As we gear up for the 2025 college football season, excitement is building around some heavyweight matchups that are sure to define the landscape of the fall. Athlon Sports has spotlighted the top 10 games to watch, and it’s a thrilling mix of pivotal conference clashes and promising non-conference bouts. Without further ado, let’s break down these must-see matchups!
10. Penn State at Ohio State, Nov. 1
This showdown is primed to be a key player in the Big Ten title race. The stakes are high; the outcome here could very well dictate who secures a spot in the Big Ten Championship. With Ohio State enjoying home-field advantage, the odds might lean in their favor. However, there’s always intrigue when Penn State comes to town—they’ll be eager to upset the Buckeyes and grab a crucial victory in Columbus.
9. Arizona State at Iowa State, Nov. 1
A rematch from last year’s Big 12 Championship Game adds extra spice to this matchup. Iowa State is undoubtedly looking for redemption after a tough loss, and the intensity will be palpable. The Big 12 race remains wide open, which means these two teams could find themselves squaring off again later in the season, making this early clash even more significant.
8. LSU at Alabama, Nov. 8
A classic rivalry unfolds once again in the SEC as these two giants clash. Both teams are aiming for a spot in the College Football Playoff after missing the mark last year, and you can bet they’ll bring their A-game. By this time in the season, LSU might hold the upper hand with quarterback Garrett Nussmeier coming into his own, but predicting the outcome of this intense matchup is never straightforward.
7. Oregon at Penn State, Sept. 27
This encounter could be critical for Big Ten title aspirations. With the Nittany Lions hosting, they’ll have the home-field advantage, which often proves pivotal in these high-stakes games. Kicking off in September, this game sets the tone for both teams, likely featuring two top-10 squads eager to prove their mettle early in the season.
6. Alabama at Georgia, Sept. 27
Who doesn’t want to see a rematch of last season’s thrilling encounter? These two SEC powerhouses put on a show during their last regular-season game, and fans are eagerly awaiting another epic showdown. Whether or not they meet again in the SEC Championship Game is up for debate, but this clash is certainly one to circle on the calendar, especially alongside Athlon’s No. 7 matchup.
5. Notre Dame at Miami, Aug. 31
What a way to kick off the season! The Fighting Irish head south to Miami for a game that carries major playoff implications, even early in the season. While a loss here doesn’t eliminate either team, a win could lay the foundation for a successful season. Both squads are hungry for redemption after last year, with Miami looking to surge into playoff contention.
4. Ohio State at Michigan, Nov. 29
Ah, “The Game”—a fixture of college football that never fails to deliver. Ohio State is positioned to vie for a national title, while Michigan could emerge as a dark horse in the mix. The rivalry runs deep, and with the implications growing larger with each passing season, this matchup promises fireworks, especially considering last year’s result.
3. Texas at Georgia, Nov. 15
This late-season clash could set the stage for either the SEC Championship or even the national championship showdown. Texas has emerged as a top contender, while Georgia is keen on reclaiming its dominance. Keep an eye on Arch Manning—will he still be in the Heisman conversation, and can Georgia find its rhythm? Expect plenty of storylines to unfold in this electrifying matchup.
2. LSU at Clemson, Aug. 30
A thrilling non-conference battle to start the season! With both teams featuring celebrated coaching and deep rosters, this matchup is rife with implications. For Clemson, a victory here could position them as ACC favorites. Meanwhile, if Brian Kelly’s squad can secure a win, it might just solidify their spot as a playoff contender before the conference schedule kicks into gear.
1. Texas at Ohio State, Aug. 30
No real surprise here—this matchup takes the top spot for a reason! The defending champion Buckeyes hosting the potentially top-ranked Longhorns makes for an exhilarating season opener. Fans will be on the edge of their seats, and this clash is sure to have major ramifications as the season unfolds.
With these exciting games lined up, college football fans are in for an unforgettable season! Each matchup not only brings its own unique story but also carries weight for conference standings and national aspirations. Mark your calendars—you won’t want to miss a minute of the action this fall!
