A downsized, semi-Rivalry Week in college football kicks off on Friday, when Texas hosts Iowa State in a top-25 Big 12 clash. That same day, No. 2 Notre Dame will travel to Chapel Hill looking to keep rolling against Sam Howell and No. 19 North Carolina, and on Saturday, the Iron Bowl takes center stage when No. 1 Alabama hosts No. 22 Auburn in Tuscaloosa.
After this week's release of the season's first College Football Playoff rankings, top teams have a better idea of where they stand in the committee's eyes.