Top NCAA Football Games in Review, Week 10

1 day ago

13 min read

November 8, 2026

Major Upsets, Rivalry Wins, and Playoff Implications

This weekend of college football delivered another round of major upsets, important conference victories, and dramatic finishes, with several games having a significant impact on the College Football Playoff race.

Coming into Saturday, several of the country's top teams were looking to protect their positions near the top of the rankings. Some succeeded, but others suffered losses that could significantly change their postseason outlook.

No. 1 Miami fell to No. 11 Notre Dame, No. 12 Ohio State lost at home to No. 23 Oregon, and No. 9 BYU was unable to get past No. 3 Utah. Meanwhile, No. 2 Georgia delivered a dominant performance against No. 10 Ole Miss, No. 5 Alabama picked up an important road victory over LSU, and No. 7 Texas defeated No. 18 Missouri.

Friday also featured several entertaining matchups, including SMU's impressive 51-28 victory over Virginia Tech and Arizona's dramatic 29-28 win over TCU. Elsewhere, Illinois defeated Nebraska, East Carolina edged South Florida, and several other teams picked up important conference victories.

With the regular season moving deeper into November, the playoff picture is becoming increasingly competitive. Here is a look at some of the biggest games from the weekend.

Saturday's Biggest Games

No. 11 Notre Dame 31, No. 1 Miami 24

Venue: Notre Dame Stadium – Notre Dame, IN

This was arguably the biggest game of the weekend. No. 1 Miami traveled to South Bend looking to protect its undefeated record, but No. 11 Notre Dame had other plans. The Fighting Irish delivered an impressive performance in front of their home crowd, defeating the Hurricanes 31-24 and handing Miami its first loss of the season.

Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr was outstanding, completing 29 of 40 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Micah Gilbert was one of his favorite targets, finishing with nine receptions for 98 yards and two touchdowns.

The Irish built an important advantage early and carried a 24-10 lead into the third quarter. Miami responded with three consecutive scoring drives of its own, making things interesting and putting pressure on Notre Dame's defense.

However, the Irish answered with a crucial fourth-quarter possession. Nolan James Jr. helped lead the offense down the field, producing the drive that ultimately proved to be the difference.

Notre Dame's defense also came through when it mattered most. Safety Luke Talich recorded a fourth-quarter interception and broke up another pass to prevent a potential Miami touchdown.

Final Result: Notre Dame improves to 8-1 overall, while Miami also falls to 8-1.

This is a massive victory for the Fighting Irish, who now have one of the most impressive wins of the season. Miami remains a major playoff contender, but losing its undefeated record this late in the season could make the final weeks much more important.

No. 2 Georgia 42, No. 10 Ole Miss 7

Venue: Vaught-Hemingway Stadium – Oxford, MS

Georgia delivered one of the most dominant performances of the weekend, defeating No. 10 Ole Miss 42-7 on the road. The No. 2 Bulldogs controlled the game from the beginning, building a 28-0 halftime lead before finishing with an impressive 35-point victory.

Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton had an outstanding afternoon, throwing for 186 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Talyn Taylor was particularly impressive, finishing with four receptions for 140 yards and three touchdowns.

Running back Nate Frazier also played an important role, rushing for 107 yards as Georgia consistently moved the football against the Ole Miss defense.

The Bulldogs' defense was just as impressive. Ole Miss entered the game averaging more than 37 points per contest, but Georgia limited the Rebels to just seven points and 252 total yards. The Bulldogs also recorded five sacks and forced several important turnovers.

Ole Miss struggled to establish any offensive rhythm throughout the first half. Georgia continued to add to its advantage after halftime, eventually taking a 35-0 lead into the fourth quarter.

The Rebels finally found the end zone late in the game, but Georgia immediately answered with another touchdown to finish the scoring.

Final Result: Georgia improves to 8-1 overall and 6-1 in SEC play, while Ole Miss falls to 6-3.

This was exactly the type of performance Georgia needed against a ranked SEC opponent. The Bulldogs showed that they have the offensive firepower and defensive consistency to compete with anyone in the country.

No. 3 Utah 28, No. 9 BYU 20

Venue: Rice-Eccles Stadium – Salt Lake City, UT

The latest edition of the rivalry between Utah and BYU delivered another exciting matchup, with the No. 3 Utes eventually coming away with a 28-20 victory over the No. 9 Cougars.

Both teams entered the weekend ranked among the top 10, making this one of the most important games of the day. Utah was looking to protect its undefeated record, while BYU had an opportunity to pick up a major road victory and strengthen its playoff résumé.

Utah quarterback Devon Dampier accounted for four touchdowns, finishing with 177 passing yards and 89 rushing yards. He threw two touchdown passes and added two rushing touchdowns of his own. Wide receiver Braden Pegan also contributed five catches for 86 yards and two touchdowns.

BYU actually made things interesting in the first half. After falling behind 14-3 in the opening quarter, the Cougars responded with 17 unanswered points to take a 20-14 halftime lead.

However, Utah completely changed the momentum after the break. The Utes shut out BYU in the second half, scoring touchdowns in both the third and fourth quarters to take control of the game.

Utah's defense was the biggest difference. The Utes intercepted BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier four times, including a critical interception in the red zone that prevented the Cougars from getting back into the game.

Bachmeier finished with 272 passing yards and one touchdown, but the four interceptions proved extremely costly.

Final Result: Utah improves to 9-0 overall and 6-0 in Big 12 play, while BYU falls to 7-2 overall and 4-2 in conference play.

This was a huge victory for Utah, especially considering the importance of the rivalry and the playoff implications surrounding the matchup. The Utes continue to look like one of the strongest teams in the country.

No. 23 Oregon 41, No. 12 Ohio State 28

Venue: Ohio Stadium – Columbus, OH

Oregon picked up one of the biggest road victories of the weekend, defeating No. 12 Ohio State 41-28 in Columbus. The Ducks overcame an early deficit and completely changed the direction of the game with an outstanding offensive performance.

Ohio State started quickly, scoring 14 points in the first quarter to establish an early advantage. However, Oregon responded with 17 unanswered points in the second quarter and continued to build momentum after halftime.

Quarterback Dylan Raiola finished with 257 passing yards, while running back Dierre Hill Jr. contributed 75 rushing yards. The Ducks also received important contributions from their receiving group as they consistently found ways to move the football.

Ohio State quarterback Luke Fahey actually finished with more passing yards, throwing for 360 yards. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was another bright spot for the Buckeyes, recording 133 receiving yards.

Despite those individual performances, Ohio State struggled to keep pace with Oregon after its impressive opening quarter.

The Ducks scored another 14 points in the third quarter, taking a 31-14 advantage into the final period. Ohio State attempted to make a comeback with two fourth-quarter touchdowns, but Oregon continued to answer and eventually secured the 13-point victory.

One of the biggest differences was Oregon's ability to establish a more balanced offensive attack. The Ducks finished with 395 total yards, while Ohio State recorded 413, but Oregon was much more effective on the ground and converted important opportunities.

Final Result: Oregon improves to 6-3 overall and 4-2 in Big Ten play, while Ohio State also falls to 6-3 and 4-2 in the conference.

This is a major win for Oregon, especially considering the difficulty of winning at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly after another disappointing result against a major conference opponent.

No. 7 Texas 34, No. 18 Missouri 20

Venue: Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium – Columbia, MO

Texas picked up an important SEC road victory with a 34-20 win over No. 18 Missouri. The No. 7 Longhorns had to work through a competitive matchup before eventually taking control in the fourth quarter.

Missouri started the game well, taking a 10-7 lead after the opening quarter. Texas responded with a field goal in the second quarter, but the Tigers continued to make things difficult after halftime.

Missouri actually held a 20-13 advantage late in the third quarter, putting Texas in a difficult position heading into the final period.

However, the Longhorns responded with a strong finish. Texas scored 21 unanswered points to take control of the game, eventually securing a 14-point road victory.

Quarterback Arch Manning helped guide the Longhorns' offense, while running back Raleek Brown delivered one of the most important plays of the afternoon. With just over five minutes remaining, Brown caught a 23-yard touchdown pass from Manning to give Texas the lead for good.

Missouri had some defensive success, recording three sacks and forcing three fumbles, but the Tigers struggled to slow down Texas when it mattered most. The Longhorns completed 28 of 38 passes and consistently found ways to move the football.

Final Result: Texas improves to 7-2 overall and 4-2 in SEC play, while Missouri falls to 6-3 and 3-3 in the conference.

This is an important victory for Texas as it continues to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season. Missouri will be disappointed after holding a lead late in the third quarter but failing to finish the game.

No. 5 Alabama 31, LSU 13

Venue: Tiger Stadium – Baton Rouge, LA

Alabama picked up one of its most important SEC victories of the season, defeating LSU 31-13 in Baton Rouge. The No. 5 Crimson Tide entered the weekend looking to strengthen their playoff position, and they delivered an impressive second-half performance to pull away from the Tigers.

LSU actually finished with more total offensive yards, outgaining Alabama 457-285. Quarterback Sam Leavitt threw for 380 yards, while wide receiver Jackson Harris had an outstanding afternoon with 166 receiving yards.

However, the Tigers struggled to turn those yards into points. LSU repeatedly moved the football but had difficulty finishing drives, converting just two of four red-zone opportunities.

Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell finished with 206 passing yards and three touchdown passes without an interception. The Crimson Tide also received an important contribution from their defense, which recorded four sacks and intercepted one pass.

The biggest difference came in the fourth quarter. Alabama entered the final period holding a 17-13 advantage but scored another 14 points to put the game away. The Crimson Tide's defense also managed to keep LSU off the scoreboard during the final quarter.

Final Result: Alabama improves to 7-2 overall and 5-2 in SEC play, while LSU falls to 6-3 and 3-3 in the conference.

This is a significant victory for Alabama, especially considering the difficulty of winning at Tiger Stadium. LSU will be frustrated after producing more than 450 yards of offense but managing only 13 points. Alabama, meanwhile, continues to build an impressive playoff résumé.

Friday Night's Biggest Games

SMU 51, Virginia Tech 28

Venue: Gerald J. Ford Stadium – Dallas, TX

SMU delivered one of the most impressive offensive performances of Friday night, defeating Virginia Tech 51-28. The Mustangs entered the matchup looking to pick up an important ACC victory, and they controlled the game for most of the evening.

Quarterback Kevin Jennings was outstanding, throwing for 350 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Yamir Knight was particularly impressive, finishing with six receptions for 103 yards and three touchdowns.

SMU also established a strong running game, finishing with 219 rushing yards. The combination of effective passing and rushing allowed the Mustangs to consistently move the football and keep Virginia Tech's defense under pressure.

Virginia Tech quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer threw for 291 yards and a touchdown, while running back Jeffrey Overton contributed 123 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

The Hokies actually had some offensive success, finishing with 417 total yards. However, their defense struggled to slow down SMU, which finished with an impressive 569 total yards.

SMU built a 23-14 halftime lead and continued to extend its advantage in the second half. The Mustangs scored another 14 points in both the third and fourth quarters, making it difficult for Virginia Tech to mount a comeback.

Final Result: SMU improves to 7-2 overall, while Virginia Tech falls to 6-3.

This is an important conference victory for the Mustangs, who continue to establish themselves as a team capable of competing with the ACC's best programs.

No. 22 Arizona 29, TCU 28

Venue: Casino Del Sol Stadium – Tucson, AZ

Friday night's matchup between Arizona and TCU produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the weekend. No. 22 Arizona managed to escape with a 29-28 victory after a late comeback against the Horned Frogs.

TCU started slowly, falling behind 10-0 in the opening quarter. However, the Horned Frogs responded with 14 points in the second quarter and continued to play competitive football throughout the second half.

Quarterback Jaden Craig finished with 232 passing yards, while wide receiver Kari Ashley contributed 95 receiving yards. TCU also received important offensive contributions throughout the game as it attempted to protect its advantage.

Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita delivered an outstanding performance, throwing for 313 yards. Wide receiver Giovanni Richardson was particularly impressive, finishing with 171 receiving yards.

The Wildcats continued to battle throughout the game, eventually finding a way to take the lead in the closing minutes. Arizona scored 12 points in the fourth quarter, overcoming TCU's late advantage and securing the one-point victory.

Arizona finished with 441 total yards of offense compared to TCU's 281. The Wildcats were particularly effective through the air, consistently creating opportunities for their receivers to make big plays.

Final Result: Arizona improves to 7-2 overall and 4-2 in Big 12 play, while TCU falls to 4-5 and 2-4 in the conference.

This was a huge victory for Arizona, which continues to remain relevant in the Big 12 race. TCU will be disappointed after coming so close to a road victory, especially after holding a competitive position heading into the fourth quarter.

Illinois 24, Nebraska 13

Venue: Memorial Stadium – Champaign, IL

Illinois picked up an important Big Ten victory Friday night, defeating Nebraska 24-13. The Fighting Illini used a strong overall performance to take care of business at home against a Nebraska team that struggled to generate enough offense.

Nebraska was unable to establish consistent offensive momentum throughout the matchup. Illinois managed to control the game and gradually build an advantage, keeping the Cornhuskers from making a serious comeback attempt.

The 24-13 final score reflected a solid performance from Illinois on both sides of the football. The Fighting Illini did enough offensively to put points on the board while limiting Nebraska's opportunities to get back into the game.

Final Result: Illinois improves to 6-3 overall, while Nebraska falls to 5-4.

This is a useful victory for Illinois as the Big Ten season moves toward its conclusion. Nebraska, meanwhile, will need to find more consistency if it hopes to finish the season strongly.

East Carolina 20, South Florida 17

Venue: Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium – Greenville, NC

East Carolina came away with an important home victory Friday night, defeating South Florida 20-17 in a competitive American Athletic Conference matchup.

The Pirates had to work for this one, as South Florida remained competitive throughout the game and had opportunities to take control. However, East Carolina managed to make enough plays in the second half to secure the three-point victory.

Quarterback E. Williams threw for 175 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Anthony Gray contributed 101 rushing yards. Wide receiver L. Sides was another major factor, recording 14 receptions for 126 yards and two touchdowns.

South Florida also received a productive performance from its offense. Running back D. Crowther rushed for 111 yards, while quarterback L. Kromenhoek threw for 179 yards and a touchdown.

The Bulls managed to keep the game close, but East Carolina's ability to produce two passing touchdowns proved to be the difference.

Final Result: East Carolina improves to 6-3 overall, while South Florida falls to 5-4.

This was a valuable conference victory for the Pirates, who continue to build momentum heading into the final weeks of the regular season.

Other Notable Results From Saturday

There were several other important results from Saturday that deserve recognition.

No. 8 UCLA 34, Minnesota 20: UCLA picked up an important Big Ten road victory, improving to 9-0 and keeping its undefeated season alive.
No. 17 Houston 31, Cincinnati 24: Houston defeated Cincinnati in an important conference matchup, improving to 7-2 overall.
Auburn 26, Arkansas 23: Auburn escaped with a three-point victory after a competitive SEC matchup.
Tulsa 60, Tulane 10: Tulsa delivered one of the most dominant offensive performances of the weekend, scoring 60 points.
Oklahoma 23, Florida 7: Oklahoma picked up an important road victory, limiting Florida to just seven points.
Iowa 24, Northwestern 10: Iowa continued its strong season with another Big Ten victory.
Tennessee 34, Kentucky 6: Tennessee dominated its SEC rivalry matchup, improving its position in the conference race.

These results further demonstrate how quickly the college football landscape can change during November. Several teams are beginning to separate themselves from the rest of their conferences, while others are running out of opportunities to strengthen their postseason cases.

Final Thoughts

What another wild weekend of college football. No. 1 Miami suffered its first loss of the season against Notre Dame, No. 12 Ohio State fell at home to Oregon, and No. 9 BYU was defeated by No. 3 Utah. Meanwhile, Georgia dominated Ole Miss, Alabama picked up an important road victory over LSU, and Texas continued to build momentum with a win against Missouri.

The biggest takeaway from this weekend is that the College Football Playoff picture continues to shift. Miami's loss is particularly important because the Hurricanes entered the weekend undefeated and ranked No. 1 in the country. Notre Dame now has a signature victory that could significantly strengthen its playoff résumé.

Georgia also made a major statement with its 42-7 victory over Ole Miss. The Bulldogs looked dominant on both sides of the football, and their performance showed why they remain one of the strongest national championship contenders.

Utah deserves plenty of attention as well. The Utes improved to 9-0 after defeating BYU in one of the biggest rivalry games of the season. Their defense came through with four interceptions, and Devon Dampier continued to demonstrate why he is such an important part of the team's success.

There were also some impressive performances from teams looking to improve their postseason position. Oregon's victory over Ohio State gives the Ducks a major conference win, Texas picked up another important SEC victory, Alabama handled LSU on the road, and SMU delivered one of Friday night's most impressive offensive performances.

Arizona also deserves credit for its dramatic victory over TCU. Coming away with a one-point win in a competitive conference matchup could prove important as the Big 12 standings continue to develop.

The conference races are becoming increasingly important. The SEC continues to feature several teams competing for playoff positioning, the Big Ten has another major storyline following Ohio State's loss, and Utah is becoming one of the most difficult undefeated teams in the country to ignore. Notre Dame has also strengthened its position with its victory over Miami.

With November football now underway, every game carries more weight. Teams that looked like playoff favorites a few weeks ago are suddenly facing difficult questions, while others are beginning to emerge as serious contenders.

Georgia, Utah, UCLA, and several other teams remain in excellent positions, but there is still plenty of football left to play. Miami will need to respond after its first loss, Ohio State has some work to do, and the SEC race is far from settled.

If this weekend was any indication of what's coming, the final stretch of the 2026 college football season should be absolutely wild.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

BOSTON MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING