Unmissable College Football Rivalries That Define the Game

College football rivalries are pivotal to the sport, fostering intense competition and fan engagement. Here are some historic rivalries currently facing pivotal moments as the season unfolds.

Endangered Rivalries

USC vs. Notre Dame

The iconic rivalry between the University of Southern California and Notre Dame is at risk. Scheduled until next year, this intersectional matchup may be one of the last played at Notre Dame Stadium. USC has expressed hesitation in continuing the series in its current format due to scheduling conflicts stemming from its new Big Ten membership. Speculation about the future includes relocating games to earlier in the season or even considering neutral sites. This year’s matchup is critical, with both teams needing a victory to solidify their playoff aspirations.

• Status: Endangered
• Current Season: USC (5–1) vs. Notre Dame (2 losses)
• Predicted Score: Notre Dame 38, USC 28

Preserved Rivalries

Tennessee vs. Alabama

This rivalry will continue through 2029 as the SEC has confirmed annual fixtures. The matchup, known as the Third Saturday in October, remains significant for both teams’ playoff hopes. Historically, the winner has advanced to the College Football Playoff nine times in the playoff era.

• Status: Preserved
• Current Season: Both teams have one loss
• Predicted Score: Alabama 31, Tennessee 27

Utah vs. BYU

Known as the Holy War, the rivalry between Utah and BYU is confirmed as an annual event through 2027. The two teams have a complicated history regarding the rivalry’s origin. This year’s clash is crucial as the winner positions itself as a contender for the Big 12 Championship.

• Status: Preserved
• Current Season: Utah (1 loss) vs. BYU (undefeated)
• Predicted Score: Utah 28, BYU 24

Key Matchups to Watch

• Nebraska at Minnesota

  When: 8 p.m. ET Friday. Contender: Nebraska (5–1).

  Line: Nebraska by 7.5. With a penchant for upsets, Minnesota could challenge Nebraska’s momentum.

  Predicted Score: Minnesota 26, Nebraska 24

• Georgia Tech at Duke

  When: Noon ET Saturday. Contender: Georgia Tech (6–0).

  Line: Duke by 1.5. Duke’s turnover game might give them an edge.

  Predicted Score: Georgia Tech 23, Duke 21

• Oklahoma at South Carolina

  When: 12:45 p.m. ET Saturday. Contender: Oklahoma (1 loss).

  Line: Oklahoma by 5.5. Both teams face critical implications for the playoffs.

  Predicted Score: South Carolina 21, Oklahoma 20

• Missouri at Auburn

  When: 7:45 p.m. ET Saturday. Contender: Missouri (5–1).

  Line: Missouri by 1.5. Auburn’s performance against top-ranked teams could play a role.

  Predicted Score: Missouri 20, Auburn 17

As the season progresses, these college football rivalries not only ignite passion among fans but also significantly impact the playoff landscape. With stakes high, every game carries the weight of tradition and hopes for postseason glory.