The 2016 college football season doesn't start for several months and spring practice hasn't even started yet. However, we're already pining for the return of Saturdays full of football.
We've compiled the top games for next season below, with added emphasis given for the ones that could have an impact on the College Football Playoff situation. Full warning: it's shaping up to be another great season full of incredible games. With that in mind, let's get to The 14 Best College Football Games Of 2016:
14. Alabama Crimson Tide vs. USC Trojans - Sept. 3rd
This is the first of many games from the opening week of college football. It might not have the intrigue it could have had given USC's struggles, but this is still two high-profile programs facing off in Jerry World.
13. Alabama Crimson Tide @ Auburn Tigers - Nov. 26th
Auburn has hit a bit of a rough patch as of late, which is why the Iron Bowl isn't in the Top 10 this year. Still, it should be a must-watch game.
12. Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Tennessee Volunteers - Sept. 10th
This seems like it shouldn't be on this list right? Sure, Tennessee could win the SEC East, but Va Tech isn't expected to make a run at the ACC. But this game is on the list because of the location. This is the Battle At Bristol, and will be played on the infield at Bristol Motor Speedway. It's a truly historic event.
11. Ole Miss Rebels @ LSU Tigers - Oct. 22nd
Ole Miss and LSU both have dreams of winning the SEC West and making it to the College Football Playoff. One loss might not totally eliminate the loser, but it's a game both teams will need to win.
10. Michigan Wolverines @ Michigan State Spartans - Oct. 29th
Michigan lost a heart-breaker last year, and they'll be looking for revenge. There are Big Ten title implications on the line in this one. For more college football news, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
9. Alabama Crimson Tide @ Ole Miss Rebels - Sept. 17th
Ole Miss beat Alabama the last time these two teams played. Alabama wants revenge against the only team they lost to. A win could put Ole Miss in prime CFP position.
8. Michigan Wolverines @ Ohio State Buckeyes - Nov. 19th
The Buckeyes don't have the talent they had last year, but they should show plenty of growth throughout the season. There's a chance a Big Ten title game appearance is on the line for this one. Plus, there's no way we're leaving out on of the best rivalries in college football.
7. Oklahoma Sooners @ Houston Cougars - Sept. 3rd
OU has several games on this list, starting with a matchup against Houston. The Cougars beat FSU to end the season, and they're a CFP dark horse.
6. Alabama Crimson Tide @ LSU Tigers - Nov. 5th
The SEC West is deep once again, and both LSU and Bama are among the favorites. LSU has the home-field edge this time, and the Tigers will be expecting to reverse last year's result.
5. Stanford Cardinal @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish - Oct. 15th
Both Stanford and ND came close to make the college football playoff last year. They'll be contenders again this season, with the winner getting a resume boost. For more college football news, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
4. Florida State Seminoles vs. Ole Miss Rebels - Sept. 5th
Another early season matchup. Both Ole Miss and FSU have College Football Playoff hopes, but a loss will put a damper on those. This should be a heavily watched matchup. This game will be played in Orlando, Florida.
3. Baylor Bears @ Oklahoma Sooners - Nov. 12th
This might end up being the de facto Big 12 title game. OU is going to be dangerous again this year, and Baylor could be too if QB Seth Russell stays healthy.
2. Clemson Tigers @ Florida State Seminoles - Oct. 29th
This could be a College Football Playoff play-in game. Clemson is a popular pick to make it back to the playoff, while FSU was close last season. This game will likely determine who ends up winning the ACC.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes @ Oklahoma Sooners - Sept. 17th
Ohio State loses a lot of talent, but this is the non-conference matchup of the season. Both teams harbor College Football Playoff hopes and this should be a thrilling matchup.