Week 5 of the 2025 college football season promises to be one of the most thrilling weekends yet, packed with high-stakes games that could shape the course of the season. Highlighting the weekend’s lineup is a much-anticipated rematch between No. 6 Oregon and No. 3 Penn State, a revisit to their 2024 Big Ten Championship clash. Both teams have their sights set on significant achievements, with Oregon defending its conference title and Penn State aiming for a league victory after nearly a decade.
In the Southeastern Conference (SEC), two critical matchups will unfold. No. 13 Ole Miss will host their long-time rivals, the No. 4 LSU Tigers. While LSU has been ranked high, questions about their offense persist, presenting an opportunity for Ole Miss to leverage its in-form quarterback, Trinidad Chambliss, to potentially claim a memorable win. Meanwhile, No. 5 Georgia is set to face off against No. 17 Alabama, looking for revenge and eager to establish dominance after a challenging loss in early games.
In the Big Ten, No. 21 USC faces No. 23 Illinois, with both teams experiencing contrasting starts to the season. USC seeks to maintain momentum, while Illinois fights to regain its standing after a tough conference opener. Similarly, No. 1 Ohio State embarks on a test against Washington, a battle that headlines the afternoon schedule with high stakes and potential surprises, as Washington’s offensive prowess could test Ohio State’s acclaimed defense.
Elsewhere, Notre Dame takes on Arkansas in a critical matchup for both teams, focusing on redeeming starts by going head-to-head in a game that holds significance beyond just rankings. Auburn will challenge No. 9 Texas A&M, while No. 16 Georgia Tech meets Wake Forest, all contributing to the excitement of the week.
The week is rounded off with No. 15 Tennessee at Mississippi State and No. 25 BYU’s visit to Colorado, ensuring fans have a weekend full of exhilarating college football action. This action-packed weekend not only promises tense on-field battles but could also shift momentum and morale, ultimately setting the stage for the season’s trajectory.