Photo via Yahoo Sports

‘Everyone Has Hope Now,’ ‘Chaos Era’ — CFB World Divided Over Role of Transfer Portal, NIL in Current Success Stories

The Athletic editor-in-chief Stewart Mandel sparked debate by suggesting that the combination of new leadership and portal recruits has leveled the playing field, citing Oklahoma State, UCLA, and Kentucky as programs that overcame poor 2025 records. UCLA, which hired Bob Chesney in December 2025 after he guided James Madison to a playoff berth, secured its first victory at Autzen Stadium since 2004 on Saturday, a result that boosted its College Football Playoff odds to 46.8%.

The Bruins' win was fueled by Wayne Knight, the top-ranked FBS running back, who rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown before adding a receiving score after starter Nico Iamaleava left the game with a leg injury. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State coach Eric Morris led his squad to a 39-31 upset over No.

6 Oregon, with quarterback Drew Mestemaker throwing for 304 yards and two scores, while Kentucky coach Will Stein became the first in program history to win his first two SEC road games with a 35-34 overtime triumph at South Carolina.

Up nextCollege Football· 40m ago

San Diego State dominated by Oregon State, allow most points since 2008