The college football landscape underwent significant shifts in Week 10, marked by standout performances and coaching changes. Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin solidified his position as a Heisman Trophy contender with an impressive display against Penn State, while Hugh Freeze was dismissed as head coach of Auburn University following a disappointing loss to Kentucky.
Sayin led the Buckeyes to a commanding 38-14 victory over Penn State on November 1, 2025. His performance was nothing short of remarkable, completing 20 of 23 passes for 316 yards and four touchdowns. This marked his second consecutive game with four touchdown passes and the fifth time this season he has surpassed 300 passing yards. Sayin’s efficiency is underscored as he now leads the nation in completion percentage, quarterback rating (QBR), and adjusted yards per attempt, positioning him as the most effective passer in college football.
The victory over Penn State was not just a routine win; it served as a critical statement game for Sayin. He managed to throw more touchdowns than incompletions and showcased his deep-ball accuracy with two completions of 57 yards each to star receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. Through eight games this season, Sayin has thrown 23 touchdowns against only three interceptions and has consistently demonstrated his ability to maintain composure under pressure.
The Buckeyes remain undefeated, and with Sayin performing at an elite level, they are well-positioned for a deep postseason run. His current Heisman odds stand at +175, placing him ahead of competitors like Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Alabama’s Ty Simpson.
Coaching Turmoil at Auburn
In stark contrast to Ohio State’s success, Auburn’s football program is facing turmoil following their 10-3 loss to Kentucky. This defeat prompted the university to terminate Hugh Freeze’s contract after nearly three seasons. Freeze exits with a 15-19 overall record and a significant buyout of $15.8 million, which adds to Auburn’s mounting costs associated with coaching changes.
The loss to Kentucky was emblematic of the struggles under Freeze’s leadership. The Tigers’ offense struggled to generate any momentum, managing only 241 total yards and failing to score a touchdown despite multiple quarterback changes. With a record of 4-5 overall and 1-5 in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, Auburn fans expressed their discontent with chants of “Fire Hugh” echoing through Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has stepped in as interim head coach, but even a strong defense—ranking among the top four in the SEC—could not compensate for the offense’s shortcomings. Despite high-profile transfers and talented players, the offense ranks last in the SEC in passing yards and second-to-last in scoring. The program, now on its sixth head coach in five seasons, faces a critical juncture as it seeks to avoid missing bowl eligibility for the third time in four years.
Georgia Tech’s Perfect Season Ends
Meanwhile, Georgia Tech’s hopes for an undefeated season were dashed as they fell to NC State in a high-scoring affair, losing 48-36. The No. 8 Yellow Jackets, who had enjoyed their best start since 1966, were unable to fend off the Wolfpack, who amassed 583 yards and scored on eight of ten possessions.
Despite a record-setting performance from quarterback Haynes King, who accounted for 511 total yards and four touchdowns, Georgia Tech’s defensive shortcomings were exposed. The loss not only ended their perfect run but also complicated the Atlantic Coast Conference’s (ACC) playoff prospects, especially after Miami’s defeat as well. With Virginia now as the last unbeaten team in the ACC, Georgia Tech must regroup quickly to maintain its championship and playoff aspirations.
The week closed with the return of MACtion, a beloved tradition in college football, where midweek games deliver unpredictable excitement. As teams from the Mid-American Conference battle for supremacy, fans look forward to the thrilling chaos that characterizes this unique segment of the season.
The implications of Week 10 extend beyond the field. The College Football Playoff selection committee now faces a complex scenario with multiple one-loss teams and varying résumés. The recent chaos has intensified scrutiny and pressure as the committee navigates the final stretch of the season, with playoff aspirations hanging in the balance.
As the season progresses, the narratives surrounding key players like Julian Sayin and the fate of coaching staff across the nation will continue to evolve, shaping the future of college football in profound ways.
