Week 7 of the college football season showcased thrilling developments as teams jockeyed for position midway through the regular season. Highlights included notable coaching changes, significant wins, and standout performances as teams worked towards Championship Week.
Highlights from Week 7 College Football
Midseason Coach of the Year: Curt Cignetti
Curt Cignetti has emerged as a top candidate for Coach of the Year after leading Indiana to a monumental victory. On October 12, 2025, Indiana defeated No. 3 Oregon, 30-20, in a historic top-10 matchup, marking the Hoosiers’ first victory against a top-10 opponent in school history. This win ended Oregon’s 23-game regular-season winning streak and showcased the effectiveness of Cignetti’s coaching philosophy.
Cignetti’s journey through college football has been remarkable. Previously at James Madison, he guided the program to multiple playoff appearances. His transition to Indiana, after a challenging stint where the team went 9-27 in preceding years, has proven successful, as shown by a current 92% likelihood of the Hoosiers returning to the College Football Playoff.
James Franklin’s Ouster at Penn State
In a shocking turn of events, James Franklin was fired by Penn State just 15 days after leading the team onto the field as the No. 3 team in the nation. The Nittany Lions, who had a promising start, faltered with three consecutive losses, including a devastating 22-21 defeat against Northwestern on October 12. Franklin’s dismissal underscores the pressure on coaching staff amidst high expectations.
Top Performers of the Week
Offensive Standouts
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Ty Simpson | Alabama | 23-of-31 passing, 200 yards, 3 TDs vs. Missouri |
| Fernando Mendoza | Indiana | 20-of-31 passing, 215 yards, 1 TD vs. Oregon |
| Demond Williams Jr. | Washington | 21-of-27 passing, 402 yards, 2 TDs vs. Rutgers |
Defensive Leaders
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State – Key player in a defensive unit that has excelled all season.
- Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech – Leading tackles and making significant plays for his team.
Season Recap and Looking Ahead
As teams prepare for the second half of the season, the impact of coaching changes, player performances, and playoff predictions are becoming apparent. The landscape of college football continues to shift dramatically, with Indiana and Texas Tech standing out as surprise contenders.
As fan interest intensifies, the narrative around these teams and their coaching staff will undoubtedly evolve. With Cignetti’s innovative leadership and Franklin’s abrupt exit, this season continues to promise intrigue and excitement as it progresses toward Championship Week.
