Paul Finebaum still isn’t buying what Curt Cignetti’s selling: ‘He’s brash, he’s over-the-top’

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.

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.

As Indiana football continues to shine with a recent victory over the Oregon Ducks, head coach Curt Cignetti finds himself at the center of coaching rumors, particularly regarding the open position at Penn State following the firing of James Franklin. This speculation is significant as it highlights the shifting landscape of college football coaching and the potential impact on both Indiana's program and Cignetti's career.

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.

This past weekend, the college football landscape shifted dramatically with Penn State's decision to part ways with head coach James Franklin after a disappointing season. As speculation swirls about potential replacements, Nebraska's head coach Matt Rhule has emerged as a prominent candidate due to his connections to the program. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing changes in college football coaching dynamics and the impact of such decisions on team performance and recruitment.

Week 8 of the college football season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several SEC-ranked teams set to compete and a highly anticipated matchup between Notre Dame and USC. These games are crucial as they can significantly impact rankings and playoff aspirations, making this weekend a must-watch for fans.

James Franklin's recent firing from Penn State after a 3-3 start to the 2025 season has led to a staggering $49 million buyout, marking one of the largest in college football history. This situation not only highlights the high stakes involved in college coaching but also raises questions about the future direction of the Penn State program and the financial implications of such a hefty payout.

The article explores the challenges faced by James Franklin at Penn State, questioning whether his struggles are solely his responsibility or a reflection of the evolving landscape of college football. It delves into the implications of his potential $50 million buyout, highlighting the complexities of coaching in a competitive environment. This discussion is significant as it sheds light on the pressures coaches face and the financial stakes involved in college athletics.

Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti is being considered for the head coaching position at Penn State, raising questions about the financial implications of his potential departure. If Cignetti were to leave, there are specific buyout terms in his contract that would dictate how much a new school would need to pay Indiana. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing dynamics in college football coaching, where contracts and buyouts can greatly impact team strategies and recruitment.

Joel Klatt recently highlighted the impressive performance of Indiana's Curt Cignetti, suggesting that Penn State should consider him for their coaching position. Cignetti's record of 17-2 and leading Indiana to last season's College Football Playoff, along with their current No. 3 ranking after a significant win against Oregon, showcases his coaching prowess. This matters because it could influence Penn State's future direction and competitiveness in college football.

Two freshmen players on the Alabama football team are stepping up just in time for the rivalry game against Tennessee. Their increased playing time reflects the coaching staff's confidence in their abilities, which could be crucial for the team's performance in this highly anticipated matchup. This development not only highlights the depth of talent within the team but also adds excitement for fans as they look forward to seeing how these young players will contribute.

The Buffalo Bills faced a disappointing defeat against the Atlanta Falcons, losing 24-14 on Monday Night Football. This marks their second consecutive loss, leaving fans frustrated and concerned about the team's performance. The Falcons, led by Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London, established a strong lead early in the game, which the Bills struggled to overcome. This loss not only impacts the Bills' standings but also raises questions about their ability to bounce back in the upcoming games.

The Seattle Mariners are making headlines this postseason, with Jorge Polanco stepping up as a key player. His impressive three-run homer in Game 2 of the ALCS helped secure a significant 10-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, putting the Mariners ahead 2-0 in the series. This performance not only highlights Polanco's talent but also adds to the excitement surrounding the Mariners' playoff journey, making them a team to watch as they aim for the championship.

Josh Allen, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, recently expressed his deep admiration for his wife, Hailee Steinfeld, calling her an 'unbelievable, undeniable rockstar.' This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the importance of personal relationships in the lives of public figures, reminding fans that behind the spotlight, there are meaningful connections that bring joy and fulfillment.

The Kansas City Chiefs are gaining momentum in the Super Bowl 2026 odds after the Buffalo Bills suffered another loss. This shift in odds highlights the Chiefs' strong performance and positions them as serious contenders for the championship. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how this season unfolds, especially with the Chiefs' recent resurgence, making them a team to watch as the Super Bowl approaches.

In a closely contested game, Jayden Daniels and Caleb Williams showcased their skills by trading touchdown throws, leading to a nail-biting finish with the Commanders narrowly edging out the Bears 24-22. This match highlights the competitive nature of the league and the potential of both quarterbacks, making it a significant moment for fans and analysts alike.

In a recent game against the Bills, Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. appeared to be favoring his right arm, raising concerns about a potential injury. This situation is significant as it could impact the team's performance moving forward, especially if Penix is unable to play at full capacity.