How Jerry Neuheisel gave us reason to believe in college football again

In a surprising turn of events, several teams expected to excel in the College Football Playoff faced unexpected defeats over the weekend. Notably, Penn State lost to UCLA and Texas fell to Florida, shaking up the playoff landscape. This matters because it opens the door for new contenders to emerge, altering the dynamics of the season and impacting fans' expectations.

Nico Iamaleava has expressed his excitement about the positive shift in UCLA's football season, crediting Jerry Neuheisel for bringing back the fun to the game. This change in play-calling has not only revitalized the team's spirit but also boosted their performance on the field, making it a significant moment for both players and fans.

Last weekend's college football action delivered a shocking upset in the Big Ten as UCLA defeated Penn State, who has been struggling this season. This loss raises questions about the Nittany Lions' performance under coach James Franklin, highlighting the challenges they face moving forward. Such upsets are crucial as they can shift team dynamics and impact rankings significantly, making every game a must-watch.

James Franklin, the head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, is facing a tough moment in his career after consecutive losses have dropped the team from national rankings. With the possibility of being booed by the home crowd looming, Franklin's leadership is under scrutiny. This situation is significant as it highlights the pressures coaches face in college football and the impact of fan expectations on team morale.

UCLA football may not be having the best season, but there's a silver lining with quarterback Nico Iamaleava's impressive performance. After leading the team to its first win against Penn State, Iamaleava showcased his talent, earning praise from Urban Meyer for what he called the 'best throw of 2025.' This recognition not only highlights Iamaleava's potential but also brings hope to UCLA fans as they look for brighter days ahead.

As the Big Ten women's basketball season kicks off, UCLA emerges as a leading contender following the absence of star player JuJu Watkins, who is out for the season due to an ACL injury. Last year, Watkins led the Trojans to a conference title and an Elite Eight finish, making her loss significant. This shift in dynamics positions UCLA as the primary powerhouse in the conference, with Maryland closely trailing. The season ahead will be crucial for both teams as they navigate the challenges of competing without key players.

Penn State's football team faced a disappointing defeat against UCLA, losing 42-37 in what many are calling one of the most humiliating losses under head coach James Franklin. This unexpected setback raises serious concerns about the team's prospects for the College Football Playoff, leaving fans and analysts questioning the future of the Franklin era at Penn State. The loss not only impacts the team's morale but also their chances of competing at a higher level this season.

Penn State's recent loss to UCLA has left fans and players reeling, as the No. 7 Nittany Lions fell 42-37 to a team that had yet to win a game this season. This defeat is seen as a significant low point for head coach James Franklin, raising questions about the team's direction. Quarterback Drew Allar expressed a motivated outlook despite the setback, emphasizing the need to learn and improve. This loss not only impacts the team's morale but also their standing in the college football landscape, making it a crucial moment for Penn State's future.

Two key members of the Green Bay Packers personnel department were present at the recent Penn State vs. UCLA game in Pasadena. This attendance highlights the Packers' commitment to scouting and evaluating talent from major college football programs, which could influence their future roster decisions.

The NCAA has announced a new transfer portal window from January 2 to 16, allowing players to switch schools more freely, especially after coaching changes. This is significant as it provides athletes with more opportunities to find the right fit for their careers, particularly in light of recent coaching firings at schools like Oklahoma State, UCLA, and Virginia Tech. It reflects a growing trend in college sports to prioritize player mobility and welfare.

Jerry Neuheisel's debut as UCLA's offensive playcaller was nothing short of remarkable, leading the Bruins to a surprising victory over No. 7 Penn State. This impressive performance not only showcased his coaching skills but also earned him a place on Gus Johnson's 'GOT IT' team, highlighting his potential in the world of college football. Such upsets are crucial as they shake up rankings and bring excitement to the season.

UCLA football is buzzing with excitement after a stunning upset victory over then-No. 7 Penn State, marking their first win of the season. This unexpected triumph has sparked enthusiasm among players and fans alike, raising hopes for a successful remainder of the season. It's a pivotal moment for the Bruins as they aim to build on this momentum and prove that they can sustain their success.

During Game 3 of the NLDS, broadcaster Brian Anderson's tribute to Clayton Kershaw sparked significant backlash among fans. Many felt that the tribute overshadowed the game and was inappropriate given the competitive nature of the playoffs. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between sports commentary and fan expectations, raising questions about how broadcasters should balance personal tributes with the excitement of live sports.

The Oklahoma State Cowboys are in a tough spot after parting ways with Mike Gundy during a challenging 2025 season. As they explore potential replacements, one name that has surfaced is Zac Robinson, a former player and current offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Robinson's playful response to the rumors shows his awareness of the situation, but it also highlights the uncertainty surrounding the Cowboys' future. This matters because it reflects the ongoing challenges in college football coaching dynamics and the impact of alumni on program decisions.

As the Packers prepare to face the Bengals in Week 6, all eyes will be on three standout players: Micah Parsons, Trey Hendrickson, and Ja'Marr Chase. These matchups could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the game, making it a must-watch for football fans. Understanding how these elite athletes perform against each other will not only shape the game but also impact the teams' standings as the season progresses.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, the talented wide receiver for the Detroit Lions, made a significant return to full practice on Thursday. This is great news for Lions fans as St. Brown has been a key player for the team, and his presence on the field can greatly enhance their chances in upcoming games. His recovery and return signal a positive turn for the team's offensive strategy, making them more competitive as the season progresses.

Josh McDaniels, the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, recently shared his thoughts on his future as a head coach in the NFL. While there has been speculation about his potential moves, it seems he is committed to his current role for the time being. This matters because McDaniels has a significant impact on the team's performance, and his stability could influence the Patriots' strategy moving forward.

The Oregon Ducks are facing potential challenges ahead of their game against the Indiana Hoosiers this Saturday, as their injury report indicates they may be missing a key wide receiver. This situation is crucial as it could impact the team's performance and strategy during the game, making fans anxious about how it will unfold.