The highly anticipated 2024 college football season is finally here, bringing a host of changes and a tantalizing Week 1 slate with playoff implications. Gone are the legendary Nick Saban and Jim Harbaugh, while the College Football Playoff has expanded to 12 teams. Strap in for the top five games to watch this weekend, featuring intriguing matchups, burgeoning stars, and championship contenders.
## Article 1: Breaking Down the Top 5 Games to Watch in Week 1 of the 2024 College Football Season
Buckle Up: 2024 College Football Season Kicks Off with a Bang
### No. 8 Penn State at West Virginia (12 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app)
After years of playoff frustration, Penn State eyes its first CFP berth with a talented roster led by quarterback Drew Allar and an elite defense. West Virginia hopes to pull off a major upset at home, powered by a dangerous trio of Garrett Greene, CJ Donaldson Jr., and Jahiem White.
### No. 14 Clemson vs. No. 1 Georgia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta (12 p.m. ET)
Title favorite Georgia aims to make a statement against Clemson, led by Heisman Trophy candidate Carson Beck. Despite the absence of its top running backs, Georgia's high-octane offense is expected to shine against Clemson's stout defense. The Tigers, with quarterback Cade Klubnik and running back Phil Mafah, seek to prove their CFP credentials.
### No. 19 Miami at Florida (3:30 p.m. ET)
Coaches Mario Cristobal of Miami and Billy Napier of Florida face immense pressure to start their seasons strong. Cristobal's transfer-heavy Hurricanes have title aspirations with dual-threat quarterback Cam Ward, while Napier's Gators look to navigate a challenging schedule with Graham Mertz at quarterback.
### No. 7 Notre Dame at No. 20 Texas A&M (7:30 p.m.)
Storylines abound as former Notre Dame defensive coordinator Mike Elko makes his head coaching debut against his former employer. Riley Leonard, Elko's quarterback at Duke, now plays for the Fighting Irish, adding intrigue to the matchup. Texas A&M hopes to kick off the Elko era with a signature win in front of a raucous home crowd.
### No. 23 USC vs. No. 13 LSU at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas (Sunday, Sept. 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET)
Two teams who lost their Heisman Trophy quarterbacks, USC and LSU, square off in Las Vegas. Lincoln Riley's Trojans seek a fresh start in the Big Ten, while LSU aims to improve its defense and find a new offensive rhythm with Garrett Nussmeier at quarterback.
