College football fans worldwide are still buzzing with excitement after an electrifying Week 4, which featured six Top 25 games that kept enthusiasts glued to their screens well into the night. Now, as we gear up for Week 5, we may not see as many marquee matchups, but there are significant implications in several games that promise to keep us on the edge of our seats.
Colorado Buffaloes’ Redemption Quest
The Colorado Buffaloes, under the guidance of legendary head coach Deion Sanders, are determined to prove that their promising 3-0 start is more reflective of their prospects than their humbling defeat to Oregon in Week 4. Sanders’ Pac-12 debut wasn’t a memorable one, with Colorado trailing 35-0 at halftime. Sanders admitted, “Good old-fashioned butt-kicking.” This week, the Buffaloes face a formidable challenge as they welcome the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Caleb Williams, and his USC Trojans to Boulder.
USC is coming off a less-than-impressive victory against ASU but boasts the country’s highest points per game (55.0) and ranks third in yards per game (569.3). Sanders described Williams as a playmaker who brings class and confidence to the team, and he acknowledges the challenge presented by USC’s potent offense.
However, Colorado’s defense has struggled in the first four weeks, allowing the most points and yards per game in the Pac-12. Yet, Colorado has its offensive playmakers, and USC’s defense has had its issues since Lincoln Riley’s arrival.
Fox Sports’ Tim Brando pointed out the critical question for USC: “Can their defense stand up and make plays against a quality opponent with its fair share of playmakers?”
USC’s defense has shown signs of improvement, allowing 364.5 yards per game after giving up 415.1 yards per game in 2022. The Trojans are entering a tough stretch in their schedule, with matchups against Arizona, No. 11 Notre Dame, and No. 10 Utah.
Texas vs. Kansas – Clash of the unbeaten in College football
While Kansas hasn’t received much attention in the early weeks of the season, they are one of only three unbeaten Big 12 schools, along with Oklahoma and Texas. With the impending departure of both Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC in 2024, this season is critical for the Jayhawks to make a statement and challenge the notion that Texas is truly “back” after their Week 2 victory against Alabama.
Kansas has shown offensive prowess, scoring 30 or more points in five consecutive games, their longest such streak since 2009. Quarterback Jalon Daniels, the preseason Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, has had a strong start to the season with 705 passing yards, five touchdowns, and one interception in three games.
On the other side, Steve Sarkisian has revitalized the Longhorns, with their defense allowing just 12.5 points per game in 2023, making it one of the best in the Big 12. Their quarterback, Quinn Ewers, has also showcased his skills, completing 18 of 25 passes for 293 yards and a touchdown in their recent win against Baylor.
The Texas defense has seen significant improvements over the last few years, with Sarkisian noting that they’ve added depth to the roster, instilled confidence, and improved their overall performance.
ODuke vs. Notre Dameiss vs. LSU – SEC Showdown in College football
Ole Miss is looking to bounce back after a disappointing SEC opener and a challenging outing against Alabama, where they managed just 56 rushing yards and 10 points. In 2022, they led the SEC in rushing yards per game but have struggled in that department in 2023. Coach Lane Kiffin is focused on improving their running game to get back on track.
LSU, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, has showcased one of the most explosive offenses in the country, and another loss would likely crush their College Football Playoff hopes.
Duke vs. Notre Dame – Duke’s Surprise Run
Duke football is making waves as they aim for their first 5-0 start to a season since 1994. Coach Mike Elko is proud of the team’s achievements, and their defense has been rock-solid, allowing just five touchdowns in four games, and averaging 8.8 points per game.
Notre Dame, fresh off a close loss to Ohio State, brings a balanced offense led by quarterback Sam Hartman. Duke’s remarkable start is a testament to their hard work and commitment to building a strong football program.