Week 10 of the college football season delivered massive shakeups in the playoff race as top-ranked teams fell and postseason contenders made their final push. College football fans witnessed thrilling upsets, standout quarterback performances, and historic lows for storied programs across the country.
Notre Dame Stuns Miami in Thrilling Showdown
Notre Dame secured a massive 31-24 victory over No. 1 Miami, effectively punching its ticket to the College Football Playoff. Quarterback CJ Carr delivered one of the best performances of his career, throwing for 319 yards and three touchdowns. After previously losing to BYU, the Fighting Irish rebounded in style, elevating Carr to the front of the Heisman Trophy conversation after he outdueled Darian Mensah.
Meanwhile, No. 2 Georgia bounced back from last season's playoff struggles by crushing No. 10 Ole Miss 42-7. Quarterback Gunner Stockton threw for 186 yards and four touchdowns on just 15 passes, while the Bulldogs' defense suffocated the Rebels' elite offense to just 65 rushing yards.
Key Winners and Losers from Week 10
The latest slate of games completely reshaped the postseason picture for multiple programs:
- Winner: Utah - The No. 3 Utes defeated No. 9 BYU to snap a three-decade losing streak against their rivals, rising to 9-0 for the first time since 2008 under Morgan Scalley.
- Winner: Texas - Led by Arch Manning, who threw for 297 yards and three touchdowns without a turnover, No. 7 Texas strengthened its postseason resume.
- Loser: Michigan - Coach Kyle Whittingham oversaw a dismal 15-6 loss to Michigan State, dropping the Wolverines to 5-4 and threatening their bowl eligibility.
- Loser: Nebraska - Following a 24-13 loss to Illinois, the Cornhuskers dropped their third straight game, prompting the firing of offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen.
- Winner: Ferris State - The Bulldogs secured an 80-0 win over Wayne State for their 40th straight victory, tying a Division II record under coach Tony Annese.
Historic Struggles for Ohio State and Nebraska
While some programs celebrated, others hit historic rock bottom. Ohio State suffered through a rare three-loss regular season, falling flat against physical line play and dealing with injuries to quarterback Julian Sayin and freshman starter Luke Fahey. Head coach Ryan Day faces mounting questions after consecutive losses exposed deep concerns across the roster.
In Lincoln, Nebraska watched a promising 5-0 start evaporate into a three-game losing streak. Despite racking up 426 yards of offense against Illinois, missed field goals and failed fourth-down conversions doomed the Cornhuskers, leading to immediate coaching staff changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Notre Dame defeat in Week 10?
Notre Dame secured a thrilling 31-24 victory over No. 1 Miami, powered by quarterback CJ Carr's 319 passing yards and three touchdowns.
What milestone did Ferris State achieve in Week 10?
Ferris State earned an 80-0 win over Wayne State, claiming their 40th consecutive victory to tie a Division II record.
Why did Nebraska fire its offensive coordinator?
Nebraska dismissed offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen following a 24-13 loss to Illinois, which marked the team's third consecutive defeat after starting the season 5-0.