Three Games to Watch After Saturday

We are almost through the loaded slate of games in week one. There are only three games left split between today and tomorrow. All three have some intrigue with one featuring a Pac-12-SEC matchup when UCLA hosts Texas A&M. The other two games are neutral site games featuring Power Five match ups.

Sunday

#22 West Virginia vs. #21 Virginia Tech 5:30 p.m. ABC FedExField, Landover, Md.

While this game has not received the hype of the other match ups featuring ranked opponents like FSU-Alabama and Michigan-Florida, but this should be a good game. It is a game between two ranked teams playing in an NFL stadium that should be easy for each fanbase to get to. West Virginia has former Florida quarterback Will Grier, and Virginia Tech brings back a lot for coach Justin Fuente.

Who to root for and who will win

Honestly, just enjoy the game. This game really does not have any bearing on Utah. I do not know enough about either team to make much of a prediction, so I will say Virginia Tech wins.

Texas A&M at UCLA 5:30 p.m. MT FOX

The UCLA Bruins will look to get revenge for their season opening loss at Texas A&M last season and rebound from their 4-8 outing in 2016. Quarterback Josh Rosen is back after missing time last season due to injury. Both Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin and UCLA head coach Jim Mora are on the hot seat. The loser of this game will likely feel their seat get even warmer. It seems weird to say, but this is game is kind of a must win game for both of these teams. It is rare for Pac-12 and SEC teams to meet, so this game is for bragging rights between the conferences.

Who to root for and who will win

A UCLA win helps the conference get bragging rights over the SEC. If UCLA wins, the Pac-12 would be perfect in week one. This game is the marquee game for the Pac-12 in week one. I think the Bruins can get the win at home. I expect Rosen will have a bounce back season after injuries plagued him last year.

Monday

#25 Tennessee vs. Georgia Tech 6:00 p.m. MT ESPN Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.

The second neutral site game being played between ACC and SEC foes at the new stadium for the Atlanta Falcons in week one. Both teams will be breaking in new quarterbacks for this game.

Who to root for and who will win

I dislike the SEC, so I enjoy seeing them lose. Further, Utah is sitting just outside the top 25 in the AP Poll at essentially No. 27. They could move into the top 25 if a few teams in the 20-25 range lose. Texas already fell, and one will for sure fall with No. 21 Virginia Tech facing No. 22 West Virginia on Sunday. This means Utah could move up into the top 25, but they would have an even better chance if No. 25 Tennessee falls. While it would be nice for Tennessee to fall, I see the Vols getting the win here. Georgia Tech’s option offense is easier to prepare when you have all offseason to get ready for it compared to just one week.