UPDATE: The college football landscape is shifting as we enter Week 11 of the 2025 season, with interim coaches facing urgent challenges at both LSU and Auburn. As the playoff race heats up, the pressure is on these new leaders to perform immediately.
This Saturday marks the debut of two interim coaches—Frank Wilson at LSU and DJ Durkin at Auburn—who are stepping into high-stakes games against ranked opponents. Wilson, after a bye week, will lead LSU on the road against No. 4 Alabama, while Durkin faces No. 16 Vanderbilt just days after taking over from Hugh Freeze. Both coaches know their jobs may hinge on immediate success, with the College Football Playoff implications looming large.
Only three ranked matchups are on the slate this weekend, notably the clash between No. 7 BYU and No. 8 Texas Tech, as well as No. 3 Texas A&M taking on No. 22 Missouri. These games could significantly impact playoff positions, particularly the Big 12 showdown in Lubbock.
In the midst of these developments, Diego Pavia aims to extend his winning streak to 3-0 against Auburn. Meanwhile, Kent State recently promoted its interim coach, Mark Carney, to a permanent position, raising questions about whether other interim leaders can secure their jobs with strong performances.
As the coaching carousel spins, Bobby Petrino at Arkansas is struggling to turn the tide after a winless stretch, facing tough opponents like LSU and No. 11 Texas. Meanwhile, Tim Skipper at UCLA had a brief moment of glory but is reeling after a crushing 56-6 loss to Indiana.
One of the most compelling matchups kicks off Friday night when Tulane visits Memphis. Both teams are vying for a top spot in the American Conference and a potential playoff berth. Tulane’s Jon Sumrall and Memphis’ Ryan Silverfield are emerging coaching candidates, making this game critical for their future prospects.
In another thrilling storyline, Notre Dame finds itself at No. 10 in the initial CFP rankings, despite two major losses earlier in the season. With a manageable schedule ahead, the Fighting Irish play a pivotal game against Navy this weekend. The Midshipmen, averaging 34.8 points per game, present a serious challenge with quarterback Blake Horvath showcasing his talents.
The stakes could not be higher for Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell, who has come under fire for a disappointing season. The Badgers’ athletic director is pushing for more resources rather than a costly buyout, as fans grow frustrated with a 2-6 record heading into games against ranked opponents.
As we approach these crucial matchups, fans and players alike are on the edge of their seats. The urgency and excitement of college football are palpable, and the outcomes this weekend could reshape the future of several programs. Stay tuned for live updates and full coverage as the action unfolds!
