Week 7 of the college football season is shaping up to be a wild spectacle. There are a record 13 games featured in the preview, which is honestly a lot to keep track of.
This week promises high-stakes matchups, fierce rivalries, and games that might shake up the playoff picture. From top-10 showdowns to conference battles that matter, there’s just so much to dig into.
Let’s dive into some of the key storylines, matchups, and a few predictions for the biggest games this week. Buckle up—it’s going to be a ride.
Top-10 Showdown: Indiana vs. Oregon
The big headliner for Week 7 has to be Indiana vs. Oregon. Both teams are sitting in the top 10, so this one feels like a must-watch with major Big Ten title implications.
Indiana’s Offensive Firepower
Indiana’s hopes really rest on quarterback Fernando Mendoza. When Mendoza’s got time, he’s actually one of the most efficient passers in the country—a 91.6 PFF grade when kept clean is no joke.
But, and it’s a big but, things get shaky for him when the pressure’s on. That’s something to watch against Oregon.
Oregon’s Defensive Strategy
Oregon’s defense leans more on its secondary than its pass rush. The Ducks are just 63rd in team PFF pass-rush grade and 53rd in pressure rate, which is pretty middle-of-the-pack.
If they’re going to rattle Mendoza, they might need to blitz more. Right now, their blitz rate is only 34.3%, putting them at 79th in the FBS. Maybe that changes this week?
Ohio State vs. Illinois: A Defensive Battle
Ohio State, the reigning champs, head out for a tough road test at top-20 Illinois. The Buckeyes have been dominant on both sides, leading the nation in points allowed and sitting fourth in offensive PFF grade.
Ohio State’s Defensive Dominance
The Buckeyes’ defense is about as stingy as it gets—just five points per game allowed. Their secondary, with guys like Caleb Downs, is top 20 in PFF coverage grade.
That unit is going to have its hands full trying to contain Illinois QB Luke Altmyer. Altmyer, for what it’s worth, hasn’t handled pressure all that well.
Illinois’ Offensive Challenges
Illinois has had some bright spots, especially in that win over USC. Still, the offensive line has been a bit of a rollercoaster, and Altmyer gets sacked too often when he hangs onto the ball.
For Illinois, quick passes and better pass protection will be absolutely key against Ohio State’s tough pass rush.
Alabama vs. Missouri: A Clash of Styles
Alabama is trying to keep its hot streak alive with a third straight win over a ranked opponent. This time, it’s against undefeated Missouri—so, yeah, this one feels big.
It’s a real contrast in styles: Alabama’s passing game versus Missouri’s dominant ground attack.
Alabama’s Aerial Assault
Quarterback Ty Simpson has been thriving when his line gives him time. Alabama’s offensive line actually ranks 10th in PFF pass-blocking grade, which sure helps.
Keep an eye on those tackles—they’ll have their hands full with Missouri’s edge rushers, Damon Wilson II and Zion Young. Those two are leading the SEC in pressures.
Missouri’s Ground Game
Missouri’s rushing attack is the best in the country, and it’s not really close. Ahmad Hardy is the guy to watch—he leads the FBS in rushing yards, yards after contact, and forced missed tackles.
Alabama’s run defense? It’s been rough, ranking 116th in yards per attempt allowed. If the Tide can’t slow down Hardy, things could get dicey.
Texas vs. Oklahoma: The Red River Rivalry
The Red River Rivalry is back, and Texas is desperate for a win to keep its playoff hopes alive. Oklahoma wants to stay perfect, even without its starting quarterback.
Texas’ Defensive Edge
Texas has built its defense around stopping the run, sitting at fifth in PFF run-defense grade. The plan? Shut down Oklahoma’s ground game and force backup QB Michael Hawkins Jr. to throw.
Hawkins hasn’t looked super comfortable airing it out yet, so this could be a real test for him.
Oklahoma’s Defensive Strength
Oklahoma’s defensive line has been a real force, led by David Stone and R Mason Thomas. They’re 21st in PFF grade and second in sacks nationwide.
They’ll be coming after Texas QB Arch Manning, who’s already been under plenty of pressure behind a shaky offensive line.
Notre Dame vs. N.C. State: A Crucial Contest
Notre Dame can’t afford another loss if it wants to stay in the playoff race. This week’s matchup with N.C. State is a legit challenge, especially since the Wolfpack already knocked off a top-20 team this year.
Notre Dame’s Ground Game
The Irish have leaned into their rushing attack lately, with Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price leading the way. Even though the run-blocking hasn’t been amazing, they’ve still found ways to move the ball on the ground.
That’ll be important against an N.C. State defense that’s really solid against the run. Should be interesting to see which side blinks first.
N.C. State’s Offensive Strategy
The Wolfpack are going to lean hard on their star running back, Hollywood Smothers. He’s their best bet to chew up the clock and keep Notre Dame’s offense sitting on the sideline.
Smothers is second in the Power Four for rushing yards and explosive runs. Honestly, if there’s one player to keep your eyes on, it’s him.
For a detailed preview and predictions for all 13 games, check out the full article on PFF.
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