During the college football season, every fan circles specific games to either watch or be in the crowd for. Whether it's a rivalry, a visit from a historic program, or the possibility of catching a glimpse of that one superstar player, the national schedule offers great viewing for people of all ages. And, of course, there are several matchups each year that will decide conference titles and BCS hopes. Of the 1,300+ contests slated for 2005, here are my picks for the five games to watch throughout the season.
Boise State @ Georgia (September 3rd)
It's the classic case of flash-in-the-pan battling the historic juggernaut. Just like Gonzaga has done in basketball, the Broncos have turned their mid-major football program into a successful entity. Now comes the next step — playing at a shrine to the game in front of a national audience. Boise State has an opportunity to be a fly in the BCS ointment this year. Defeating the Bulldogs in Athens would make a huge statement.
Florida @ LSU (October 15th)
This is a potential preview of the SEC Championship Game. Both teams have a potential hurdle when they host Tennessee, but homefield will give the Gators and Tigers an edge. It will be interesting to see how QB Chris Leak will handle the Bayou fury this time around. Remember, he did throw for 230 yards, 2 TDs, and no picks against LSU as a freshman.
The twist to this story lies in the new head coaches to this rivalry. Les Miles has proven capable of beating the big team while at Oklahoma State. Urban Meyer vaulted to a higher plane with those Mid-Major vs. Monster upsets during his days at Utah. It should be interesting to see which coach will thrive in this new pressure situation.
Miami @ Virginia Tech (November 5th)
With no disrespect towards Virginia or Georgia Tech, this game will determine who plays in the first ACC Championship game. Two of the new kids on the block, the Hurricanes and Hokies, have surely proved their worth to the conference. Question is, can the rest of the ACC catch up? Even with both teams introducing new starting quarterbacks, the talent level is high enough to take them past the rest of their division.
And who could be right there to face one of these former Big East squads in Jacksonville? How about fellow alum Boston College? Hey, it could happen.
Texas A&M @ Oklahoma (November 12th)
This may be the most important game of the 2005 season for both teams, even though it won't be as publicized as the more famous Red River Rivalry. The Aggies could be undefeated (5-0) in the Big 12 heading into showdowns with the other three powers of the South Division. A win at Texas Tech should set up this opportunity for A&M to rise above "darkhorse" or "spoiler" status.
If the Sooners continue their dominance of Texas in the Cotton Bowl, then head coach Dennis Francione and QB Reggie McNeal might be the last hurdle on the way to another conference title game. However, A&M has the confidence to hang with OU after last season seven-point loss. Don't expect a 77-0 shellacking in Norman this year.
Ohio State @ Michigan (November 19th)
It's an annual battle for the Big 10 title is usually a heavyweight prizefight. This year, though, the Buckeyes and Wolverines game might look more like a season finale of the reality show "The Contender." Both teams are loaded. Michigan boasts an offense including RB Mike Hart and QB Chad Henne, while Ohio State features their swarming defense (led by LB A.J. Hawk) and playmaker Ted Ginn, Jr.
If tradition and talent holds, these two should duke it out for a trip to the BCS. However, Purdue and, more importantly, Iowa, will have a say in that outcome.
No matter how important these games become over the long haul, one thing should stand the test of upsets in this regular season. Each one of these five battles should be what college football fans love — nip and tuck.
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