Some victories can be a sign that a program that has hit hard times could be heading for better days.
Florida and West Virginia are coming off those types of wins.
Then there are victories that have the potential to change a season, accelerate the rebuilding process and alleviate the pressure on a coach who has been facing heavy scrutiny.
The Gators and Mountaineers have a chance for that kind of breakthrough Saturday. Florida is at No. 3 Alabama. West Virginia hosts No. 4 Oklahoma.
MARQUEE MATCHUPS
No. 22 Clemson (plus 16) at No. 1 Florida State
Introducing Sean Maguire, the Seminoles’ backup quarterback who will try to keep FSU moving while Jameis Winston serves first-half suspension … FLORIDA STATE 34-17.
UPSET ALERT
Florida (plus 14 1/2) at No. 3 Alabama
Teams haven’t played since 2011. Tide won last three meetings by average score of 34-10 … ALABAMA 34-10.
No. 4 Oklahoma (minus 7 1/2) at West Virginia
Sooners have won both meetings since Mountaineers joined Big 12 — by a combined 10 points … OKLAHOMA 38-28
UPSET SPECIAL
Mississippi State (plus 10) at No. 8 LSU
Tigers have won 14 straight against Bulldogs. So Mississippi State is due, right? … MISSISSIPPI STATE 24-23.
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