College Football Week 13: Key Matchups and Playoff Implications

As the college football season approaches its climax, Week 13 promises an array of critical matchups that could reshape playoff dreams for several teams. Notable games on the schedule include the clash between the USC Trojans and Oregon Ducks, as well as the Oklahoma Sooners hosting the Missouri Tigers. With playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, these encounters are set to deliver high-stakes excitement.

Oklahoma’s Season on the Line Against Missouri

The No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners face the No. 22 Missouri Tigers at noon ET on ABC, a game that could determine the trajectory of Oklahoma’s playoff ambitions. After a significant victory over Alabama, the Sooners must maintain momentum against a formidable Missouri squad that boasts a 7-3 record.

Oklahoma’s playoff hopes hinge on winning their remaining home games against Missouri and LSU. Missouri’s rushing attack poses a significant challenge, ranking among the top 12 in the nation. Ahmad Hardy, the Tigers’ standout running back, has forced 71 missed tackles and holds a top-three national ranking with a 92.0 rushing grade. Oklahoma’s defense, known for its tackling prowess, will need to contain Hardy to secure a victory.

On the other side of the ball, Oklahoma’s offensive line faces a stiff test against Missouri’s defensive front, which ranks fifth nationally in defensive line grade. If Oklahoma can find success in their run game, they could control the clock and keep Missouri’s explosive offense at bay.

Predictions for the game vary, with one analyst forecasting a narrow win for Oklahoma at 21-17, while another anticipates a slightly wider margin, projecting a 24-20 victory.

Miami’s ACC Hopes Hang in the Balance

At noon ET on ESPN, the Miami Hurricanes travel to face the struggling Virginia Tech Hokies. Currently, Miami is the highest-ranked team in the ACC but must win out to have a chance at the conference championship. The Hurricanes, sitting at 8-2, require additional help from other teams to reach the title game in Charlotte.

Miami’s offensive line, which has allowed pressure on just 16.5% of dropbacks this season, will be crucial in allowing quarterback Carson Beck time to execute plays against Virginia Tech’s 24th-ranked pass rush. Meanwhile, Virginia Tech’s offense must find a way to overcome Miami’s vastly improved coverage unit, which now ranks 12th in the FBS.

Analysts predict a decisive win for Miami, with scores ranging from 38-14 to 28-13, reflecting confidence in the Hurricanes’ ability to exploit Virginia Tech’s vulnerabilities.

Key Showdowns Impacting Playoff Futures

The Louisville Cardinals will face the SMU Mustangs, also at noon ET on ESPN2. SMU, with a 7-3 record, remains in contention for the ACC Championship Game, needing to secure victories in their remaining contests. Louisville’s strong rushing attack, ranked third nationally, will be tested against SMU’s formidable run defense, which boasts the second-highest PFF run-defense grade.

Later in the day, the highly anticipated match between the No. 15 USC Trojans and No. 7 Oregon Ducks will kick off at 3:30 PM ET on CBS. This clash not only has playoff implications but also features two teams that must secure wins to bolster their playoff resumes. USC, with an 8-2 record, needs to win its final two games to have a shot at the College Football Playoff.

As the season enters its final stretch, these pivotal matchups in Week 13 will undoubtedly shape the playoff landscape, with teams vying for a coveted spot in the postseason. Each game is laden with significance, promising thrilling football for fans and high stakes for the players involved.