Hippos at Risk: Data Deficiencies Threaten Conservation Progress

A new database of African hippo populations has revealed huge gaps in our knowledge of where the megaherbivores live and thrive, with populations fragmented and reliant on protected areas. A new database of African hippo populations has revealed huge gaps in our knowledge of where the megaherbivores live and thrive, with populations fragmented and reliant
HomeSportHigh-Stakes SEC Clashes: Must-Watch College Football Matchups in Week 11

High-Stakes SEC Clashes: Must-Watch College Football Matchups in Week 11

 

Key SEC Matchups with CFP Consequences Highlight College Football’s Week 11


As college football heads into November’s final weeks, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. While the committee will evaluate the teams weekly, those still vying for a spot understand the stakes. However, it’s still exciting to watch teams still battling for pride, even if they aren’t contenders for a playoff berth.

 

This week’s lineup in college football may feature just a few ranked matchups, but there are multiple engaging games to keep you hooked all Saturday. Here are seven highlights to look out for.

No. 11 Alabama vs. No. 13 LSU

Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC.

Why watch: Despite being a three-loss team, either could still be a playoff contender in the final rankings. Both squads must view this game as a must-win, promising a thrilling atmosphere in Baton Rouge. It’s LSU’s first game since their tough loss against Texas A&M two weeks ago, so they’ll be eager to start strong and forget that performance. Alabama, coming off a commanding 34-0 victory over Missouri, faces a tougher test against LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier, who will likely perform better on home turf. Alabama QB Jalen Milroe has shown inconsistency since his brilliant game against Georgia, needing a fast start to soothe the crowd, while LSU’s defense, led by LB Whit Weeks, aims to contain him.

 

Why it could disappoint: Could it really underwhelm? Given the recent erratic performances of both teams, expect significant shifts in momentum and last-minute excitement to unfold.

 

WEEKEND FORECAST: SEC battles dominate the Week 11 highlights for Top 25 matchups.

BUCKLE UP: A tricky journey to the College Football Playoff starts with Week 11.

No. 2 Georgia at No. 12 Mississippi

Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC.

Why watch: The Bulldogs only have two remaining SEC games, neither of which will be easy. This match against an Ole Miss team fresh off a stellar offensive show against Arkansas is crucial. Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart excelled despite missing star WR Tre Harris, who is uncertain for the game, but watch out for Jordan Watkins as a key threat. Georgia’s DB Malaki Starks is tough to beat in coverage, and their defensive line creates pressure, which is needed as Georgia QB Carson Beck has faced issues with interceptions this season. If Beck maintains his careless play, Rebels CB Trey Amos could take advantage.

Why it could disappoint: Ole Miss has struggled against tougher defenses, akin to their performance against Kentucky, which might not bode well against the Bulldogs. On the other hand, Georgia’s inconsistency could allow Ole Miss to stay competitive, leading to a less spectacular clash.

 

No. 24 Colorado at Texas Tech

Time/TV: 4 p.m. ET, Fox.

Why watch: With their bowl eligibility secured, the Buffaloes are setting sights on the Big 12 standings. The Red Raiders return home after handing Iowa State its first loss and might still be playoff contenders. Texas Tech recently had a strong defensive outing against Iowa State, but they’ll be challenged by Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders and his talented offensive players, like WR LaJohntay Wester and standout two-way player Travis Hunter. Texas Tech’s QB Behren Morton and RB Tahj Brooks could form a potent offensive duo, and they must keep pace with Colorado’s explosive style. Colorado’s front line has struggled to pressure opposing quarterbacks, but talents like LB Nikhai Hill-Green and DB Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig will be crucial in defensive plays.

 

Why it could disappoint: Both teams have seen tightly contested games that went down to the wire. While high-scoring potential keeps this match intriguing, a few critical mistakes could shift the outcome dramatically.

 

South Carolina at No. 25 Vanderbilt

Time/TV: 4:15 p.m. ET, SEC.

Why watch: While there’s no SEC title at stake—which Vanderbilt can still technically achieve with an improbable series of events—both teams have surpassed expectations this season and should deliver an entertaining battle. The Gamecocks still need one more win for a bowl game, while the Commodores achieved six wins last week, looking for even more in what’s shaping up to be their best season recently. Vanderbilt’s QB Diego Pavia effectively utilizes TE Eli Stowers and RB Sedrick Alexander to manage game time with extended drives. For South Carolina, DE Kyle Kennard and the defensive line must ensure stops on third downs. The Gamecocks will respond with QB LaNorris Sellers and RB Raheim Sanders, whose breakout performances were vital in last week’s win over Texas A&M. Vanderbilt’s LBs Bryan Longwell and Langston Patterson need to step up and make key tackles.

Why it could disappoint: Due to planned strategies, games involving Vanderbilt may not always generate thrilling outcomes

Expect a lot of hard-hitting action in this matchup. The Gamecocks prefer to advance the ball on the ground, so if you enjoy high-flying pass plays, this may not be the game for you. However, it is poised to be a tightly contested battle, so don’t miss the action as it unfolds late in the game.

 

 

No. 19 Army at North Texas

Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2.

Why watch: Army’s inaugural season in the American Athletic Conference has been impressive. With just two games left on their schedule, they are in the running for a spot in the conference championship. Their next challenge is a long trip to Denton, where the Mean Green are looking to end a two-game losing streak to remain competitive in the league. Army managed to defeat Air Force without their starting quarterback, Bryson Daily, with running back Kanye Udoh stepping up. However, to keep pace with the Mean Green’s strong offense, Army will likely need some aerial contributions, possibly from backup Dewayne Coleman if Daily is unable to play. North Texas has been scoring consistently, averaging over 40 points per game under quarterback Chandler Morris, but their defense has been vulnerable, conceding a whopping 97 points across losses to Memphis and Tulane.

Why it could disappoint: Despite Army’s accomplishments, they haven’t faced any FBS teams with winning records yet. It will be interesting to see how they react if they fall behind, but the Mean Green have also struggled in tight games recently.

 

No. 9 Brigham Young at Utah

Time/TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN.

Why watch: A few weeks ago, this clash in the ‘Holy War’ rivalry promised to have major implications. However, an injury to Utah quarterback Cam Rising has hampered their offensive abilities. Despite this setback, the Utes could really turn around their season with an upset over the Cougars. It’s uncertain until game time if either Isaac Wilson, who has his own injury concerns, or Brandon Rose will start for Utah. One player to watch is running back Micah Bernard, who remains the Utes’ key offensive weapon. BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff can be inconsistent, but when necessary, he typically seeks out wide receiver Darius Lassiter. On the defensive side, Utah’s line led by Van Fillinger can still pack a punch.

Why it could disappoint: If Utah wants to stay competitive, they will need to focus on defense, possibly leading to a dull game defined by punting. Quick scores from BYU could also hasten the end of the night for viewers.

Michigan at No. 10 Indiana

Time/TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS.

Why watch: In this Big Ten showdown, one team is unbeaten and eyeing a shot at the conference title and playoff positions, while the other, Michigan, is struggling to regain traction after a championship season. Indiana brings its remarkable performance to the field this season, looking to build on its success. Michigan’s defense has the potential to pose challenges, featuring top prospects like defensive lineman Josaiah Stewart. Indiana’s quarterback Kurtis Rourke is back after an injury and showed no signs of concern in a recent game against Michigan State. Indiana’s defense has been overshadowed by Rourke’s offensive prowess but is also impressive, led by defensive lineman Mikail Kamara. This poses a challenge for Michigan’s struggling quarterbacks, Davis Warren and Alex Orji, who will rely heavily on running back Kalel Mullings to keep their drives moving.

Why it could disappoint: Like Utah, Michigan needs to keep the score low to keep their hopes alive, but it will be intriguing to see how Indiana competes against Michigan compared to their previous opponent, top-ranked Oregon.