The second half of the college football season is crucial, especially for Big Ten teams. A series of pivotal games are set to shape the playoff picture as teams vie for the coveted spots in the 12-team College Football Playoff. Here are six key matchups to watch closely.
Key Big Ten Games Impacting College Football Playoff
1. Southern California at Notre Dame – October 18
Southern California will travel to face the 15th-ranked Notre Dame. After a decisive win over Michigan, the Trojans are ready for another challenge. This matchup will test their playoff aspirations, though even a loss may not eliminate them from contention.
2. UCLA at Indiana – October 25
Indiana faces a significant challenge against UCLA, marking a critical point in their playoff pursuit. The Hoosiers have shown strong performance, but the Bruins have rebounded well after coaching changes, making this a potential upset scenario.
3. Southern California at Nebraska – November 1
With only one loss, Nebraska remains a contender under head coach Matt Rhule. A win against USC could enhance their national standing and set the stage for a strong finish to their season.
4. Nebraska at Penn State – November 22
This game holds additional intrigue. Rhule’s connection to Penn State could add an emotional layer to the matchup, especially if Nebraska climbs the Top 25 rankings, making their showdown against the Nittany Lions highly anticipated.
5. Oregon at Washington – November 29
Oregon is expected to be in the mix for an at-large playoff bid by the time they face Washington. This contest could determine the fate of the Big Ten title and playoff implications, stressing its importance for both teams.
6. Ohio State at Michigan – November 29
Finally, Ohio State meets Michigan in a highly anticipated rivalry. The Buckeyes aim to overcome their previous struggles against the Wolverines, boasting a strong defense and a potent offense that could prove decisive.
Currently, Ohio State, Indiana, and Oregon appear to be the most secure playoff contenders from the Big Ten. Should they maintain their form, there could be as many as four representatives from the conference vying for the national title. As the season progresses, each of these matchups will critically influence the playoff landscape and determine the ultimate contenders in college football.
