As we reach this point in the season, we’d like to remind avid college football fans to keep an eye on the entire scoreboard and prepare to change channels for any exciting twists in lesser-highlighted games. This advice is particularly apt now that we are in Week 5 and conference matchups are on the rise.

In this segment, we aim to assist viewers in selecting the most exciting games from a plethora of choices. Naturally, we will kick things off with the key showpiece of this week, even if there’s an ironic element to it as this match might not carry the usual weight.

No. 1 Georgia at No. 4 Alabama

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

Why watch: It’s Georgia versus Alabama, which is reason enough to tune in. This marks the first top-five clash of the season, set against a playoff-like backdrop in Tuscaloosa. Both teams are eager to secure a victory, though a loss won’t be catastrophic in the grand scheme of things. However, Georgia’s SEC schedule is particularly tough moving forward, implying they might have more at stake. For Alabama, this is the inaugural significant matchup of the Kalen DeBoer era. The Georgia defense has yet to let any opponent score in three games. Quarterback Jalen Milroe, responsible for 14 touchdowns, is set to change that, but both he and running back Jam Miller must capitalize on their opportunities against linebacker CJ Allen and the Bulldogs’ defensive line. Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has not thrown an interception this season but struggled to keep the chains moving during the narrow win against Kentucky two weeks prior. He’ll need to avoid linebacker Que Robinson, the latest in the line of dominant edge rushers for Alabama.

Why it might disappoint: It’s unlikely to do so. The Georgia defense managed to tighten up under pressure last seen against Kentucky, yet they weren’t impenetrable throughout the match, suggesting Alabama could find success moving the ball. The Bulldogs might face the greater challenge in establishing offensive momentum, but the game is unlikely to spiral out of control.

No. 21 Illinois at No. 8 Penn State

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

Why watch: This game has unexpectedly become the highlighted Big Ten match of the week. The Fighting Illini’s recent overtime victory at Nebraska has generated excitement around the Champaign-Urbana area, and a win in Happy Valley would heighten that buzz. This marks the first conference challenge for the Nittany Lions, who faced some resistance from Bowling Green in Week 2 but otherwise had a smooth run through non-conference play. Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer and wide receiver Pat Bryant have quickly formed a strong connection, presenting a significant challenge for defensive back Jaylen Reed and the active secondary of Penn State. Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar is taking more deep shots, but reliable tight end Tyler Warren remains his primary target in crucial situations. Illinois defensive lineman Dennis Briggs, a recent transfer from Florida State, will lead the effort to disrupt their timing.

Why it might disappoint: A tightly contested game in a challenging environment is something the Illini are prepared for, having experienced similar situations before. While the Nittany Lions have faced some challenges, we have yet to see how they respond when needing to come from behind. Thus, while we don’t expect either team to break away significantly, it’s unlikely it will reach the extreme length of the nine-overtime classic from their 2021 matchup at State College.

No. 17 Louisville at No. 14 Notre Dame

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

Why watch: Every match counts for the Fighting Irish, as a second loss would jeopardize their playoff hopes. The Cardinals recently passed their first test in the ACC against Georgia Tech and are now looking to bolster their non-conference resume in South Bend. Notre Dame will also seek revenge after losing to Louisville last season. New Cardinals quarterback Tyler Shough has been nearly perfect this season, throwing eight scoring passes without any interceptions. He has effectively distributed the ball, although wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks has surfaced as the leading target. Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard has had inconsistent passing performance but often avoids pressure with his legs. However, allowing running back Jeremiyah Love to handle more of the rushing duties might ease some tension for fans and coaches alike.

Why it might disappoint: The Cardinals have been hit with injuries, particularly at the receiver position, with Jadon Thompson out for the season due to a knee injury. While there is still depth, defensive back Xavier Watts and the Notre Dame secondary are known for limiting big plays. On a brighter note for Louisville, their clean turnover record greatly benefits their defense if they can maintain it and force the Irish into long drives.

No. 20 Oklahoma State at No. 25 Kansas State

Time/TV: noon ET, ESPN.

Why watch: We shift to the Big 12 with this crucial matchup, as both teams strive to avoid a second consecutive conference loss. The Cowboys were disappointed to lose their league opener to favored Utah.

It was a disappointing performance for the home supporters, but not entirely unexpected. The Wildcats’ lack of effort at Brigham Young caught more people off guard, and now both teams must refocus, with particular attention on the quarterback position. Oklahoma State’s Alan Bowman managed to orchestrate a couple of late scoring drives but needs to engage playmakers like WR Brennan Presley earlier in the game. On the other hand, K-State’s Avery Johnson has struggled with accuracy and will need to establish some deep connections to ensure that RB DJ Giddens has running lanes available.

Why it could disappoint: A sluggish start could lead either team to struggle. Although it shouldn’t be an issue for the seasoned Cowboys, the Wildcats also seldom have two consecutive poor outings.

Arizona at No. 10 Utah

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

Why watch: Now positioned as the favorites in the Big 12, the Utes return to their home turf to face off against one of their former Pac-12 adversaries. The Wildcats currently have a perfect conference record—since their loss to Kansas State in Week 3 doesn’t count—so an upset victory in Salt Lake City could significantly alter the landscape. The status of Utes QB Cam Rising remains uncertain, although backup Isaac Wilson managed to hold his own in Oklahoma State, largely relying on veteran RB Micah Bernard. The Wildcats had a bye week last week and are hoping that QB Noah Fifita has reestablished his form after a tough performance in the “Little Apple.”

Why it could disappoint: Utah has a tendency to win games in a grinding fashion. While this style might not be visually appealing, Utes fans wouldn’t mind if their team quickly nullifies any suspense.

Stanford at No. 15 Clemson

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

Why watch: The Cardinal’s inaugural journey across the country in the ACC went well as they secured a narrow victory against Syracuse last Friday night. This upcoming challenge in Death Valley is expected to be much tougher, as the Tigers seem to have regained their confidence after their defeat by Georgia in Week 1. Clemson QB Cade Klubnik has experienced more success in stretching the field during his last two matches, which has subsequently helped RB Phil Mafah find more space to run. However, he’ll need to be cautious of Cardinal DB Mitch Leigber, whose critical pick-six was pivotal in the win over the Orange. QB Ashton Daniels and WR Elic Ayomanor have emerged as reliable performers for Stanford but will face a tough matchup against LB Sammy Brown and Clemson’s active defense.

Why it could disappoint: While Stanford has remained competitive in all their games, including their Week 1 loss to TCU, Clemson is likely to have a substantial talent advantage in the line of scrimmage and a significant home-field advantage against a fatigued opponent.

Washington State at Boise State

Time/TV: 10 p.m. ET, FS1.

Why watch: We cap off the evening with what could be seen as the return of #Pac12AfterDark, featuring these two teams that will soon be conference rivals. The victor will likely enter the Top 25 next week and could also gain a crucial win for future considerations by the committee. Each team boasts a potential star player. Cougars QB John Mateer has accrued 16 total touchdowns and over 1,500 yards of offense. He’s not hesitant to run when necessary, but WR Kyle Williams adds depth to a strong receiving unit. The Broncos’ standout threat is RB Ashton Jeanty, who saw limited action in last week’s game against Portland State and should be ready for a heavier workload. He often benefits from support from QB Maddux Madsen.

Why it could disappoint: Neither defense has consistently excelled, which makes a one-sided matchup unlikely. If you can stay awake after an eventful day of football, this game is worth sacrificing some sleep for.