These players will be challenged on Saturday because of specific matchups, game plans or situations they face.
How they perform will likely play a big role in their teams' success. And while it's likely the last thing on the the players' minds, NFL evaluators are eager to see how these future pros handle the moment.
So no matter what lens you're looking through, these are some of the key players to watch in many of the top college football games this weekend.
Note: Underclassmen are marked with an asterisk.
Jared Goff, QB, California Golden Bears*
It's hard to imagine Goff's junior season getting off to a better start. He ranks in the top 10 nationally in completion percentage (70.2, eighth); passing yards (1,630, seventh); passing touchdowns (15, tied for third); and completions of 20-plus yards (28, tied for second). Now he heads to Salt Lake City to play No. 5 Utah. The last time we saw the Utes, they were busy shutting down Oregon on the road with five sacks and two interceptions. Goff will need to be at his best for Cal to leave with a win, but I wouldn't put it past him. He has shown he can make all of the throws and carry the Bears when necessary.