UCLA’s 42-37 victory over Penn State delivered one of the 2025 season’s biggest stunners, according to analyst Josh Pate. The upset now leaves Penn State reeling from its second straight defeat, fueling questions about the team’s path forward.
Josh Pate names ‘most stunning outcome’ of the 2025 college football season

Key Takeaways:
- UCLA’s 42-37 triumph caught many by surprise
- Josh Pate named it “the most stunning outcome” of the 2025 season
- Penn State has now suffered back-to-back losses
- Uncertainty surrounds the Nittany Lions’ direction
- The 2025 college football landscape is shaken by unexpected upsets
An Unexpected Result
UCLA shocked the college football world by defeating Penn State 42-37 in Pasadena. The Bruins’ victory not only marked one of the biggest surprises of the season, but it also dealt the Nittany Lions their second consecutive loss. Fans and analysts alike were left reeling from the turn of events in California.
Back-to-Back Losses for Penn State
Penn State came into the game looking to rebound from a previous setback, only to find itself on the losing end yet again. The 42-37 scoreline underscores UCLA’s ability to capitalize on key moments. This result has led to renewed speculation about Penn State’s competitive standing after a once-promising start to the 2025 season.
Josh Pate’s Take
Noted college football analyst Josh Pate referred to UCLA’s upset as the “most stunning outcome” of the season—an assessment that resonates with those who expected the Nittany Lions to handle the Bruins comfortably. Pate’s comment shines a spotlight on the growing unpredictability of this year’s college football landscape.
Where Penn State Goes from Here
With two losses in as many games, Penn State now faces uncharted territory. Critics have begun to question the Nittany Lions’ direction and whether their early-season fortunes have slipped away. While a single upset may be a bump in the road for some, consecutive defeats are forcing a deeper evaluation of what lies ahead for this storied program.