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Saturday, October 31, brought plenty of action across the FBS. Seven ranked teams lost, creating a major shake-up in the national rankings and college football news giving several programs an opportunity to move up.
Some of the most important Week 9 results included:
| Matchup | Final score |
|---|---|
| USC vs. No. 2 Ohio State | USC 30–18 |
| No. 1 Miami vs. North Carolina | Miami 38–35 |
| No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 17 Florida | Georgia 27–8 |
| No. 4 Indiana vs. Minnesota | Indiana 23–16 (OT) |
| No. 6 Utah vs. Cincinnati | Utah 49–25 |
| Iowa vs. No. 25 Wisconsin | Iowa 30–0 |
| Iowa State vs. No. 24 Oklahoma State | Iowa State 51–49 |
| Syracuse vs. No. 19 SMU | Syracuse 30–27 |
These results created several important storylines. USC earned one of its biggest wins of the season, Iowa delivered a dominant defensive performance, and Iowa State secured a dramatic victory with a late field goal.
USC Stuns Ohio State in a Major Upset
One of the biggest headlines in college football news was USC’s 30–18 victory over No. 2 Ohio State. The Trojans started quickly with a 69-yard touchdown pass and maintained control throughout the contest.
Ohio State produced 464 total yards but struggled to turn its opportunities into touchdowns. USC’s defense made important stops in the second half, limiting the Buckeyes to nine points after halftime.
The victory was particularly important for head coach Lincoln Riley. It marked his first win over a top-five opponent as USC’s head coach and strengthened the Trojans’ position in the Big Ten race. The result is also expected to help USC return to the AP Top 25. <Cite refs={[“turn840319search0″,”turn840319news4”]}/>
Miami Remains No. 1 After a Close Win
Miami protected its top ranking with a 38–35 victory over North Carolina. The Hurricanes faced a serious challenge but managed to finish the game with an important road win.
Wide receiver Malachi Toney played a major role, recording seven catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns. His performance helped Miami remain unbeaten and maintain its position at the top of the national conversation.
The Hurricanes now face another major test against Notre Dame on November 7. That matchup could have a significant influence on the playoff race and Miami’s national championship hopes. <Cite refs={[“turn840319news4″,”turn840319search0”]}/>
Latest College Football Rankings and Top Teams
The official AP Top 25 poll is updated weekly, so rankings can change after major results. Following Week 9, CBS Sports projected the leading positions as Miami at No. 1, Georgia at No. 2, Notre Dame at No. 3, Utah at No. 4 and UCLA at No. 5.
Ohio State was projected to fall from No. 2 to No. 11 after its loss to USC. The Trojans were projected to re-enter the rankings at No. 17.
Other projected top-25 newcomers included Iowa, South Carolina, New Mexico and Oregon. These positions are projections rather than the official AP poll, so readers should check the latest published rankings for confirmed placements. <Cite refs={[“turn840319news4”]}/>
College Football Playoff Race: Why November Matters
The College Football Playoff race is entering a critical stage. The first CFP rankings of the 2026 season are scheduled to be revealed on Tuesday, November 3.
The selection committee will evaluate more than a team’s win-loss record. Important factors include the strength of schedule, quality victories, performance against strong opponents and overall consistency.
Miami, Georgia, Notre Dame, Utah and UCLA have built strong early-season cases. However, teams such as USC, Ohio State, Alabama, Texas and Oregon still have opportunities to improve their positions with important victories.
A single defeat does not automatically end a team’s playoff hopes, but multiple losses can make qualification more difficult. Conference championship opportunities and head-to-head results may also become important as the season progresses. <Cite refs={[“turn840319search0″,”turn840319news4”]}/>
College Football Games to Watch in Week 10
The November 7 schedule features several high-profile matchups that could reshape conference races and playoff projections.
Miami vs. Notre Dame
The Hurricanes visit Notre Dame in one of the weekend’s biggest games. Both programs have national ambitions, and the result could influence the committee’s evaluation of their playoff credentials.
Georgia vs. Ole Miss
Georgia faces Ole Miss in a major SEC matchup. The Bulldogs will look to maintain their strong position, while the Rebels have an opportunity to earn a valuable win.
Alabama vs. LSU
Alabama travels to LSU for another important SEC contest. Both teams need strong performances as the conference race develops.
Oregon vs. Ohio State
Oregon visits Ohio State in a game that could have major Big Ten and playoff implications. Ohio State will be looking for a response after its loss to USC.
BYU vs. Utah
This rivalry matchup carries significant importance in the Big 12 race. Both teams will be looking to strengthen their conference title chances.
Players and Performances Making Headlines
Individual performances are another major part of college football news. Malachi Toney’s two-touchdown performance helped Miami survive North Carolina, while Iowa State running back Aidan Flora rushed for 221 yards and two touchdowns against Oklahoma State.
Iowa State quarterback Jaylen Raynor also delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 309 yards and three touchdowns. On the defensive side, Utah produced two defensive touchdowns during its win over Cincinnati.
These performances demonstrate how individual players can influence major games and help their teams remain competitive during the most important part of the season. <Cite refs={[“turn840319search0″,”turn840319news18”]}/>
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the latest college football news headlines?
Major Week 9 stories include USC’s upset victory over Ohio State, Miami remaining unbeaten, Georgia defeating Florida and Iowa State beating Oklahoma State in a dramatic finish.
2. Who is No. 1 in college football?
Miami is No. 1 in the latest Week 9 AP ranking context and is projected to remain at the top in CBS Sports’ next-poll projection.
3. When are the first 2026 College Football Playoff rankings released?
The first CFP rankings of the 2026 season are scheduled to be released on Tuesday, November 3.
4. Did USC defeat Ohio State?
Yes. USC defeated Ohio State 30–18 on October 31, earning a major victory and improving its position in the Big Ten race.
5. Which teams are playing on November 7?
Major matchups include Miami vs. Notre Dame, Georgia vs. Ole Miss, Alabama vs. LSU, Oregon vs. Ohio State and BYU vs. Utah.
6. Why are college football rankings important?
Rankings help measure team performance and national standing. The CFP selection committee also evaluates teams when deciding which programs qualify for the College Football Playoff.
7. Where can fans follow college football scores?
Fans can check NCAA.com, official team websites and established sports outlets for live scores, schedules, box scores and updated rankings.
Conclusion
College football news from Week 9 has changed the national picture heading into November. USC’s victory over Ohio State, Miami’s narrow win and Iowa State’s dramatic finish were among the weekend’s biggest stories. The first CFP rankings on November 3 will provide another important measure of the playoff race. college football news With major matchups scheduled for November 7, the coming weeks could determine which teams remain in contention for conference championships and a place in the national playoff.
