Line: Boise State by 21.

Series record: Boise State leads 7-3.

Last meeting: Boise State, 38-3.

What's At Stake

More of the same for Boise State, and that's keep winning to
keep alive its BCS prospects. The Broncos nudged up to No. 5 in
the AP Top 25, but are seventh and one slot behind undefeated
TCU in the BCS rankings. For Louisiana Tech, it's another shot
to shatter a highly ranked foe's BCS plans, having done the same
in 2004 to Fresno State.

Key Matchup

La. Tech quarterback Ross Jenkins vs. Boise State defense. The
Bulldogs may be without running back Daniel Porter (concussion),
which could put pressure on Jenkins to move the ball through the
air. That will be a challenge against a Bronco defense that's
allowed just 16 points the last two games and allows 176 passing
yards per game, tops in the WAC.

Players to Watch

Boise State: RB Jeremy Avery is averaging 5.7 yards per carry,
but has been held in check over the last several games, rushing
for 50 yards last week and 72 the week before. He might be due
to rip off some big runs.

Louisiana Tech: WR Phillip Livas may be slowed by a sore ankle,
but he's still dangerous and a focal point of the Bulldog
offense and a key to special teams. He is averaging nearly 112
all-purpose yards and returned a punt and kickoff for scores
this season.

Facts & Figures

Boise State dominated last year's matchup 38-3 behind two TD
passes from Kellen Moore ... The Broncos have won seven
straight, but the Bulldogs are tough at home at 16-5, the third
best winning percentage in the WAC ... The Broncos and Bulldogs
are the two best teams in the conference for turnovers, with the
Broncos posting a 1.25 turnover margin and the Bulldogs at .88
... The Bulldog defense is also pretty good at getting to the
quarterback, ranked second in the conference in sacks with two
per game.

---

Saturday, Nov. 7

No. 1 Florida (8-0, 6-0 SEC) vs Vanderbilt (2-7, 0-5) , 7:15
p.m. (ESPN2)

Line: Florida by 35.

Series Record: Florida leads 31-9-2.

Last meeting: 2008, Florida 42-14.

What's at Stake

Florida's 18-game winning streak, which is the longest by any
Southeastern Conference team since Auburn won 20 in a row
beginning in 1993.

Key Matchup

Florida coverage teams vs. Vanderbilt KR Warren Norman. Norman
is averaging 28.4 yards a return, which ranks fourth in the SEC,
and has a league-leading three touchdowns. The Gators, though,
are second in the conference in kickoff coverage.

Players to Watch

Vanderbilt: LB Chris Marve leads the SEC with 90 tackles and
might need to have a big game if the Commodores are going to
slow down Florida's potent rushing attack.

Florida: DT Lawrence Marsh, who played sparingly against Georgia
after missing several games because of a high-ankle sprain,
could see his most extensive action of the season.

Facts & Figures

Vandy has lost 18 in a row in the series. The Commodores' last
win came in 1988, a 24-9 upset in Nashville. ... With QB Larry
Smith (hamstring) probably out for the season, Vandy will turn
to senior Mackenzi Adams. Adams started the last two seasons
against Florida, completing 21 of 40 passes for 206 yards, with
three interceptions. He also has 18 carries for 26 yards and two
scores in those games. ... Florida LB Brandon Spikes was
suspended for the game after he apparently gouged at the eyes of
Georgia RB Washaun Ealey in last Saturday's 41-17 victory in
Jacksonville. ... Gators expect RBs Chris Rainey (shoulder) and
Mike Gillislee (hamstring) to play.

---

No. 2 Texas (8-0, 5-0 Big 12) vs Central Florida (5-3, 3-2),
noon (FSN)

Line: Texas by 36.

Series Record: Texas leads 1-0.

Last meeting: 2007, Texas 35-32.

What's at Stake

It's all about the BCS and poll position, and the Longhorns
don't want to look sloppy after two dominant road wins. The game
was supposed to be played in September and UCF was supposed to
be a tuneup for the Big 12. The game got moved so Texas could
play Texas Tech on national TV.

Key Matchup

Texas S Earl Thomas vs. Central Florida QB Brett Hodges. Thomas
is on a tear with a team-high six interceptions, including two
returned for touchdowns. Hodges has thrown seven picks to go
with his 10 touchdowns, and is completing less than 60 percent
of his passes.

Players to Watch

Texas: QB Colt McCoy. Seems obvious, but McCoy has done well
since his rough outing against Oklahoma. He has one month to
keep it going and remain a Heisman favorite. McCoy will be up
against a Central Florida defense that sacked Miami's Jacory
Harris six times.

Central Florida: RB Brynn Harvey. UCF's leading rusher ran for
212 yards against Memphis but will butt heads Saturday with the
nation's top-ranked rush defense. The Longhorns have allowed
just two rushing TDs all season.

Facts & Figures

Texas has scored nine non-offensive TDs this season with six on
kick returns or blocks and three interception returns. ... McCoy
is 40-7 as a starter, and 21-3 at home. ... Central Florida
practices with jet noise to simulate the sound of playing in
front of large crowds. Texas has had more than 101,000 fans at
each of its four previous home games this season.

---

No. 3 Alabama (8-0, 5-0 SEC) vs. No. 9 LSU (7-1, 5-1), 3:30
p.m. (CBS)

Line: Alabama by 7 1/2.

Series record: Alabama leads 44-23-5.

Last meeting: 2008, Alabama 27-21 OT.

What's At Stake

The SEC West. Alabama can lock up a share of the division title
and a second straight SEC championship game matchup with
Florida. LSU gains control of the West with an upset. Both teams
are trying to stay in the national title hunt.

Key Matchup

Which defense breaks first. Both offenses face similar
challenges against stingy defenses that are particularly
formidable against the run. Both teams force lots of turnovers
while committing relatively few. LSU and Alabama also have deep
threats at receiver, provided the QBs can get it to them. But
the Crimson Tide is fifth nationally in scoring defense, and the
Tigers are only two spots behind.

Players to Watch

LSU: QB Jordan Jefferson. He wasn't able to get much going
through the air against Florida, but has followed that up with a
couple of solid games. If he can get the ball downfield to
Terrance Toliver or Brandon LaFell, it would help open up the
ground game against a defense that ranks No. 2 against the run.

Alabama: QB Greg McElroy. See above. The Tide passing game
hasn't been clicking lately but a strong running game and
defense was barely enough against Tennessee. McElroy hasn't
reached 150 yards passing in any of the past four games. Like
Alabama, LSU has allowed only three rushing touchdowns but the
Tigers are also last in the league in sacks.

Facts & Figures

The home team has won only four of the last 13 meetings, three
by LSU. ... Tide coach Nick Saban was the Tigers' coach from
2000-05. ... LSU has won five of the last six and seven of the
last nine meetings, and hasn't lost in Tuscaloosa since 1999.
... Alabama is 6-2 against ranked teams the past two seasons,
with three wins over top-10 teams. ... The Tide has racked up 23
sacks, tying for the SEC lead with Mississippi and Florida.
LSU's offense has allowed 23 sacks to rank 11th.

---

No. 4 Cincinnati (8-0, 4-0 Big East) vs Connecticut (4-4, 1-3),
8 p.m. (ABC)

Line: Cincinnati by 17.

Series Record: Cincinnati leads 4-1.

Last meeting: 2008, Connecticut 40-16.

What's at Stake

For Cincinnati? Everything. The Bearcats have their highest
national ranking and are fifth in the BCS rankings, also their
top mark. A victory would match the 1951 team for best start in
school history and keep the Bearcats in the discussion of
national title candidates. Connecticut is trying to beat a
ranked team for only the second time in school history. The
Huskies' sole win in 15 tries came against No. 11 South Florida
in 2007.

Key Matchup

UConn junior QB Zach Frazer against Cincinnati's grudging
defense. Frazer lost the job earlier this season when he hurt
his knee, then was outplayed by backup Cody Endres. Endres hurt
his left shoulder during a 28-24 loss to Rutgers last Saturday
and is expected to miss the rest of the season. Frazer took over
and passed for 333 yards, but threw three interceptions. He'll
go against a defense that gives up yards but few big plays and
fewer touchdowns. The Bearcats ranked ninth nationally by
allowing only 12.9 points per game.

Players to Watch

Connecticut: DE Lindsey Witten. The 6-foot-5, 260-pound senior
leads the Big East with 10 1/2 sacks and ranks second
nationally. Cincinnati is among the best at avoiding the sack -
QBs Tony Pike and Zach Collaros have been dropped nine times
total.

Cincinnati: Collaros. He's expected to start again in place of
Pike, who had to have a plate replaced in his non-throwing
forearm. The sophomore has been sensational in two starts, going
41 of 52 for 620 yards and seven touchdowns.

Facts & Figures

The 24-point loss at UConn last season was Cincinnati's only
defeat in the Big East. It also was the second-worst loss during
Brian Kelly's three seasons as head coach. ... Cincinnati had
six turnovers in that lopsided loss. The Bearcats have a total
of four turnovers this season, all interceptions. They are the
only Bowl Subdivision team that hasn't lost a fumble. ...
UConn's four losses are by a combined 13 points. The last two -
to West Virginia and Rutgers - were by the same score of 28-24.
In both games, the opponent ran back the opening kickoff for a
touchdown. ... Cincinnati players and coaches sent an
autographed banner to UConn as a tribute to Jasper Howard, a
cornerback who was fatally stabbed. The banner featured a paw
logo in blue with Howard's photo and a the phrase "Teammates for
Life."

---

No. 6 TCU (8-0, 4-0 MWC) at San Diego St. (4-4, 2-2), 4 p.m.
(Versus)

Line: TCU by 24 1/2.

Series Record: TCU leads 4-0.

Last Meeting: 2008, TCU 41-7.

What's at Stake

TCU can remain undefeated and keep its hopes alive of becoming
the latest BCS buster. In the latest Bowl Championship Series
standings, TCU remained sixth and a spot ahead of Boise State
(8-0), the only other undefeated team from a non-automatic
qualifying BCS conference. SDSU is looking for an upset and the
chance to pop above .500 in coach Brady Hoke's first season.

Key Matchup

TCU's defense, led by end Jerry Hughes, against SDSU. There's no
defense playing better right now than TCU's, which tossed a 41-0
shutout at UNLV to move up four spots to No. 1 in total defense
(235.7 yards a game). That's where they've finished three of the
previous nine seasons. They are third in scoring defense, giving
up only 11 points a game.

Players to Watch

TCU: Hughes, whose nine sacks tie him for fifth in the NCAA. TCU
leads the Mountain West and is tied for ninth nationally with an
average of 3.1 per game.

San Diego St.: QB Ryan Lindley, who will be facing that tough
TCU defense. The sophomore has strung together three of his best
games of the season since coming off an Oct. 10 bye. he is 72 of
114 for 1,010 yards, 12 touchdowns and just one interception in
that span.

Facts and Figures

The Horned Frogs will be without their good luck charm, alum and
San Diego Chargers star running back LaDainian Tomlinson. With
the Chargers hitting the road to play the New York Giants on
Sunday, this will be the first time in he five years of
traveling to San Diego that L.T. won't be on the Frogs'
sideline. ... The Frogs are 4-0 the last four years in San
Diego, including two wins over SDSU and Poinsettia Bowl wins
over Northern Illinois in 2006 and Boise State last year. ...
SDSU is 2-2 in four conference games and has been outscored by
five points (112-107) after going 0-4 and being outscored by 121
points (183-63) against those same MWC foes last season. The
116-point improvement averages 29 points per game.

---

No. 7 Oregon (7-1, 5-0 Pac-10) at Stanford (5-3, 4-2), 3:30
p.m. (FSN)

Line: Oregon by 6 1/2.

Series Record: Stanford leads 43-28-1.

Last meeting: 2008, Oregon 35-28.

What's at Stake

Oregon needs a win to keep alive hopes of making it to the BCS
title game, while Stanford needs one more win to become bowl
eligible for the first time since 2001.

Key Matchup

Stanford LB Clinton Snyder vs. Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli. The
Cardinal will be counting on Snyder to provide pressure on
Masoli with the blitz and also keep him under wraps when he
decides to run with the ball. Masoli has rushed for 18 TDs in 19
career games and is averaging 6.1 yards per carry this
season.

Players to Watch

Oregon: RB LaMichael James. While there is plenty of focus on
when suspended RB LeGarrette Blount will return, the Ducks have
done just fine in his absence because of the freshman James. He
is averaging 137.6 yards rushing per game in Pac-10 play, best
in the conference, and is averaging 7 yards per carry.

Stanford: QB Andrew Luck. The redshirt freshman leads the Pac-10
in passing efficiency and is second in total offense. He has
been at his best of late, completing 38 of 63 passes for 659
yards and three TDs in his past two games.

Facts & Figures

Oregon has won seven straight against Stanford, the longest
streak in the series since Stanford won 11 in a row from
1900-29. ... The Ducks are 5-0 in Pac-10 play for only the
second time in 52 seasons. ... Stanford RB Toby Gerhart leads
the Pac-10 with 124.2 yards rushing per game. ... Stanford is
4-0 at home this season and 8-1 over the past two years. ... The
Cardinal are 2-21 against ranked opponents since 2002.

---

No. 8 Iowa (9-0, 5-0 Big Ten) vs Northwestern (5-4, 2-3), noon
(ESPN)

Line: Iowa by 16 1/2.

Series Record: Iowa leads 46-21-3.

Last Meeting: 2008, Northwestern 22-17.

What's at Stake

Iowa can move one step closer to a Big Ten title and stay in the
BCS championship game hunt with a win. The Hawkeyes could also
use a clean, decisive victory over an unranked foe to boost
their resume for those unconvinced pollsters. For Northwestern,
a win would make them bowl-eligible and give the Wildcats the
signature win they've lacked this season.

Key Matchup

Northwestern's running game versus Iowa's defense. The Wildcats
are 94th nationally with 121.9 yards rushing per game, which is
about as much as the Hawkeyes allow. Northwestern will have to
establish a ground attack given the questionable health of QB
Mike Kafka.

Players to Watch

Northwestern: Kafka. He sustained a hamstring injury in a 34-13
loss to Penn State. Mobile quarterbacks have given Iowa some
trouble this season, so Kafka's health is key.

Iowa: QB Ricky Stanzi. Although he threw five picks against
Indiana, his pair of TD throws to open the fourth quarter helped
Iowa beat the Hoosiers 42-24. Iowa is a heavy favorite against
the Wildcats, but turnovers could keep Northwestern in the
game.

Facts and Figures

Northwestern is the only team that's won more than once at
Kinnick Stadium in Iowa's last 51 games there. The Wildcats won
21-7 in 2006 and 22-17 last season. ... Iowa is 5-0 in the Big
Ten for the first time since 2002, when it finished 8-0 in
league play. ... Both teams are averaging exactly 25.7 points
per game, but the Hawkeyes are stingier on defense. Iowa is also
plus-18 in turnover margin, while Northwestern is minus-1.

---

No. 10 Georgia Tech (8-1, 5-1 ACC) vs Wake Forest (4-5, 2-3),
3:30 p.m. (ABC)

Line: Georgia Tech by 16.

Series record: Georgia Tech leads 20-8.

Last meeting: 2006, Wake Forest 9-6 in ACC championship
game.

What's At Stake

Georgia Tech is trying to move another step closer to clinching
a spot in the ACC championship game. The Yellow Jackets lead the
Coastal Division and merely need to win their last two
conference games, this week against the Demon Deacons and next
week at Duke. Wake Forest needs two wins in its last three games
to become bowl eligible.

Key Matchup

Georgia Tech QB Josh Nesbitt vs. the Wake Forest defense. The
Yellow Jackets are averaging more than 304 yards rushing out of
their spread option, and the junior quarterback is the one who
makes things go on offense. Nesbitt leads the team and ranks
third in the ACC with 561 yards on the ground. He's also rushed
for an ACC-leading 10 touchdowns. The Deacons have struggled
against the run, allowing nearly 142 yards a game (ninth in the
conference).

Players to Watch

Wake Forest: QB Riley Skinner. The fifth-year senior sustained a
concussion near the end of last week's loss to Miami and will
have to be cleared by the medical staff. He was listed as
questionable by the coaching staff, but the Yellow Jackets are
expecting him to play.

Georgia Tech: WR Demaryius Thomas. Who says a receiver can't put
up big numbers in Georgia Tech's run-oriented offense? Thomas
ranks first in the ACC in receiving yards per game (91.4) and
second nationally with 24.2 yards a catch. Opposing defenses
have to focus on the run, which usually leaves the junior in
single coverage when the Yellow Jackets put up one of their
infrequent passes.

Facts & Figures

Georgia Tech has its highest ranking in The Associated Press
rankings since 2001. ... Wake Forest has lost three straight to
damage its bowl hopes. ... Georgia Tech's offense really been
clicking, averaging 487 yards over the last five games. ... The
Yellow Jackets rushed for 404 yards in last week's win at
Vanderbilt. ... The Demon Deacons have lost four games by a
total of 10 points. ... Georgia Tech is assured of its 15th
straight season at finishing at .500 or better in conference
play. The only school with a longer such streak is Florida,
which has done it 23 straight times in the SEC.

---

No. 11 Penn State (8-1, 4-1 Big Ten) vs No. 15 Ohio State (7-2,
4-1), 3:30 p.m. (ABC)

Line: Penn State by 3 1/2.

Series record: Tied 12-12.

Last meeting: 2008, Penn State 13-6.

What's At Stake

Bragging rights aside, both teams could use a signature win to
improve their resumes for a BCS bowl berth. Ohio State hosts
Iowa next week, but this will be Penn State's last chance to
play a ranked foe with Indiana and Michigan State left on its
schedule. The winner also solidifies a hold on second place in
the Big Ten and be in position to move up should the unbeaten
Hawkeyes falter.

Key Matchup

Ohio State QB Terrelle Pryor vs. Penn State front seven. Pryor,
a western Pennsylvania native, may be taking heat from the
Beaver Stadium fans and the Nittany Lions' Big Ten-best defense.
DEs Jack Crawford and Jerome Hayes and the standout linebacking
corps may have their hands full trying to contain dual-threat
Pryor.

Players to Watch

Ohio State: Pryor. The sophomore spurned Penn State about 18
months ago to sign with the Buckeyes to end a hotly contested
recruiting race, and Nittany Lions fans haven't forgotten.

Penn State: QB Daryll Clark. The senior from Youngstown, Ohio,
would like to do well in his last game against Ohio State,
especially after getting knocked out of last year's win because
of a concussion.

Facts & Figures

A loss could threaten Ohio State's streak of at least a share of
four straight Big Ten titles. ... Penn State hasn't turned the
ball over the last three games, and has lost just two turnovers
overall during its five-game win streak. ... Saturday's game
will be the 300th played in the 50-season history of Beaver
Stadium.

---

No. 12 Southern California (6-2, 3-2 Pac-10) at Arizona St.
(4-4, 2-3), 8 p.m. (ABC)

Line: USC by 10.

Series Record: USC leads, 16-9.

Last meeting: 2008, USC 28-0.

What's at Stake

The Trojans are reeling after a 47-20 whipping at Oregon and
needs a miracle to win their eighth straight Pac-10 title, but
if the Trojans run the table they'll be eligible for an at-large
BCS berth. The Sun Devils are hoping to avoid a second
consecutive losing season.

Key Matchup

USC's running game against Arizona State's front seven. The Sun
Devils shut down Jahvid Best in a 23-21 loss to Cal last week.
The Trojans' top two tailbacks, Joe McKnight and Allen Bradford,
have been limited to minor work during practice this week with
injuries. Both hope to play Saturday. If they can't, USC would
turn to C.J. Gable, who got most of the work with the Trojans'
first-team offense Tuesday. The Sun Devils have the Pac-10's top
rushing defense and have allowed only one runner to gain more
than 100 yards - Pac-10 leader Toby Gerhart.

Players to Watch

Arizona State: DBs Ryan McFoy and Jarrell Holman. Along with
linebacker Mike Nixon, they create a ballhawking defense that
has combined to pick off nine passes.

USC: QB Matt Barkley. The freshman has thrown six interceptions
in seven games.

Facts & Figures

USC has won 27 straight games in November. The last loss came on
Nov. 25, 2000, to Notre Dame. ... Pete Carroll is 15-0 against
the Pac-10's Arizona schools. ... The Trojans are ranked for the
100th straight week. ... The Sun Devils are hoping the Trojans
bring some fans with them. According to the NCAA, Arizona State
is playing to 62.1 percent of Sun Devil Stadium's 71,705
capacity. That's 100th in the nation. ... Memo to officials:
Arizona State averages 89.2 penalty yards, worst in the nation.
USC averages 63.4 yards, 90th nationally.

---

No. 13 Houston (7-1, 3-1 C-USA) at Tulsa (4-4, 2-2), 7:30 p.m.
(CBS College)

Line: Tulsa by 1.

Series Record: Houston leads 18-16 .

Last meeting: 2008, Houston 70-30.

What's at Stake

Back in control of its path to the Conference USA championship,
Houston tries to topple the team that's represented the league's
West Division in the title game the past two seasons. Tulsa
tries to snap a three-game losing streak and spoil the Cougars'
promising season.

Key Matchup

Houston QB Case Keenum versus the Tulsa secondary. The Heisman
hopeful shredded the Golden Hurricane defense last year for 402
yards passing and six touchdowns, and he's coming off a
career-high 559 yards and four TDs in last week's shootout win
against Southern Miss.

Players to Watch

Houston: WR Tyron Carrier. The track sprinter is the Cougars'
second-leading receiver and had a huge game last year against
Tulsa, with 127 yards receiving and two touchdowns, plus a
93-yard score on a kickoff return.

Tulsa: QB G.J. Kinne. Taken out of last week's loss to SMU after
a concussion, Kinne is expected to return to the starting lineup
this week.

Facts & Figures

The home team has won in blowouts the past two seasons, with
Tulsa beating the Cougars 56-7 in 2007. ... Houston leads the
nation in total offense (563.3 ypg), passing (422.6 ypg) and is
second in scoring (41.6 ppg), but allows the seventh-most yards
per game among Bowl Subdivision teams. ... The Golden Hurricane
have allowed 31 sacks this season. ... The teams have combined
to win the West title the past four years.

---

No. 13 Pittsburgh (7-1, 4-0 Big East) vs Syracuse (3-5, 0-3),
noon (ESPNU)

Line: Pittsburgh by 18.

Series Record: Pittsburgh leads 31-30-3.

Last Meeting: 2008, Pittsburgh 34, Syracuse 24.

What's at Stake

Pittsburgh tries to avoid a letdown following a week off before
it begins a difficult closing stretch against Notre Dame, West
Virginia and Cincinnati. The Panthers, 4-0 in the Big East,
haven't lost to the Orange since 2004 during a series that has
been played annually since 1955. Syracuse, 0-3 in the Big East,
has lost its last six conference games dating to last season and
now must play three of its final four on the road.

Key Matchup

QB Greg Paulus and the oft-ineffective Syracuse offense against
Pitt's defense. The Orange own the Big East's worst offense -
they average only 312.6 yards - while Pitt's defense ranks
second in the conference after allowing only 212 yards during a
41-14 win over South Florida on Oct. 24.

Players to Watch

Syracuse: Paulus won't have to worry about getting booed by
Pitt's fans the way he is during home games. The former Duke
basketball player has been up and down, throwing for 346 yards
against Northwestern but also having more interceptions (11)
than TDs (10). And he'll be without his best receiver, Mike
Williams, who quit the team this week.

Pittsburgh: TE Dorin Dickerson is among the national leaders
with nine touchdown catches - he had only two coming into this
season - and is proving to be a difficult matchup inside the
20-yard line. Syracuse has allowed a Big East-worst 19 TD
passes, eight more than Pittsburgh.

Facts & Figures

Pitt can start 5-0 in the Big East for the first time since
2002. ... Syracuse is playing only its second road game and its
first since a 28-7 loss at Penn State on Sept. 12. Syracuse's
last road win was at Notre Dame on Nov. 22, 2008.... The Orange
haven't won at Pitt since 2001. ... Pitt is trying to go 8-1 for
the first time since 1982. ... Pitt freshman RB Dion Lewis ranks
fourth nationally, averaging 128.56 yards per game. ... Pitt did
not punt against South Florida.

---

No. 16 Miami (6-2, 3-2 ACC) vs Virginia (3-5, 2-2), noon
(ESPN360)

Line: Miami by 13 1/2.

Series Record: Miami leads 4-2.

Last meeting: 2008, Miami 24-17, OT.

What's at Stake

Same deal as last week for Miami: Hurricanes need to win to keep
any realistic hopes of ACC Coastal Division title alive.
Virginia is two losses away from bowl ineligibility, and might
be playing for coach Al Groh's job.

Key Matchup

Any Virginia offensive player with the ball vs. Miami's defense.
The Hurricanes got throttled last week by Wake Forest's offense,
giving up a school-record 33 first downs and 555 yards. Injuries
are a big factor for Miami, and Virginia doesn't need a lot of
yards to win: It got 254 yards in beating North Carolina, and
just 201 in beating Maryland.

Players to Watch

Virginia: QB Jameel Sewell. He's completed 74 percent of his
passes in two previous times facing the Hurricanes, winning
both, including the 48-0 farewell-to-the-Orange Bowl in 2007.
That's assuming he plays; the school said Thursday he's
"doubtful" with a shoulder issue.

Miami: DT/DE Allen Bailey. The team's best producer in tackles
for loss in recent weeks, Bailey has shown he can stop drives
almost single-handedly of late. Miami will need some
game-changing plays from him to halt the Cavaliers' two-prong
attack.

Facts & Figures

First trip for Virginia to Miami since closing the Hurricanes'
seven-decade run at the Orange Bowl, a game that still stings in
South Florida. ... Watch the weather: Highs were in the 50s this
week in Virginia, while the noon kickoff in Miami on Saturday
could happen in humid, mid-80s, summer-like heat. ... Virginia's
Al Groh and Miami's Randy Shannon both coach at their alma
mater. ... Miami CB Brandon Harris was named as a Jim Thorpe
Award semifinalist this week. ... Virginia got 10 sacks in
season's first seven games, then six last week alone against
Duke.

---

No. 17 Utah (7-1, 4-0 MWC) vs New Mexico (0-8, 0-4), 6 p.m.
(The Mtn.)

Line: Utah by 27 1/2.

Series Record: Utah leads 31-17-2.

Last Meeting: 2008, Utah 13-10.

What's at Stake

Utah gets one more tuneup before next week's game at unbeaten
TCU for first place in the Mountain West. The Utes have won five
straight, but is also in the midst of a bit of a quarterback
quandry. The Utes brought in freshman Jordan Wynn last week in a
22-10 win over Wyoming to replace starter Terrance Cain. Utah
didn't plan to name a starter until game time Saturday. The
Lobos have four games remaining as they try to avoid their first
winless season since 1987 and three are against the Mountain
West's ranked teams - No. 17 Utah, No. 25 BYU and No. 6 TCU.

Key Matchup

Utah's QBs vs. New Mexico's defense. Either Wynn or Cain will be
facing the defense ranked last in the Mountain West in scoring
(35.5 points per game) and second to last in total defense
(413.5 yards).

Players to Watch

New Mexico: LB Carmen Messina. Messina is averaging 13.5 tackles
per game, No. 1 nationally and has seven straight games with 10
or more tackles.

Utah: RB Eddie Wide. Wide has tied a school record with five
straight 100-yard rushing games and is averaging 6-yards per
carry.

Facts & Figures

New Mexico is playing the 1,000th game in school history. ...
Utah coach Kyle Whittingham is 2-2 against New Mexico. ...
Utah's five sacks last week against Wyoming were the Utes' most
since getting eight in a 31-17 win over Alabama in the Sugar
Bowl.

---

No. 18 Oklahoma State (6-2, 3-1 Big 12) vs Iowa State (5-4,
2-3), 3:30 p.m. (FCS)

Line: Oklahoma State by 7 1/2.

Series Record: Oklahoma State leads 24-17-3.

Last Meeting: 2008, Oklahoma State 59-17.

What's at Stake

Oklahoma State needs to bounce back from a 41-14 loss to No. 2
Texas with a solid effort against a revived Iowa State team. A
win over the Cowboys would make the Cyclones bowl-eligible for
the first time since 2005 and give first-year coach Paul Rhoads
a signature win.

Key Matchup

Oklahoma State's passing game against Iowa State's secondary.
Cowboys QB Zac Robinson is the Big 12's highest-rated passer and
the Cyclones rank 94th nationally in pass defense. If Iowa State
can't contain Oklahoma State's air attack, this game could be
over in a hurry.

Players to Watch

Oklahoma State: RB Kendall Hunter. Oklahoma State's star running
back has been hobbled all season, but coach Mike Gundy said the
Cowboys are hoping to get him some playing time. Hunter rushed
for 1,555 yards and 16 TDs last season.

Iowa State: QB Austen Arnaud. After missing two weeks with a
bruised throwing hand, Arnaud will be back this week. His return
couldn't come soon enough for the Cyclones, who averaged just
9.5 points a game in his absence.

Facts and Figures

Oklahoma State is 16-6 in its last 22 games, and five of those
losses came against teams ranked in the top 15. ... Iowa State
is averaging over 200 yards rushing a game through nine games
for the first time since 1999. ... Don't expect many sacks in
this one. The Cowboys have allowed four in eight games, best in
the nation, while Iowa State ranks eighth with six in nine
games.

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No. 19 Notre Dame (6-2) vs Navy (6-3), 2:30 p.m. (NBC)

Line: Notre Dame by 11.

Series Record: Notre Dame leads 71-10-1.

Last Meeting: 2008, Notre Dame 27-21 OT.

What's at Stake

Notre Dame, which saw its 43-game winning streak against Navy
end two seasons ago in South Bend, needs to keep winning to keep
its hopes alive for a BCS berth. Navy needs another win to
become bowl eligible for a seventh straight season and earn a
berth in the Texas Bowl.

Key Matchup

Navy QB Ricky Dobbs vs. Notre Dame line. Dobbs missed the game
against Wake Forest two weeks ago with a cracked bone in his
right knee and got in for seven plays against Temple. Navy's
second-leading rusher with 595 yards, who leads the nation with
16 rushing touchdowns, is ready to go against the Irish. Notre
Dame's line has been steadily improving as the Irish coaches
have been mixing in more players to try to keep the linemen
fresh.

Players to Watch

Navy: LB Ross Pospisil keys what Weis describes as by far the
best Navy defense he's seen in his five seasons as coach of the
Irish. Pospisil leads the Midshipmen with 65 tackles, including
2.5 sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss, three pass breakups and a
forced fumble.

Notre Dame: WR Michael Floyd. Returning six weeks after breaking
his left collarbone, Floyd makes Notre Dame's powerful passing
attack even more potent. Coach Charlie Weis said Floyd won't be
in for every play, but Floyd said he's ready for as many chances
as Weis will give him.

Facts & Figures

Notre Dame is 41-1 when it is ranked and the Midshipmen are
unranked. The lone loss was in 1936, when the 13th-ranked Irish
lost 3-0. ... Navy is third in the nation in rushing offense,
averaging 280 yards a game. The Midshipmen, who led the nation
in rushing the past four seasons, are 39 yards a game behind
Nevada - whom the Irish beat 35-0 in the season opener. ...
Jimmy Clausen has thrown 124 passes without an interception. ...
Notre Dame right tackle Sam Young has started 46 straight games,
two shy of tying the school record.

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No. 20 Oklahoma (5-3, 3-1 Big 12) at Nebraska (5-3, 2-2), 8
p.m. (ABC)

Line: Oklahoma by 6.

Series Record: Oklahoma leads 44-37-3.

Last meeting: 2008, Oklahoma 62-28.

What's at Stake

Surprisingly little considering the history of this series. With
the Big 12 South almost out of reach, Oklahoma is playing for
the best possible bowl, likely the Cotton. Nebraska is in the
thick of the North race but the margin for error is closing.

Key Matchup

Oklahoma's defensive front versus the Nebraska running game. If
the Huskers can't run, they probably can't win. With Roy Helu
Jr. banged up, Nebraska has not had a consistent threat in Big
12 play. Look for freshman QB Cody Green to call his own number
against an Oklahoma defense that ranks No. 3 nationally against
the run.

Players to Watch

Oklahoma: DE Jeremy Beal and DT Gerald McCoy. They'll merit
special attention from the Huskers' offensive line. Beal has 8
1/2 sacks and 13 1/2 tackles for loss, and McCoy has 12 stops
behind the line. The duo could make it a long night for the
Huskers.

Nebraska: Green. The freshman is making his second start, and
he'll be doing it in a game that could swing the season.
Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson kept things simple last week
against Baylor. Now, Green faces one of the most athletic
defenses in the country.

Facts & Figures

Oklahoma has won four straight in the series. ... The Sooners'
Ryan Broyles leads the nation with 10 TD catches. ... Oklahoma
QB Landry Jones completed his last 14 passes against Kansas
State last week and finished with 294 yards and four TDs. ...
Nebraska's offense has three TDs in the last three games. ...
Huskers DT Jared Crick is coming off a 13-tackle, five-sack
outing against Baylor.

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No. 21 Arizona (5-2, 3-1 Pac-10) vs Washingon St. (1-7, 0-5),
3:30 p.m. (FCS)

Line: Arizona by 33.

Series record: Arizona leads, 23-13.

Last meeting: 2008, Arizona 59-28.

What's at Stake

The Wildcats are one of only two teams - Oregon is the other -
who control their own destiny in the Pac-10. The Wildcats are
also the only Pac-10 team that has never played in the Rose Bowl
game, which would change if they win their last five games. The
Cougars are hoping to end a nine-game road losing streak.

Key Matchup

Arizona's passing game against Washington State's secondary.
Wildcats QB Nick Foles leads the Pac-10 with a 72.3 percent
completion rate, but is coming off a three-interception,
one-fumble performance in a 27-13 victory over UCLA. The Cougars
give up 290.7 passing yards, 118th out of 120 teams. They may
try to pressure Foles, but Arizona's line has given up only four
sacks in seven games, fewest in the Pac-10.

Players to Watch

Arizona: RB Keola Antolin. With Nic Grigsby and Greg Nwoko
battling shoulder sprains, Antolin may be asked to carry much of
the rushing load. The 5-foot-8 sophomore from Las Vegas has been
sidelined with a sprained ankle this season, but ran 16 times
for 77 yards after entering at halftime against UCLA. He's had
two 100-yard games this season.

Washingon State: QB Jeff Tuel. He threw for 354 yards and two
TDs two weeks ago against Cal, the second-highest passing total
for a freshman in school history. Tuel, who replaced Marshall
Lobbestael, is Washington State's first true freshman QB since
Drew Bledsoe in 1990.

Facts & Figures

A victory would make Arizona bowl-eligible for back-to-back
seasons for the first time since 1998-99. ... The Wildcats play
as a ranked team for the first time since Oct. 28, 2000, when a
loss to UCLA dropped them out of the Top 25. Their last victory
as a ranked team came in a 53-47, 3-OT thriller over Washington
State on Oct. 14, 2000. ... After forcing only 13 turnovers a
year ago, the Cougars are tied for second in the Pac-10 with 20
turnovers gained this season. ... Washington State DT Toby
Turpin has blocked a field goal and a PAT in the last two games.

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Oregon St. (5-3, 3-2 Pac-10) at No. 23 California (6-2, 3-2),
4:15 p.m. (FSN)

Line: California by 7 1/2.

Series Record: California leads 33-28.

Last meeting: 2008, Oregon St. 34-21.

What's at Stake

The Beavers become bowl eligible with a win, which would assure
them a fourth straight bowl bid for the first time in school
history. The Golden Bears are looking to improve their bowl
standing.

Key Matchup

Oregon State RB Jacquizz Rogers vs. Cal RB Jahvid Best. While
the two dynamic backs won't be on the field at the same time,
the one who delivers the most big plays could be key to victory.
They are each in the top five in the conference in rushing and
lead the Pac-10 with 15 TDs each.

Players to Watch

Oregon St.: QB Sean Canfield. Canfield is third in the nation,
completing 68.9 percent of his passes. That's well above the
highest mark in school history of 60.6 percent set by Matt Moore
in 2006.

California: QB Kevin Riley. Riley is 53 of 85 for 785 yards,
eight TDs and one INT during Cal's three-game winning streak. He
is looking to beat the Beavers for the first time. He made his
first career start against them two years ago when his poor
clock management cost the Bears a chance to tie the game late
and possibly move to No. 1 in the country.

Facts & Figures

Oregon State has won four straight games at Memorial Stadium and
eight of 10 overall against the Golden Bears. ... The Beavers
have lost just five turnovers this season, second fewest in the
nation. ... Oregon State is 15-4 over the past four years in
games decided by seven points or fewer. ... Cal has won three
straight since being outscored 72-6 in losing the first two
conference games to Oregon and USC. ... The Bears have 51 plays
from scrimmage that have gone for at least 20 yards.

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No. 24 Wisconsin (6-2, 3-2 Big Ten) at Indiana (4-5, 1-4), noon
(Big Ten)

Opening Line: Wisconsin by 11.

Series record: Wisconsin leads 35-18-2.

Last meeting: 2008, Wisconsin, 55-20.

What's At Stake

Indiana needs two wins in the last three games to become
bowl-eligible. With a trip to No. 11 Penn State next week, this
is as close to a must-win as the Hoosiers have. Wisconsin ended
a two-game skid last weekend and a win Saturday would allow the
Badgers to close with a lot of momentum. The remaining schedule:
home against Michigan, at Northwestern and at Hawaii.

Key Matchup

Wisconsin RB John Clay against Indiana's run defense. The
Hoosiers have been outscored 47-3 in the second half the last
two weeks. Now the Hoosiers must contend with the 248-pound
Clay. If the Badgers spend the first two quarters delivering
body blows to the Indiana defense, Clay could take advantage by
extending the second-half woes against a worn down defense.

Players to Watch

Wisconsin: Clay. He's tied for 13th in the nation in touchdowns
rushing (10), has four 100-yard games this season and is 20th in
the nation with 104.9 yards per game. This week, he faces a
defense that allows more than 145 yards per game and has given
up 15 TDs on the ground, tied for second-most in the Big Ten.

Indiana: CB Adrian Burks. If the Hoosiers focus too much on the
run, Wisconsin might take advantage of play-action. The Badgers
have done that before and produced big plays. And with Burks
replacing Indiana's top cornerback, Ray Fisher, who is out with
a knee injury, Wisconsin could be tempted to revert to that
philosophy.

Facts & Figures

Indiana LB Chad Sherer and Wisconsin QB Dustin Sherer are
brothers who grew up in Cicero, Ind. ... Indiana has allowed at
least 30 points in four of its last six games. ... Indiana is
3-9 in November home games since 2002. ... Badgers have won four
straight in the series. ... Wisconsin is 6-0 against unranked
teams, 0-2 against ranked teams this season. ... Clay, the Big
Ten's leading rusher, needs 161 yards to reach 1,000 yards this
season. ... Wisconsin has the second-longest active streak of
consecutive bowl games in the Big Ten with seven.

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No. 25 BYU (6-2, 3-1 MWC) at Wyoming (4-4, 2-2), 2 p.m. (The
Mtn.)

Line: BYU by 13.

Series record: BYU leads 42-30-3.

Last meeting: 2008, BYU 44-0.

What's At Stake

BYU is coming off a bye week after losing at home to TCU 38-7,
its first loss in the Mountain West. The Cougars dropped out of
the Top 25 but re-entered during an off week. Wyoming has been
competitive under new coach Dave Christensen but is still trying
to get consistency from the new no-huddle, spread offense he's
installed. The Cowboys defense has held opponents, which include
Texas and Utah, to 23.4 points a game.

Key Matchup

BYU offense vs. Wyoming defense. BYU quarterback Max Hall leads
the league in passing at 278.9 yards a game, and Cougars running
back Harvey Unga leads the Mountain West in rushing at 99.7
yards a game. Wyoming's defense has five of the top six tacklers
in the league, led by linebackers Brian Hendricks, who averages
11.6 a game.

Players to Watch

BYU: Hall. He's completed 68.8 percent of his passes this season
and recorded 17 touchdowns, but has also thrown 11
interceptions.

Wyoming: QB Austyn Carta-Samuels. The freshman is eighth in the
league in total offense, accounting for an average of 173.8
yards a game.

Facts & Figures

Wyoming's offense has allowed 26 sacks this season ... BYU has
converted 59.8 percent of its third downs, tops in the MWC,
while Wyoming is second worst in the league at 31 percent ...
Wyoming has committed two turnovers in four games at home this
season while forcing 12 opponent turnovers in War Memorial
Stadium ... Wyoming hasn't beaten BYU since 2003 ... A victory
over Wyoming would give BYU quarterback Max Hall a total of 28
career wins, only one game behind Heisman Trophy winner Ty
Detmer, who leads the BYU record list with 29 wins from 1988-91.