Schedule for Week 2: What you should keep in mind

While there are only two games today on the Week 2 college football schedule between teams ranked in the AP's top 25, there are still a few matchups that could have playoff implications and there are potential upsets in some key non-league matchups that begin Saturday.

Which games are particularly important for you as the Week 2 schedule begins today? Here's an overview of the most important duels and how you can follow the action.

All times Eastern

Why watch? This is because two top-tier college football franchises are competing on the same field in one of the best venues in the country, and given the schedule that awaits these teams in the future, this could have serious playoff implications.

Michigan Stadium will be lit up because the Wolverines, the defending champions, have something to prove after losing a ton of talent and facing an SEC challenger with top-tier players. Both teams need this win to improve their reputations in the eyes of the CFP selectors.

12pm on Fox

Why watch? Not much is expected of Arkansas in the SEC this year, but with a good performance away from home against a top playoff contender, the team can make a splash.

Still, the Cowboys have a large number of talented returners, led by All-Star running back Ollie Gordon, and would gain some plus points with a win against an SEC team.

12pm on ABC

Why watch? To see if the Hawkeyes' offensive performance in the opening game was for real. Because if it is, a competent Iowa offense combined with the productive defense this team has been playing lately could make a splash in the Big Ten.

Iowa State will put that theory to the test with its own high-caliber players, hoping to avenge last year's 6-point loss, but also has to deal with some injuries on defense that could pose a problem in this matchup.

3:30 p.m. on CBS

Why watch? Nebraska fans' hopes rest on Dylan Raiola's shoulders, and the promising 5-star quarterback could face major gaps in Colorado's secondary.

Buffs quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter are two of the best players in college football who can change any game in an instant.

7:30 p.m. on NBC

Why watch? This could end up being a shootout as these teams boast dynamic quarterback play and some nifty receivers. The matchup could be a challenge for two second-tier teams looking to make an impact in the SEC and ACC respectively.

NC State played a close game against an FCS team in its opener and will need to appease its fans, but its offense could struggle against the Vols' seemingly legitimate pass rush.

7:30 p.m. on ABC

Why watch? To see if Clemson has recovered from its opening-game loss to Georgia and if its offense is finally getting going and looking to qualify for the playoffs after a three-year absence.

App State can't be overlooked either. The Mountaineers enter the season with a small list of serious playoff contenders who can secure a spot in the Group of Five, especially with quarterback Joey Aguilar leading that offense.

8pm on the ACC Network

Why watch? Along with App State, Boise State is one of the few Group of Five teams worth watching in the playoff race, and the reason for that is tailback Ashton Jeanty. He ran for 6 touchdowns in the opening game, but will be tested by a strong Ducks defense on forward defense.

Dillon Gabriel made a brilliant passing debut last week, but Oregon's offense was slow in a surprisingly close game against Idaho, putting early pressure on the unit, especially the stacked wide receiver position, to put on a show here before the Big Ten schedule is released.

10pm on Peacock

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