College football Week 8 is here, offering another thrilling Saturday full of games.

This week’s lineup includes two intense top-10 matchups in the SEC, along with another strong SEC team facing a potential upset. The Big Ten also has its share of ranked encounters, plus we’ll cover two crucial ACC games that could affect playoff standings.

As always, we recommend fans keep an eye on other games not featured here, as surprises can happen. Now, let’s dive into the seven games that are essential viewing this week.

No. 4 Georgia at No. 1 Texas

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

Why watch: This match features a thrilling encounter in the newly expanded SEC. The last time Georgia faced a top team, it didn’t go as planned in Tuscaloosa. However, a victory in Austin could change that narrative. Texas has proven its worth as the top team so far this season, and quarterback Quinn Ewers, returning from an injury, needs to be at his best against a Georgia defense that was tested by Mississippi State last week. Meanwhile, Georgia’s Carson Beck has been reliable in the passing game, having been called upon more often than usual due to struggles in the run game.

Why it could disappoint: It’s hard to imagine this matchup not delivering. Previous high-stakes games this season have been exciting and neither team is likely to allow a blowout.

No. 7 Alabama at No. 10 Tennessee

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

Why watch: This matchup originally hinted at a potential battle of top-five teams. Now, both squads face a must-win scenario following losses and shaky victories. It will be a typical clash when Tennessee’s offense meets Alabama’s tough defense. Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava has had difficulty executing deep plays against strong SEC defenses, but Alabama’s defense is working to generate pressure. Meanwhile, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe remains a constant threat to make big plays, while Tennessee’s defense, anchored by Arion Carter, has shown it can limit opponent yardage.

Why it could disappoint: If Tennessee’s offense struggles to find its rhythm, Alabama could build an early lead similar to what we saw against Georgia. However, the Tide has had trouble maintaining leads, so it could shape up to be a close contest.

No. 25 Nebraska at No. 18 Indiana

Time/TV: noon ET, Fox.

Why watch: After thrilling matchups in the Big Ten last week, we now focus on teams looking to prove their worth. The Cornhuskers have returned to the Top 25 but face a tough test against the Hoosiers, led by newly appointed coach Curt Cignetti. Indiana quarterback Kurtis Rourke is completing 73.8% of his passes with 14 touchdowns and just two interceptions, showcasing his team’s effective offensive strategy. However, the Nebraska defensive line, featuring Ty Robinson and James Williams, will present a challenge. Meanwhile, Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola has shown potential but still faces struggles with the rush, which could be exploited by Indiana’s Mikail Kamara.

Why it could disappoint: Although Indiana will encounter its toughest opponent yet, their capability to respond to early setbacks could keep them balanced. Conversely, Nebraska’s inconsistent offense could hinder their performance if they start slowly.

No. 21 Michigan at No. 22 Illinois

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

Why watch: This important matchup in the Big Ten features two ranked teams, where the loser is likely to see their postseason dreams dim. Illinois has exceeded expectations but Michigan, the defending champions, cannot afford a third defeat as they adapt to life without Jim Harbaugh. After a brief pause to reassess their quarterback situation, they have turned to Jack Tuttle, who should provide a more effective passing game. Running back Kalel Mullings remains a major threat, but he will face scrutiny from Illinois linebacker Dylan Rosiek. After narrowly escaping a loss to Purdue last week, Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer will aim for an early score.

WR Pat Bryant is making waves and pushing Michigan into a position where they need to make a comeback. The Wolverines’ defensive lineman, Rayshaun Benny, is challenging to move off the line, but he’s going to need more help from those behind him.

Reasons it might fall flat: Illinois seems set to rack up points, yet Michigan’s defense is likely strong enough to prevent a runaway score. This could lead to lengthy periods of low scoring, which at least sets the stage for some nail-biting moments in the fourth quarter.

No. 6 Miami (Fla.) at Louisville

Time/TV: noon ET, ABC.

Why tune in: The ACC has some key games during the early window, but this matchup takes the spotlight. The Hurricanes had a week off to regroup after their eventful trip to Berkeley. Now, they’re on the road again facing the Cardinals, who pulled off a narrow win against Virginia last week and are still in the hunt for the league title. Close games are familiar territory for Miami. QB Cam Ward, although not shy about risks, has stepped up during critical moments. His top targets, WR Xavier Restrepo and RB Damien Martinez, will keep Louisville LB Stanquan Clark and DB M.J. Griffin on their toes. Cardinals QB Tyler Shough has managed to stay injury-free this season, a notable improvement after a series of injuries in his career. Meanwhile, RB Isaac Brown has been a reliable resource on the ground, although Hurricanes LB Francisco Mauigoa and his teammates will aim to disrupt that.

Reasons it might disappoint: Considering how Miami’s past two games have ended, it’s unlikely. The Cardinals have become accustomed to close matches as well, so another thrilling contest could be ahead.

No. 8 LSU at Arkansas

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

Why watch: We’re back in the SEC, where the Tigers can’t afford to rest on their laurels after their comeback against Ole Miss. The Razorbacks started the season poorly but might have found their footing after defeating Tennessee and enjoy a week of rest before this matchup. For the Tigers, it’s encouraging that they managed to pull off a win last week even when QB Garrett Nussmeier was off his game. He’ll need to be on point as Arkansas linebacker Xavian Sorey and DB TJ Metcalf will work hard to contain big plays on the ground. The Razorbacks are optimistic that QB Taylen Green has recuperated from a knee injury suffered late in their victory over Tennessee. If ready, he should leverage RB Ja’Quinden Jackson for significant contributions in running plays. Whichever player takes charge for Arkansas will frequently face LSU LB Whit Weeks.

Why it could underwhelm: Both teams possess considerable talent but also exhibit weaknesses. A series of mistakes could set either team back, but it’s hard to see one team pulling significantly ahead.

No. 11 Notre Dame at Georgia Tech

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

Why take notice: The Fighting Irish are focused on stacking wins to boost their playoff résumé as the season progresses. This has been their aim all along, but their surprising loss to Northern Illinois in Week 2 and the struggles of future opponent Southern California have placed them in a tricky position. The Yellow Jackets, meanwhile, are looking to shake things up in the rankings while trying to secure bowl eligibility ahead of schedule. Fans of Georgia Tech are hopeful that the backfield partnership remains intact, as RB Jamal Haynes stepped up significantly last week with a crucial touchdown against North Carolina after QB Haynes King went down with an apparent arm injury. King is currently day-to-day but aims to return, as he will be essential against LB Jack Kiser and the Notre Dame defense. Fighting Irish QB Riley Leonard has a versatile skill set similar to King’s and isn’t afraid to take chances himself. The effort to keep him contained will be primarily handled by Yellow Jackets LB Kyle Efford.

Why it might disappoint: If King is unable to play, the Yellow Jackets will need to rely on Zach Pyron, a capable backup but one with considerably less experience. Even with that change, Georgia Tech could still put up a fight, but an early surge from Leonard and his team would place immediate pressure on them.