Week 7 of college football is here, and while the iconic Red River Rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas usually steals the spotlight, this year, it’s taking a backseat to more electrifying matchups. But why? Well, Texas’s stunning fall from preseason No. 1 to unranked, Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer’s uncertain health, and Texas QB Arch Manning’s struggles have dimmed the game’s usual glow. And this is the part most people miss: the real action this week is elsewhere, with three Top 25 showdowns that promise far more drama.
First up, No. 8 Alabama vs. No. 14 Missouri in the SEC is the game to watch. Alabama, riding a four-game winning streak after their season-opening loss to Florida State, faces a Missouri team that hasn’t beaten a top-10 opponent at home since 2010. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Missouri pull off the upset, or will Alabama’s dominance continue? Meanwhile, in the Big Ten, No. 7 Indiana visits No. 3 Oregon in a clash of unbeatens. Both teams are top 10 in scoring, scoring defense, total offense, and total defense, making this a true battle of titans. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Oregon’s Dante Moore will deliver the quarterback duel of the season—but which offense will break through?
Speaking of Oregon, their 18-game home win streak and 23-game regular-season win streak are on the line. Indiana, meanwhile, is off to its best start in program history, aiming to prove they’re not just a flash in the pan. But here’s the kicker: Neither team faces another ranked opponent after this, so the loser’s playoff hopes might not be completely dashed.
Under the radar, No. 24 South Florida vs. North Texas on Friday night could be a sleeper hit. North Texas is off to its best start since 1959, but their schedule has been, well, let’s say forgiving. Are they for real, or just fool’s gold? South Florida, fresh off wins against ranked teams Boise State and Florida, will be the ultimate test. And keep an eye on Byrum Brown, the dual-threat quarterback who’s been lighting up defenses.
On the Heisman front, Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith is making waves as a wide receiver in a quarterback-dominated race. With 7-to-1 odds, he’s a dark horse candidate who could shake things up, especially against Illinois’s struggling pass defense. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, second in the nation in passer rating and TD passes, also has a golden opportunity to boost his Heisman resume against Oregon.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Should non-quarterbacks like Smith get more Heisman love, or is the award inherently a QB’s game? Let’s debate that in the comments.
Finally, let’s talk about the hot seat: Oregon State’s Trent Bray is in deep trouble. The Beavers are 0-6, and the program is in its worst state since 1991. With a $3.6 million buyout looming if he’s fired after the season, the question isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about survival. Will Bray turn it around, or is his time in Corvallis running out?
From unexpected matchups to Heisman debates and coaching drama, Week 7 is packed with storylines that demand your attention. Which game are you most excited for, and who do you think will come out on top? Let’s hear your predictions!
