What to Watch: College Football Week Thirteen

Before looking forward to Black Friday’s matchup against Virginia Tech, we have to go through this Saturday’s slate, which features a pair of games worth paying attention to. Though they might not be as important as what will go down next week - at least for UVA - both could provide a nice barometer for what to expect in this year’s commonwealth clash.

Liberty Flames at Virginia Cavaliers

Sure, UVA cannot change their standing within the Coastal standings this weekend, meaning, ultimately, they’ll have to beat Virginia Tech next Friday in order to ensure a berth in the ACC Championship game, but that doesn’t make Saturday’s game meaningless. Above all, Liberty (6-4) should provide a good test for the Hoos’ defense, as they enter Scott Stadium having averaged 515.25 yards over its past four games behind the arm of quarterback Stephen Calvert, who ranks ninth best in college football in terms of passing yards (2,941).

TV - Saturday, ACCNX, 12:00 PM

Pittsburgh Panthers at Virginia Tech Hokies

This game is crucial for either team’s hopes at a division title. Should Virginia Tech get the win in what will be defensive coordinator Bud Foster’s final game coaching at Lane Stadium, then, yes, everything will come down to next Friday’s meeting with the Cavaliers. But, if Pittsburgh wins, they’ll only need to beat a 5-5 Boston College team and hope the Hokies get past the Hoos in Week 14 in order to repeat as Coastal champs. Bottom line: this one’s worth tuning in to.

TV - Saturday, ESPN2, 3:30 PM