Week three of the 2010 college football season may help fans determine whether the Gophers of Minnesota are actually “Golden” or not. So far, they've been anything but, coming off a tight three-point loss to South Dakota. Yes, FCS South Dakota.

After an offseason filled with high expectations, Minnesota may need to beat perennial powerhouse Southern Cal to fulfill them. But, you'd best believe Lane Kiffin’s Trojans are going to play hard despite being ineligible for bowl play. Sophomore quarterback Matt Barkley has looked sharp in their 2-0 start, having thrown for seven touchdowns and zero interceptions. He will look to take advantage of a Golden Gopher defense that gave up 41 points a week ago.

Minnesota nation is hoping junior running back Duane Bennett can put up similar numbers on offense, (18 car, 104 yds, 2 TDs) but there's a slight difference between South Dakota and USC's defenses.

Rating: 3 out of 5 footballs

No. 11 Wisconsin vs. Arizona State

You would think opposing defenses would be looking out for Wisconsin junior running back John Clay, yet the reigning Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year continues to dominate. Dating back to last season, Clay has reached the century mark in rushing and has scored at least a touchdown in his past eight games. In 2010, he has already ran for 260 yards and four touchdowns.

But the Sun Devils can light up the scoreboard as well. Former Michigan quarterback Steven Threet has helped the Arizona State offense to score 95 points in its first two games. The Badgers will remember Threet as the quarterback who led an 18-point comeback win over them in the Big House in 2008. He is complemented by capable receiving threats, Deantre Lewis and Mike Willie, who both have caught touchdowns this season.

This is the toughest test each defense has faced so far, and all signs point to a shootout. With both teams undefeated, something's gotta give.

Rating: 4 out of 5 footballs

No. 9 Iowa at No. 24 Arizona

Because it's Saturday’s only matchup between two ranked teams, this showdown has already received some well-deserved attention.

Iowa is considered one of the top programs in the Big Ten. With an aggressive blitzing defense led by star defensive end Adrian Clayborn, opposing teams feel pressure early and often. On the other side of the ball, poised quarterback Ricky Stanzi is a combined 12-0 in games he has started dating back to last season.

Accountable for the Arizona offense is quarterback Nick Foles, whose arm has helped the Wildcats score 41 and 52 points respectively in their first two games. His ability to make throws under pressure will likely determine the outcome of this contest.

Rating: 5 out of 5 footballs.