CBS Sports Network is continuing its coverage of the 2024 college football season with seven games lined up for Week 9, including a few weekday matchups leading up to a Saturday filled with four games. Friday night will feature a highly anticipated battle as UNLV takes on No. 17 Boise State, a game that holds significant implications for both the Mountain West Conference and the College Football Playoff race. On Saturday, keep an eye out for a key Mid-American Conference showdown between Ohio and Buffalo, as well as an interesting nonconference matchup between Washington State and San Diego State.
When it comes to the Boise State vs. UNLV game, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This matchup could potentially serve as a College Football Playoff eliminator game. While there’s a possibility that these two teams could meet again in the Mountain West Conference Championship Game, it’s unlikely that a two-loss Group of Five team would make it to the playoffs. Boise State boasts a Heisman Trophy frontrunner in Ashton Jeanty, but UNLV shouldn’t be underestimated, especially with new quarterback Hajj Malik-Williams leading the charge. This game promises to be a heavyweight battle and one of the most crucial contests in Week 9.
Moving on to the Buffalo vs. Ohio matchup, both teams are currently tied with a 2-1 record in conference play, making a win in this game imperative for their MAC Championship Game aspirations. Buffalo’s offense has been putting up solid numbers, averaging 31.3 points per game against MAC opponents, but they’ll face a tough challenge against Ohio, which boasts a strong defense ranking second in the MAC in total defense.
In the Rice vs. UConn game, UConn has been making waves this season, coming close to a significant upset against Wake Forest in Week 8. While the Huskies are just two wins away from bowl eligibility, Rice will be looking to put up a fight, despite their struggles on the offensive end.
Utah State and Wyoming will face off in a battle of struggling teams, both trying to stay afloat and avoid being eliminated from bowl contention. With a combined record of 2-12, neither team has their sights set on the postseason at this point, but a win in this matchup could provide a much-needed morale boost.
Finally, the Washington State vs. San Diego State game will feature a Washington State team that has quietly put together a strong season, with their only loss coming against Boise State. San Diego State, on the other hand, has had difficulties generating offense but will look to build on recent close wins.
As the Week 9 games unfold, CBS Sports Network will be there every step of the way to bring you the latest action, storylines, and updates from the college football landscape. So buckle up and get ready for an exciting weekend of football!
