No. 13 Notre Dame turns to sophomore Joe Otting to take over at center for showdown with No. 20 USC

The recent revelation that the Holy War, a rivalry game in the Big 12, is the most expensive college football game highlights its significance in the sport. This game surpasses even those in the SEC and Big Ten, showcasing the growing competitiveness and fan engagement in the Big 12. It matters because it reflects changing dynamics in college football, where traditional powerhouses are being challenged, and rivalries are becoming more financially impactful.

Ohio State football fans have reason to be optimistic as defensive tackle Eddrick Houston and nickel back Lorenzo Styles Jr. are set to return for the upcoming game against Wisconsin on October 18. Their return is significant as both players have been key contributors to the team's defense, and their presence could enhance Ohio State's chances of securing a victory in this crucial matchup.

The future of the USC-Notre Dame rivalry is a topic of great interest among college football fans. A Notre Dame writer recently shared insights on what this storied matchup might look like moving forward. This rivalry has a rich history and has been a significant part of college football culture, making any discussion about its future particularly relevant for fans and players alike.

Caleb Williams has officially chosen to play for USC over Oklahoma, a decision that highlights his belief in the potential of his collegiate career at USC. This choice is significant not only for Williams but also for the USC football program, as it underscores their growing reputation and competitiveness in college football. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how this decision will shape his future and the team's success.

J.J. Watt has made it clear that he has no interest in pursuing a coaching career in college football. This statement comes as a surprise to many fans who have followed his impressive career in the NFL. Watt's decision is significant as it highlights the challenges and pressures of coaching at the collegiate level, which can be quite different from playing professionally. His focus seems to be on enjoying his post-playing career rather than stepping into a coaching role, which could influence how fans and aspiring coaches view the transition from player to coach.

A man in Utah has been arrested for making threats on social media related to the upcoming BYU vs. Utah college football game. This incident raises concerns about safety at sporting events and the impact of social media on public behavior. As tensions can run high during rival games, it's crucial for authorities to address such threats to ensure a safe environment for fans.

The Miami Hurricanes are making waves this season with a perfect 5-0 record and a No. 2 ranking in the nation. As favorites to win the Atlantic Coast Conference and a strong contender for the national championship, the team is receiving a lot of praise. However, players are focused on staying grounded and not getting caught up in the hype, referring to it as 'rat poison,' a term popularized by former Alabama coach Nick Saban. This mindset is crucial as they prepare for their upcoming game, aiming to maintain their momentum and prove their worth on the field.

Last week, the college football landscape saw a surprising turn of events as five teams from the Top 25 rankings suffered losses to unranked opponents. This trend is particularly alarming as it contradicts the overall season's narrative of dominance among ranked teams. Such unexpected outcomes not only shake up the rankings but also raise questions about the consistency and performance of these top teams as they head into the crucial final weeks of the season.

The recent college football game between Indiana and Oregon has drawn disappointing TV ratings, shedding light on the current state of college football's appeal in the media landscape. This decline in viewership is significant as it reflects broader trends in sports broadcasting and audience engagement, raising questions about the future of college football's popularity and its financial implications for programs and networks alike.

Reports suggest that Florida head coach Billy Napier may be on the chopping block, with a potential firing as soon as this weekend. This news comes after a meeting between athletic director Scott Stricklin and Napier, raising concerns about the team's performance. If true, this could mark a significant shift for the Florida Gators as they navigate a challenging college football season.

Bill Belichick's recent struggles with the North Carolina Tar Heels are starting to affect his decisions on television appearances. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by a renowned coach in adapting to a new environment, raising questions about his future in college football and the impact on the team's performance.

Macy Zeilman, a junior lacrosse standout from Shenendehowa, has officially committed to play for Notre Dame. This is a significant achievement for her, especially after scoring an impressive 54 goals during her sophomore year. Her commitment not only highlights her talent but also brings attention to the growing prominence of high school athletes making their mark in collegiate sports.

In this week's Fantasy Film Room, Matt Harmon and Nate Tice explore the Carolina Panthers' running back situation and discuss potential wide receiver trades that could enhance fantasy teams. They highlight four offenses that are currently undervalued in fantasy leagues, providing insights that could help players make informed decisions. Additionally, Joel Smyth introduces a new segment called 'Buzz is Building,' where he identifies five players to watch closely this week. This analysis is crucial for fantasy enthusiasts looking to gain an edge as the season progresses.

As Week 7 of the NFL and Fantasy Football season kicks off, managers are facing a challenging landscape filled with depth chart changes and injuries. Last week, the New York Giants made headlines with a strong performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, while other games, like the thrilling finish between Chicago and Washington, kept fans on the edge of their seats. This week’s Start 'Em Sit 'Em guide is crucial for fantasy managers looking to navigate these changes and make informed decisions to boost their teams.

Nas recently expressed his disinterest in performing at the Super Bowl halftime show, stating he prefers to leave it to the professionals. This insight into his perspective highlights the pressures and expectations artists face when considering such high-profile performances. While some may view the Super Bowl as a pinnacle opportunity, Nas's comments remind us that not every artist feels the same way about mainstream events.

Mason Appleton of the Detroit Red Wings has been making headlines after scoring two goals in a recent game against the Florida Panthers. Following a tough start to the season, the Red Wings have bounced back with two consecutive wins, showcasing their resilience and teamwork. Appleton's performance not only highlights his skills but also serves as a morale booster for the team as they aim to build momentum moving forward. This is a significant moment for the Red Wings as they look to establish themselves in the league.

The Philadelphia Eagles, current Super Bowl champions, are facing criticism after a disappointing loss to the New York Giants, bringing their season record to 4-2. Players like Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson have openly discussed the team's struggles, highlighting issues within the offense. This matters because the Eagles need to address these problems quickly to maintain their championship status and fan support.

The Toronto Blue Jays are riding high on their October momentum, with veteran outfielder George Springer leading the charge ahead of Game 4 of the ALCS. After a commanding 13-4 victory in Game 3, Springer delivered a passionate message that has fans excited about their playoff prospects. His confidence and performance could be pivotal as the team aims to advance further in the postseason, making this matchup against Max Scherzer even more thrilling.