In a dramatic week of college football, Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin solidified his position as a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy, while Hugh Freeze was dismissed from his role as head coach at Auburn University. The events showcased the highs and lows of the sport, with significant implications for players, coaches, and institutions alike.
Sayin delivered a remarkable performance in Ohio State’s 38–14 victory over the Penn State Nittany Lions on November 1, 2025. Completing 20 of 23 passes for 316 yards and four touchdowns, he showcased his efficiency as a passer, leading the nation in completion percentage and quarterback rating. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute precise throws has propelled him to the forefront of the Heisman race, with current odds at +175, surpassing competitors such as Fernando Mendoza of Indiana and Ty Simpson of Alabama.
This season marks a significant achievement for Sayin, who has thrown 23 touchdowns against just three interceptions through eight games. His exceptional performance against Penn State included an impressive QBR of 99.1, indicating his dominance on the field. With Ohio State remaining undefeated, the team’s aspirations for a deep postseason run are heightened, and Sayin’s potential to secure the program’s first Heisman Trophy since Troy Smith in 2006 appears increasingly likely.
Meanwhile, the Auburn Tigers faced a pivotal moment following a disappointing 10–3 loss to Kentucky. The defeat prompted the university to terminate Freeze’s contract, concluding a turbulent tenure that lasted less than three seasons. Finishing with a record of 15–19 overall and 6–16 in SEC play, Freeze leaves Auburn with a hefty buyout of $15.8 million. The loss to Kentucky underscored the struggles of the Tigers’ offense, which managed only 241 total yards and failed to find the end zone despite multiple quarterback changes.
Fans expressed their frustration during the game, chanting “Fire Hugh” as the team fell to a disappointing 4–5 overall and 1–5 in SEC competition. Despite a strong defensive unit ranked 26th nationally, Auburn’s inability to develop a consistent offensive strategy ultimately led to Freeze’s downfall. The program, now on its sixth head coach in five years, faces a critical juncture as it looks to reverse its fortunes and avoid missing a bowl game for the third time in four seasons.
In a broader context, the 2025 college football season has become one of the most financially impactful in history regarding coach buyouts, with over $185 million committed to dismissals so far. Notable among these is Brian Kelly, who was let go by LSU after a disappointing start, resulting in a negotiated buyout of approximately $27 million. The trend of coaching changes continues to evolve, with 11 FBS head coaches having been fired this season alone.
In another significant development, the No. 8 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets experienced a setback, suffering a 48–36 defeat to NC State. This loss ended their undefeated season, marking a substantial shift in the College Football Playoff landscape. Despite a record-setting performance from quarterback Haynes King, who accounted for over 500 total yards, Georgia Tech’s defense struggled to contain NC State, allowing 583 yards and yielding scores on eight of ten possessions.
The loss not only impacted Georgia Tech’s playoff aspirations but also left the ACC without a clear frontrunner as Miami also fell to SMU in overtime. Virginia currently stands as the conference’s last unbeaten team, but its status remains tenuous. Georgia Tech’s inability to stop opponents, particularly on third downs, highlighted the weaknesses that need addressing as they prepare for the upcoming matchup against Boston College.
As college football enthusiasts embrace the midweek spectacle of MACtion, the unpredictable nature of the sport continues to captivate audiences. The Mid-American Conference’s unique tradition of Tuesday and Wednesday night football offers thrilling matchups and high-scoring drama, drawing diehard fans who relish the excitement of the game even in less conventional time slots.
As the College Football Playoff selection committee prepares for November, the complexities of the current landscape present both challenges and opportunities. With multiple one-loss teams emerging and significant coaching changes underway, the path to the playoffs is increasingly complicated. The committee will need to navigate these developments carefully as they finalize their rankings in the coming weeks.
As Week 10 concludes, the narrative of college football remains vibrant and unpredictable, with standout performances and significant coaching shifts shaping the future of the sport. With the Heisman race heating up and teams grappling for playoff positions, the excitement of college football promises to intensify as the season progresses.
