Colorado State @ No. 8 Michigan

Sept. 3, 11:00 a.m. CT, ABC

Colorado State is a formidable Week 1 opponent for Michigan after adding former Nevada coach Jay Norvell, who was responsible for four straight bowl game appearances for the Wolf Pack. Though the Rams finished last year’s season at a meager 3-9, the Rams returned multiple notable starters, including fifth-year senior Cam’Ron Carter at the linebacker position. Colorado State is one of the best teams in the Mountain West at getting in the backfield and disrupting the running game, which could cause problems for Jim Harbaugh’s heavy running attack. 

No. 11 Oregon @ No. 3 Georgia

Sept. 3, 2:30 p.m. CT, ABC

Though Georgia lost many key players from its national championship winning squad, they still return starting quarterback Stetson Bennett. Oregon’s offense has many possible stars in their own right, including Auburn transfer Bo Nix at quarterback and an experienced offensive line to block for sophomore standout running back Byron Cardwell. Though betting lines favor Georgia heavily, Oregon’s new look offense could put up numbers on the young Georgia defense.

No. 5 Notre Dame @ No. 2 Ohio State

Sept. 3, 6:30 p.m. CT, ABC

Notre Dame’s team comes into the season with a lot of question marks, including the performance of new head coach Marcus Freeman. The Buckeyes return many of their most important players from last year, including the best quarterback, running back and wide receiver trio in college football. Ohio State’s explosive offense will likely be the decider, but if this Notre Dame defense, featuring 10 upperclassmen starters, can slow down the Buckeyes, this game will be must-watch TV.

Boise State @ Oregon State

Sept. 3, 9:30 p.m. CT, ESPN

Boise State struggled with injuries last season, but with a fully healthy Hank Bachmeier at quarterback and an improved offensive line, the Broncos have a chance to run up the score on the Beavers. Boise State also features a familiar face for the Beavers in head coach Andy Avalos, former defensive coordinator for the Oregon Ducks. The Beavers’ defense features five Honorable Mention All Pac-12 honorees and returns all 11 starters from last season. Expect a scrappy and entertaining fight between two teams looking to contend in their respective conferences. 

Florida State @ LSU

Sept. 4, 6:30 p.m. CT, ABC

LSU had an active offseason that included poaching head coach Brian Kelly from Notre Dame to replace Ed Orgeron and former Arizona State QB Jayden Daniels transferring to Baton Rouge. Florida State routed Duquesne in its Week 0 matchup, and no player looked better than sophomore running back Treshaun Ward, who ran for 127 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 attempts. The Noles look much improved from last year, so the matchup with new-look LSU in Caesars Superdome could go either way.