College Football Week 9 Preview: Rankings, Matchups, and More
As we dive into Week 9 of the 2024 college football season, excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. This week promises to deliver thrilling matchups, especially with five ranked-vs.-ranked games scheduled for Saturday, October 26. With the stakes higher than ever, let’s break down the latest AP Top 25 rankings, key matchups, and what to watch for this weekend.
Latest AP Top 25 Rankings
The AP Top 25 rankings have seen some significant shifts as teams battle for supremacy. Here’s a look at the current rankings heading into Week 9:
| RANK | SCHOOL | RECORD | PTS | PREV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oregon (59) | 7-0 | 1523 | 2 |
| 2 | Georgia (2) | 6-1 | 1434 | 5 |
| 3 | Penn State | 6-0 | 1375 | 3 |
| 4 | Ohio State | 5-1 | 1353 | 4 |
| 5 | Texas | 6-1 | 1257 | 1 |
| 6 | Miami (FL) | 7-0 | 1242 | 6 |
| 7 | Tennessee | 6-1 | 1075 | 11 |
| 8 | LSU | 6-1 | 1049 | 8 |
| 9 | Clemson | 6-1 | 984 | 10 |
| 10 | Iowa State | 7-0 | 972 | 9 |
| 11 | BYU | 7-0 | 910 | 13 |
| 12 | Notre Dame | 6-1 | 891 | 12 |
| 13 | Indiana | 7-0 | 830 | 16 |
| 14 | Texas A&M | 6-1 | 748 | 14 |
| 15 | Alabama | 5-2 | 643 | 7 |
| 16 | Kansas State | 6-1 | 576 | 17 |
| 17 | Boise State | 5-1 | 573 | 15 |
| 18 | Ole Miss | 5-2 | 408 | 18 |
| 19 | Pittsburgh | 6-0 | 396 | 20 |
| 20 | Illinois | 6-1 | 392 | 22 |
| 21 | Missouri | 6-1 | 359 | 19 |
| 22 | SMU | 6-1 | 313 | 21 |
| 23 | Army | 7-0 | 193 | 23 |
| 24 | Navy | 6-0 | 166 | 25 |
| 25 | Vanderbilt | 5-2 | 92 | NR |
Notable Changes
Oregon has climbed to the top spot, thanks to their undefeated record and impressive performances. Meanwhile, Alabama has seen a significant drop after a tough loss, highlighting the volatility of college football rankings. Teams like Indiana and BYU have also made headlines with their strong starts, showcasing the depth of talent across the nation.
Key Matchups to Watch
Saturday, October 26
This Saturday features a slate of exciting games that could shake up the rankings even further. Here are some of the top matchups to keep an eye on:
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No. 1 Oregon vs. No. 7 Tennessee
- Time: 3:30 PM ET
- Location: Autzen Stadium, Eugene, OR
- Overview: Oregon looks to defend its top ranking against a formidable Tennessee squad that has been gaining momentum. This game promises to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams boasting explosive offenses.
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No. 2 Georgia vs. No. 4 Ohio State
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Location: Sanford Stadium, Athens, GA
- Overview: A clash of titans, this matchup features two of the most storied programs in college football. Georgia aims to solidify its position in the playoff race, while Ohio State seeks redemption after a recent loss.
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No. 3 Penn State vs. No. 10 Iowa State
- Time: 12:00 PM ET
- Location: Beaver Stadium, University Park, PA
- Overview: Penn State is looking to maintain its undefeated record against a tough Iowa State team. Expect a battle in the trenches as both teams rely on their strong defenses.
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No. 5 Texas vs. No. 12 Notre Dame
- Time: 3:30 PM ET
- Location: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX
- Overview: Texas faces a crucial test against a resurgent Notre Dame. With both teams eyeing a playoff spot, this game could have significant implications for their postseason hopes.
- No. 6 Miami (FL) vs. No. 9 Clemson
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
- Overview: Miami looks to continue its undefeated streak against a Clemson team that has been inconsistent this season. This matchup could be pivotal for both teams as they aim for a strong finish to the season.
What to Watch For
As we gear up for an action-packed Saturday, here are a few storylines to keep an eye on:
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Playoff Implications: With the College Football Playoff rankings looming, every game counts. Teams will be vying for a spot in the top four, making each matchup critical.
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Heisman Candidates: Several players are making their case for the Heisman Trophy. Keep an eye on standout performances from quarterbacks and running backs who could elevate their teams and their individual accolades.
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Injury Reports: As the season progresses, injuries can play a significant role in a team’s success. Monitoring player health leading up to game day will be crucial for fans and analysts alike.
- Fan Atmosphere: With many games being played in packed stadiums, the energy from the fans can significantly impact the game. Home-field advantage will be a key factor in several of these matchups.
As the excitement builds for Week 9, college football fans are in for a treat. With so much on the line, the drama and intensity of the games will undoubtedly deliver unforgettable moments. Whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or simply enjoying the spectacle, this weekend promises to be one for the books.