College football viewing picks for October 18, 2025: How to watch Week 8

This season, college football is witnessing a refreshing shift as traditionally dominant teams are being challenged by newcomers like Vanderbilt and Georgia Tech. Their rise in the rankings highlights a new era of parity in the sport, making it more exciting for fans and players alike. This change matters because it not only diversifies the competition but also brings fresh narratives and rivalries to the forefront, enriching the overall experience of college football.

LSU's recent loss to Vanderbilt has raised serious concerns about Brian Kelly's fit as head coach. The game highlighted not just a disappointing scoreline, but also a lack of strategic execution, leading to the Tigers being at the top of this week's Misery Index. This matters because it reflects broader issues within the program and raises questions about future performance and leadership.

As we approach Week 9 of the college football season, Ohio State is projected to maintain its top position in the AP Top 25 rankings. This comes after a significant shake-up in the rankings due to losses from teams like LSU, Ole Miss, Tennessee, and Miami in Week 8. These changes are crucial as they can impact playoff positions and team morale moving forward.

LSU football faced a disappointing setback as they lost to Vanderbilt 31-24, marking a significant drop from their No. 10 ranking. This upset is particularly noteworthy as it highlights Vanderbilt's impressive start to the season, now at 6-1, a feat not achieved since 1950. The game also saw Diego Pavia making headlines with his Heisman Trophy pose, adding to the drama of the match. This loss not only affects LSU's ranking but also raises questions about their performance moving forward.

In a thrilling matchup, Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia led the Commodores to a historic victory over LSU, marking a significant moment in college football. This win not only boosts the team's morale but also puts Pavia in the spotlight for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, showcasing his talent on a national stage.

LSU is facing a challenging situation after losing its second game of the season, as the team must now navigate both its on-field struggles and the financial implications of Brian Kelly's hefty buyout. This situation is significant because it raises questions about the future direction of the program and the potential impact on recruiting and team morale.

In Week 8 of the college football season, teams like Vanderbilt and Georgia stood out, showcasing both impressive victories and disappointing losses. This week was significant as it highlighted the competitive nature of college football, with teams vying for top rankings and bowl game positions. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how these results will impact the remainder of the season.

After Vanderbilt's recent victory over LSU, quarterback Diego Pavia was unable to address the media, leaving fans and analysts curious about his thoughts on the game. This situation highlights the pressures athletes face and the importance of communication in sports. Pavia's performance was pivotal in securing the win, making his insights valuable for understanding the team's strategy and morale moving forward.

Jeremiyah Love made history during Notre Dame's impressive 34-24 victory over USC, showcasing his talent with a remarkable 228 rushing yards. This performance not only helped secure a crucial win against a rival but also etched Love's name into the school's record books, highlighting his potential and the team's strong ground game strategy. Such achievements are significant as they boost team morale and enhance Notre Dame's reputation in college football.

Jalen Carter, the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive tackle, is expected to return to the field in Week 7 against the Minnesota Vikings after missing last week's game due to a heel injury. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport has reported that Carter has shown significant improvement this week, which is great news for the Eagles as they prepare for a crucial matchup. His presence on the field could greatly enhance the team's defensive strength, making this an important development for fans and the team's prospects.

In an exciting match, the Houston Dash ended the Kansas City Current's impressive 17-match undefeated streak with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to Ryan Gareis's goal in the 69th minute. This win is significant as it highlights the competitive nature of the National Women’s Soccer League, where teams are constantly vying for dominance. Additionally, the San Diego Wave secured their playoff spot with a commanding 6-1 win over the Chicago Stars, while the Orlando Pride also celebrated a close 3-2 victory against the Washington Spirit.

In an exciting turn of events at the MotoGP Australian Grand Prix, Raul Fernandez, riding for Trackhouse, clinched an impressive underdog victory, marking a significant achievement for the team in just its second season. This win not only highlights Fernandez's talent but also showcases Trackhouse's potential to compete at the highest level in MotoGP, making it a noteworthy moment for fans and the sport alike.

The Pittsburgh Penguins secured a solid 3-0 victory over the San Jose Sharks, with star players Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin each contributing a goal and an assist. Goalie Tristan Jarry was impressive, stopping 31 shots to keep the Sharks at bay. This win is significant as it boosts the Penguins' confidence and standings in the league, showcasing their strong performance and teamwork.

In a thrilling upset, Arizona State Sun Devils triumphed over the No. 7 Texas Tech Red Raiders with a score of 26-22. Head coach Kenny Dillingham was so overwhelmed with emotion after the game that he couldn't complete his postgame interview. This victory not only boosts the team's morale but also showcases their potential to compete against top-ranked teams, making it a significant moment in their season.