Must-Watch College Football Games in October with High Playoff Stakes

As October approaches, the intensity of college football heats up, particularly for teams vying for spots in the coveted College Football Playoff (CFP). Following a thrilling September filled with competitive nonconference clashes and the much-anticipated SEC showdown between Georgia and Alabama, we now pivot toward critical October matchups that could define the playoff landscape.

Here's a breakdown of four categories of games that promise to have a substantial impact on the race for the playoff. These include matchups with massive implications for both teams, "sneaky important" games that might surprise, potential playoff elimination encounters, and contests featuring playoff hopefuls against teams with the power to disrupt their plans.

This October, mark your calendars for these eight critical games—two from each category—that could reshape the playoff picture.

Games with Massive Implications

1. **Ohio State at Oregon - October 12** This promising showdown features No. 3 Ohio State (4-0) against No. 6 Oregon (4-0). The last time they met in 2021, Oregon triumphed with a decisive rushing performance. Transitioning into the Big Ten, both teams now boast star quarterbacks with Ohio State's Will Howard and Oregon's Dillon Gabriel leading the charge. This game isn't just about the playoff race; it has the potential to set the tone for the Big Ten championship chase as well.

2. **Georgia at Texas - October 19** Another blockbuster comes when No. 2 Georgia (3-1) takes on No. 5 Texas (5-0) in a matchup that fans and analysts alike are eager to watch. After falling to Alabama, Georgia can’t afford another loss if they hope to secure a spot in the SEC championship. Conversely, Texas, hot off their matchup against Oklahoma the week prior, could virtually lock in their playoff slot with two consecutive victories.

Sneaky Important Matchups

1. **Nebraska at Indiana - October 19** Both Nebraska (4-1) and Indiana (5-0) are poised to make a run for a bowl berth. The stakes are particularly high as Nebraska seeks its first bowl since 2016, while Indiana looks to secure only its second seven-win season since 2007. Expect a thrilling duel between Indiana's senior quarterback Kurtis Rourke and Nebraska's freshman sensation Dylan Raiola.

2. **Boise State at UNLV - October 25** This clash in Las Vegas sees ranked teams No. 25 UNLV (4-0) and No. 21 Boise State (3-1) battling for supremacy in the Group of 5 ranks. Both squads are treating their respective conference schedules as a ticket to the Mountain West Championship, and a strong performance here could signal their playoff candidacy. Pay attention to UNLV's impressive momentum and Boise's leading rusher Ashton Jeanty.

Possible Eliminators

1. **Kansas State at Colorado - October 12** The historic rivalry rekindles as Colorado (4-1) faces off against Kansas State (4-1). The stakes are high for both teams, with a loss threatening their playoff aspirations. Keep your eyes on standout players like Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado against Avery Johnson of Kansas State.

2. **Oklahoma at Ole Miss - October 26** This potential elimination game will see two seasoned programs—each bearing a loss—face one another in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. With Oklahoma's Michael Hawkins showcasing impressive comebacks and Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart orchestrating an explosive offense, expect fireworks.

Upset Alerts

1. **Iowa State at West Virginia - October 12** No. 16 Iowa State (4-0) faces a tough challenge away against West Virginia (2-2), known for their resilience and impressive home performance history. The Cyclones will need every bit of their top-notch defense to secure victory in a place where they have historically faced struggles.

2. **Florida State at Miami - October 26** Florida State (1-4) has endured a rough start, but the chance to upset No. 8 Miami (5-0) could provide a much-needed spark. FSU's recent history shows they thrive in rivalry matchups, having won the last three against the Hurricanes.

In summary, October is a month brimming with potential surprises and shifts in the college football landscape. As playoff aspirations hang in the balance, fans will want to keep a close watch on these electrifying games. Which teams will seize their moment, and which will fall short? Only time will tell!