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College Football: Top-5 Non Conference Games of 2018

By Eric Robinson

BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 30: Tavien Feaster #28 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates after scoring a 60-yard touchdown during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 30: Tavien Feaster #28 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates after scoring a 60-yard touchdown during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /
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STATE COLLEGE, PA – OCTOBER 21: Rashan Gary #3 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after stopping the Penn State Nittany Lions on October 21, 2017 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
STATE COLLEGE, PA – OCTOBER 21: Rashan Gary #3 of the Michigan Wolverines reacts after stopping the Penn State Nittany Lions on October 21, 2017 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

1. Michigan vs. Notre Dame, September 1st

Between these two historic programs, Michigan has won four of the past six and six of the past nine contests. Based on what both teams bring to the table this season, this is very well the top matchup on opening weekend. If any indication was needed, ESPN’s College GameDay will be present for this gem.

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Michigan has a new face at quarterback and his name is Shea Patterson. The strong-armed passer transferred from Ole Miss this past offseason and brings a different dynamic to a Wolverine offense that struggled at the quarterback position in 2017.

Everyone knows, however, that this Michigan team will go as far as their stellar defense will take them. Defensive lineman Rashan Gary will bring plenty of heat that could be a deciding factor in this one.

The Irish return nine starters on defense and will likely see a spike in improvement this season. On offense, big-sized receivers in Chase Claypool and Miles Boykin can be a handful as both are listed above 6’4.

Next. College Football: Top 5 Quarterbacks in 2018. dark

We are in all likelihood in for a treat with this one. College Football Playoff contention can be ruined for a team so early in the season.

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