No. 4 Alabama at Wisconsin
Saturday, Sept. 14 — Camp Randall Stadium — Madison, Wisconsin
11 a.m. on FOX
With Wisconsin coming off back-to-back wins, Alabama cannot afford to take this week lightly. The Badgers’ senior quarterback Tyler Van Dyke and senior running back Chez Mellusi were an effective duo as Mellusi rushed for 60 yards and two touchdowns against South Dakota last week.
Wisconsin’s offense could give Alabama’s defense a run for its money. However, the Crimson Tide’s offense just might win this game due to their last-minute turnaround against South Florida last week. Freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams contributed 68 yards during the game and a touchdown during the fourth quarter, providing new life to the ’Bama offense.
Prediction: Alabama 31, Wisconsin 24
No. 16 LSU at South Carolina
Saturday, Sept. 14 — Williams-Brice Stadium — Columbia, South Carolina
11 a.m. on ABC
South Carolina’s pass rush, led by fifth year edge rusher Kyle Kennard and freshman EDGE Dylan Stewart, has been forcing turnovers and setting up multiple scoring opportunities.
With LSU struggling to establish a consistent run game following the loss of standout fifth-year DT Jacobian Guillory, South Carolina’s offense could dominate the trenches. While LSU’s passing attack is formidable, South Carolina’s secondary, led by redshirt freshman DB Vicari Swain, has been tough to crack, allowing few big plays.
If the Gamecocks’ defense can keep pressure on the Tigers, South Carolina has a strong chance to secure a statement win at home.
Prediction: South Carolina 27, LSU 24
No. 24 Boston College at No. 6 Missouri
Saturday, Sept. 14 — Faurot Field — Columbia, Missouri
11:45 a.m. on SEC Network
Boston College is unlikely to pull off another upset like it did against Florida State when it faces Missouri. The Tigers are a much stronger opponent, having outscored their first two foes 89-0. Missouri will introduce a potent passing attack, led by senior QB Brady Cook, junior WR Luther Burden III and senior WR Theo Wease Jr., who have a well-established connection.
Boston College’s hopes rest on sustained drives led by junior QB Thomas Castellanos, but Missouri’s formidable defense will make that difficult. The Tigers’ explosive offense and solid defense will give them the upper hand, earning them the win in this matchup.
Prediction: Missouri 34, Boston College 13
No. 1 Georgia at Kentucky
Saturday, Sept. 14 — Kroger Field — Lexington, Kentucky
6:30 p.m. on ABC
Senior QB Carson Beck brings precision to the Bulldogs’ offense, and he’s backed by a powerful supporting cast including junior RB Trevor Etienne.
Despite Etienne sitting out Georgia’s season opener, his return to the lineup adds a potent rushing threat that complements an offensive line which has only allowed two sacks all season. The balance between a strong passing game and a revitalized rushing attack makes Georgia’s offense difficult to contain.
On defense, junior defensive back Malaki Starks and sophomore inside linebacker CJ Allen have consistently shut down opposing offenses. Their ability to stifle the run game forces teams to rely on their passing attack. These Georgia playmakers will put immediate pressure on Kentucky junior QB Brock Vandagriff to carry the load through air.
Prediction: Georgia 38, Kentucky 17
