. The Spartans have not looked perfect this season and definitely can lose this game. Washington has a tough defense and a quick offense and has a chance to take down the Spartans.

#13 Miami vs #24 Texas A&M (Texas A&M -6)

Miami has started out strong with its new regime headed by Mario Cristobal. Texas A&M has continued to put up good but not great seasons since they hired Jimbo Fisher in 2018. This has been the best recruiting class from both of these colleges in a very long time. Both of these teams are young and are looking to prove themselves this season. Expect a largely defensive battle with minimal passing.

Mississippi State vs LSU (Mississippi State -2.5)

Welcome to a battle of two SEC teams with nothing to lose. This game will be a backyard brawl. Mississippi State’s dominant passing offense versus LSU’s great rushing attack, this game has a chance to be a classic. LSU’s Brian Kelly is already in the public eye after the loss to Florida State due to a blocked extra point. Expect a fun, hard-hitting matchup.