The Virginia Cavaliers will take on the No. 8 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish on November 16, 2024, in a match that bears significant postseason implications for both teams. With Notre Dame aiming for a spot in the College Football Playoff and Virginia striving for bowl eligibility, both teams have much at stake. The Fighting Irish lead the series historically with a 4-0 record and are heavily favored to win, thanks to their strong rushing game and solid defense. Key players and strategies come into play as each team looks to define their seasons' success.
The top-ranked Oregon Ducks clinched a vital win against the Wisconsin Badgers with a narrow 16-13 victory at Camp Randall Stadium, advancing to the Big Ten Championship Game and maintaining their undefeated 11-0 record. The tightly contested game saw Oregon's timely fourth-quarter efforts, including Jordan James's rush touchdown and Atticus Sappington's decisive field goals, overcoming Wisconsin's strong defense. The Badgers put up a resilient fight but ultimately fell short, leaving their hopes for bowl eligibility uncertain as they face a crucial 5-5 standing.
In Week 12 of the college football season, the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes delivered a commanding performance to defeat the Northwestern Wildcats 31-7 at Wrigley Field. Despite an early setback, the Buckeyes rallied to score 31 unanswered points, largely due to key contributions from quarterback Will Howard and receiver Carnell Tate. Ohio State's defense was equally impressive, spearheaded by Jack Sawyer. This victory solidifies Ohio State's position as a top contender for the College Football Playoff.
Stanford pulled off a remarkable comeback victory against No. 22 Louisville with a 38-35 win on November 16, 2024, ending their six-game losing streak. The game saw Stanford rally from a 14-point deficit, with crucial performances from Emmett Mosley V and kicker Emmet Kenney.
The USC Trojans achieved a vital win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers with a 28-20 score at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, marking a significant step towards bowl eligibility. The game was highlighted by the debut performance of new starting quarterback Jayden Maiava, who threw for 259 yards and scored four touchdowns. Despite Nebraska's strong early lead from a defensive touchdown, the teams traded scores throughout a competitive match, culminating in a decisive interception by USC's Greedy Vance Jr. in the end zone to seal the victory.
In a commanding display of both offensive and defensive prowess, the Alabama Crimson Tide triumphed over the Mercer Bears with a 52-7 victory on November 16, 2024, at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Improving their record to 8-2 and ranked No. 10 in the nation, Alabama dominated from the start, capitalizing on turnovers and outstanding performances by wide receiver Ryan Williams and quarterback Jalen Milroe. Despite a lone touchdown by Mercer in the first half, Alabama's defense remained steadfast, allowing only 120 yards of total offense. As Alabama shifts focus to Oklahoma, Mercer readies for Furman.