College football’s Week 7 brought exciting performances and shocking disappointments. Indiana recorded a historic win, while teams like Penn State are under significant scrutiny for their struggles. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key takeaways from the week, focusing on Indiana’s resurgence and Penn State’s ongoing challenges in the 2025 season.
Indiana Shines in Historic Upset
Indiana University football, ranked seventh, showcased its immense growth with a remarkable 30-20 victory over third-ranked Oregon, solidifying its position as a formidable contender in college football. This win represents Indiana’s first top-five road victory in the program’s history.
Under coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers have transformed rapidly, now boasting a 6-0 record (3-0 in the Big Ten). Facing a formidable Oregon defense at Autzen Stadium, Indiana’s offense, led by quarterback Fernando Mendoza, managed to maintain composure. Mendoza completed 20 of 31 passes for 215 yards, including a touchdown and an interception.
Wide receiver Elijah Sarratt stood out, catching eight passes for 121 yards and a touchdown, contributing significantly to the victory. Indiana’s defense was relentless, sacking Ducks’ quarterback Dante Moore six times and limiting Oregon to 267 total yards.
Transfer Portal Success
Cignetti’s strategies in the transfer portal paid off as key contributors included Mendoza (via California), Sarratt, and linebacker Aiden Fisher from James Madison. This quick rise highlights how effective transfers can revitalize programs.
Upcoming Challenges
As Indiana continues its upward trajectory, the team looks to remain among the top contenders in the national rankings, preparing for tougher battles ahead as the season progresses.
Penn State’s Troubling Downward Spiral
Conversely, Penn State’s season continues to unravel, with a shocking 22-21 loss to Northwestern, which has further intensified criticism of head coach James Franklin. The Nittany Lions now hold a disappointing 3-3 record, falling to 0-3 in the Big Ten.
Their recent defeat marked a historical low, as they became the first team to lose consecutively to 20-plus point underdogs. Star quarterback Drew Allar suffered a season-ending injury during the game, raising further concerns for a team already grappling with instability.
Fan Discontent
Penn State fans expressed their frustration vocally during Saturday’s game, with late arrivals and boos highlighting their discontent. The relationship between the fans and Franklin seems irreparable, with discussions about a potential buyout looming after the season.
Top Performances and Future Outlook
- Texas Tech: The Red Raiders remain undefeated with a 6-0 record after a dominating 42-17 win against Kansas, with running back Cameron Dickey rushing for a career-high 263 yards.
- Texas: A solid victory against Oklahoma, 23-6, featured quarterback Arch Manning improving his performance significantly under pressure.
- Alabama: With a 27-24 win over Missouri, Alabama continues to establish its dominance in the SEC, thanks to quarterback Ty Simpson’s impressive passing and decision-making.
What’s Next?
As the season progresses, teams like Indiana are poised for a potential playoff run, while Penn State must navigate a tumultuous path forward. The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining their respective fates in the college football landscape.
