TV »  ABC

Key matchup »  Special teams. In a low-scoring game, big plays will be the difference. Under coach Frank Beamer, Tech has made special teams play an art form. But the Hokies will be tested by perhaps the nation’s best punt returner, Javier Arenas, who brought back three for touchdowns last year.

Why Virginia Tech will win »  Because it means more to the Hokies than the Tide. While Tech (1-4 vs. top-10 teams in the last four years) wants to certify its program and conference, there are no such questions about Alabama and the SEC. In addition, Nick Saban is breaking in a new QB, Greg McElroy, while Tech starter Tyrod Taylor is in full bloom.

Why Alabama will win »  Because Tech can’t score against perhaps the best defense in the nation. Key is mammoth NG Terrence Cody (6-5, 354), who must be double-teamed, leaving ILBs Rolando McClain and Dont’a Hightower to rumble. To thrive, Tech must make big plays against the Tide blitz and attack the edges with backs Ryan Williams and David Wilson.

Maryland vs. No. 14 California

Where »  Memorial Stadium, Berkeley, Calif.

When »  Saturday, 10 p.m.

TV »  ESPN2

Key matchup »  California Heisman Trophy candidate Jahvid Best vs. the Maryland defense and special teams. Last year in College Park, Maryland knocked Best out and went on to beat Cal, 35-27. This year, on the Golden Bears’ artificial turf, the speedster who averaged 8.1 yards per rush and scored 16 touchdowns, will be motivated.

Why Maryland will win »  Because, despite being 22-point underdogs, the Terps have little fear of the Golden Bears, who they humbled last season. Maryland lacks experience, especially on the line, but exploiting that weakness will not be easy for finesse-oriented Cal. Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen likes his speed and depth at the skill positions and defensive secondary.

Why Cal will win »  Because at home the Bears will be sufficiently motivated to avoid a repeat of last year when Maryland led by as many as 22 points. With 17 starters back from last year’s 9-4 team, Cal has a lot at stake as it enters the season ranked No. 14. The Bears will have the edge on the Terps on the line and at the skill positions.

Navy at No. 7 Ohio State

Where »  Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio

When »  Saturday, noon

TV »  ESPN

Key matchup »  Navy’s running game vs. Ohio State’s defense. With precision execution of their triple-option offense, the Mids have led the nation in rushing for four straight years. But rarely have they faced a defense as talented as Ohio State. The Buckeyes are strong on the edges and in the secondary, but are untested in the middle.

Why Navy will win »  Ohio State is replacing seven players taken in the first five rounds of the NFL Draft and is looking ahead to next week’s game with No. 5 Southern Cal. If the Buckeyes aren’t ready, Navy QB Ricky Dobbs, a potent runner and thrower who works behind a veteran offensive line, will give them fits.

Why Ohio State will win »  Because this is a talent mismatch. Ohio State recruits a different level athlete. Consider QB Terrelle Pryor (6-6, 235) who runs a team-best 4.33 in the 40, but struggled in the passing game last year. It will be up to Navy DT Jabaree Tuani to pressure, OLBs Clint Sovie and Ram Vella to contain and the Mids’ strong secondary to cover.