As we enter Week 4 of the college football season, many of the upcoming games will have real implications for conference standings. Alongside several crucial early league matchups, there are also a handful of non-conference games that promise to keep fans entertained from Friday night to early Sunday morning. Highlighting the weekend will be major teams making their debuts in new conferences.

Once again, we aim to spotlight the most intriguing matchups. While we can’t cover every game, keep an eye out for unexpected surprises that arise.

Here are our picks for the top seven games of the weekend.

No. 7 Tennessee at No. 13 Oklahoma

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

Why watch: This highly anticipated SEC matchup marks the Sooners’ formal introduction to the conference as they take on the Volunteers. Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel returns to his alma mater, adding to the stakes. The Volunteers have been performing well, thanks to significant contributions from QB Nico Iamaleava and RB Dylan Sampson. Defensively, the Sooners, led by LB Danny Stutsman, will aim to provide solid resistance, but they could use some offensive production from QB Jackson Arnold, who impressed last week against Tulane. He will need to keep an eye on Tennessee DB Will Brooks, who recently made a notable interception.

Why it could disappoint: Tennessee appears to have the upper hand, which could make this game lopsided. The Oklahoma defense might be tougher than what the Volunteers have faced so far, but if the Sooners struggle to score, it could escalate quickly for them.

No. 12 Southern California at No. 17 Michigan

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

Why watch: The Trojans officially start their period in the Big Ten at Michigan Stadium, facing a Wolverines team still trying to establish itself after the Harbaugh era. Following a bye week, USC should be well-rested for this long trip. QB Miller Moss will have to contend with Michigan’s strong defensive line, led by Josaiah Stewart and Rayshaun Benny. Meanwhile, the Wolverines’ offense has been inconsistent, and freshman QB Alex Orji will take the reins after being named the starter over Davis Warren. He’ll face a revamped Trojans defense featuring standout LBs Eric Gentry and Easton Mascarenas-Arnold.

Why it could disappoint: Given Michigan’s offensive struggles, it’s unlikely they will resolve all issues by game time. If USC manages to build an early lead, this game could mirror their previous encounter with Texas.

No. 10 Utah at No. 15 Oklahoma State

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

Why watch: This matchup kicks off the Big 12 schedule for both teams and could foreshadow a future conference title game, even amidst a crowded field of contenders in the ‘Oversized Dozen.’ A crucial factor will be whether Utah QB Cam Rising returns from a hand injury that kept him out last week. If Rising isn’t available, backup Isaac Wilson will need to step up. The Cowboys, featuring DE Obi Ezeigbo and LB Nick Martin, will aim to disrupt the Utes’ offense. Oklahoma State, led by QB Alan Bowman or RB Ollie Gordon II, can score through both the air and ground. Meanwhile, Utah’s DE Van Fillinger is a key defensive player who could impact any play call.

Why it could disappoint: If Rising does play, both teams possess strong defenses that might lead to a tense, lower-scoring affair. However, it’s likely that neither team will pull away significantly, maintaining high tension throughout the game.

Illinois at No. 23 Nebraska

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

Why watch: While labeling any game as a must-win at this point is premature, both teams are eager to secure a victory in their first Big Ten contest. As they continue rebuilding for bowl eligibility, this game becomes important for both programs. The Fighting Illini’s best win has come against a Kansas team that has struggled lately, while the value of Nebraska’s win over Colorado remains questionable. Illinois QB Luke Altmyer, who transferred from Ole Miss, has been careful with the football, with WR Pat Bryant as his main target, possibly facing off against Nebraska’s CB Tommy Hill. At the same time, Nebraska’s freshman QB Dylan Raiola has had a solid start, spreading the ball effectively but needs to avoid Illini LB Gabe Jacas for success.

Why it could disappoint: With Illinois boasting a strong plus-8 turnover margin, there’s potential for the game to lean heavily in their favor. However, Raiola and the Cornhuskers have been careful with ball security so far.

The Cornhuskers will likely be able to steer clear of mistakes in a more supportive setting.

North Carolina State at No. 19 Clemson

Time/TV: Saturday, noon ET, ABC.

Why You Should Watch: This matchup was highlighted as one of the significant early contests in the ACC, and it’s even more crucial now as both teams, initially ranked, are already sitting with one loss. Though those losses came against top-10 SEC teams and are understandable, both squads are now looking for a win against a high-level opponent. The Tigers found their rhythm with a surprisingly straightforward victory over Appalachian State, thanks in part to freshman wide receiver Bryant Wesco, who became the deep threat that quarterback Cade Klubnik needed. This development will likely attract the attention of NC State’s key cornerback, Aydan White, who should return after missing a game due to an undisclosed injury. The Wolfpack offense has yet to hit its stride and will head to Death Valley without starting quarterback Grayson McCall, also sidelined with an undisclosed injury. Freshman CJ Bailey stepped in admirably, helping the NC State secure a comeback win against Louisiana Tech. However, facing the Clemson defense will be a more significant challenge, even with Tigers’ defensive tackle Peter Woods listed as day-to-day.

Why It Might Disappoint: Several scenarios could lead to disappointment. Clemson’s offense could revert to the stagnant predictability that hampered its performance in the first week. Meanwhile, the Wolfpack may face bigger challenges starting a new quarterback. A significant turnaround for either side would likely be problematic.

No. 11 Miami (Fla.) at South Florida

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

Why You Should Watch: The Hurricanes have established themselves as the frontrunners in the ACC. However, before they begin their conference journey, they face a potentially tough road game against the Bulls, who recently gave Alabama a hard-fought battle and aim to make an impact in the American Athletic Conference. USF linebacker Mac Harris and the defense managed to keep Alabama’s Jalen Milroe under control for over three quarters, which provides some optimism as they prepare for a similar challenge posed by Miami quarterback Cam Ward. South Florida quarterback Byrum Brown brings his own set of skills as a dual-threat player, but Miami linebacker Francisco Mauigoa will keep a close watch on him.

Why It Might Disappoint: Miami might simply outclass their opponents. The Bulls’ defense is decent, but it may struggle to hold up for the entire 60 minutes, especially if the offense fails to maintain possession effectively.

No. 14 Kansas State at Brigham Young

Time/TV: Saturday, 10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

Why You Should Watch: This time slot is synonymous with unpredictable events, so expect the signature #Big12AfterDark atmosphere. The Wildcats had a clear victory against Arizona last week, which did not impact the league standings; thus, this trip represents their first official Big 12 game. The Cougars, now in their second year in the Big 12, are hoping for improved performance in this cycle. BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff is known for his mixed results—he has seven touchdown passes but can also turn the ball over. He will need to limit mistakes against linebacker Austin Romaine and a solid Kansas State defense. The Wildcats’ backfield duo of quarterback Avery Johnson and running back DJ Giddens leads an impressive ground attack, averaging seven yards per carry. BYU’s linebackers Harrison Taggart and Jack Kelly will be crucial in trying to contain this rushing threat.

Why It Might Disappoint: With all due respect to the ACC newcomer SMU, this is the Cougars’ first significant matchup with top-caliber competition. Meanwhile, Kansas State’s last road game was a narrow victory at Tulane, suggesting this matchup won’t be a straightforward win.