Week 6 of the 2025 season brings rivalries, playoff implications, and a Cinderella story in Nashville. Here are the top games of the weekend and the players who could swing the outcomes.
1. UCLA @ Penn State
Why It Matters: West Coast vs. Big Ten clash. Penn State has playoff aspirations, while UCLA is out to prove it can hang with a top-tier defense on the road.
Players to Watch:
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Drew Allar (QB, Penn State) – Veteran starter with a big arm and growing command of the offense.
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Kaytron Allen (RB, Penn State) – Physical runner who sets the tone on the ground.
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TJ Harden (RB, UCLA) – The Bruins’ feature back, relied on for ball control.
2. Florida vs. Texas
Why It Matters: Texas continues its first SEC campaign against one of the league’s traditional powers. The Swamp is never an easy place to win.
Players to Watch:
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Arch Manning (QB, Texas) – Now the Longhorns’ starter, still adjusting but showing promise.
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Johntay Cook II (WR, Texas) – Speed threat who can stretch the Gators’ defense.
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Trevor Etienne (RB, Florida) – Florida’s workhorse in the backfield.
3. Miami (FL) vs. Florida State
Why It Matters: One of college football’s great rivalries, this year with real playoff stakes.
Players to Watch:
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Cam Ward (QB, Miami) – Transfer signal caller giving Miami’s offense a jolt.
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Hykeem Williams (WR, Florida State) – Young but explosive wideout stepping into a bigger role.
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Wesley Bissainthe (LB, Miami) – Leader of the Hurricanes’ defense.
4. Ohio State vs. Minnesota
Why It Matters: The Buckeyes are playoff contenders; Minnesota looks to pull a road shocker.
Players to Watch:
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Air Noland (QB, Ohio State) – Freshman QB getting the start and valuable game reps.
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Jeremiah Smith (WR, Ohio State) – One of the nation’s top young receivers, already shining.
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Darius Taylor (RB, Minnesota) – Gophers’ featured back, key to controlling tempo.
5. Alabama vs. Vanderbilt
Why It Matters: Vanderbilt is 5-0 and hosting ESPN’s College GameDay for the first time ever. Alabama provides the ultimate test.
Players to Watch:
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Diego Pavia (QB, Vanderbilt) – Transfer who has turned Vanderbilt’s offense into a real threat.
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Justice Haynes (RB, Alabama) – Sophomore back ready to carry the Tide ground game.
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Deontae Lawson (LB, Alabama) – Veteran linebacker anchoring the Alabama defense.
🔎 Other Games to Watch
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Louisville vs. Virginia – Important ACC matchup in the middle of the standings.
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Clemson vs. NC State – Potential trap game for the Tigers.
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Oklahoma vs. Kent State – A showcase for the Sooners’ depth and offensive firepower.
