The college football Week 8 schedule is expected to be less eventful than the previous week, which featured six ranked matchups. According to a report published October 23, 2026, the upcoming slate contains only two ranked games, though potential chaos remains a possibility for the season.
A prime-time matchup features No. 7 Ole Miss against No. 18 Texas. The Longhorns, who held the No. 1 ranking two weeks ago, are attempting to end a two-game losing streak. Ole Miss enters the game following two decisive wins and is currently ranked in the top 10. Key players to watch include Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and Texas quarterback Arch Manning. Texas may face challenges as defensive end Colin Simmons is dealing with an ankle injury, and running back Hollywood Smothers might be unavailable.
In a late-night Big 12 contest, No. 9 Utah will host No. 16 Houston. The Utes remain one of three undefeated squads in the league. Utah quarterback Devon Dampier will lead an offense supported by WR Braden Pegan and RB Wayshawn Parker. Houston's offense features quarterback Conner Weigman, WR Amare Thomas, and TE Patrick Overmyer. While Utah holds a statistical edge in defense through players like LBs Trey Reynolds and Elijah Elliss, Houston possesses takeaway threats such as DB Jordan Allen.
The Big Ten will see several ranked teams traveling on Saturday, October 24, 2026. No. 6 Indiana will face Michigan, while No. 15 USC will visit Wisconsin. Additionally, No. 14 Iowa is scheduled to play Minnesota, with the Hawkeyes looking to reclaim the Floyd of Rosedale trophy. In the SEC, No. 17 LSU will face Auburn in an all-Tigers matchup following Auburn's recent victory over No. 1 Georgia.
Beyond the Top 25, the Mountain West will feature a clash between North Dakota State and New Mexico. The Bison, who are already bowl eligible in their first season at the highest level of the sport, will travel to face the Lobos.
