Top 24 Must-Watch Games for the 2024 College Football Season
As the 2024 college football season approaches, fans are gearing up for some exhilarating matchups. From historic rivalries to titanic clashes with playoff implications, these games are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are the Top 24 Must-Watch Games you absolutely cannot miss.
Early-Season Blockbusters
Kickstart the season with these electrifying early games that set the tone for the months to come.
1. Alabama vs. Miami
Why Watch: Two powerhouse programs collide in a game that promises intense action and could influence early playoff rankings.
2. Ohio State vs. Notre Dame
Why Watch: A clash of titans that could serve as a preview of the College Football Playoff. Both teams look to cement their dominance.
3. Georgia vs. Clemson
Why Watch: When you pit an elite SEC team against an ACC juggernaut, sparks are bound to fly. Expect a battle down to the wire.
Mid-Season Showdowns
The mid-section of the season features games that could make or break a team’s playoff aspirations.
4. LSU vs. Florida
Why Watch: Always a thriller, this SEC matchup often carries significant implications for the conference standings.
5. Texas vs. Oklahoma (Red River Showdown)
Why Watch: One of the most storied rivalries in college football, the Red River Showdown is a must-watch for any fan of the sport.
6. Michigan vs. Penn State
Why Watch: A clash in the Big Ten that could determine who reigns supreme in the conference, with both teams eyeing the playoff.
Rivalry Week Extravaganza
Rivalry Week is arguably the most anticipated week in the college football season, filled with games that define legacies.
7. Alabama vs. Auburn (Iron Bowl)
Why Watch: The Iron Bowl never disappoints, offering high stakes and even higher drama.
8. Ohio State vs. Michigan
Why Watch: Known simply as “The Game,” this rivalry is one of the most intense and consequential in college football history.
9. USC vs. UCLA
Why Watch: The battle for Los Angeles brings unparalleled excitement, making it a must-watch game every season.
Late-Season Battles with Playoff Implications
The closing weeks of the season often feature games that can make or break playoff dreams. Don’t miss these pivotal showdowns.
10. Oregon vs. Washington
Why Watch: A pivotal Pac-12 clash where both teams look to secure their spot in the playoff conversation.
11. Texas A&M vs. LSU
Why Watch: This SEC showdown could determine who gets a shot at the conference title and potentially, a playoff spot.
12. Clemson vs. South Carolina
Why Watch: The Palmetto Bowl is a major rivalry game with significant implications for Clemson’s postseason hopes.
Underdog Stories and Potential Upsets
Everyone loves a good underdog story. These games offer potential upsets that could shake up the rankings.
13. Boise State vs. BYU
Why Watch: A non-Power Five clash that has the potential for an upset, making it a game to keep an eye on.
14. UCF vs. Cincinnati
Why Watch: Both teams are looking to make a name for themselves in the national conversation, making this a thrilling contest.
15. SMU vs. Memphis
Why Watch: Known for high-scoring affairs, this game could feature the kind of upset that grabs headlines across the nation.
Marquee Matchups to Circle on Your Calendar
These games are the headliners that everyone will be talking about.
16. Florida State vs. Miami
Why Watch: An ACC showdown with a fierce rivalry that consistently delivers unforgettable moments.
17. Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State (Bedlam)
Why Watch: The Bedlam Series is a staple of the college football landscape, known for its intensity and unpredictability.
18. Wisconsin vs. Iowa
Why Watch: A Big Ten battle where strong defenses and strategic play could decide the conference’s fate.
Games That Could Define the Season
These matchups hold the potential to define the 2024 college football season, setting the stage for who makes it to the playoff.
19. Georgia vs. Florida (The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party)
Why Watch: This game often has significant implications for the SEC East and is known for its high-energy atmosphere.
20. Michigan State vs. Michigan
Why Watch: A bitter in-state rivalry that can disrupt playoff paths and conference standings alike.
21. Penn State vs. Ohio State
Why Watch: A potential decider for the Big Ten East Division, this game is often a heavyweight showdown.
Don’t Miss These Closing Season Thrillers
As the season winds down, these games promise to bring excitement and decide who moves forward into the postseason.
22. Texas vs. Baylor
Why Watch: A late-season Big 12 matchup that could influence the conference title race.
23. USC vs. Notre Dame
Why Watch: An intersectional rivalry that has national significance, often affecting playoff rankings.
24. Alabama vs. LSU
Why Watch: Another heavyweight SEC clash, where national title hopes are always on the line.
The 2024 college football season promises to be a roller-coaster ride of emotion and excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a specific team or simply love the sport, these top 24 must-watch games are guaranteed to provide all the thrills and spills you crave. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable season!