10 Overlooked November Games Shaping the College Football Playoff

Bassyonni

ago 7 hours

The College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape will be significantly influenced by results in November. While prominent rivalries like Michigan vs. Ohio State and Texas vs. Texas A&M command attention, several lesser-known games could also play crucial roles in determining playoff contenders. Below is a look at ten overlooked November games that may shape the CFP picture.

10 Overlooked November Games Shaping the College Football Playoff

Georgia Tech at NC State – Nov. 1

Georgia Tech: 8-0, 5-0 ACC
NC State: 4-4, 1-3 ACC

The Yellow Jackets, powered by quarterback Haynes King, have shown formidable offensive prowess with a mixture of effective running and agility on the field. In contrast, NC State struggles defensively, yielding 4.09 yards per carry. This matchup in Raleigh could lead to unexpected outcomes.

Virginia at California – Nov. 1

Virginia: 7-1, 4-0 ACC
California: Unknown record

This is the inaugural face-off between these two ACC teams. While Virginia maintains a strong record, its recent games have been narrow victories. The long trip across the country to California presents a significant challenge.

Texas Tech at Kansas State – Nov. 1

Texas Tech: 7-1, 4-1 Big 12
Kansas State: 4-4, 3-2 Big 12

Texas Tech has been dominant, scoring 349 points, but faces a resilient Kansas State team that recently sprung back to life with consecutive wins. This clash could be vital for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Auburn at Vanderbilt – Nov. 8

Vanderbilt: 7-1, 3-1 SEC
Auburn: 4-4, 1-4 SEC

Vanderbilt, enjoying a Cinderella season, faces Auburn in what could be a letdown game. The Tigers seek to disrupt Vanderbilt’s momentum and refocus their ambitions in the SEC.

Notre Dame at Pittsburgh – Nov. 15

Notre Dame: 5-2
Pittsburgh: 6-2, 4-1 ACC

Historically dominant against Pittsburgh, Notre Dame encounters a formidable opponent this time. Both teams possess explosive offenses, making this match pivotal for CFP considerations.

Florida at Ole Miss – Nov. 15

Florida: 3-4, 2-2 SEC
Ole Miss: 7-1, 4-1 SEC

Florida, despite its struggles this season, has the potential to upset No. 7 Ole Miss, especially considering their history of thwarting playoff ambitions. Coach Lane Kiffin is under scrutiny regarding his future, adding another layer of intrigue.

South Carolina at Texas A&M – Nov. 15

South Carolina: Unknown record
Texas A&M: 8-0, 5-0 SEC

South Carolina has faced tough competition this season, with five losses to ranked teams. However, with quarterback LaNorris Sellers, they could pull off an upset against a strong Texas A&M team.

Iowa at USC – Nov. 15

Iowa: 6-2, 4-1 Big Ten
USC: 5-2, 3-1 Pac-12

This game highlights contrasting styles: Iowa’s strong defense against USC’s potent offense. Both teams aim to solidify their playoff chances, making this matchup critical.

BYU at Cincinnati – Nov. 22

BYU: 10th in rankings
Cincinnati: 17th in rankings

This clash features two teams vying for Big 12 supremacy. Their comparative statistics suggest a closely contested battle, important for conference standings and playoff qualifications.

Oregon at Washington – Nov. 29

Oregon: 6th in rankings
Washington: Unknown record

The Oregon-Washington rivalry is set to showcase high-caliber offenses. The victor likely strengthens their CFP bid, making this game a thrilling conclusion to the regular season.

These November matchups not only affect conference standings but may also prove pivotal in the quest for the College Football Playoff. Each game carries significant weight for the teams involved.