College football fans, brace yourselves for a wild ride! Week 7 just delivered some jaw-dropping upsets and thrilling matchups that could shake up the AP Top 25 rankings in a big way. From nail-biting conference battles to surprising slumps, this weekend had it all. But here's where it gets controversial: while some teams are soaring to new heights, others are crashing harder than anyone expected. And this is the part most people miss—the subtle shifts in momentum that could redefine the playoff picture.
The weekend kicked off with a bang as No. 24 South Florida continued its explosive streak, crushing North Texas 63-36. This marks their third consecutive game scoring 50 or more points, solidifying their rise in the rankings. But what’s truly impressive? They handed North Texas its first loss of the season, proving they’re a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, No. 8 Alabama narrowly escaped with a 27-24 victory over No. 14 Missouri, thanks to a game-saving interception by Dijon Lee Jr. with just 37 seconds left. Alabama’s third straight SEC win cements their status as a true contender, but was this close call a sign of vulnerability?
On the flip side, Florida State’s once-promising season is in free fall. After a 3-0 start and a top-10 ranking, the Seminoles have now lost three straight games, the latest being a 34-31 defeat to unranked Pitt. With losses to Virginia, Miami, and now Pitt, their future in the rankings looks grim. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Is Florida State’s slump a temporary stumble, or a deeper issue that could keep them out of contention for good?
No. 4 Mississippi squeaked by with a 24-21 win over Washington State, but their performance raised eyebrows. A slow start with turnovers and missed opportunities left fans wondering if they truly deserve their top-five spot. Meanwhile, Missouri, despite their loss to Alabama, showed they’re no pushover. A close game against a top-10 team could keep them afloat in the rankings, but will voters reward their effort?
And let’s not forget Cincinnati, who improved to 5-1 with a 20-11 win over UCF. They’re knocking on the door of the Top 25, and with Florida State’s continued struggles, could this be their week to break in? But here’s the controversial take: Are the Bearcats truly ready for the national stage, or are they benefiting from others’ missteps?
As the dust settles on Week 7, one thing is clear: the AP Top 25 is in for a shakeup. Who will rise? Who will fall? And which teams are flying under the radar, ready to make their move? What’s your take? Do Alabama’s close calls make them a weaker contender, or is their ability to grind out wins a sign of true championship mettle? Let us know in the comments!
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