The 2025 college football season is entering its final stretch, and the stakes are high for teams and coaches alike. With just a few weeks remaining, interim coaches at LSU and Auburn are facing immediate challenges as they take the reins in crucial matchups. The playoff race is heating up, with significant implications for teams ranked in the top 25 and beyond.
This weekend features three pivotal games involving ranked teams. No. 7 BYU is set to clash with No. 8 Texas Tech, while No. 3 Texas A&M takes on No. 22 Missouri, and No. 9 Oregon faces No. 20 Iowa. Each of these matchups could influence the landscape of the College Football Playoff (CFP) as the season approaches its conclusion.
In a notable development, Frank Wilson steps in as the interim coach for LSU, taking on the formidable task of leading the team into a road game against No. 4 Alabama. Wilson had the advantage of a bye week to prepare, but the challenge remains steep. Meanwhile, at Auburn, defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has been elevated to interim head coach following the dismissal of Hugh Freeze and must lead the team as they travel to face No. 16 Vanderbilt.
The outcomes of these games will be closely monitored, especially as interim coaches seek to establish momentum that could secure them permanent positions. A notable case is Mark Carney, who was recently confirmed as Kent State’s head coach after a successful interim stint. In contrast, Bobby Petrino at Arkansas has struggled, with the Razorbacks failing to win since his appointment, culminating in a challenging schedule featuring LSU, No. 11 Texas, and No. 22 Missouri.
Another intriguing matchup unfolds on Friday when Tulane visits Memphis. This game is vital not only for the American Conference title race but also features two prominent coaching candidates. Jon Sumrall of Tulane has gained attention for the Auburn job, while Ryan Silverfield of Memphis is also in the mix for multiple opportunities. Memphis currently leads the Group of Six teams in the playoff race, despite a recent upset loss to UAB.
As the season progresses, Notre Dame remains a key player in the CFP conversation. Ranked No. 10 in the initial rankings, the Fighting Irish have a manageable schedule ahead. Despite losses to top-ranked teams like No. 3 Texas A&M and No. 18 Miami, a clean slate moving forward could see Notre Dame in playoff contention, beginning with a crucial matchup against Navy this weekend. The Midshipmen, led by offensive coordinator Drew Cronic, present a formidable challenge with their high-powered offense, averaging 34.8 points per game.
Off the field, the coaching landscape continues to evolve, particularly regarding the expectations placed on coaches. Luke Fickell at Wisconsin faces scrutiny as the Badgers struggle with a 2-6 record. Athletic director Chris McIntosh has publicly supported Fickell, emphasizing a focus on long-term success over immediate results. With remaining games against ranked opponents including No. 23 Washington and No. 2 Indiana, the pressure mounts for Fickell to turn the season around.
As the college football season approaches its climax, the interplay of coaching changes, team performance, and playoff aspirations creates a compelling narrative. Each game brings opportunities for teams to solidify their standings and for coaches to prove their worth. The coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the future of many programs and the careers of those at the helm.
