Week eight watch guide: Predictions, times, what to watch for biggest week yet in CFB
What to watch in college football week 8: Afternoon slate
First screen: 14 Texas A&M @ Mississippi State (4:15 ET/3:15 CT, SECN)
This is a Texas A&M blog, so I can do what I want! This is what I'll have on my first screen, after all.
The Aggies are looking to continue the big time momentum they've harnessed after a huge win over a then-top-10 Missouri squad. Starkville has been tricky, but if the Aggies aren't ready for this one, then they're not who we thought they were.
I do think they are who we thought they were, though. Positively, I mean.
Prediction: Texas A&M 44, Mississippi State 17
Second screen: 7 Alabama @ 11 Tennessee (3:30 PM ET/2:30 PM CT, ABC)
I wasn't sure which Saturday in what month this game was supposed to be played, so it's good to see it's finally here. Alabama has looked shaky in the last two weeks, as has Tennessee, so what was sure to be a top-5 faceoff in Knoxville has slightly lost some luster.
But not all the luster! This is sure to draw tons of eyes in any case. The flagging Tennessee offense could make some hay against a uncharacteristically poor 'Bama defense, and the potent Tide offense will have a worthy foe in the Volunteer defense.
It's close, but I'll give this one to the home team. Prediction: Tennessee 28, Alabama 27
Bonus third tiny phone screen: 24 Michigan @ 22 Illinois (3:30 PM ET/2:30 PM CT, CBS)
How is Michigan still ranked? How is Illinois ranked at all? These are not good teams, folks. I'm just glad Gary Danielson will get to hang out with Bret Bielema again, though. Prediction: Illinois 23, Michigan 17