College Football Week 1: intriguing Matchups and Early Season Storylines
Week 1 of the college football season is here, promising a thrilling kickoff to the 2024 campaign. Several games stand out, offering compelling narratives and potential upsets. Let’s dive into some key contests and lower-level showdowns you won’t want to miss.
Power Conference Highlights
South Carolina at Vanderbilt (Noon, SEC Network)
this SEC opener presents a engaging test for South Carolina. They boast a revamped offense led by quarterback Kyron drones and a host of new skill position players. Currently,South Carolina is favored by 8 points,while analytical projections suggest a 9.1-point victory for the Gamecocks (SP+) and a 5.6-point win (FPI). you should expect a competitive game, but South Carolina’s potential is notable.
TCU at North Carolina (8 p.m., ESPN)
Bill Belichick‘s debut as North Carolina’s head coach is generating considerable buzz. Though, the Tar Heels appear to be a work in progress talent-wise. Offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens’ approach with quarterback Gio lopez will be closely watched. TCU, meanwhile, has a history of defying expectations. they’ve swung wildly between national contention and disappointing seasons in recent years.Currently, TCU is a 3-point favorite, but SP+ projects a 5-point TCU win, while FPI leans towards a narrow 2.1-point victory for the Horned Frogs. Don’t be surprised if Belichick’s team pulls off an early upset.
Smaller-School Showcase: Don’t Overlook These Games
The beauty of college football extends far beyond the Power Five conferences. Here are three games from the lower divisions that deserve your attention:
FCS: No. 22 Richmond at No. 15 Lehigh (noon, ESPN+)
This Patriot League clash features two strong defenses. Lehigh,the reigning champion,boasts an outstanding pass rush led by Matt Spatny. Richmond, however, counters with a projected top-15 defense, anchored by linebacker Carter Glassmyer. SP+ gives Lehigh a slight edge, predicting a 1-point victory.
NAIA: No. 4 Morningside at No. 3 Benedictine (2 p.m., local streaming)
The NAIA season kicks off with a heavyweight bout. Three-time national champion Morningside visits Benedictine, a team that reached the semifinals last year and previously defeated Morningside in a thrilling Week 1 contest. This game promises explosive offense and intense competition.SP+ favors Morningside by 4.6 points.FCS: No. 14 Sacramento State at No. 3 south Dakota State (7 p.m., ESPN+)
This matchup presents a compelling question about the impact of the transfer portal at the FCS level. Sacramento State has welcomed 40 transfers, including over 30 from FBS programs, under new coach Brennan Marion. South Dakota State, though, is navigating its third head coaching change in four years and has seen 21 players transfer to FBS programs.
Will the influx of talent propel Sacramento State to success? Or will South Dakota State’s established culture and continuity prevail? SP+ projects a significant 15.9-point victory for South Dakota State.
These Week 1 games offer a diverse range of storylines and competitive matchups. From Power Five showdowns to intriguing lower-division contests, ther’s something for every college football fan to enjoy. You can expect a week filled with excitement, surprises, and a glimpse into the potential of the 2024 season.
