Week 1 of the NCAA Football season is literally a week away. How exciting is that? It seems like a long time since last season. I mean, it’s been a year since the start of the season, but football, in general, feels like it’s been gone for a while. Maybe it’s that we’ve had such a busy end to winter and summer, but I’m happy to see that it’s return is on the horizon. I won’t drone on too much in my opening today, because I really just want to get to the good stuff – which is – what games should you be watching next week?
Saturday, September 1
Furman vs. Clemson
You should definitely tune in to see the quarterback debut of soon-to-be star Trevor Lawrence, but you’re going to want to stick around for Furman’s quarterback as well. Senior Harris Roberts is actually a student at Clemson, but thanks to a program that allows him to take engineering classes on one campus and play football at another, this game is definitely going to be interesting.
Washington vs. Auburn
This actually might be the best game on the schedule for Week 1. It features two star quarterbacks, All-American candidates on defense, and a crucial matchup for two top-10 programs. Regardless of where the win goes, this will be a big game for both teams. Washington might have more on the line as they are playing for Pac 12 respectability. The league missed the playoffs in the last two seasons, and this might be its best bet to make it this year.
Louisville vs. Alabama
The Cardinals receiver Dez Fitzpatrick stole headlines by bragging that Louisville’s pass-catchers could win any matchup against Alabama’s defense. The thing is, he might be right. The Cardinals have a really good receiving line. That, however, might make Alabama angry. And you know what happens when Nick Saban gets angry.
Sunday, September 2
Miami vs. LSU
Mark Richt has coached his share of games against LSU, but this will be the first time that he’s done it in Miami. The Hurricanes wrapped up last season on a three-game losing streak, but they enter into the 2018 season ranked eighth. This is their best ranking since 2004. Meanwhile, Ed Orgeron desperately needs to get off to a good start, if he wants to avoid questions about his job status. Don’t expect a ton of points in this game as these might be two of the most talented defenses in the country.
Monday, September 3
Virginia Tech vs. Florida State
If Florida State emerges with a win and a healthy starting quarterback, this will be a massive improvement over last season’s opener against Alabama. The final game of opening weekend has a lot to tell us about two teams hoping to compete for an ACC title. Does Willie Taggart’s new culture provide the spark to move on from last year’s debacle of a season? Has Virginia Tech found answers after a brutal offseason of injuries and off-field turmoil? And will any of us be prepared to see our family and friends again after five glorious days of college football viewing?