Month: October 2025

Image Courtesy: Cincinnati Athletics

AP Top 5
1.Ohio State 7-0 (4-0) Big Ten This week: Penn State (3-4) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
2.Indiana 8-0 (5-0) Big Ten This week: @ Maryland (4-3) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
3.Texas A&M 8-0 (5-0) SEC This week: Off
4.Alabama 7-1 (5-0) SEC This week: Off
5.Georgia 6-1 (4-1) SEC This week: Florida (3-4) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
16.Louisville 6-1 (3-1) ACC Week 9: #19 (Defeated Boston College 38-24)
17.Cincinnati 7-1 (5-0) Big 12 Week 9: #21 (Defeated Baylor 41-20)
21.Michigan 6-2 (4-1) Big Ten Week 9: #25 (Defeated Michigan State 31-20)

Fallers
18.Oklahoma 6-2 (3-2) SEC Week 9: #13 (Lost to 8.Ole Miss 34-26)
19.Missouri 6-2 (2-2) SEC Week 9: #15 (Lost to 10.Vanderbilt 17-10)

Dropped Out
South Florida 7-1 (3-1) American Week 9: #18 (Lost to Memphis 34-31)
LSU 5-3 (2-3) SEC Week 9: #20 (Lost to 3.Texas A&M 49-25)
Illinois 5-3 (2-3) Big Ten Week 9: #23 (Lost to Washington 42-25)
Arizona State 5-3 (3-2) Big 12 Week 9: #24 (Lost to Houston 24-16)

New
22.Houston 7-1 (4-1) Big 12 Week 9: NR (Defeated 24.Arizona State 24-16)
23.USC 5-2 (3-1) Big Ten Week 9: NR (Off)
24.Utah 6-2 (3-2) Big 12 Week 9: NR (Defeated Colorado 53-7)
25.Memphis 7-1 (3-1) American Week 9: NR (Defeated 18.South Florida 34-31)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)

Saturday, November 1
Navy (7-0) @ North Texas (7-1)
12 PM ET, ESPN2
Another game important in determining the Group of 5’s College Football Playoff representative will be played in Denton on Saturday afternoon. Navy enters a huge stretch of games to finish the season as they face North Texas, Notre Dame, South Florida, Memphis, and Army to finish the regular season. A single loss will be acceptable if the Midshipmen want to make a College Football Playoff appearance.

The Mean Green’s only loss is to No. 24 South Florida so winning out will be necessary for them to make it that far. North Texas protecting their home field will be important as they begin the last quarter of their regular season.

Navy quarterback Blake Horvath leads the team in both passing and rushing yards (1,063 yards and 814 yards) and has accounted for 19 overall touchdowns. In the Midshipmen’s option offense, running back Alex Tecza (464 yards and 6 TDs), wide receiver Brandon Chatman (293 yards and 1 TD), and wide receiver Eli Heidenreich (285 yards and 3 TDs) power their rushing attack. North Texas linebackers Shane Wittier, Trey Fields, and Ethan Wesloski each have over 50 tackles and an interception will be tasked with defending against it.

For the home side, signal caller Drew Westemaker has been terrific this season, throwing 21 touchdowns to just four interceptions through eight games. His four favorite targets down the field have elevated his play: Wyatt Young (586 yards, 7 TDs), Cameron Dorner (466 yards and 4 TDs), Miles Coleman (320 yards and 1 TD), and Landon Sides (295 yards and 1 TD). Safety Giuseppe Sessi (40 tackles) and cornerback Phillip Hamilton (24 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) are in charge of leading the secondary against the talented Mean Green receiving core.

The Mean Green run the ball with their top two taibacks Caleb Hawkins and Makenzie McGill II. Hawkins and McGill have combined for almost 1,000 rushing yards and 12 scores. Navy linebackers MarcAnthony Parker (59 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 interception) and Luke Pirris (52 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1.5 sacks) will look to block holes for their ground game.

In a game between two high scoring offenses, North Texas will protect their home field and will give Navy its first loss of the season. While the Midshipmen’s offense is not one dimensional, the Mean Green will outscore them. A victory for North Texas would put them officially in College Football Playoff conversations.

Projected Score: North Texas 42, Navy 35

10.Miami (6-1) @ SMU (5-3)
12 PM ET, ESPN
Miami bounced back versus Stanford last Saturday after loss to Louisville on Friday, Oct. 17. SMU suffered their first regular-season ACC loss since joining the league against Wake Forest last weekend. After scoring only 12 points in the loss to the Demon Deacons, SMU must hope their offense improves as they collide against a Miami team that is due for a bounce back on offense as well.

The Hurricanes will be counting on their offense to replicate the 42-point outburst they had against the Cardinal. Quarterback Carson Beck threw for 189 yards and a touchdown and his running back Mark Fletcher Jr. carried the ball 23 times for 106 yards and three scores. SMU linebacker Brandon Booker (41 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 0.5 sacks) and defensive end Cameron Robertson (38 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 passes defended) are important in defending against Beck and Fletcher if they want win this game.

Beck’s receivers Malachi Toney and CJ Daniels have combined for 913 yards and nine touchdowns on the season. He will have to throw more than a single touchdown (with the help of Toney and Daniels) if they want to beat the Mustangs on the road. Safety duo Isaiah Nwokobia (65 tackles, 7 passes defended, and 2 interceptions) and Ahmaad Moses (54 tackles, 3 interceptions, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) will be challenged with dealing with Toney and Daniels down the field.

Linebackers Mohamed Toure (32 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass defended) and Wesley Bissainthe (30 tackles and 1 interception) will look to stop Mustang tailbacks TJ Harden and Chris Johnson Jr. who have combined for 770 yards and eight touchdowns.

SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings has thrown for 2,119 yards, 17 touchdowns, eight interceptions. Five of his receiving options have over 200 yards and two touchdowns including Romello Brinson, Jordan Hudson, Jalen Cooper, Yamir Knight, and RJ Maryland. Defensive backs Keionte Scott (34 tackles, 3 passes defended, and 1 sack) and Jakobe Thomas (26 tackles, 3 passes defended, 2 sacks, and 1 interception) will hope to do their best against Jennings’ passing attack.

In what should be a competitive game, Miami will hand SMU its second consecutive loss. If the Hurricanes are victorious, they would remain in ACC Championship game contention and a clear College Football Playoff contender and the Mustangs would already have four overall losses on the season. Miami would win its first game outside of the state of Florida during the 2025 season.

Projected Score: Miami 27, SMU 20

9.Vanderbilt (7-1) @ 20.Texas (6-2)
12 PM ET, ABC
Would you have believed back in August that Vanderbilt would enter November with a better record — and a higher AP ranking — than Texas? I sure did not especially as they enter a battle important for determining the pecking order in this season’s SEC. The Longhorns are one loss away from falling out of College Football Playoff contention and Vanderbilt would love to be the team that shuts the door.

The Commodores’ unquestioned leader is Diego Pavia, who has thrown for almost 1,700 yards, 15 touchdowns, rushed for 458 more and five scores. His three trusted weapons down the field — receivers Junior Sherrill, Tre Richardson, and Eli Stowers, who all have over 300 yards and have combined for eight touchdowns. Defensive backs Jelani McDonald and Jaylin Guilbeau will need to step up as Michael Taaffe is out for an unclear amount of time with a broken thumb.

Pavia has three running backs capable of breaking through the Texas defense if given the shot. Sed Alexander (388 yards and 6 TDs), Makhilyn Young (382 yards and 5 TDs), and Jamezell Lassiter (144 yards and 2 touchdowns) will have to succeed against a tremendous Texas defensive front if they want to help their team win the game. The Longhorns’ leading tackler Anthony Hill Jr. has 60 stops, 2.5 sacks, one interception, and one pass defended. He will lead his talented group against the Commodores’ impressive ground attack.

Vanderbilt safeties CJ Heard (43 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 sack) and Marlen Sewell (27 tackles) are one of the nation’s best back lines. They will look to shut down the Longhorn passing attack led by either the injured Arch Manning who is currently in concussion protocol or backup Matthew Caldwell, who threw the game winning touchdown pass to Emmett Mosley in overtime against Mississippi State after Manning went out of the game injured.

Running back Quintrevion Wisner (263 yards and 2 TDs) will look to get past the Commodore front to set up the passing game for Manning or Caldwell. Linebackers Bryan Longwell (41 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Langston Patterson (33 tackles) will lead the Vanderbilt front against the Texas rushing attack.

In a must-win game for Texas to keep themselves in the College Football Playoff conversation, Vanderbilt will go on the road and get a win. Last season, the Commodores lost to the Longhorns 27-24 so they can definitely win this season with a limited Manning or Caldwell. Vanderbilt would essentially lock themselves into the playoff if they go 2-1 the rest of the season after they leave Austin.

Projected Score: Vanderbilt 24, Texas 17

23.USC (5-2) @ Nebraska (6-2)
7:30 PM ET, NBC
Coming off of the loss to Notre Dame and a bye week, USC continues its midwestern road trip to Lincoln where they will face Nebraska. The Cornhuskers’ only losses are to No. 21 Michigan and Minnesota so winning out the rest of the season is the only option if they want a chance to make the College Football Playoff and that starts when they host the Trojans. USC and Nebraska collide on Saturday night with a lot on the line.

The Trojans can do many different things on offense. Quarterback Jayden Maiava has passed for 2,180 yards and 15 touchdowns and tailback Waymond Jordan, who has rushed for 576 yards and five scores.

Receivers Makai Lemon, Ja’Kobi Lane, and tight end Lake McRee have combined for almost 1,489 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Nebraska secondary, led by have the tough job of dealing with Maiava and this receiving core.

USC linebackers Eric Gentry (48 tackles, 3 sacks, 1 pass defended) and and Desman Stephens will defend against the Cornhuskers’ ground game, headed by Emmett Johnson, who has impressed with 837 yards and nine touchdowns through eight games.

Nebraska signal-caller Dylan Raiola (1,909 yards and 17 TDs) will look to get the ball down the field Nyziah Hunter, Jacory Barney Jr., and Dane Key, who have combined for 12 touchdowns on the season. Safeties Bishop Fitzgerald (40 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 2 passes defended) and Christian Pierce (31 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) have the job of leading their secondary against Nebraska’s passing attack.

USC will get their second road win of the season after beating Nebraska on Saturday night. The Trojans’ offense will be too much for the Cornhusker defense. USC would reenter College Football Playoff conversations with a victory.

Projected Score: USC 31, Nebraska 24

18.Oklahoma (6-2) @ 14.Tennessee (6-2)
7:30 PM ET, ABC
In a College Football Playoff elimination game, Oklahoma heads to Knoxville to face Tennessee. The Sooners fell by just eight to red hot Ole Miss and the Volunteers outscored Kentucky last Saturday. Put simply, Tennessee’s offense and Oklahoma’s defense are two of the best units in the country while the Volunteers’ defense and the Sooners’ offense have both struggled for much of the season. It will be interesting to see how both matchups determine the game on the field.

For the Oklahoma offense to get back on track, John Mateer needs to play like he did when he led the Sooners 5-0 start. Mateer is certainly capable as he has thrown for 1,790 yards, eight touchdowns, rushed for 226 yards and five more scores. But six interceptions holds the offense back from more success.

Their offensive line must step up and protect the Tennessee defensive line, led by so he can get the ball down the field to receivers Isaiah Sategna (624 yards and 5 TDs), Deion Burks (390 yards and 2 TDs), and tight end Jaren Kanak (304 yards). Tennessee defensive backs Edges Farooq (45 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Andre Turrentine (41 tackles and 1 interception) must put their best effort of the season if they want to keep the Sooners’ offense from returning to form.

The balanced offense would not return without the success of the ground game. Tailbacks Tory Blaylock (401 yards and 4 TDs) and Xavier Robinson (217 yards and 3 TDs) carry the load for the Sooners. Linebackers Arion Carter (61 tackles, 1 sacks, and 1 pass defended) and Edwin Spillman (49 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass defended) will fill the gaps against Blaylock and Robinson.

Tennessee has a three headed monster next to the Joey Aguilar with DeSean Bishop (652 yards and 9 TDs), Star Thomas (418 yards and 5 TDs), and Peyton Lewis (227 yards and 6 TDs) rushing the ball down the field. Oklahoma’s Kip Lewis, Owen Heinecke, Kendal Daniels, and Sammy Omosigho anchor one of the top linebacker units in the country. They will look to shut down the Tennessee running backs so the Volunteer passing game cannot set up as easily.

Aguilar’s impressive season behind center has included 2,344 passing yards, 18 passing touchdowns, and two rushing touchdowns. Three receivers have been huge for the Volunteers this season including Chris Brazzell II, Braylon Staley, and Mike Matthews who have combined for 14 touchdowns this season. Defensive backs Robert Spears-Jennings (35 tackles) and Peyton Bowen (25 tackles and 3 passes defended) will do their best against and their strong passing attack.

In a huge game, Tennessee will protect their home field and outscore Oklahoma on Saturday night. The Volunteers will get at least one stop during the game against the Sooners’ up and down offense helping them to a victory. A win for Tennessee would set them up nicely for a potential run to back to back College Football Playoff appearances with a 2-1 record the rest of the season.

Projected Score: Tennessee 28, Oklahoma 24

17.Cincinnati (7-1) @ 24.Utah (6-2)
10:15 PM ET, ESPN
ESPN’s College GameDay heads to Salt Lake City, in what will be their first appearance at a Big 12 school this season at Utah. The No. 24 Utes reentered the AP Top 25 after dominating Colorado. They host the red hot Cincinnati Bearcats, who have won seven games in a row since their season-opening loss to Nebraska, and are tied for the lead of the league at 5-0 with BYU. Now, both teams enter a crucial matchup as Cincinnati faces its first true test since beating Iowa State to open October — a road trip to Utah.

The Bearcats will be without running back Evan Pryor (478 yards and 3 TDs) due to an ankle injury on Saturday night. So, it will be up to backup Tawee Walker (466 yards and 4 TDs) to help star quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who has thrown 20 touchdowns to just one interception. Utah linebacker Johnathan Hall (39 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and defensive end John Henry Daley (36 tackles and 9.5 sacks, and 1 pass defended) can definitely do their job against opposing offenses and they will look to keep things going against another talented offense.

Three receivers and a tight end have been crucial to Cincinnati’s success this season. Those guys are Cyrus Allen (381 yards and 9 TDs), Caleb Goodie (359 yards and 2 TDs), Joe Royer (340 yards and 4 TDs), and Jeff Caldwell (337 yards and 3 TDs). Safeties Jackson Bennett (39 tackles, 3 interceptions, 3 passes defended, and 0.5 sacks) and Tao Johnson (27 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 pass defended) will look to do their job of protecting down the field against the Bearcat offense.

Utah coaches are unsure whether starting quarterback Devon Dampier (1,375 passing yards, 13 TDs, 442 rushing yards, and 5 TDs). will start following a leg injury he suffered a few weeks ago. It will likely be okay because backup signal-caller Byrd Ficklin stepped in and led the Utes to 53 points in a blowout win over Colorado.

But the challenge against Cincinnati’s defense will be more difficult than the one they faced last Saturday especially due to tight ends Dallen Bentley, JJ Buchanan, and receiver Ryan Davis combining for nine touchdowns so far this season. Safeties Trevon Gola-Callard and Christian Harrison have combined for nine passes defended this season. They will plan to do more of that against Utah’s passing game.

Linebackers Jake Golday (67 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 2 passes defended) and Jonathan Thompson (41 tackles and 1 sacks) will have the job of stopping Utah’s tremendous ground attack. Tailbacks Wayshawn Parker and NaQuari Rogers, and Dampier have combined for 1,270 yards and 16 scores

If Cincinnati shuts down Utah’s run-game it will be hard for them lose. That is why the Bearcats will advance to 6-0 in conference, inching them closer to a potential Big 12 Championship spot and the Utes will fall for the third time in six weeks. A win for Cincinnati would enter them into bubble territory for the College Football Playoff ahead of the committee’s first ranking next Tuesday night.

Projected Score: Cincinnati 31, Utah 21

Image Courtesy: FOX 2

AP Top 5
1.Ohio State 7-0 (4-0) Big Ten This week: Off
2.Indiana 7-0 (4-0) Big Ten This week: UCLA (3-4) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
3.Texas A&M 7-0 (4-0) SEC This week: @ 20.LSU (5-2) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
4.Alabama 6-1 (4-0) SEC This week: @ South Carolina (3-4) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
5.Georgia 6-1 (4-1) SEC This week: Off

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
5.Georgia 6-1 (4-1) SEC Week 8: #9 (Defeated 5.Ole Miss 43-35)
7.Georgia Tech 7-0 (4-0) ACC Week 8: #12 (Defeated Duke 27-18)
10.Vanderbilt 6-1 (2-1) SEC Week 8: #17 (Defeated 10.LSU 31-24)
11.BYU 7-0 (4-0) Big 12 Week 8: #15 (Defeated 23.Utah 24-21)

Fallers
8.Ole Miss 6-1 (3-1) SEC Week 8: #5 (Lost to 9.Georgia 43-35)
9.Miami 5-1 (1-1) ACC Week 8: #2 (Lost to Louisville 24-21)
14.Texas Tech 6-1 (3-1) Big 12 Week 8: #7 (Lost to Arizona State 26-22)
17.Tennessee 5-2 (2-2) SEC Week 8: #11 (Lost to 6.Alabama 37-20)
20.LSU 5-2 (2-2) SEC Week 8: #10 (Lost to 17.Vanderbilt 31-24)

Dropped Out
USC 5-2 (3-1) Big Ten Week 8: #20 (Lost to 13.Notre Dame 34-24)
Memphis 6-1 (2-1) American Week 8: #22 (Lost to UAB 31-24)
Utah 5-2 (2-2) Big 12 Week 8: #23 (Lost to 15.BYU 24-21)
Nebraska 5-2 (2-2) Big Ten Week 8: #25 (Lost to Minnesota 24-6)

New
19.Louisville 5-1 (2-1) ACC Week 8: NR (Defeated 2.Miami 24-21)
23.Illinois 5-2 (2-2) Big Ten Week 8: NR (Off)
24.Arizona State 5-2 (3-1) Big 12 Week 8: NR (Defeated 7.Texas Tech 26-22)
25.Michigan 5-2 (3-1) Big Ten Week 8: NR (Defeated Washington 24-7)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)

Saturday, October 25
18.South Florida (6-1) @ Memphis (6-1)
12 PM ET, ESPN2
The chances of ESPN’s College GameDay being on Beale Street for South Florida’s trip to face Memphis were ruined when the Tigers lost to interim head coach Alex Mortensen and UAB last Saturday. Still, this battle will be important in determining who will represent the American Conference in their championship game and who might represent the Group of Five in the College Football Playoff.

South Florida quarterback Byrum Brown has been successful behind center throwing for almost 1,700 yards, 16 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Brown also leads the Bulls in rushing with 475 yards and six more scores. Memphis defensive back Drue Watts (42 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 sack) and linebacker Sam Brumfield (41 tackles, 3.5 sacks), and 1 interception will look to make things difficult for Brown’s offense.

Brown’s group of playmakers is loaded. Tailbacks Sam Franklin and Nykahi Davenport have combined 511 yards and six touchdowns. While receivers Chas Nimrod (466 yards and 3 TDs), Keshaun Singleton (363 yards and 3 TDs), and Jeremiah Kroger (259 yards and 4 TDs).

The Memphis offense is quite skilled on the ground. Running back Sutton Smith and quarterback Brendon Lewis have combined for almost 1,000 rush yards and 13 touchdowns just seven games into the season. On top of his rushing skills, Lewis has thrown for over 1,300 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions. He will hope that the duo of Cortez Branham Jr (491 yards and 5 TDs) and Jamari Hawkins (346 yards) present themselves open down the field.

The Tigers will have a difficult task when they face the South Florida defense. Linebackers Jay Shuler (61 tackles, 4 passes defended, 1 sack, and 1 interception) and Mac Harris (56 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and 1 interception). Cornerbacks De’Shawn Rucker, James Chenault, and safety Tavin Ward have combined for five passes defended and an interception on the season.

Playing this game at home, Memphis must defeat South Florida if they want to remain in American Conference Championship and College Football Playoff contention. The Bull defense can make you one dimensional and the Tigers cannot rely on just their passing game to protect their home field. South Florida goes on the road and defeats Memphis to remain unbeaten.

Projected Score: South Florida 34, Memphis 27

8.Ole Miss (6-1) @ 13.Oklahoma (6-1)
12 PM ET, ABC
Ole Miss heads to Norman for an important matchup on Saturday against Oklahoma. Both teams are not out of College Football Playoff contention with a loss but the Rebels do not want to take back to back losses and ruin their rhythm after a close loss to Georgia last Saturday. Similarly, the Sooners will look to avoid the offensive struggles that resulted in their loss to Texas in Dallas before dominating South Carolina on the road. Now, Oklahoma is back at home looking to avenge their loss to Ole Miss last season.

The Rebels scored 35 points last Saturday against Georgia but it was not good enough to win. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss did not have his best performance against the Georgia defense but he did account for three touchdowns in his first game on the road in a raucous environment. But a few of his top pass catchers did not show up as well as they should have against the Bulldogs. Harrison Wallace III and Dae’Quan Wright combined for just 73 receiving yards and no touchdowns. They must perform better against Oklahoma’s secondary headed by Robert Spears-Jennings (24 tackles) and Peyton Bowen (19 tackles and 3 passes defended).

Similarly, tailback Kewan Lacy had just 31 yards on the ground versus Georgia. While he did have two touchdowns, Lane Kiffin’s offense will have to hand him the ball many more than just 12 times versus a strong Sooners front seven. Linebacker Kip Lewis (31 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 0.5 sacks) and defensive tackle R Mason Thomas (20 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and 1 pass defended) will make it hard for Ole Miss’ offense to succeed on the ground.

John Mateer and the Oklahoma passing game saw a small bounce back performance against struggling South Carolina last Saturday. Mateer threw for just 150 yards and a touchdown but he did not turn the ball over. They will look to do improve on that against the Ole Miss secondary, led by safeties Wydett Williams Jr. (33 tackles, 4 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Kapena Gushiken (25 tackles and 2 passes defended).

Oklahoma had their first strong game from a running back. Tory Blaylock carried the ball 19 times for 101 yards and a score. Blaylock will look to do the same and better against Rebel linebackers TJ Dottery (46 tackles and 2 passes defended) and Jaden Yates (38 tackles) will hope to make sure the Sooners’ successes on the ground do not continue.

In what feels like a toss-up because it is in Norman, Ole Miss must bounce back against Oklahoma on Saturday afternoon. It will be up to the Sooner defense to consistently stop the Rebel offense if they want to give themselves a chance to win. Because Kiffin’s Ole Miss teams always fall in games they have to win on their way to a potential College Football Playoff berth, Oklahoma will pull the upset.

Projected Score: Oklahoma 28, Ole Miss 24

11.BYU (7-0) @ Iowa State (5-2)
3:30 PM ET, FOX
BYU is 7-0 for the second consecutive season as they are in the middle of a tough three game stretch. The Cougars beat instate rival Utah on Saturday night. Now, they head to Ames to face Iowa State before another roadtrip to Lubbock to face No. 14 Texas Tech. The Cyclones have already taken two losses thus far so winning out will be the only way they make it to the Big 12 Championship game back to back seasons. Iowa State has an opportunity to do so when they host BYU on Saturday afternoon.

Bear Bachmeier has been one of the top quarterbacks in the country behind center for BYU. Bachmeier has thrown for almost 1,400 yards, nine touchdowns, rushed for 359 yards, and scored eight more on the ground. Top receivers Chase Roberts, Parker Kingston, and tight end Carsen Ryan have combined for eight touchdowns from their quarterback so far this season. Iowa State defensive backs Marcus Neal Jr., Jamison Patton, and Ta’Shawn James have combined for nine passes defended and two interceptions. They will be tasked with dealing with Bachmeier’s passing game and limiting his scrambles out of the pocket.

Tailback LJ Martin exploded for 26 carries and 122 yards but failed to get in the end zone against Utah last Saturday. Martin must get in the end zone if they want a better shot of beating Iowa State on the road. Linebackers Caleb Bacon (38 tackles and 1 pass defended) and Kooper Ebel (36 tackles and 1 sack) will attempt to stop Martin from doing just that.

Safety Faletau Satuala has starred for the BYU defense with 43 tackles, two passes defended, one interception, and one sack. He will lead the Cougar secondary against Iowa State’s passing attack. Running back Rocco Becht during their 5-0 start but has faltered a bit since losing their last two games to Cincinnati and Colorado. Bouncing back against a tough BYU secondary with receivers Brett Eskildsen (334 yards and 2 TDs) and Chase Sowell (261 yards and 1 TD) will be needed to come out with a victory.

Tailbacks Abu Sama III (481 yards and 4 TDs) and Carson Hansen (348 yards and 2 TDs) will look to help set up passes from Becht to his receivers Linebackers Isaiah Glasker and Logan Lutui have combined for 62 tackles on the season. They will be tasked with defending against the Cyclones’ rushing game.

BYU heads to face Iowa State in one of the conference’s toughest environments. The Cyclones need a win to keep themselves in College Football Playoff conversations. And I do not think BYU will let them stay in contention. Iowa State may have a lead at some point during the game but they will lose it.

Projected Score: BYU 27, Iowa State 20

15.Missouri (6-1) @ 10.Vanderbilt (6-1)
3:30 PM ET, ESPN
Instead of going to Memphis, the College GameDay crew will head to Nashville for a Vanderbilt game for the first time since Oct. 4, 2008 when the Commodores faced Auburn. Over 17 years later, they return again as Vanderbilt hosts Missouri. The Commodores defeated LSU on Saturday afternoon while the Tigers defeated Auburn in two overtimes. The winner of this game could be make the College Football Playoff in December for the first time in both of their programs’ histories.

Missouri quarterback Beau Pribula may have thrown for over 250 yards in Saturday’s victory over Auburn but he turned the ball over twice on interceptions. As they face back to back games on the road for the first time this season, Pribula must rely on leading his offense to play complimentary football and rely on his legs to get him another rushing touchdown. Joining him in the ground game will be their top offensive player, tailback Ahmad Hardy, who has already rushed for 840 yards and 11 scores. Vanderbilt

Tiger receivers Kevin Coleman Jr. (449 yards and 1 TD), Marquis Johnson (322 yards and 2 TDs), and tight end Brett Norfleet (221 yards and 5 TDs) must help Pribula bounce back and help him at least keep the Commodore secondary honest against their passing game.

Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has put in himself in the Heisman Trophy conversation with a terrific performance last week against LSU. He has thrown for over 1,500 yards, 15 touchdowns, rushed for 438 yards, and four more scores. Joining him in the backfield, Sedrick Alexander and Makhilyn Young have combined for 658 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground. Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter (44 tackles and 1 sack) and defensive end Zion Thompson (23 tackles and 5 sacks) will be tasked with neutralizing Pavia, Alexander, and Young rushing the ball down the field.

Pavia’s weapons down the field include wide receivers Junior Sherrill (304 yards and 5 TDs), Tre Richardson (304 yards and 1 TD), and tight end Eli Stowers (355 yards and 2 TDs). Safeties Jalen Catalon (27 tackles and 1 pass defended) and Santa Banner (27 tackles and 1 interception) look to stop Pavia from getting it to his talented pass catchers.

If Missouri’s offense shows up better than it did on ‘The Plains’ last Saturday, this match up against Vanderbilt will go down to the wire. The Commodores’ defense will make sure that does not happen and keep Hardy and the Tigers’ ground game at bay. Vanderbilt will move to 7-1 presenting themselves as a true College Football Playoff contender just over two weeks before the committee’s first rankings debut.

Projected Score: Vanderbilt 28, Missouri 21

3.Texas A&M (7-0) @ 20.LSU (5-2)
7:30 PM ET, ABC
Red hot Texas A&M avoided a scare against Arkansas on the road before continuing their season with another roadtrip. The Aggies travel to Baton Rouge to face a struggling LSU team who just lost to Vanderbilt. The Tigers still have to face fellow College Football Playoff contenders Alabama (Nov. 1) and Oklahoma (Nov. 29) before the season’s end. Texas A&M will attempt to beat LSU in ‘Death Valley’ for the first time in program history in front of what should be a raucous crowd on Saturday night.

The Aggies would not be leading the SEC as the only undefeated team without signal-caller Marcel Reed. Reed has already thrown 15 touchdowns and rushed for four more. His top two receivers cannot fail to be mentioned either. Mario Craver and KC Concepcion have combined for 1,174 yards and 10 touchdowns. LSU safeties AJ Haulcy (52 tackles, 2 pass defended, and 1 interception) and Tamarcus Cooley (36 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 2 passes defended) must continue their success against one of the best receiving cores in the country if they want to come out victorious.

In addition, tailback Reuben Owens has rushed for almost 400 yards and three touchdowns through seven games. Texas A&M will likely still be without Le’Veon Moss (389 yards and 6 touchdowns) so relying on one back will be interesting against a talented LSU front seven. Linebackers West Weeks and Davhon Keys’ combined 80 tackles will be vital in stopping Owens and making passing downs more obvious from Reed.

Texas A&M cannot give up 42 points like they did last week against Arkansas if they want to remain undefeated. It must start with Tauren York (41 tackles and 1 sack) and linebacker Daymion Sanford (32 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 1 interception, and 1 passes defended) getting to and sacking quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (1,638 yards, 11 TDs, and 5 INTs), who has struggled this season. Nussmeier must rely on wide receivers Aaron Anderson (323 yards), Barion Brown (301 yards and 1 TD), Zavion Thomas (259 yards and 3 TDs), and running back Caden Durham (342 yards and 2 TDs) to get back on track against A&M’s defense.

Safety Marcus Ratcliffe (40 tackles) and cornerback Will Lee III (32 tackles and 4 passes defended will have to defend against Anderson, Brown, Thomas, and Durham. If they accomplish limiting the LSU offense consistently, Texas A&M would easily be able to win this game.

LSU must be victorious against Texas A&M or they will get their third loss and likely be eliminated from College Football Playoff contention. The Aggies will definitely make it difficult for that to happen and if their defense shows up better than it did in Fayetteville, Brian Kelly might have to start counting the days he has left in Baton Rouge.

Projected Score: Texas A&M 24, LSU 17

Image Courtesy: FBSchedules.com

AP Top 5
1.Ohio State 6-0 (3-0) Big Ten This week: @ Wisconsin (2-4) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
2.Miami 5-0 (1-0) ACC This week: Louisville (4-1) (Friday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
3.Indiana 6-0 (3-0) Big Ten This week: Michigan State (3-3) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, Peacock)
4.Texas A&M 6-0 (3-0) SEC This week: @ Arkansas (2-4) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ESPN)
5.Ole Miss 6-0 (3-0) SEC This week: @ 9.Georgia (5-1) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
3.Indiana 6-0 (3-0) Big Ten Week 7: #7 (Defeated 3.Oregon 30-20)
17.Vanderbilt 5-1 (1-1) SEC Week 7: #20 (Off)
19.South Florida 5-1 (2-0) American Week 7: #24 (Defeated North Texas 63-36)

Fallers
8.Oregon 5-1 (2-1) Big Ten Week 7: #3 (Lost to 7.Indiana 30-20)
14.Oklahoma 5-1 (1-1) SEC Week 7: #6 (Lost to Texas 23-6)

Dropped Out
Michigan 4-2 (2-1) Big Ten Week 7: #15 (Lost to USC 31-13)
Illinois 5-2 (2-2) Big Ten Week 7: #17 (Lost to 1.Ohio State 34-16)
Arizona State 4-2 (2-1) Big 12 Week 7: #21 (Lost to Utah 42-10)
Iowa State 5-2 (2-2) Big 12 Week 7: #22 (Lost to Colorado 24-17)
Florida State 3-3 (0-3) ACC Week 7: #25 (Lost to Pittsburgh 34-31)

New
20.USC 5-1 (3-1) Big Ten Week 7: NR (Defeated 15.Michigan 31-13)
21.Texas 4-2 (1-1) SEC Week 7: NR (Defeated 6.Oklahoma 23-6)
23.Utah 5-1 (2-1) Big 12 Week 7: NR (Defeated 21.Arizona State 42-10)
24.Cincinnati 5-1 (3-0) Big 12 Week 7: NR (Defeated UCF 20-11)
25.Nebraska 5-1 (2-1) Big Ten Week 7: NR (Defeated Maryland 34-31)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)

Friday, October 17
Louisville (4-1) @ 2.Miami (5-0)
7 PM ET, ESPN
Louisville heads to South Beach to face Miami as both teams come off of open weeks. The Cardinals attempt to avoid back to back losses when they face the Hurricanes after losing to then No. 24 Virginia at home. The Hurricanes defeated instate rival Florida State two weeks ago. A critical ACC showdown looms on Friday night.

The Cardinals’ offense must be efficient if they want to beat the Hurricanes. Louisville quarterback Miller Moss has not been cautious with the football this season, as he has only thrown seven touchdowns and four interceptions. Running back Isaac Brown must help Moss out by building on his 334 yard and three touchdown season thus far. Defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (26 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended) and linebacker Mohamed Toure (24 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass defended) will lead the Miami front against Moss and Brown.

Receiver Chris Bell (35 catches for 502 yards and 4 touchdowns) will also be crucial in helping Moss turn his season around and potentially upsetting Miami. The secondary, headed by Jakobi Scott (20 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Keionte Scott (20 tackles and 3 passes defended) will be important in defending Bell and the other weapons catching passes from Moss.

Linebacker TJ Quinn (31 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 pass defended) and lineman Clev Lubin (24 tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 passes defended) ability to stop the Miami run game, led by the dynamic duo of Mark Fletcher Jr. and CharMar Brown, who have combined for nine touchdowns through five games.

Defensive backs D’Angelo Hutchinson (32 tackles and 1 interception) and JoJo Evans Jr. (22 tackles) ability to defend against the passing game of Miami quarterback Carson Beck will be pivotal to their upset bid. Beck’s top threats down the field are receivers Malachi Toney and CJ Daniels have combined for 644 yards and eight touchdowns.

Miami should not overlook this game with lowly Stanford coming up on Oct. 25 but Louisville’s Jeff Brohm always has his team ready to go, especially at home in the Bluegrass state. The Cardinals will keep this game close but Beck will lead two touchdown drives in the fourth quarter, helping Miami to their second ACC win.

Projected Score: Miami 38, Louisville 24

Saturday, October 18
10.LSU (5-1) @ 17.Vanderbilt (5-1)
12 PM ET, ABC
A decade ago, I don’t know if anyone would believe that Vanderbilt would be favored against LSU. But here we are. The Commodores are rested off of a bye week while the Tigers struggled against South Carolina before finishing the job.

The Commodores are led by their quarterback Diego Pavia leads Vanderbilt in passing yards (1,409) and rushing yards (352) with 16 overall touchdowns. That does not mean his running back is not good as Sedrick Alexander has carried the ball 50 times for 319 yards and five touchdowns. LSU’s linebacking trio of West Weeks, Harold Perkins, and Whit Weeks will be important to stop Pavia and Alexander moving the ball down the field via the ground game.

Pavia’s favorite targets are tight end Eli Stowers, who has 323 yards and two touchdowns and receiver Junior Sherrill, who has 274 yards and five scores. If safeties AJ Haulcy (39 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended) and Tamarcus Cooley (31 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 2 passes defended) lock up Stowers, Sherrill, and the Commodore receiving core, the Tigers will have a much easier time winning on Saturday afternoon.

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s ability to get the ball to receivers Aaron Anderson (305 yards) and Barion Brown (261 yards and 1 touchdown) in the end zone will be important with LSU’s lack of high scoring outputs in recent weeks as they play a tough Vanderbilt defense. Their passing attack will have to be dealt with by Vanderbilt safety CJ Heard and cornerback Martel Height, who have combined for two interceptions.

Tiger tailbacks Caden Durham (283 yards and 2 touchdowns) and Ju’Juan Johnson (136 yards and 2 touchdowns) must come through with a big day and create holes through their offensive line. Linebackers Bryan Longwell (26 tackles) and Nick Rinaldi (20 tackles) will attempt to stop the LSU ground game. If Nussmeier is not able to rely on a quality showing from his running game, it will be more difficult for LSU to protect their home field against Vanderbilt.

In what should be a back and forth game, Vanderbilt will come out on top because of Pavia’s leadership and the toughness of the Vanderbilt defense against a struggling LSU offense. The Commodores will become bowl eligible and grab their second SEC win in through just eight weeks of the 2025 season.

Projected Score: Vanderbilt 21, LSU 17

5.Ole Miss (6-0) @ 9.Georgia (5-1)
3:30 PM ET, ABC
ESPN’s College GameDay chose to go to Athens for Georgia’s third matchup against Ole Miss in as many seasons. In 2023, the Bulldogs dominated the Rebels 52-17. A year later, Ole Miss avenged their loss and beat Georgia 28-10. Saturday’s game means even more for the SEC title race and College Football Playoff appearances. The Rebels barely escaped against Washington State last Saturday so they should be much more focused when they walk on to the field at Sanford Stadium against Georgia.

Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and the Ole Miss offense struggled to score against the Cougars defense last week. Even he does not step up against Georgia with a better performance, Austin Simmons may come in to replace him when they face another tough defense next week, the Oklahoma Sooners. Chambliss’ ability to go to Harrison Wallace III (361 yards), Dae’Quan Wright (359 yards), and Deuce Alexander (349 yards), who have combined for six touchdowns, will be the reason why they can get past the Georgia defense. Defensive backs KJ Bolden (30 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Daylen Everette (20 tackles and 3 passes defended) will look to stop the Rebels’ talented receiving core in Saturday’s game.

Tailback Kewan Lacy will look to build on his 587 yard and eight touchdown season against the Bulldogs too. Linebackers CJ Allen (46 tackles, 3 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles) and Raylen Wilson (38 tackles and 1 sack) will be a big part of stopping Lacy and the Rebel rushing attack.

Ole Miss inebackers TJ Dottery (37 tackles and 2 passes defended), Jaden Yates (36 tackles), and defensive end Kam Franklin (31 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 pass defended) must help the Rebel defense keep Chauncey Bowens, Nate Frazier, and the Georgia ground game in front of them. Bowens and Frazier have combined for six touchdowns through six games this season.

Safeties Wydett Williams (25 tackles, 4 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Kapena Gushiken (19 tackles and 2 passes defended) will make sure Mike Bobo’s screen-centered offense does not turn into a down the field centric offense. Even if many of Georgia’s offensive plays go to east to west, quarterback Gunner Stockton has had a successful season with 10 overall touchdowns.

In what should be a battle between Lane Kiffin’s and Kirby Smart’s teams, Georgia will end Ole Miss’ perfect season. The Rebels offense has begun to show flaws and the Bulldogs need to win this game to prove they are still contending for another shot at winning the SEC Championship and the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Projected Score: Georgia 24, Ole Miss 20

7.Texas Tech (6-0) @ Arizona State (4-2)
4 PM ET, FOX
Texas Tech heads to Tempe to face Arizona State in the first of two games important to the Big 12 title race on Saturday. The Red Raiders have outscored their opponents easily in each of their six wins this season while the Sun Devils have already suffered two defeats, including one last week due to starting quarterback Sam Leavitt being out due to injury.

The Red Raiders offense has flourished in 2025 behind two key pieces in the backfield quarterback Behren Morton (1,501 yards and 13 TDs) and running back Cameron Dickey (591 yards and 8 TDs). Receivers Caleb Douglas (395 yards and 1 TD) and Coy Eakin (341 yards and 3 TDs) will be important to help Morton down the field and score touchdowns on the Sun Devil defense. It will be up to defensive lineman Clayton Smith’s and linebacker Keyshaun Elliott’s combined eight sacks to help lead the Arizona State’s defense against one of the nation’s top offenses in the nation.

If Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt (1,039 yards and 8 TDs) returns from injury like most in Tempe, his favorite target Jordyn Tyson (523 yards and 7 TDs) must continue to be a reliable weapon down the field if they want to outscore Texas Tech. The Red Raider secondary, led by Cole Wisniewski (28 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) and Brice Pollock (21 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 passes defended). Sun Devil tailback Raleek Brown will hope to help Leavitt, Tyson, and his offense by building on his 573 yard and 2 TD season.

That being said, a slow start from Leavitt’s return from injury will result in an easy win for Texas Tech over Arizona State. But if the Sun Devil defense helps Leavitt out, and they stop the Red Raiders on a few drives in the first half. Texas Tech will defeat Arizona State by two touchdowns and continue their undefeated season.

Projected Score: Texas Tech 31, Arizona State 17

11.Tennessee (5-1) @ 6.Alabama (5-1)
7:30 PM ET, ABC
‘The Third Saturday in October’ rivalry returns to Bryant-Denny Stadium at Saban Field in what should be an intriguing game. The traveling Volunteers struggled to beat the Bobby Petrino-led Arkansas Razorbacks 34-31 at home while the Crimson Tide dispatched then No. 14 Missouri 27-24 in Columbia. A second loss and potentially missing the College Football Playoff berth is on the line on Saturday night in Tuscaloosa.

Tennessee needs to be more consistent on offense if they want to beat Alabama on Saturday. They can do that if quarterback Joey Aguilar, who has already thrown for 1,680 yards and 14 touchdowns, passes the ball Chris Brazzell II (536 yards and 7 TDs), Braylon Staley (431 yards and 2 TDs), and Mike Matthews (416 yards and 2 TDs). That will not be the easiest task with the pass rush of Alabama defensive lineman LT Overton, who already has 20 tackles and 3 sacks on the season.

The running back room of DeSean Bishop’s and Star Thomas’ combined 809 yards and 9 touchdowns should help balance Aguilar’s passing attack against a strong Alabama defense. Bishop and Thomas must avoid linebackers

Volunteer linebackers Arion Carter (57 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 pass defended) and Edwin Spillman (33 tackles and 1 interception) must stop Jam Miller’s running game that sets up Ty Simpson’s impressive passing attack. Miller has rushed for 267 yards and one score through six games.

Defensive backs Andre Turrentine (37 tackles and 1 interception) and Endrees Farooq (33 tackles and 2 passes defended) have the pleasure of defending against Simpson’s passing attack. Simpson’s impressive season has helped both receivers Germie Bernard and Ryan Williams become weapons down the field. Bernard and Williams have played off of each other well, combining for over 500 yards receiving and eight touchdowns.

If the Tennessee offense can play up to the level it did against Georgia on Sept. 13, then they can beat Alabama. If not, the Volunteers will not beat the Crimson Tide for the third time in four seasons. Alabama will grab their fifth consecutive win since their week 1 loss to Florida State ahead of their trip to Columbia to face South Carolina next Saturday.

Projected Score: Alabama 31, Tennessee 23

20.USC (5-1) @ 13.Notre Dame (4-2)
7:30 PM ET, NBC
In what could be the last game in a long-standing rivalry between USC and Notre Dame due to scheduling disagreements, the Trojans look to keep their momentum going and the Fighting Irish look to avoid a third loss. USC defeated then No. 15 Michigan 31-13 while Notre Dame dominated NC State last Saturday. The Fighting Irish have the two best losses in the country (No. 2 Miami and No. 4 Texas A&M) but a third loss would mean likely missing the College Football Playoff. So, protecting their home field will be important against USC.

Trojan quarterback Jayden Maiava has paced the Big Ten in passing this season, throwing for over 1,800 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air. A trio of wide receivers has helped him out — Makai Lemon (682 yards and 6 TDs), Ja’Kobe Lane (313 yards and 2 TDs), and Lake McRee (289 yards and 1 TD). Notre Dame safeties Adon Schuler (29 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) and Tae Johnson (28 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) will look to keep Maiva from getting the ball down to Lemon, Lane, McRee, and other Trojan receivers.

Tailbacks Waymond Jordan, King Miller, and Eli Sanders have rushed for a combined 1,150 yards and 10 scores. They will look to help Maiva develop Lincoln Riley’s offense even more against the Fighting Irish. Linebackers Drayk Bowen’s and Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asu’s combined 59 tackles will attempt to stop USC’s strong ground game.

Notre Dame’s CJ Carr (1,622 yards and 13 TDs) will look to dice up the Trojan secondary with passes to some of his favorite targets. Receivers Jordan Faison, Malachi Fields, and tight end Eli Raridon have combined for over 1,000 yards and four touchdowns on the season. Safeties Bishop Fitzgerald (30 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) and Christian Pierce (23 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) will look to shut down Carr’s passing attack.

Linebackers Eric Gentry (41 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 pass defended) and Desman Stephens (30 tackles) will look to close gaps for Notre Dame running backs Jeremiyah Love (530 yards and 8 TDs) and Jadarian Price (422 yards and 7 TDs). If Gentry, Stephens, and the USC defensive front let Love and Price have successful performances on Saturday night, it will likely lead to a loss.

The battle between USC and Notre Dame should be back and forth. Though they took two early season losses to the Hurricanes and Aggies, the Fighting Irish will defeat the Trojans before an off week on Oct. 25.

Projected Score: Notre Dame 38, USC 35

23.Utah (5-1) @ 15.BYU (6-0)
8 PM ET, FOX
The battle for Utah, more commonly known as the ‘Holy War’, is an important matchup to help determine the two teams headed to this season’s Big 12 Championship game in Dallas. Utah will hope that they do not get blown out against BYU like they did against Texas Tech. BYU mounted a comeback against Arizona to save their unbeaten season. The ‘Holy War’ always delivers so Saturday night should be a fun game to watch.

For Utah to avoid another blowout against an AP Top 25 opponent, they will need a better performance from their offense. Quarterback Devon Dampier must have an all-around performance that suggests he is the leader of the team his team knows him to be. Dampier leads the team in both passing and rushing, throwing for 1,131 yards, rushing for 378, and 16 overall touchdowns. Even though Dampier leads the team in rushing, the Utes have two quality running backs such as Wayshawn Parker (335 yards and 3 TDs) and NaQuari Rogers (298 yards and 6 TDs). BYU linebacker Isaiah Glaskers’ 26 tackles and 2 sacks will hope to contain Dampier, Parker, and Rogers from big days on the ground.

Dampier has two quality pass catchers on the outside in Ryan Davis, who has caught 39 passes for 416 yards and two touchdowns and tight end Dallen Bentley, who has caught 24 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns. Safety Faletau Satuala (31 tackles, 1 interception, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) will lead the Cougar secondary against the Ute passing game.

Utah defensive end John Henry Daley (30 tackles and 8 sacks) and linebacker Johnathan Hall (30 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 interception) will look to shut down the BYU running game led by tailback LJ Martin, who has rushed for 652 yards and four scores on the season.

Safeties Jackson Benee and Nate Ritchie will look to stop one of the top freshmen quarterback Bear Bachmeier’s tremendous passing attack to receivers Chase Roberts (420 yards and 3 TDs), Parker Kingston (333 yards and 2 TDs), and tight end Carsen Ryan (211 yards and 2 TDs). Another quality game from Bear will make it harder for Utah to go on the road and beat the Cougars.

The ‘Holy War’ should be as entertaining ever as Utah and BYU match up in prime time. But the Cougars have been the stronger team overall this season meaning they should get the win at home over the Utes. BYU would move to 7-0 and 4-0 in the Big 12 with a win over Utah before another huge match up next Saturday in Ames at Iowa State.

Projected Score: BYU 27, Utah 17

Image Courtesy: The Herald-Times

AP Top 5
1.Ohio State 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: @ Illinois (5-1) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
2.Miami 5-0 (1-0) ACC This week: Off
3.Oregon 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: Indiana (5-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
4.Ole Miss 5-0 (3-0) SEC This week: Washington State (3-2) (Saturday, 12:45 PM ET, SECN)
5.Texas A&M 5-0 (2-0) SEC This week: Florida (2-3) (Saturday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
12.Tennessee 4-1 (1-1) SEC Week 6: #15 (Off)
13.Georgia Tech 5-0 (2-0) ACC Week 6: #17 (Off)
14.Missouri 5-0 (1-0) SEC Week 6: #19 (Off)
15.Michigan 4-1 (2-0) Big Ten Week 6: #20 (Defeated Wisconsin 24-10)
16.Notre Dame 3-2 Independents Week 6: #21 (Defeated Boise State 28-7)
17.Illinois 5-1 (2-1) Big Ten Week 6: #22 (Defeated Purdue 43-27)
18.BYU 5-0 (2-0) Big 12 Week 6: #23 (Defeated West Virginia 38-24)
19.Virginia 5-1 (3-0) ACC Week 6: #24 (Defeated Louisville 30-27)
21.Arizona State 4-1 (2-0) Big 12 Week 6: #25 (Off)

Fallers
20.Vanderbilt 5-1 (1-1) SEC Week 6: #16 (Lost to 10.Alabama 30-14)
22.Iowa State 5-1 (2-1) Big 12 Week 6: #14 (Lost to Cincinnati 38-30)
25.Florida State 3-2 (0-2) Big Ten Week 6: #18 (Lost to 3.Miami 28-22)

Dropped Out
Penn State 3-2 (0-2) Big Ten Week 6: #7 (Lost to UCLA 42-37)
Texas 3-2 (0-1) SEC Week 6: #9 (Lost to Florida 29-21)

New
23.Memphis 6-0 (2-0) American Week 6: NR (Defeated Tulsa 45-7)
24.South Florida 4-1 (1-0) American Week 6: NR (Defeated Charlotte 54-26)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)

Saturday, October 11
1.Ohio State (5-0) @ 17.Illinois (5-1)
12 PM ET, FOX
Top ranked Ohio State faces No. 17 Illinois in its first ranked on ranked matchup versus then No. 1 Texas. The Longhorns have fallen since, losing to both the Buckeyes over a month ago and to Florida last Saturday so making a statement versus the Fighting Illini will be key. Illinois has won back to back games since being blown out by Indiana 63-10 but Ohio State presents a challenge they have not seen this season.

If the Indiana offense can score over 60 points on the Illinois defense, Ohio State’s unit should be able score that number or more. Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate have been everything as advertised with over 400 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns between them. It will be up to the Illini secondary including Matthew Bailey and Miles Scott to play better than they did against the Hoosier secondary against the Buckeyes on Saturday.

A part of defending the pass will be giving eye candy in the coverages to quarterback Julian Sayin, who has already thrown for over 1,300 yards and 13 touchdowns. Another big help would be limiting the running back trio of Bo Jackson, James Peoples, and CJ Donaldson.

If Buckeye linebackers Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, and defensive end Caden Curry show up and lead their defense to a successful performance against the Fighting Illini, the game could turn into a blowout fast. So, Bret Bielema’s team must show up to fight on their home turf to avoid their second loss in Big Ten play.

They will do that with a quality performance from quarterback Luke Altmyer, who has similar statistics to Sayin, throwing for 12 touchdowns and over 1,500 yards through the air. Like the Buckeyes, the Illini have three tailbacks they trust. Ca’Lil Valentine, Kaden Feagin, and Aidan Laughery will look to help Altmyer and build on a season where they have combined for 10 touchdowns together as a group.

Ohio State will dominate Illinois if they are successful on Saturday afternoon. The Fighting Illini will only find success if they limit the Buckeye offense. If they do not, they will fall.

Projected Score: Ohio State 49, Illinois 24

8.Alabama (4-1) @ 14.Missouri (5-0)
12 PM ET, ABC
After defeating Vanderbilt on Saturday, Alabama faces Missouri, another SEC opponent that is capable of challenging them, especially as it will be away from the friendly confines of Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Tigers host the Crimson Tide coming off of a bye week so they should be prepared for battle but a lot will be expected of them to beat Alabama.

The Crimson Tide’s offensive success will be defined by if they are able to continue to throw the football at a high level. Ty Simpson has had a fantastic year throwing 13 touchdowns to just one interception. And with a great cast of weapons like Germie Bernard and Ryan Williams going against a weaker Missouri secondary, they should have continued success in this match up.

The Crimson Tide’s running game has gained traction since Jam Miller returned to action, as he has carried the ball for 182 yards and a score. A big part of defending both Alabama’s passing and running attack will be defensive end Damon Wilson (3.5 sacks) and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter (14 tackles) leading the unit.

The third of four consecutive AP top 25 opponent Alabama will face is Missouri. Their offense has seen a rebrand thus far in 2025 with first year starter Beau Pribula at quarterback and talented running back Ahmad Hardy standing right next to him. Alabama’s front seven, led by defensive tackle LT Overton (1.5 sacks) and linebacker Justin Jefferson (18 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble) will attempt to lead their defense to stop them.

Missouri receiver Kevin Coleman has shined since transferring over from Mississippi State. Coleman has a touchdown on 386 yards. Alabama defensive backs Bray Hubbard, Keon Sabb, and Domani Jackson will be keyed in on him.

This Alabama and Missouri match up should be close. The game is in Columbia so the Tigers should get some help from their crowd. But Simpson should keep playing at a high level and lead his team to a fourth consecutive win.

Projected Score: Alabama 31, Missouri 24

7.Indiana (5-0) @ 3.Oregon (5-0)
3:30 PM ET, CBS
Just two weeks after ESPN’s College GameDay was in Happy Valley for Oregon’s victory over Penn State, they head to Eugene for the Ducks’ battle with Indiana. Curt Cignetti again has the Hoosiers poised for a deep postseason run but much of the regular season still remains including a battle with Dan Lanning’s Ducks this weekend.

Indiana had an even more efficient offense with this season’s roster than last season’s. California transfer Fernando Mendoza, who has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 16 scores and a tremendous group of tailbacks including Roman Hemby, Kaelon Black, Khobie Martin, and Lee Beebe Jr.

Mendoza trusts two receivers Elijah Sarratt (412 yards and 6 TDs) and Omar Cooper Jr. (408 yards and 6 TDs) to get down the field and create plays. Oregon’s defense will have to stop this balanced attack with the help of linebackers Bryce Boettcher and Teitum Tuioti.

The Ducks’ offense poses a similar threat that the Hoosier’s does. Quarterback Dante Moore has also thrown for over 1,200 yards but only 14 touchdowns. Moore’s trio of Dakorien Moore, Malik Benson, and Kenyon Sadiq have all amassed over 200 receiving yards and multiple scores. It will be up to Indiana’s secondary headed by Louis Moore (30 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 1 passes defended) and Devan Boykin (14 tackles and 2 passes defended to stop it.

The trio of Dierre Hill Jr., Jayden Limar, and Noah Whittington make up the Duck ground game this season. They have combined for 686 yards and seven touchdowns on the season. Linebackers Aiden Fisher, Isaiah Jones, and defensive lineman Kellan Wyatt to keep them from creating lanes to the end zone.

At the end of the day, this could be the most competitive game on Saturday. Indiana has a great team but I trust Oregon to protect their home field and grab their sixth win of the season.

Projected Score: Oregon 34, Indiana 27

6.Oklahoma (5-0) vs. Texas (3-2) (Dallas; Allstate Red River Rivalry)
3:30 PM ET, ABC
Not many people would have said Oklahoma would have the better record or even an undefeated record as they entered Red River week against Texas. Most would have thought that Texas be undefeated or at least have the superior record. But, we are here and the Longhorns have lost to Ohio State and Florida. Steve Sarkisian’s Longhorns need a win to save their season and reposition themselves for a chance to play in the postseason.

It is unsure whether Oklahoma starting quarterback John Mateer will play after successful surgery on his right thumb a few weeks ago. The Sooners would turn to backup Michael Hawkins for the second consecutive week if Mateer is not ready for action against the Longhorns. Hawkins started versus Kent State last weekend and led them to a 44-0 victory over the Golden Flashes by throwing for 162 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 33 yards and another score in Saturday’s victory.

If it is Hawkins behind center again on Saturday for the Sooners everyone else on the offensive side of the football will have to step up. Wide receiver Isaiah Sategna (359 yards and 3 TDs), Deion Burks (275 yards and 2 TDs), and tight end Jaren Kanak (328 yards) must be sure handed for Hawkins playing against a talented secondary that includes Michael Taafe (32 tackles and 1 interception), Jelani McDonald (21 tackles), and Graceson Littleton (18 tackles).

The Oklahoma running game must come on against Texas’ defensive front. Tory Blaylock (257 yards and 3 TDs) will lead the group but much more will be expected of Jaydn Ott (66 yards) if the Sooners want to be successful. They cannot look past this defense even though they had a bad performance in their loss to Florida.

To put it lightly, Arch Manning’s first season as Texas’ starting quarterback has been disappointing. Manning has thrown for 11 touchdowns but has already thrown five interceptions. He does lead the Longhorns in rushing but that means more has to be expected of tailbacks Jerrick Gibson and James Simon. Defensive lineman R Mason Thomas (3 sacks) and David Stone (1.5 sacks) will attempt to get in the backfield and sack Manning and continue to stop the Sooner ground game.

More also needs to be expected of receivers Parker Livingstone and Ryan Wingo down the field. If Manning gets them the ball, they need to be able to score touchdowns if they want to be the Sooners. Defensive backs Peyton Bowen and Reggie Bowers III will have the job of containing Livingstone, Wingo, and the Longhorns’ other playmakers on the perimeter.

If Mateer does not play for Oklahoma, it may be difficult for them to score Texas’ stifling defense. But the Longhorns’ success on defense has not led to victories yet this season. Until Sarkisian’s offense shows up, Texas will not be able to beat Oklahoma.

Projected Score: Oklahoma 24, Texas 14

18.BYU (5-0) @ Arizona (4-1)
7 PM ET, ESPN2
BYU is one of four teams tied atop the Big 12 standings at 2-0 before they head to Tucson to face Arizona, who comes in with a 1-1 conference record. The Cougars cannot look past the Wildcats in this trap game before they host instate rival Utah on Oct. 18. A victory for Arizona could create craziness atop the Big 12 standings as October continues.

The Cougar front seven is talented with end Logan Lutui (22 tackles) and linebackers Jack Kelly (21 tackles and 4 sacks) and Isaiah Glasker (21 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended) posing problems for opposing teams. They will challenge Noah Fifita, who has already thrown 13 touchdowns. Running back Ismail Madhi helps Fifita in the backfield, rushing for 382 yards and a score on the season. More will be expected of him if they want to beat BYU on Saturday.

WThe BYU secondary also has some nice pieces with safeties Faletau Satuala, Raider Damuni, and cornerback Evan Johnson. They will go against a talented group of receivers that includes Javin Whitley (316 yards and 3 TDs), Luke Wysong (220 yards and 1 TD), and Chris Hunter (189 yards and 1 TD).

Quarterback Bear Bachmeier may have only thrown seven touchdowns so far this season but he has rushed for the second most rush yards on the team with 206 and five scores. His receivers Chase Roberts, Parker Kingston, and tight end Carsen Ryan all have over 200 yards and at least a touchdown each despite his low Bachmeier’s low passing numbers. Defensive backs Dalton Johnson (31 tackles, 2 passes defended, and 1 sack) and Genesis Smith (28 tackles, 5 passes defended, and 1 interception) will do their best against that trio.

Next to Bachmeier in the ground game, tailback LJ Martin has 490 yards and three touchdowns. Linebackers Max Harris (25 tackles) and Taye Brown (22 tackles and 1 interception) must stop Bachmeier and Martin’s attack if the Wildcats want to win this game because that is the strongest part of the Cougar offense.

Can Arizona defend its home turf against BYU, or will the Cougars keep their perfect season alive? Expect a hard-fought battle, but the Wildcats edge out BYU in a close one.

Projected Score: Arizona 27, BYU 24

15.Michigan (4-1) @ USC (4-1)
7:30 PM ET, NBC
Michigan heads to Los Angeles to face USC for the second time as common Big Ten opponents. Last season at the ‘Big House’, the Wolverines defeated the Trojans 27-24. Michigan will look to continue that success against USC with their freshman quarterback and a defense that gave up just 10 points last Saturday against Wisconsin.

The Wolverines’ run game is their engine on offense. Tailback Justice Haynes has excelled, rushing for 654 yards and eight touchdowns so far. He supports a freshman quarterback in Bryce Underwood that has thrown just three touchdowns through five games. USC linebackers Eric Gentry (35 tackles and 3 sacks) and Desman Stephens II (25 tackles) will look to lead their defense in stopping Haynes running down the field.

Receivers Donavan McCulley (309 yards and 1 TD) and Semaj Morgan (187 yards and 1 TD) must support Underwood down the field if they want to go to Los Angeles and win against the Trojans. Safety Christian Pierce (21 tackles, 1 pass defended, and 1 sack) will try to stop a receiving unit that has underperformed thus far.

USC signal caller Jayden Maiava has thrown for over 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns this season. Receivers Makai Lemon, Ja’Kobi Lane, and tight end Lake McRae have helped him down the field combining for seven touchdowns. Michigan defensive backs Brandyn Hillman (23 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended) and Jyaire Hill (18 tackles, 4 passes defended, and 1 sack) will have the job of defending the Trojans passing game.

Running back Waymond Jordan leads the Trojans with 537 yards and five scores. Linebackers Ernest Hausmann (31 tackles and 1 pass defended) and Jimmy Folder (28 tackles and 1 pass defended) will be trusted with defending USC’s ground game.

The Trojans come off of a bye week but the Wolverines have won three in a row. Michigan will edge USC out in a close game that should go down to the end.

Projected Score: Michigan 24, USC 21

Image Courtesy: The Vanderbilt Hustler

AP Top 5
1.Ohio State 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: Minnesota (3-1) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, NBC)
2.Oregon 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: Off
3.Miami 4-0 (0-0) ACC This week: @ 18.Florida State (3-1) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
4.Ole Miss 5-0 (3-0) SEC This week: Off
5.Oklahoma 4-0 (1-0) This week: Kent State (1-3) (Saturday, 4 PM ET, SECN)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
2.Oregon 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten Week 5: #6 (Defeated 3.Penn State 30-24)
4.Ole Miss 5-0 (3-0) SEC Week 5: #13 (Defeated 4.LSU 24-19)
6.Texas A&M 4-0 (1-0) SEC Week 5: #9 (Defeated Auburn 16-10)
8.Indiana 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten Week 5: #11 (Defeated Iowa 20-15)
10.Alabama 3-1 (1-0) SEC Week 5: #17 (Defeated 5.Georgia 24-21)

Fallers
7.Penn State 3-1 (0-1) Big Ten Week 5: #3 (Lost to 6.Oregon 30-24)
12.Georgia 3-1 (1-1) SEC Week 5: #5 (Lost to 17.Alabama 24-21)
13.LSU 4-1 (1-1) SEC Week 5: #4 (Lost to 13.Ole Miss 24-19)
18.Florida State 3-1 (0-1) ACC Week 5: #8 (Lost to Virginia 46-38)

Dropped Out
USC 4-1 (2-1) Big Ten Week 5: #21 (Lost to 23.Illinois 34-32)
TCU 3-1 (0-1) Big 12 Week 5: #24 (Lost to Arizona State 27-24)

New
24.Virginia 4-1 (2-0) ACC Week 5: NR (Defeated 8.Florida State 46-38)
25.Arizona State 4-1 Week 5: NR (Defeated 24.TCU 27-24)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)

Saturday, October 4
16.Vanderbilt (5-0) @ 10.Alabama (3-1)
3:30 PM ET, ABC
Vanderbilt heads to Tuscaloosa for a Saturday afternoon battle looking for their second consecutive win over Alabama. The Commodores are 5-0 and are already looking for their second victory in SEC play. Alabama is trying to keep their momentum going after another win over Georgia for coach Kalen DeBoer.

Commodore quarterback Diego Pavia has been on fire to start his final collegiate season. Pavia has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for 294 yards and two more scores. Tight end Eli Stowers and receivers Tre Richardson, Junior Sherrill, and Richie Hoskins combined nine receiving touchdowns will have to help Pavia against the toughest defense they have faced up to this point, Alabama.

Alabama secondary mates Bray Hubbard (17 tackles, 3 passes defended, and 2 interceptions) and Keon Sabb (13 tackles) will do their best against Pavia’s targets down the field. Linebackers Justin Jefferson (15 tackles and 1 interception), Deontae Lawson (14 tackles), and defensive tackle LT Overton (12 tackles and 1,5 sacks) will attempt to slow down tailback Sedrick Alexander, who looks to build on his 243 yard and four touchdown season against the Crimson Tide this season.

Alabama signal-caller Ty Simpson had a great performance last weekend in their victory over Georgia last Saturday. He threw for 276 yards and 2 touchdowns while rushing for 12 yards and another touchdown. Germie Bernard (310 yards and 4 touchdowns) has stepped up as the primary target for Simpson while Ryan Williams has taken a secondary role, with just 238 yards and two touchdowns on the season.

If Vanderbilt’s secondary led by safety CJ Heard (23 tackles and 1 interception) can slow Bernard, Williams, and the Alabama passing attack, it will be easier to deal with Crimson Tide running back Kevin Riley, who has rushed for just 150 yards and has yet to rush for a touchdown. That is why it is important for the entire Vanderbilt defense to show up and play well in Tuscaloosa because if they do, they can give their quarterback Pavia more opportunities to score.

However, Alabama lost to Vanderbilt last season, 40-35, and they have been thinking about it for almost an entire year. The game is in Tuscaloosa so that should give the Crimson Tide the edge and their second consecutive conference win.

Projected Score: Alabama 38, Vanderbilt 31

11.Texas Tech (4-0) @ Houston (4-0)
7 PM ET, ESPN
Two undefeated teams in the Big 12 battle for their second conference victory on Saturday night. Texas Tech’s last performance was a dominant performance over then No. 18 Utah two weeks ago. Houston beat Oregon State by just three their last time out.

The Red Raiders are the perceived Big 12 favorite five weeks through the season after rising to number 11 in the AP poll. A big reason is because of their passing game. Five Texas Tech pass catchers have over 200 yards and at least a touchdown. That list includes Coy Eakin, Terrance Carter Jr., Caleb Douglas, J’Koby Williams, and Reggie Virgil. They all catch passes from quarterback Behren Morton, who has thrown for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Running backs Cameron Dickey, Adam Hill, and J’Koby Williams have already rushed for over 200 yards and a combined eight touchdowns themselves. It will be up to Houston defensive lineman Carlos Allen Jr. and linebackers Jalen Garner, Sione Fotu to stop Texas Tech’s high-powered offense.

For the Cougars offense, former Texas A&M signal-caller Connor Weigman emerged as their quarterback. Weigman has already accounted for 10 touchdowns this season. His running back Dean Connors has rushed for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. Texas Tech linebacker trio of Jacob Rodriguez, John Curry, and Ben Roberts will look to stop the Houston running game so that it does not unlock Weignman’s down the field passing.

Receivers Stephon Johnson, Amare Thomas, and tight end Tanner Koziol will be trusted with making catches against a Texas Tech secondary headed by Cole Wisiniewski and Brenden Jordan. Success in the pass game will help the Cougars upset the Red Raiders.

The home field environment will be important as Houston attempts to take down Texas Tech on Saturday night. But I believe the Red Raiders will simply outscore the Cougars and end their undefeated season.

Projected Score: Texas Tech 42, Houston 31

Mississippi State (4-1) @ 6.Texas A&M (4-0)
7:30 PM ET, SECN
In what should easily have been a match up between undefeated teams this Saturday night, Mississippi State tries their luck for the first time on the road in front of of what should be a raucous environment at Kyle Field against Texas A&M. The Bulldogs fell to Tennessee in overtime 41-34 at home while the Aggies beat Auburn in a low-scoring 16-10 result last Saturday.

The Bulldogs look to bounce back with another terrific offensive performance. Their offense has many playmakers including two tailbacks Fluff Bothwell and Davon Booth who have rushed for a combined 612 yards and 10 touchdowns. The passing game has not been lacking either. Quarterback Black Shapen has thrown for 1,064 yards and 8 touchdowns. Four of his targets have over 100 yards receiving and have nine touchdowns between themselves. That group includes receivers Brenen Thompson, Anthony Evans III, Jordan Mosley, and tight end Seydou Traore.

Texas A&M’s defense had its best performance of the season last weekend against Auburn. Another one will be expected if they want to defeat Mississippi State. Linebacker Tauren York’s 24 tackles, end Will Cashius Howell’s four sacks will lead the Aggies’ pursuit against the Bulldogs’ ground game. Cornerback Will Lee III and safety Marcus Ratcliffe’s combined seven passes defended must challenge Shapen’s passing game.

Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed has shaped up well throwing for over 1,000 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions so far this season. The ground game has come alive again, with Le’Veon Moss (307 yards, 5 TDs), Reuben Owens (134 yards), and Reed (119 yards, 1 TD) all making key contributions. But it has been wide receivers Mario Craver and KC Concepcion that have stolen the show. Craver has caught 24 passes for 477 yards for four scores while his running mate KC Concepcion has caught 20 passes for 340 yards and three more touchdowns.

The Mississippi State defense will need to be trusted to make many more stops against Texas A&M than they did against Tennessee last Saturday if they are going to win this game. Lineman Will Whitson’s 2 sacks and Isaac Smith’s two interceptions thus far will be crucial in stopping Texas A&M’s improving offensive attack.

It is clear Jeff Lebby’s Mississippi State Bulldogs have improved from their 2-10 record during the 2024 season. But are they good enough to go into Kyle Field in a primetime atmosphere and win? Not this time. The Aggies will improve to 5-0 ahead of a date with Florida.

Projected Score: Texas A&M 38, Mississippi State 28

3.Miami (4-0) @ 18.Florida State (3-1)
7:30 PM ET, ABC
A week ago before the Seminoles’ loss to Virginia, the battle between Florida State and Miami was likely to be featured as the game ESPN’s College GameDay would go to. But the Seminoles’ defense failed to get consistent stops against the Cavaliers and they suffered a 46-38 loss. A win for the Hurricanes gives them their first ACC win of the season.

The way Florida State gets back on track is with a better defensive performance. All eleven guys out there have to give it there all on every play and make a difference against Miami’s talented offense. Defensive back Earl Little Jr.’s 24 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended will be trusted against Carson Beck’s passing attack. The Little Jr. led secondary will have a difficult time against Hurricane receivers Malachi Toney, CJ Daniels, and Keelan Marion if they do not step up on Saturday night.

Seminole linebackers Justin Cryer, Elijah Herring, and lineman Darrell Jackson Jr. must lead their front against the Miami running game, headed by tailbacks Mark Fletcher and CharMar Brown who have combined for almost 600 yards and nine touchdowns. If Florida State comes out with a better defensive performance, they have a chance to give the offense a chance to continue scoring points and potentially winning the rest of the games on their schedule.

That all starts with quarterback Thomas Castellanos, who also had his fair share of struggles in last Friday’s loss. He threw just one touchdown and two interceptions against the Cavaliers. Castellanos must trust his receivers like Duce Robinson (346 yards and 3 TDs) against Miami’s secondary and let them go up and get passes down the field. Miami defensive backs JaKobe Thomas and Xavier Lucas will be trusted to continue Castellanos’ struggles through the air and prevent him from getting the ball to his favorite target Robinson so he is challenged to go elsewhere with the ball.

The Seminoles’ running back duo of Gavin Sawchuck (234 yards and 6 TDs) and Ousmane Kromah (174 yards) must support Castellanos’ passing game as well as his rushing attack. He has already gone for 217 yards and four scores on the ground this season. Hurricanes’ defensive linemen Rueben Bain Jr., Akheem Mesidore, and linebacker Mohamed Toure need to step up against Florida State’s running attack if they want to keep their undefeated season alive.

Miami has been one of if not the most impressive team in college football this season. But they will have to travel on the road to instate rival Florida State coming off of a disappointing performance. As a result, this game should be a four quarter battle with the lead changing hands multiple times over 60 minutes. But the Hurricanes’ Beck is the reason why they will continue their winning ways and make the Seminoles 0-2 in the ACC.

Projected Score: Miami 28, Florida State 24