National Game of the Week: #3 Texas A&M @ #20 LSU
Texas A&M has been an object of derision for much of its history due to the fanbase’s inflated sense of importance and the team’s relative lack of top tier accomplishments. In recent history, the giant contract given to Jimbo Fischer without any tangible on-field gain was pretty hilarious. As much as I hate to admit it, they seem to have learned form their mistake. Mike Elko was the non-sexy but exceedingly competent option to replace Fischer and he has put the school’s resources to good use. Texas A&M is quietly asserting itself as a true contender in the SEC and possibly even a CFP favorite. Going into Tiger Stadium on Saturday night will be a true test. LSU has two disappointing losses to blight a season they thought might get them into contention, but both were away from home. If Elko can get win this one, it will be a big statement for the program.
Also of note
- #8 Ole Miss @ #13 Oklahoma- Both teams had bright starts to the season but lost to rivals and can ill afford another loss. It’s especially dramatic given the possibility of a wandering eye from Lane Kiffin.
- #18 South Florida @ Memphis- South Florida got a lot of hype after an upset win over Florida, but the hype died down when they lost to Miami. What have they done since then? 4-0 with 57 points per game! Despite a shocking loss to UAB, Memphis is also one of the top challengers in the American.
- Houston @ #24 Arizona State. We don’t have Pac-12 After Dark any more, but maybe a late match-up between two teams with Big-12 title hopes is the next best thing. ASU got beat up by Utah without Sam Leavitt, but back at full strength, they look like a real threat. Houston has had some close calls, but they’re 6-1 and the only loss was to Texas Tech.