College football predictions for AP Top 25 games in Week 8

Brandon Lockhart, a talented defensive back from Chatsworth, California, is set to be honored as a 2026 Navy All-American. This recognition will take place during a virtual jersey presentation, part of the Navy All-American Bowl’s Road to the Dome series. Lockhart's commitment to USC highlights his promising future in football, making this honor not just a personal achievement but also a significant milestone in his athletic career.

Penn State's Athletic Director Pat Kraft has emphasized that the decision to fire head coach James Franklin was driven by a need to enhance the team's competitiveness in the evolving landscape of college football. This move signals a commitment to pursuing championship aspirations, reflecting the urgency for change in a sport where performance expectations are continually rising.

As we dive into Week 8 of the college football season, the Heisman Trophy race is heating up. Vaughn Dalzell highlights the latest shifts, notably with Dante Moore dropping out of contention while Fernando Mendoza is making a significant rise in the rankings. This matters because the Heisman Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in college sports, and these developments could influence betting odds and fan expectations as the season progresses.

USC football has made a significant move in college football recruiting by securing Jakwon Morris, the top junior college cornerback, for their 2026 class. This commitment follows their recent victory over Michigan, showcasing the Trojans' growing strength on and off the field. Morris, who plays for Northwest Community College in Tupelo, Mississippi, is expected to bolster USC's defense, making this a crucial addition for the team's future.

Paul Finebaum, a prominent sports commentator, remains skeptical about Curt Cignetti's coaching approach, describing him as brash and over-the-top. This skepticism is significant as it highlights the challenges Cignetti faces in gaining respect within the competitive landscape of college football, particularly in a high-stakes environment like Alabama. Finebaum's opinions often influence public perception, making his critique noteworthy for fans and analysts alike.

The USC Trojans have made a triumphant return to the college football AP Poll, landing at No. 20 after a significant victory over the Michigan Wolverines. This comeback is crucial as it highlights the team's resilience and ability to compete at a high level, especially after being outside the top 25 for two weeks. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how this momentum will carry the Trojans through the rest of the season.

Joel Klatt, a prominent voice in college football commentary, expressed his belief that Alabama football deserves a higher ranking than another SEC team following their recent victory. This opinion highlights the competitive nature of college football rankings and the ongoing debates among fans and analysts about team performances, making it a significant topic for sports enthusiasts.

In a tough blow for the No. 13 Notre Dame football team, center Craig has been sidelined with a knee injury sustained during their recent 36-7 victory over N.C. State. This injury not only affects the team's lineup but also raises concerns about their performance in upcoming games. As discussions continue to extend the series with Southern Cal, fans are left hoping for Craig's swift recovery to bolster the team's chances.

South Carolina has been chosen to defend its title as the Southeastern Conference women's basketball champions in 2026, showcasing the team's strong reputation and talent. Additionally, Texas' Madison Booker has earned the honor of Preseason Player of the Year, highlighting her exceptional skills and potential impact on the upcoming season. This news is significant as it sets the stage for an exciting year in women's college basketball, with both teams and players to watch closely.

The Iowa high school football schedule for Week 8 has been released, showcasing all the games organized by the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). This schedule is important for players, coaches, and fans as it helps them plan for the upcoming matches and supports local school spirit.

Bryce Underwood, the quarterback for Michigan, has shared that his biggest area of growth this season is not just in his stats, but in his leadership and communication skills. As he navigates the challenges of college football, Underwood's focus on becoming a better leader is crucial for his team's success and his personal development. This emphasis on leadership highlights the importance of teamwork and effective communication in sports, making it a significant aspect of his journey.

Chris 'The Bear' Fallica has shared his top 10 college football rankings for Week 8, reflecting the exciting developments in the season so far. These rankings are significant as they provide insights into team performances and can influence playoff considerations, making them a hot topic among fans and analysts alike.

Blake Snell's outstanding performance in Game 1 of the NLCS has set a high bar for the Los Angeles Dodgers. With a commanding presence on the mound, he led the team to a decisive victory over the Brewers, showcasing his skills in front of a packed stadium. His advice to fellow pitchers emphasizes the importance of confidence and strategy, which could be crucial as the Dodgers aim for a championship. This win not only boosts team morale but also highlights Snell's potential impact in the postseason.

In a remarkable display of talent, Bijan Robinson and Drake London each surpassed 100 yards from scrimmage in the first half of the game against the Buffalo Bills, marking a feat not seen in 20 seasons for the Atlanta Falcons. This offensive prowess not only highlights the potential of these young stars but also sets a promising tone for the team's future, showcasing their ability to perform at a high level and potentially turning the season around.

Kawhi Leonard recently made a bold statement regarding the Los Angeles Clippers' roster for the 2025-26 season. As the team prepares for their upcoming regular season opener against the Utah Jazz, fans are expressing doubts about the Clippers' potential as championship contenders, primarily due to concerns about the team's age. Leonard's comments could spark discussions about the team's future and their ability to compete at a high level.

The Dodgers secured a thrilling victory in Game 1 of the NLCS against the Brewers, showcasing Blake Snell's impressive performance, allowing no runs through eight innings. Despite a shaky bullpen in the ninth, they managed to hold onto the lead, which is crucial for building momentum in the series. This win not only boosts the team's confidence but also sets a positive tone for the upcoming games.

The Buffalo Bills faced a disappointing defeat against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 6, marking their second consecutive loss. This game is significant as it raises concerns about the team's performance and strategy moving forward, especially with the pressure mounting in the competitive league.

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series, showcasing resilience after facing a challenging double play and a late-game surge from the Brewers. This win not only boosts the Dodgers' morale but also sets a positive tone for the series, highlighting their ability to overcome adversity and keep their championship hopes alive.