The 2025 college football season is packed with must-watch games, including some massive revenge rematches that you can’t afford to miss. These rematches are much more than competitions for rankings and playoff implications.
They are about payback, redemption, and proving last season’s results weren’t flukes. Here are the biggest revenge rematches you need to mark on your calendar.
Most Thrilling College Football Revenge Rematches You Need To Watch in 2025
Oregon vs Penn State (Sept. 27)
Last year’s Big Ten Championship was a thriller, with Oregon edging out Penn State 45-37. Both teams made the playoffs but failed to win it all, setting up a highly anticipated rematch in Happy Valley.
Penn State brings back quarterback Drew Allar and the dynamic running back duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. They also made a major coaching move, hiring Jim Knowles from Ohio State as their new defensive coordinator.
Oregon, on the other hand, is in transition. Dante Moore steps in as quarterback and Tulane transfer Makhi Hughes will lead the backfield.
Clemson vs SMU (Oct. 18)
Last season’s ACC Championship was unforgettable. SMU erased a 24-7 halftime deficit, tying the game at 31 with just 16 seconds left. But a dramatic kickoff return and a deep pass set up Clemson for a stunning 56-yard game-winning field goal.
Now, SMU is coming for revenge. You can expect a head-to-head battle in the ACC title race.
Arizona State vs Iowa State (Nov. 1)
Arizona State dominated last year’s Big 12 Championship, crushing Iowa State 45-19. The Cyclones haven’t forgotten.
Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht returns, and the team is primed for a strong season. Arizona State loses running back Cam Skattebo but brings back QB Sam Leavitt. Head coach Kenny Dillingham wants to prove last season wasn’t a one-year wonder. Expect a fired-up Iowa State team seeking payback on their home turf.
North Carolina vs NC State (Nov. 29)
Rivalry games always come with bad blood, but last year took it to another level. After NC State’s 35-30 victory over North Carolina, Wolfpack players planted their flag at midfield in Chapel Hill. That celebration didn’t sit well with Tar Heels players.
Here’s the scene after NC State’s 35-30 win over UNC.
The Wolfpack attempted to plant the flag in the middle of the field and a fight breaks out. pic.twitter.com/PbcYo7heUt
— Cory Smith (@RCorySmith) December 1, 2024
When these two teams meet again, get ready for some fireworks. UNC will be out for revenge, and NC State will want to prove their win wasn’t a one-off. This one is personal.
Ohio State vs Michigan (Nov. 30)
Ohio State may have won a national championship last season, but there’s still one glaring issue: they’ve lost four straight to Michigan.
KEEP READING: When Will Ohio State Make a Decision On Their QB Depth Chart with Julian Sayin, Tavien St. Clair, & Lincoln Kienholz?
This year, the Buckeyes travel to Ann Arbor, where they haven’t won since 2019. For Ohio State, this match won’t just be about winning but sending a message. Michigan, however, won’t go down without a fight. With so much on the line, we can guarantee you that this match will be a delight to watch.
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