The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Building the Beast: Loaded Week 5 slate—hello, Oregon-Penn State and Alabama-Georgia—will move draft boards
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Sep 24, 2025 This week, college football fans are in for a treat with a lineup starring future NFL talent. Ruben Bain's dominance on the edge and Fernando Mendoza's stellar passing stats steal the spotlight. The hosts break down thrilling matchups like Oregon-Penn State, where quarterback duels will be pivotal, and Alabama-Georgia, which may redefine team legacies. Expect high-scoring shootouts in Notre Dame vs. Arkansas and a showcase of talent in Ohio State vs. Washington, making this weekend crucial for NFL Draft evaluations.
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Ruben Bain's Draft Stock Surge
- Ruben Bain Jr. has transformed his draft profile with violent, consistent pass-rush play this season.
- His burst, power, and two-way winning ability make him one of the most impressive defensive prospects so far.
Mendoza's Statement Needs Context
- Fernando Mendoza posted a near-perfect game but context matters given Illinois' weaknesses.
- His pre-snap processing and accuracy stand out, but the tape vs better defenses will be the real test.
Early QB Rankings Are Premature
- Early-season QB polls and rankings are unreliable because scouts haven't seen full bodies of work.
- Small sample sizes and regional scouting blind spots make September opinions provisional.