As college football enters Week 13, several matchups carry significant implications for playoff aspirations and conference titles. Key games include the clash between the **USC Trojans** and the **Oregon Ducks**, as well as the showdown between the **Oklahoma Sooners** and the **Missouri Tigers**. Each contest not only affects rankings but also shapes the narratives for the College Football Playoff.
Oklahoma Sooners vs. Missouri Tigers
The **No. 22 Missouri Tigers** are set to face the **No. 8 Oklahoma Sooners** on **November 25, 2023**, at **12 PM ET** on ABC. For Oklahoma, this game is critical as they look to solidify their playoff position. Recently, they secured a vital victory against fourth-ranked Alabama, putting their playoff hopes on firm ground.
Missouri, with a record of **7-3**, aims to upset Oklahoma’s ambitions. The Tigers thrive on their elite rushing attack, currently ranked among the top 12 in the nation, led by running back **Ahmad Hardy**, who boasts a **92.0 PFF rushing grade**. Contrastingly, Oklahoma’s defense has been formidable against the run, allowing only **2.7 yards after contact** per carry this season. The matchup between Missouri’s rushing offense and Oklahoma’s run defense will be pivotal.
When Oklahoma has the ball, attention shifts to their offensive line against Missouri’s robust defensive front. Oklahoma’s offensive line has excelled in pass protection, but they face a challenge against a Missouri defense that ranks sixth nationally in overall performance. Predictions lean toward a close game, with projections suggesting a narrow win for Oklahoma, likely decided by a few critical plays.
Miami Hurricanes at Virginia Tech Hokies
Another intriguing matchup features the **No. 13 Miami Hurricanes** visiting the **Virginia Tech Hokies** on **November 25, 2023**, at **12 PM ET** on ESPN. Miami sits as the highest-ranked team in the **ACC**, yet their path to the conference championship is complicated. They must not only win their remaining games but also hope for losses from competitors.
Miami’s offensive line has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing the lowest pressure rate in the country at **16.5%**. This will be crucial against Virginia Tech’s pass rush, which ranks **24th** nationally. Conversely, Virginia Tech’s struggling passing game must find ways to penetrate Miami’s improved coverage unit, which currently ranks **12th** in the FBS. Predictions indicate a dominant performance from Miami, capitalizing on their offensive strengths.
SMU Mustangs vs. Louisville Cardinals
The **Louisville Cardinals** will face the **SMU Mustangs** on **November 25, 2023**, at **12 PM ET** on ESPN2. Both teams are **7-3** and have dreams of reaching the **ACC Championship Game**. Louisville’s rushing game, featuring a talented backfield, ranks third nationally in rushing grade. However, they will meet an SMU defense that excels in stopping the run.
When SMU has possession, the strength of their offensive line will be tested against Louisville’s pass rush, which boasts a **91.7 PFF pass-rush grade**, one of the best in college football. Predictions suggest a closely contested game, with SMU’s defensive capabilities giving them the edge.
USC Trojans vs. Oregon Ducks
The **No. 15 USC Trojans** head to **No. 7 Oregon Ducks** on **November 25, 2023**, at **3:30 PM ET** on CBS. This game is seen as a potential playoff elimination match for both teams. USC, with an **8-2** record, must win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Ducks, currently **9-1**, are also vying for a favorable playoff position but might find themselves on the outside looking in if they lose.
USC’s quarterback **Jayden Maiava** leads a potent passing attack, while Oregon’s secondary, boasting a **92.5 PFF coverage grade**, will be key to containing the Trojans’ offensive threats. Predictions favor Oregon, suggesting their physical play will be too much for USC to handle.
Michigan Wolverines at Maryland Terrapins
The **No. 18 Michigan Wolverines** will compete against the **Maryland Terrapins** on **November 25, 2023**, at **4 PM ET** on the Big Ten Network. This matchup is vital for Michigan, who are aiming for a fourth College Football Playoff appearance in five years. Michigan must win this game and their next against Ohio State to secure a playoff spot.
Key players include Michigan’s emerging wide receiver **Andrew Marsh**, who has drastically improved their passing game. Maryland, on the other hand, struggles with its run game, making quarterback **Malik Washington’s** ability to perform under pressure critical. Predictions suggest a solid win for Michigan, positioning them for a dramatic finale against Ohio State.
As the regular season winds down, the stakes have never been higher. Each game not only impacts rankings but also the future of the programs involved, making Week 13 a crucial chapter in the college football narrative.
