College Football Week 7: Expert Picks, Projections, and Hidden Gems
Week 7 of the college football season promises a compelling mix of Power Five showdowns and intriguing matchups in the lower divisions. Let’s dive into the games you need to watch, backed by insightful analysis and key projections. We’ll cover everything from potential upsets to exciting smaller-school contests, giving you the edge you need to enjoy the action.
Power Five Focus
Virginia at Wake forest (noon, ACC Network)
Virginia has shown resilience, allowing 59 points in two games but holding opponents to a respectable 12.5 points per game in their other four contests.The Hoos appear poised to handle this matchup, though, Wake Forest nearly pulled off a stunning upset against Ole Miss last week.
* Current Line: UVA -17.5
* SP+ Projection: UVA by 13.8
* FPI Projection: UVA by 18.9
Florida Atlantic at No. 19 USF (7:30 p.m., ESPNU)
this game is shaping up to be the fastest-paced contest of the week. USF and Florida Atlantic both prioritize a quick tempo, ranking first and third respectively in seconds per play. Four of FAU’s games have already featured combined scores exceeding 66 points, suggesting a high-scoring affair even if USF dominates.
* Current Line: USF -21.5
* SP+ Projection: USF by 17.4
* FPI Projection: USF by 19.6
Florida State at Stanford (10:30 p.m., ESPN)
Florida State’s defense has been a consistent concern, and recent offensive struggles have amplified those issues. Despite three consecutive losses, this road trip to Stanford presents a valuable chance for the Seminoles to regain momentum.The Cardinal are currently trending towards a 3-9 record,mirroring their performance over the past four seasons.
* Current Line: FSU -18.5
* SP+ Projection: FSU by 19.3
* FPI projection: FSU by 11.1
Smaller-School Showcase: Don’t Miss These Games
The beauty of college football extends far beyond the Power Five conferences. Here are three lower-division games that deserve your attention this weekend.
NAIA: No. 7 Lindsey Wilson at No. 9 Campbellsville (12:30 p.m., YouTube)
This clash, dubbed the “Battle of Highway 55,” pits two NAIA powerhouses against each other. Lindsey Wilson, led by standout rusher Davontaye Saunders, currently holds the No. 1 ranking in NAIA SP+. However, Campbellsville, quarterbacked by the aggressive Jett Engle (14 touchdowns, seven interceptions), will provide a stern test.
* SP+ Projection: LWU by 9.4
FCS: No. 11 North Dakota at No. 12 Southern Illinois (3 p.m., ESPN+)
This contest is a critical matchup for both teams, with playoff implications on the line. Both North Dakota and Southern Illinois boast 4-2 records, with losses only to FBS opponents or top-tier FCS programs. Southern Illinois’s dual-threat quarterback, DJ Williams, is a force to be reckoned with, while North Dakota’s powerful running game consistently wears down opponents.
* SP+ Projection: UND by 2.2
Division II: No. 3 West Florida at No. 8 West Alabama (6 p.m., FloCollege)
An undefeated rivalry game awaits in Livingston, Alabama. West Alabama has exceeded 50 points in their last two games,showcasing a high-octane offense featuring receivers Dearrius Nelson and TD Parker.West Florida, however, brings a more disciplined defensive approach, led by linebackers Ja’Kobe Clinton and Kevin Roberts, who have combined for 20 tackles for loss.
* SP+ Projection: UWF by 8.9
A Note on Division III: While we’re
