Week 8 of college football delivers a blockbuster slate, headlined by seismic SEC clashes that could reshape the playoff race. No. 4 Ole Miss battles Georgia in a potential CFP elimination game, while Alabama and Tennessee renew their fiery “Third Saturday in October” rivalry.

Upset alerts loom large, with undefeated Vanderbilt threatening LSU and Washington-Michigan facing a de facto playoff knockout. Five ranked matchups guarantee weekend-defining drama across the nation.

CFB Week 8 Preview: Georgia vs Ole Miss Playoff Clash, Alabama-Tennessee Rivalry & Shocking Upset Picks

Georgia vs Ole Miss: The SEC Playoff Elimination Game

No. 3 Georgia and No. 8 Ole Miss collide in what may be the most consequential SEC matchup of the season. Both teams enter undefeated at 6-0, but the Bulldogs have dominated this series historically, winning 9 of the last 10 meetings. Georgia’s defense has been suffocating, allowing just 12.7 points per game, while Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart leads an offense averaging 315 passing yards per contest.

The key to this game will be whether Georgia’s defensive line can disrupt Dart’s rhythm. The Bulldogs have recorded 22 sacks this season, but Ole Miss’ offensive line has only allowed 5. If Dart gets time, his connection with star receiver Tre Harris (8 TDs) could test Georgia’s secondary.

“Hoo-hoo! This reminds me of the 2021 season when Georgia’s defense carried them to a national championship. Kirby Smart hasn’t changed his philosophy – dominate the line of scrimmage and let your playmakers work. But Lane Kiffin’s offense is a different beast entirely.”

Alabama vs Tennessee: Renewing the “Third Saturday in October” Rivalry

One of college football’s most historic rivalries adds another chapter as No. 5 Alabama visits No. 12 Tennessee. Both teams stand at 5-1, making this a critical game for SEC Championship and possible playoff implications. Alabama quarterback Julian Sayin has exceeded expectations in his first year starting, while Tennessee’s offense leads the SEC with 43.8 points per game.

The Vols haven’t beaten Alabama in Knoxville since 2006, but their offensive line (only 3 sacks allowed) faces its toughest test against Alabama’s conference-leading pass rush (24 sacks). Tennessee’s ability to protect quarterback Nico Iamaleava will likely determine the outcome.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Alabama’s secondary vs Tennessee’s deep receiving corps
• The battle in the trenches on both sides
• Special teams play in what could be a close game

“The Third Saturday in October always delivers drama, hoot hoot! Alabama’s defense versus Tennessee’s offense is the classic unstoppable force meets immovable object scenario. I predict this comes down to which quarterback handles the pressure better in the fourth quarter.”

Upset Alert: Can Vanderbilt Topple Struggling LSU?

In what would have been unthinkable a year ago, Vanderbilt enters its matchup with LSU as a potential favorite. The Commodores are 5-0 coming off their bye week, while LSU has struggled to a 3-3 record. Vanderbilt’s defense ranks 7th nationally and has been particularly stout against the run, which could spell trouble for LSU’s rushing attack.

Quarterback Diego Pavia has been the catalyst for Vanderbilt’s surprising success, throwing just 1 interception in 152 attempts. His efficiency will be crucial against an LSU defense that has shown vulnerability in the secondary. The Tigers have allowed an average of 285 passing yards per game.

The Quarterback Showdown: Arch Manning’s First True Road Test

Texas quarterback Arch Manning faces his biggest challenge yet as the Longhorns travel to face Oklahoma State. Manning has been stellar so far with 18 touchdowns against just 3 interceptions, but he hasn’t faced a truly hostile road environment this season. Oklahoma State’s Boone Pickens Stadium is infamous for its raucous atmosphere.

The Cowboys’ defense leads the Big 12 in takeaways with 14, and their secondary has been particularly opportunistic. Manning’s ability to handle pressure and avoid turnovers will be critical for Texas to maintain its playoff hopes.

“Hoo boy, all eyes will be on young Master Manning. The Manning family legacy looms large, and this will be his first chance to prove he can perform under pressure away from home. Oklahoma State always plays Texas tough – this could be a defining moment in his career.”

Playoff Implications: Washington vs Michigan as CFP Elimination Game

Both Washington and Michigan enter this critical matchup at 5-1, knowing a second loss would likely eliminate them from playoff contention. The battle between Washington’s top-ranked passing offense and Michigan’s second-ranked defense promises to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the weekend.

Key statistics: Washington averages 385 passing yards per game, while Michigan allows just 165. Something has to give in this clash of strengths. The winner keeps pace with Ohio State in the Big Ten race, while the loser faces an uphill battle to make the conference championship.

Other Week 8 Storylines Worth Watching

• USC vs Notre Dame in the underrated Jeweled Shillelagh rivalry
• Can Michigan State continue its surprise run against Indiana?
• Kentucky’s improved secondary faces Missouri’s dynamic passing attack
• Oklahoma’s chance to solidify their playoff resume against Kansas

“This weekend could reshape the entire college football landscape, hoo hoo! With multiple playoff hopefuls facing elimination games, we’re sure to see some surprises. My bold prediction? Vanderbilt completes their Cinderella story with a win over LSU, and Washington upsets Michigan in a thriller.”

Week 8 promises to be one of the most consequential weekends of the college football season, with playoff dreams made and broken across multiple conferences.