Games to Watch: Week 6

Big weekend, as conference play is fully underway and conference races start to form.  However, we don't have a lot of flashy matchups that generate interest outside of the conference, but become important down the road.

At least it's October, and that means that Homecomings start happening around the country!

Nothing of note on Thursday or Friday, unless Tony finds one under the radar.

Normally, I try to focus on the games that I would be flipping around if I were able to just sit on the couch and watch football all day.  Since I know I'll be in Blacksburg and probably only watching the Tech game, this week's list is largely following the ACC divisional races.

Saturday
11:30 AM
Air Force at Navy, CBS.  This one is often overlooked in favor of the big Army-Navy game in December, but this one usually determines who wins the Commander-in-Chief trophy.

Noon
Maryland at Florida State, ESPN.  The ACC Atlantic has four teams that control their destiny, and these are two of them, primarily due to Maryland not playing any ACC games up to this point.  After a couple of strong starts followed by major sizzles the last few seasons, Maryland looks to be improved this year, even achieving a ranking.  FSU hasn't missed a step while breaking in a new QB, who could be one of the hottest underclassmen in the country.

12:30 PM
North Carolina at Virginia Tech, ACC Network.  VT's Homecoming, so I'll be in Lane Stadium for this one.  Hopefully, VT builds on their momentum from the big Thursday night win at Georgia Tech.  The defense is top notch, and the offense seems to be making steps.  This is also big for UNC, who is looking to stay in contention.  Getting a second conference loss can seriously hurt that.

3:30 PM
Georgia Tech at Miami, ESPNU.  GT is looking to rebound from their first loss, while Miami is looking for a strong start to their conference schedule.  This game will play a big role in the ACC Coastal race.

Clemson at Syracuse, ABC/ESPN2.  Poor Syracuse has to play their first ACC conference game against the team favored to win the entire conference.  Between this and the Maryland/FSU matchup, we should start seeing some separation in the ACC Atlantic.

8 PM
Ohio State at Northwestern, ABC.  Another test for Ohio State to see if they're the real deal.