This weekend marks the culmination of conference championships in college football’s premier division. A total of nine games will take place, followed by the eagerly awaited anticipation as teams learn their postseason prospects.

While not all nine championship games will impact the playoff teams and their rankings, every matchup holds significance as teams vie for titles. We will rank these games based on their importance, but all deserve attention. As we often see, multiple games will occur at the same time, so fans should keep their remotes handy.

Here are the matchups to keep an eye on.

No. 1 Oregon vs. No. 3 Penn State

Time/TV: Saturday, 8 p.m. ET, CBS.

Why watch: This Big Ten Championship battle could determine the overall top seed in the playoffs, although the SEC may also have a say. The Ducks have been aware of their trip to Indianapolis for some time, maintaining their spot as the last undefeated team in the Bowl Subdivision. The presence of the Nittany Lions is a bit unexpected, but they now aim to seize the opportunity created by Ohio State’s loss against Michigan to secure a valuable first-round playoff bye. Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel is likely a contender for the Heisman Trophy, thanks to the team’s impressive record, supported by key players like running back Jordan James and wide receiver Tez Johnson. However, they’ll face a tough challenge against Penn State’s strong defense, featuring standout defensive lineman Abdul Carter and hard-hitting defensive back Jaylen Reed. The spotlight will also be on Penn State’s offense, which struggled against top-tier defenses. Quarterback Drew Allar uses reliable players like tight end Tyler Warren and running back Kaytron Allen effectively, but Oregon’s linebacker Bryce Boettcher and defensive back Tysheem Johnson make their tackles count.

Why it could disappoint: If you’re expecting a repeat of the thrilling encounter the Ducks had with Ohio State earlier this season, this game might fall short. While the Nittany Lions have occasionally bounced back from slow starts, they should avoid that approach against Oregon’s explosive offense.

No. 2 Texas vs. No. 5 Georgia

Time/TV: Saturday, 4 p.m. ET, ABC.

Why watch: Similar to the Big Ten Championship matchup, both teams in the SEC Championship in Atlanta are nearly guaranteed spots in the upcoming 12-team playoff. However, there’s still much at stake at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, as the winner can rest before the quarterfinals. The Longhorns are eager to avenge their only regular-season loss, while the Bulldogs aim to regain their championship prowess after a grueling eight-overtime victory over Georgia Tech last week. Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has become less prone to interceptions lately, though the Bulldogs’ offense hasn’t met the high standards typically expected, dealing with issues like dropped passes and inconsistent rushing. Versatile linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and the Texas defense will aim to keep Georgia’s offense grounded. Both Texas QB Quinn Ewers and backup Arch Manning struggled against linebacker Jalon Walker and Georgia’s defensive line during their previous encounter, likely leading them to rely more on running backs Quintrevion Wisner and Jayden Blue from the start.

Why it could disappoint: The previous clash between these two teams wasn’t thrilling, and both squads have struggled with their passing games against SEC-level defenses. Expect less flair, but perhaps some exciting moments in the final quarter.

No. 7 SMU vs. No. 17 Clemson

Time/TV: 8 p.m. ET, ABC.

Why watch: Clemson’s final regular season game was a thrilling ride. They lost a close game to their rival South Carolina before getting good news as Miami was defeated by Syracuse, allowing them a shot to compete in the ACC Championship game nearby in Charlotte, N.C. For the Mustangs, this game is a chance to solidify their incredible performance this season and clarify their playoff prospects. SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings could find inspiration from South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, who excelled running against the Tigers’ defense, although Clemson’s linebacker Barrett Carter and the defensive unit narrowly prevented a worse outcome. Jennings might do well to heavily involve running back Brashard Smith in their ground attack. On the opposite side, the Tigers continue to struggle with big plays against strong defenses, although quarterback Cade Klubnik has made some timely runs. Mustangs linebacker Kobe Wilson and defensive back Isaiah Nwokobia will be vigilant for any such opportunities, especially in high-pressure red-zone situations.

Why it could disappoint: Once again, this matchup might lack thrilling excitement, though the intensity will undoubtedly be present despite the teams’ unfamiliarity.

No. 19 UNLV at No. 10 Boise State

Time/TV: Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Fox.

Why watch: The Mountain West Championship is also a rematch of their earlier game, where Boise State narrowly won 29-24 in Las Vegas on October 25. The Rebels will be looking to turn the tables on the Broncos’ blue turf with a potential playoff opportunity at stake.

even a first-round bye – up for grabs. However, this may be a tough task for the Broncos as they will also be looking to support RB Ashton Jeanty in making a final impression on Heisman voters. Jeanty enters this game with 2,288 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns, alongside one receiving touchdown. In their previous matchup, the Rebels effectively contained him thanks to their aggressive defense, spearheaded by LB Jackson Woodard and DB Jalen Catalon. On the other side, Boise State QB Maddux Madsen adds a strong passing dimension, having thrown 21 touchdowns against just three interceptions. The UNLV offense is run by dual-threat QB Hajj-Malik Williams, who has explosive WR Ricky White III and reliable RB Jai’Den Thomas as key players. The Broncos’ defense features a strong front with DL Jayden Virgin-Morgan and Ahmed Hassanein, supported by DB Ty Benefield.

Why it could disappoint: It shouldn’t. Their initial meeting was competitive, and both teams have a solid reason to win for a place in the playoffs, ensuring a high level of performance. While there’s a possibility that one team might struggle and make numerous mistakes, it would be unexpected.

No. 13 Arizona State vs. No. 16 Iowa State

Time/TV: Saturday, noon ET, ABC.

Why watch: The participants in the Big 12 title game in Arlington, Texas, were not finalized until after all the results were determined. Eventually, the four-way tiebreaker favored the Sun Devils and the Cyclones, both of whom were not initially expected to play a significant role in this newly restructured conference. The winner will advance to the playoffs, though it’s uncertain if they will earn a bye to the quarterfinals. Arizona State’s freshman QB Sam Leavitt has made a remarkable impact in his first season, effectively utilizing all-purpose RB Cam Skattebo. Regrettably, standout WR Jordyn Tyson has been sidelined for the rest of the season due to an injury sustained last week against Arizona. Cyclones’ QB Rocco Becht has slightly more experience than Leavitt and has also been impressive, with WRs Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel serving as major playmakers, alongside strong RB Carson Hansen, who is key for maintaining drives. Defensive names to watch include Arizona State LB Caleb McCullough and Iowa State DB Malik Verdon.

Why it could disappoint: It would be shocking if it does. Iowa State tends to feature closely contested games. The Sun Devils have also experienced their share of thrilling moments, so this game should capture the essence of the Big 12 season.

Tulane at No. 23 Army

Time/TV: Friday, 8 p.m. ET, ABC.

Why watch: This matchup was the first conference championship pairing decided, although the location wasn’t confirmed until last week. Tulane lost at home to Memphis on Thanksgiving night, which cost them hosting rights, while the Black Knights secured another home game by defeating Texas-San Antonio to complete a stellar debut season in the American Athletic Conference. Despite last week’s setback, the Green Wave effectively tackled a similar challenge at Navy weeks ago, winning 35-0. The main focus for LB Tyler Grubbs and the Tulane run-stopping unit will be Army QB Bryson Daily, who has notched 25 rushing touchdowns and eight through the air. When he throws, it’s often to RB Kanye Udoh or SB Noah Short. Meanwhile, Tulane’s backfield duo of QB Darian Mensah and RB Makhi Hughes aims to avoid the uncharacteristic mistakes that hindered their home finale. LB Andon Thomas leads the Army defense, which will aim to keep them in check.

Why it could disappoint: It’s crucial for Army to avoid falling behind by multiple scores early. The situation could shift drastically if the Black Knights successfully execute their ball-control approach, but Tulane possesses more quick-strike capability should they need to rally.

Marshall at Louisiana-Lafayette

Time/TV: Saturday, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

Why watch: The Ragin’ Cajuns aim to clinch their third Sun Belt championship in five years, having claimed titles in 2020 and 2021. The Thundering Herd are making their first appearance in the SBC final, having just secured their spot following a nail-biting 35-33 double overtime victory against James Madison. This year’s offense in Lafayette is more well-rounded than in previous years, with QB Ben Wooldridge leading a formidable passing game to complement the running back group of Bill Davis and Zylan Perry. Meanwhile, Marshall relies heavily on QB Braylon Braxton and RB A.J. Turner for most of their offensive output.

Why it could disappoint: The Cajuns might be the stronger team, having won the tougher division and secured home-field advantage. However, despite having to work hard to get here, the Herd shouldn’t be expected to give up without a fight.

Miami (Ohio) vs. Ohio

Time/TV: Saturday, noon ET, ESPN.

Why watch: The MAC final in Detroit also serves as a rematch between familiar rivals. Earlier this season, Miami handed Ohio its only league loss, beating them 30-20 on Oct. 19 at home in Oxford. Since then, Ohio has been on a hot streak, winning its last five conference games by at least 17 points. Miami lost its MAC opener to Toledo but has been on a seven-game winning streak since then. Leading the RedHawks is QB Brett Gabbert, who has explosive WRs Reggie Virgil and Javon Tracy as targets, along with solid ground support from RB Keyon Mozee. The Bobcats, led by QB Parker Navarro, often lean towards a ground game, though WR Coleman Owen can step up with downfield catches when necessary.

Why it could disappoint: Both teams have a reputation for occasionally turning the ball over, so there’s a possibility one could establish a significant lead. Nonetheless, given their familiarity, the contest is likely to remain close throughout.

Western Kentucky at Jacksonville State

Time/TV: Friday, 7 p.m. ET, CBSSN.

Why watch: Championship weekend kicks off with this rematch in Conference USA, following a close meeting just six days prior. Western Kentucky handed Jacksonville State its only league defeat, edging them 19-17 thanks to a last-minute field goal. The Gamecocks had already clinched home-field advantage for the title game but put up a strong fight even after starting QB Tyler Huff exited the game in the second half with an apparent ankle injury. Huff and RB Tre Stewart have accumulated over 2,500 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns combined, but it may be on backup QB Logan Smothers to maintain their offensive flow if Huff remains unavailable. Hilltoppers QB Caden Veltkamp typically favors the passing game, though he has seven rushing touchdowns to his name. His key offensive weapons are RB Elijah Young and WR Kisean Johnson.

Possible Disappointments: Last week’s discussion suggests that the upcoming match could be another close contest. However, the outcome may hinge on the fitness of crucial players. The Gamecocks could gain an early advantage since they will be competing on their home ground, but the Hilltoppers are expected to remain competitive.