College football Week 11: 5 sneaky good games of the week

The pandemic has overrun the college football landscape, interfering with many games. However, fans can still find some entertainment on the weekend slate.

The SEC and other major conferences have been plagued by the COVID-19 pandemic as cases have surged across the country, with some, including USA Today‘s Dan Wolken doubting the NCAA’s ability to complete the season. However, for fans looking to avoid stressing about the mounting uncertainty, Week 11’s under-the-radar matchup should provide enough of a distraction.

College football Week 11 games you need to watch

No. 13 Wisconsin at Michigan (+4.5)

At the start of the season, it would have been quite a surprise for Big Ten fans to see this game on a list like this, as the Badgers and Wolverines both entered the season with high expectations, but each team has endured its share of struggles thus far. Michigan’s have come on the field, with consecutive losses to Michigan State and Indiana dropping Jim Harbaugh‘s squad to 1-2. Wisconsin, meanwhile, hasn’t played since Week 1 after a COVID-19 outbreak within the program.

After an electric debut against Illinois, quarterback Graham Mertz may make his return after being sidelined by COVID-19. After testing positive for COVID-19 one day after his breakout game, he reportedly has a shot to play on Saturday. On the Michigan side, Joe Milton will have to deal with a stingy Badgers defense that surrounded no points in its season opener (Illinois scored its only points on a fumble return).

Iowa at Minnesota (+3.5)

The Hawkeyes and Golden Gophers both rebounded from 0-2 starts with dominant wins last week, and this week’s decisive matchup could determine which squad stays relevant in its respective division. Minnesota still needs more from Tanner Morgan, who has regressed considerably since last season, but junior wideout Rashod Bateman has remained a force, with over 300 receiving yards over three games. Running back Mohamed Ibrahim, however, has started strong, and should be tested by a stingy Iowa run defense.

Army at Tulane (-5.5)

Army sits just outside of the AP Top 25 with a 6-1 record, but an upset road win over Tulane could change some voters’ minds. The Green Wave has put up points in bunches this season and could give a normally stout Black Knights defense some trouble. Army’s ground-heavy attack is geared toward exploiting a defense like Tulane’s, which allows just over 127 rushing yards per game. With nine players boasting over 100 rushing yards this season, Army should keep the Green Wave guessing, making up for the Black Knights’ complete lack of a passing game. Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt will be tasked with bringing some passing flair to the game, but trotting out a balanced offense will be key.

No. 19 SMU at Tulsa (-2.5)

SMU enters Saturday’s game as an underdog despite its stunning offensive output this season, potentially because Tulsa has shown an ability to hang with superior squads. The Golden Hurricane gave Oklahoma State all it could handle in the season opener and pulled an upset over UCF just two weeks later. Shane Buechele has breathed life into the Mustangs’ offense this season, and an offensive explosion likely would not surprise fans. If the senior quarterback can protect the ball much like he has all season, SMU should be more than capable of pulling out a win.

No. 23 Northwestern at Purdue (+3)

Northwestern and Purdue are both undefeated to start their seasons, a development that might have shocked some Big Ten fans at the start of the year. With both teams sitting near the top of the Big Ten West standings, Saturday’s tilt should put the winner in the driver’s seat. Boilermakers quarterback Aidan O’Connell has been sharp through two games, even with star wideout Rondale Moore still absent. Wildcats signal-caller Peyton Ramsey will need to step up if Northwestern hopes to hang with Purdue on the offensive side, as the senior has managed over 200 passing yards just once this season.

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