September 2, 2021
CFB InsiderCollege Football is BACK!
Top Games to Watch in Week One
It’s FINALLY Week One for the Big 12 and SEC! Per usual, there are a lot snooze fest matchups as teams boost their confidence (and attempt to avoid an upset) to start off the year. However, there are a few buzz-worthy games we will definitely be tuning into this weekend.
Keep reading for our top three Big 12 and SEC matchups to watch this weekend and respond to the CFB Insider post on @TexasBowl Twitter to share which games YOU will be watching and why.
Big 12 Games to Watch in Week One
1. (23) Louisiana vs (21) Texas: The Ragin’ Cajuns have proven that they are not to be underestimated with a Big 12 upset over Iowa State in 2020. Their performance earned them top 25 honors in the preseason polls and they have Texas in their sites with a chip on their shoulder as the little guys with a lot to prove. We’re excited to watch running back Chris Smith and quarterback Levi Lewis as they team up to see what they can do against Texas in Week One. The Ragin’ Cajuns aren’t the only ones with a lot to prove. This will be the first true test of the Steve Sarkisian era. How will the Longhorns fair with a top 25 match-up to start the season?
2. Kansas State vs Stanford: The Wildcats face off against the Cardinal for the first time since 2016 to start off the 2021. While this isn’t quite the top 25 match-up you were necessarily looking for in Week One, this game could do a lot to set the tone for the Big 12 in 2021. K-State looks to prove they deserve to be in the mix at the top of the Big 12 with a returning senior quarter back in Skylar Thompson and running back Deuce Vaughn after a breakout year. They will have to fight past Standford who is coming off of four consecutive wins to close out the 2020 season with a star running back of their own in sophomore Austin Jones.
3. Texas Tech vs Houston: Once again, while this matchup might not have top AP Poll rankings, this will be a fun one as two Texas teams face off in what could potentially be a season defining start for both programs in the Good Sam Texas Kickoff in Houston. The Texas Tech coaching staff has not received raving reviews after their past few seasons, but the Red Raiders did some major work in the transfer portal and look to make a statement with a new QB1 in Oregon transfer Tyler Shough. Houston’s squad is poised for a breakout season under coach Dana Holgersen’s attack as he returns eight key starters along with a few transfers—including Texas Tech transfer and Ta’Zawn Henry. Who doesn’t love a good revenge game against old teammates?
SEC Games to Watch in Week One
1. (5) Georgia vs (3) Clemson:
2. (14) Miami vs (1) Alabama:
3. LSU vs UCLA: