College Football Week 11: Key Matchups and Predictions Unveiled

The 2025 college football season is reaching a critical juncture as Week 11 approaches, with several pivotal matchups that could significantly impact playoff standings. Among the most anticipated games are the clashes between the BYU Cougars and the Texas Tech Red Raiders, as well as the Tulane Green Wave facing the Memphis Tigers. These contests not only feature ranked teams but also shape the playoff picture in the Big 12 and American Conference.

BYU vs. Texas Tech: Big 12 Showdown

The matchup between the No. 7 BYU Cougars and the No. 8 Texas Tech Red Raiders is one of the weekend’s highlights, taking place at 12 PM ET on ABC. Both teams are vying for supremacy in the Big 12, with Texas Tech favored at -170 to win the conference on DraftKings Sportsbook, while BYU sits at +320. The winner will have a strong chance of advancing to the Big 12 Championship Game next month.

When BYU is on offense, a critical matchup will be its offensive line against Texas Tech’s formidable defensive front. BYU boasts an impressive 78.5 PFF grade as a unit, ranking seventh in the FBS. This efficiency has contributed to running back LJ Martin placing 15th in rushing yards nationally. In contrast, Texas Tech’s defensive line leads the nation with a 93.0 grade, posing a significant challenge for BYU’s offensive strategies.

On the other side, Texas Tech’s offense will look to exploit BYU’s inconsistent pass rush. The Red Raiders rank among the top 15 teams in the nation for pass-blocking efficiency. Quarterback Behren Morton has excelled in clean pockets, making it imperative for BYU to generate pressure effectively.

Predictions for this clash vary, but analysts suggest Texas Tech may edge out BYU, with scores predicted around 31-24 in favor of the Red Raiders.

Tulane’s Crucial Encounter with Memphis

Another key game to watch is the Tulane Green Wave against the Memphis Tigers on Friday at 9 PM EST. This contest not only impacts the American Conference standings but also influences the Group of Six playoff bid. Memphis is currently the third favorite for the playoff spot at +350, while Tulane stands fifth at +1200.

Tulane’s quarterback Jake Retzlaff has been outstanding, boasting a 93.2 PFF passing grade in intermediate throws, which ranks second in the nation. However, Memphis’s run game, led by Brendon Lewis, poses a significant challenge for Tulane’s defense, which has struggled against mobile quarterbacks this season.

Analysts predict a close contest, with Memphis favored to win by a score of 38-27, as both teams look to solidify their playoff aspirations.

Indiana Aims for Another Undefeated Season

The No. 2 Indiana Hoosiers will face the Penn State Nittany Lions at 12 PM ET on FOX, seeking to maintain their undefeated record. Indiana is off to a remarkable start, aiming for a 10-0 record for only the second time in program history. The Hoosiers will need to overcome a resilient Penn State defense, despite the Nittany Lions’ struggles this season.

The matchup will hinge on Indiana’s offensive line, which has seen significant improvement, facing off against Penn State’s talented defensive front, led by standout Dani Dennis-Sutton. Predictions suggest Indiana will secure a victory, with expected scores around 34-20.

Georgia’s Trap Game Against Mississippi State

The Georgia Bulldogs travel to face the Mississippi State Bulldogs at 12 PM ET on ESPN. Georgia, currently ranked five, is looking to avoid a potential trap game after a rocky performance against lower-ranked opponents. Mississippi State, despite recent losses, has shown they can compete, having taken top teams to overtime.

Key for Georgia will be the performance of quarterback Gunner Stockton against Mississippi State’s improved coverage unit. Analysts expect Georgia to narrowly escape with a win, with predictions around 31-21.

Texas A&M and Missouri: A Battle for Survival

In another significant matchup, the No. 3 Texas A&M Aggies will face the No. 22 Missouri Tigers at 3:30 PM ET on ABC. Texas A&M is the last undefeated team in the SEC, aiming for a place in the conference championship. Missouri, on the other hand, must win out to maintain any playoff hopes.

The Aggies’ ability to exploit Missouri’s defensive weaknesses while leveraging their strong run game will be pivotal. Predictions favor Texas A&M to continue its winning streak, with expected scores of 24-17.

As the season progresses, these matchups are crucial in determining playoff aspirations and conference standings, ensuring an exciting weekend for college football fans across the globe.