Check out the local top spots to eat, cheer and high-five your way through the games.
By Scott Miller
Well, I didn’t see that coming…Those six little words can spark up a whole host of conversations, especially in the world of college football. For example, to most fans, especially the southern variety, seeing Indiana University sitting with a 8-0 record and firmly entrenched as the number 2 ranked college football team in the country…well, I didn’t see that coming. Ok, how about another one? Coming into the college football season this year, Penn State was a pre-season favorite, ranked number 2 or number 3 in the nation, depending on which poll you were looking at. And now, rolling into week 10, they have already fired head coach James Franklin and sit with a record of 3 wins and 4 losses, with Ohio State poised to send them to 3-5. Well, I didn’t see that coming. And neither did Coach Franklin. After all, he’s been Penn State’s head coach since January 11, 2014. Florida Gator fans understand—their head coach, Billy Napier, was just fired too (although not nearly as surprising as Franklin’s unexpected exit). You just can’t make this stuff up, folks.
So, what’s the next big surprise coming our way? There are sure to be a few more before the season is over; there always are. It’s part of the lure, I suppose, part of the intrigue and excitement that only college football can bring. But don’t fret too much for these coaches. Once the sting wears off a bit, they will have plenty of free time on their hands to count their $40 million and $20 million parting gifts. That’s right; Franklin collects $40 million + to go away, and Billy Napier will receive $20 million +. Not such a bad deal after all, in my opinion.
The 2025 season has not disappointed, and we’ve got the entire month of November left to play before the bowl games begin. What teams will continue to rise to the top? Will the SEC do the expected and win out? Will Indiana shock the football world and pull off an unexpected National Championship victory? I can’t wait to find out. Here along the Emerald Coast, we are fortunate to have some of the best sports bars and restaurants in the country right here in our backyard, ready and waiting to welcome us in, serving up some great food and cold drinks, and make every game feel like a championship. Here are a few of my favorites. So, grab your crew, claim your spot and get in on the action—I’ll see you there!
