KSL.com Staff Reveal College Football Week 3 Picks Amidst Exciting Rivalries and Ranked Matchups
SALT LAKE CITY — As college football fans gear up for Week 3, KSL.com Sports staff has released their picks, spotlighting a weekend full of anticipation with intense rivalries, key ranked matchups, and significant conference play beginning for many teams.
This weekend marks the closing of the nonconference schedule for many programs and promises a riveting slate beginning Friday night with a Big 12 showdown where undefeated Arizona travels to Kansas State in Manhattan. Although this game does not affect conference standings, it serves as an important gauge for these two prospective Big 12 title contenders.
Nationally, fans will watch a ranked LSU team face off against unbeaten South Carolina, alongside the early edition of the renowned Apple Cup rivalry between Washington and Washington State, both monumental games with postseason implications.
Local Rivalries Heat Up
Highlighting local interest, the “Battle of the Brothers” features No. 12 Utah visiting Utah State, a game that carries weight for state bragging rights. Previously, the Utah Utes lost in Logan, but with team dynamics having shifted this season, expectations are high for a different outcome. Meanwhile, undefeated BYU is set to journey back to Laramie to take on former Mountain West foe Wyoming. Laramie, known for its challenging playing conditions, traditionally favors the home Cowboys, though Wyoming has struggled to meet those expectations early in 2025.
Premier SEC Matchups and Ranked Clashes
Saturday’s SEC clash will feature No. 6 Georgia traveling to Neyland Stadium to face No. 15 Tennessee, a showdown between two powerhouse programs both undefeated this season. Georgia hopes to build on a championship-contending campaign with new quarterback Gunner Stockton and the talented Branch brothers adding firepower to their offense. Tennesee, unbeaten and physically imposing, promises a formidable challenge.
Another nationally significant game is the Notre Dame vs. Texas A&M contest, featuring both ranked teams in a highly anticipated matchup that could reshape the college football landscape early in the season.
How to Join the Fun
KSL.com invites fans to join the excitement by participating in its Sports’ College Football Pick’em contest, now in its 10th year. Each week, participants predict outcomes and scores of five selected college football games, including all major local matchups involving BYU, Utah, and Utah State along with compelling national games. The most accurate forecaster gains maximum points, injecting friendly competition into the fandom.
Fans are encouraged to get their picks in early, especially with Friday night’s Big 12 opener setting the tone. Expert analysis combined with rivalry stakes and ranked showdowns across the country makes Week 3 a can’t-miss slate for college football enthusiasts.
For complete picks and to submit your own ballot, visit KSL.com College Pick’em before the games kick off.