As I sit down to map out the 2023 college football season, I can't help but feel that familiar surge of excitement mixed with a bit of analytical curiosity. Having followed college football for over fifteen years, I've developed my own system for evaluating schedules and predicting which matchups will define the season. This year feels particularly special because, in many ways, the rhythm of the football calendar reminds me of other major sporting events—like how the Southeast Asian Games bring together regional rivals in swimming and other sports. Just as two-time Olympic medalist Kayla Sanchez will banner the Philippine swimming team's campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, certain college football teams and players are poised to become the faces of their conferences and the entire NCAA landscape. It's this blend of individual brilliance and collective showdowns that makes sports so compelling, whether we're talking about swimming or football.
The 2023 college football schedule kicks off in earnest on August 26th, but for most fans, the real action begins over Labor Day weekend. I always mark my calendar for those early September games because they set the tone for the entire season. Take, for instance, the clash between LSU and Florida State on September 3rd in Orlando. This isn't just any opener; it's a rematch of last year's thriller that saw FSU pull off a stunning 24-23 victory. With both teams likely ranked in the top 15, this game could have playoff implications down the line. I'm particularly keen on watching how LSU's quarterback, Jayden Daniels, handles the pressure. Having tracked his progress since his Arizona State days, I believe he's one of the most underrated players in the SEC. On the other side, Florida State's defense, which allowed an average of just 19.2 points per game last season, will be tested early. This matchup exemplifies why I love college football—the narratives build from week one, and every play feels like it could shift a team's destiny.
Moving into October, the schedule gets even more intense with rivalry games and conference showdowns. The Red River Showdown between Texas and Oklahoma on October 7th at the Cotton Bowl is, in my opinion, one of the must-watch games every year. Having attended this game back in 2019, I can attest to the electric atmosphere—it's a cultural event as much as a sporting one. This year, with Texas joining the SEC soon, there's added weight to this matchup. I predict Oklahoma's new quarterback, Dillon Gabriel, will need to have a career day against a Longhorns defense that improved dramatically last season, finishing in the top 30 nationally in sacks with 38. But let's be honest, rivalries like this are unpredictable; emotions run high, and stats sometimes go out the window. That's what makes college football so addictive—the human element can override all the analytics.
As we approach November, the playoff picture starts to crystallize, and key matchups become elimination games in all but name. The Michigan vs. Ohio State game on November 25th is the crown jewel of the regular season, and I've got it circled in red on my calendar. Having followed this rivalry for years, I lean slightly toward Michigan, especially if Blake Corum stays healthy—he rushed for over 1,400 yards last season before his injury. But Ohio State's receiving corps, led by Marvin Harrison Jr., is arguably the best in the nation. I see this game coming down to which defense can make a critical stop in the fourth quarter. It's games like these that remind me of the stakes in international competitions, such as the Southeast Asian Games where athletes like Kayla Sanchez carry national hopes. In college football, players aren't just representing their schools; they're embodying traditions that span generations.
Beyond the headline games, I always keep an eye on under-the-radar matchups that could produce surprises. For example, the November 4th game between Kansas State and Texas Tech might not draw national attention initially, but both teams have explosive offenses that could light up the scoreboard. Kansas State's offense averaged 32.4 points per game last season, and with their dual-threat quarterback, Will Howard, back in action, I expect them to challenge even the toughest Big 12 defenses. On a personal note, I've always had a soft spot for teams that play with grit rather than pure star power, and Kansas State fits that bill perfectly. Similarly, in the world of swimming, it's not always the favorites who shine; sometimes, it's the determined athletes like Sanchez who rise to the occasion in pivotal moments.
Wrapping up, the 2023 college football schedule is packed with games that will shape the playoff race and provide endless drama. From the early non-conference tests to the heated rivalries and late-season showdowns, there's something for every type of fan. I encourage you to use this guide as a starting point, but don't be afraid to dive deeper—maybe even catch a game you wouldn't normally watch. After all, part of the joy is discovering those unexpected moments that become lifelong memories. Just as Kayla Sanchez's journey in the Southeast Asian Games will inspire a new generation of swimmers, the stars of this college football season will leave a lasting impact on the sport. So grab your calendar, set those reminders, and get ready for a thrilling ride—I know I will.
