College Football Week 8 Predictions: SEC Showdowns and Top 25 Matchups

As college football reaches Week 8, the slate promises high-stakes battles, marquee SEC clashes, and playoff-defining contests across the country. Our panel of pigskin prognosticators weighs in on the Top 25 games in the US LBM Coaches Poll, offering insights, picks, and predictions for fans heading into a pivotal weekend.

SEC Showdowns

The Southeastern Conference dominates the Week 8 schedule with three ranked-on-ranked matchups that could dramatically reshape playoff scenarios.‍

Mississippi at No. 7 Georgia
One of the most anticipated games of the season pits two top-10 programs against each other in Athens. Mississippi has impressed with a balanced offense and opportunistic defense, while Georgia’s stout defensive line and efficient passing game make them formidable at home. Expect a hard-fought contest with field position and turnovers potentially deciding the outcome. Our panel leans toward Georgia prevailing in a close, defensive battle, though a resilient Mississippi squad could pull off a narrow road win if they capitalize on early mistakes.

Alabama vs. No. 11 Tennessee
The historic rivalry between Alabama and Tennessee is back for another October showdown. Alabama’s high-octane offense faces Tennessee’s disciplined defensive schemes in what has become a must-watch matchup. Both teams are vying for SEC dominance, and this game could have implications for the conference championship. Analysts predict a tight affair, but Alabama’s experience and depth give them the edge in the final quarter.‍

LSU at No. 18 Vanderbilt
LSU travels to Nashville for a game that could determine whether they maintain momentum in the conference. Vanderbilt has surprised with a disciplined approach on both sides of the ball, but LSU’s dynamic playmakers and superior depth make them favorites. A win here could solidify LSU’s position in the SEC West race, while Vanderbilt would need a perfect performance to create an upset.

Other Key Matchups

SEC action is not the only highlight this weekend. Several contests outside the conference carry playoff implications or historic significance.‍

Utah at No. 14 Brigham Young – The Holy War
The annual rivalry in the Beehive State lives up to its “just means more” reputation. Both teams have shown resilience and creativity on offense, with BYU’s home-field advantage providing a potential edge. Analysts expect a close game, with BYU narrowly holding off Utah in a matchup defined by special teams and late-game execution.‍

Notre Dame at No. 21 Southern California
This interconference rivalry could act as a playoff eliminator. Notre Dame’s balanced attack clashes with USC’s aggressive defensive schemes, and the stakes are high for both programs. Predictions favor Notre Dame in a tactical showdown, but USC’s ability to capitalize on mistakes makes an upset entirely plausible.

ACC and Other Conferences

Miami (Fla.) vs. Louisville
The ACC action kicks off early with Miami hosting Louisville on Friday night. Miami’s explosive offense and disciplined defense give them a significant edge against the Cardinals, who have struggled to find consistency on the road. Our panel predicts a decisive Miami victory, reinforcing their position as ACC leaders and playoff contenders.

Georgia Tech at Duke
Georgia Tech’s perfect conference record faces a stern test at Duke, which is off to a 3-0 start in ACC play. Analysts expect a competitive contest, with Georgia Tech’s depth and experience likely to secure the win. However, Duke’s home-field advantage and ability to create turnovers could keep the game within reach until the final minutes.

Analysis and Predictions

This Week 8 schedule underscores the volatility of the college football landscape. With multiple ranked matchups and rivalry games, playoff positioning remains fluid. Our panel highlights several key takeaways:

1. Turnovers and field position will be decisive. In closely matched games like Mississippi at Georgia or Utah at BYU, small mistakes could determine winners and losers.
2. Depth and conditioning matter late. Alabama, Georgia Tech, and Notre Dame may have the upper hand due to deeper rosters and the ability to maintain performance through the final quarter.
3. Conference pride drives intensity. Rivalries like Alabama-Tennessee and Utah-BYU elevate the stakes, creating unpredictable outcomes and potentially altering playoff trajectories.

With playoff implications on the line, each matchup presents a high-stakes scenario where momentum, coaching, and execution will be decisive. Fans can expect thrilling contests, potential upsets, and standout performances from top-tier athletes. Analysts predict that top teams such as Georgia, Alabama, and Miami will likely emerge unscathed, while underdogs like Vanderbilt, Duke, and Utah could shake up the rankings with a well-timed upset.

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