The third Saturday in October is shaping up to be a thrilling day for college football fans. There are so many high-stakes games, possible upsets, and Heisman hopefuls ready to show off.
Week 8? It’s got the makings of a wild ride. From fierce SEC battles to that classic USC-Notre Dame rivalry, this weekend feels like it has everything.
Let’s get into the matchups, the Heisman race, and a few storylines that might just steal the show.
SEC Showdowns: Tennessee vs. Alabama and Ole Miss vs. Georgia
The SEC finds itself in the spotlight again, thanks to a couple of games that could shake up the whole season. One of the biggest is Tennessee at Alabama.
The Vols haven’t won in Tuscaloosa since 2003. They’re not just chasing a win—they want to make a statement in the SEC this year.
Ole Miss vs. Georgia: A Battle of Wits and Grit
Then there’s Ole Miss taking on Georgia. This one’s got a little extra heat, thanks to Lane Kiffin’s playful dig at Kirby Smart’s waistline.
Georgia wants payback for last season’s loss in Oxford. Their defense has had trouble on third downs, so they’ll need to keep Ole Miss’s offense—led by Trinidad Chambliss and Austin Simmons—in check.
Heisman Contenders: The Race Heats Up
The Heisman Trophy race is in full swing. There are a few guys who’ve really set themselves apart as we head into Week 8:
- Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama: After a rocky start, Simpson’s bounced back. He’s completing 70.9% of his passes for 1,678 yards, 16 touchdowns, and only one pick. Alabama leans on his consistency.
- Carson Beck, QB, Miami: Beck’s fit right in at Miami, hitting 73.4% of his passes for 1,213 yards and 11 touchdowns. He’s a big reason Miami’s 5-0.
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana: The Cal transfer’s been a revelation. He’s completed 71.2% for 1,423 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. Mendoza’s play keeps Indiana in the playoff conversation.
- Jayden Maiava, QB, USC: Maiava’s leading the nation in QBR. He’s thrown for 1,852 yards, 13 touchdowns, and two interceptions. His accuracy and calm have been huge for USC.
- Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State: Smith’s got 40 catches, seven touchdowns, and two games over 100 yards. He’s been a difference-maker for the Buckeyes.
Big 12 Title Race: Texas Tech Leads the Pack
The Big 12 is heating up, and Texas Tech is right at the top. The Red Raiders are 3-0 in conference play and face Arizona State this week.
Arizona State’s had some struggles, but Texas Tech can’t afford to let up if they want to stay on top.
The Holy War: BYU vs. Utah
This week’s Holy War between BYU and Utah is shaping up to be a must-see. BYU is undefeated at 6-0 and faces a Utah team that’s found its groove again.
Both teams have a lot riding on this one, especially with conference title hopes in play.
Key Matchups to Watch
There are a handful of other games that could get wild. Here are a few to keep an eye on:
Baylor vs. TCU: The Bluebonnet Battle
The Baylor-TCU rivalry, now called the Bluebonnet Battle, is always a bit unpredictable. Both teams are 4-2, but Baylor’s got a slight edge in the conference.
There’s a personal angle, too—Baylor QB Sawyer Robertson is up against TCU coach Sonny Dykes, who happens to be a family friend.
LSU vs. Vanderbilt: Offense vs. Defense
Vanderbilt’s offense, led by quarterback Diego Pavia, has been putting up numbers. They’re second in the country in third-down conversions.
LSU’s defense is tough, though, and they’ll be out to slow things down and limit the big plays.
USC vs. Notre Dame: A Historic Rivalry
USC-Notre Dame is one of those rivalries that just feels different. Both teams have explosive offenses, with Jayden Maiava and CJ Carr leading the way at quarterback.
This one could turn into a shootout. If the defenses don’t step up, expect fireworks.
Quotes of the Week
Coaches and players never fail to add a little color to the week. Here are a few quotes that stood out:
- *Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin on Georgia coach Kirby Smart: “I don’t think he’s burned too many calories. But he does have a lot of energy in games and he coaches really passionate.”*
- *Utah coach Kyle Whittingham on BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier: “Our guys, our coaches. So I’m not going to give much thought on the opponent this week.”*
- *Duke coach Manny Diaz on coaching phases: “You’re in the honeymoon phase, you’re in the ‘please don’t leave’ phase and you’re in the ‘please leave now’ phase.”*
Conclusion
Week 8 of the 2025 college football season looks wild. Emotions will run high, and there’s bound to be a few jaw-dropping moments.
Maybe you’re here for those classic SEC grudge matches. Or maybe you just want to see which Heisman hopefuls step up under pressure.
There’s plenty for every fan, honestly. If you want to keep up, you can always check the latest news and analysis over at ESPN.
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