On paper, Clemson looks good — real good. And Georgia looks even better. With both teams expected to be in the top 10 when the real rankings come out next month, optimism is running high.

When you get to this level, the big games mean everything. Clemson’s will likely be on a cool Thursday night on Oct. 9 against Wake Forest. UGA’s heated rivalry match against Florida on Nov. 1 in Jacksonville, Fla., could decide both the SEC East and the BCS in one afternoon.

But, the other guys usually have a major say in postseason destinations.

So, here’s a look at some big games not involving Clemson or Georgia that could shape the season for the rest of the nation, conference title games aside.

MISSOURI VS. ILLINOIS IN ST. LOUIS (AUG. 30)

The Tigers and Illini put on a show last year with Missouri squeaking by with a 40-34 win — and that was before Chase Daniel emerged as one of the best QBs in the nation and Ron Zook looked like a genius after making the Rose Bowl. Illinois lost a lot of players but still serves as a major roadblock for title-contending Missouri.

OHIO STATE AT USC (SEPT. 13)

There’s not a more anticipated matchup on the national scene than this one. Numerous NFL first-round draft picks will square off in this Week 3 game that will give the winner the early inside track to the BCS championship game. The loser will have less room for error.

OHIO STATE AT WISCONSIN (OCT. 4)

Usually, the season-defining game of the Big Ten takes place at the end of the year when the Buckeyes take on Michigan. But this year, Wisconsin is the league’s second-best team and likely to be 4-0 when hosting Ohio State. For the Buckeyes to return to the BCS title game for the third straight year, a tough road game in Madison is a must-win.

AUBURN AT WEST VIRGINIA (OCT. 23)

Both of these teams could be highly ranked by the time this out-of-conference clash rolls around. Auburn is the best team in the West, which means national title hopes are valid. And don’t let a Rich Rodriguez-less Mountaineer team fool you. The Big East’s WVU still has quarterback Pat White and running back Noel Devine.

TEXAS TECH AT OKLAHOMA (NOV. 22)

The Red Raiders are going to be very good this year behind one of the nation’s best offenses. Texas Tech has also upset Oklahoma two of the last three years. For the Sooners to make their sixth consecutive BCS bowl, they must avoid the letdown.

NOTRE DAME AT USC (NOV. 29)

After a dreadful 3-9 2007 season, having Notre Dame and big game in the same sentence seems laughable. But, remember the Irish return nearly everyone, the schedule is pretty easy and they only have to finish in the top eight in the BCS to take away a bid from another team.