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Rebels Survive Late Sooner Rally Behind Chambliss and Lacy NORMAN, Okla. — In a matchup defined by momentum swings and physical play, the No. 8 Ole Miss Rebels held off a furious second-half rally from No. 13 Oklahoma to secure a 34–26 road victory on Saturday night at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss led the Rebels with 315 passing yards, 53 rushing yards, and one touchdown , while running back Kewan Lacy added 78 yards and two scores on the ground. Freshman wide receiver Winston Watkins recorded a breakout game with 111 receiving yards , helping Ole Miss earn its seventh win of the season and remain firmly in the SEC title race . For Oklahoma, the loss halted a strong midseason surge. Xavier Robinson rushed for 109 yards and two touchdowns , and Isaiah Sategna III set a new career high with 131 receiving yards . Despite outscoring the Rebels 16–3 during one third-quarter stretch, the Sooners couldn’t match Ole Miss’s closing execution. Early Momentum Shifts Both teams started fast, trading early field goals. Ole Miss struck first with a 45-yard kick from Lucas Carneiro , and Oklahoma’s Tate Sandell matched it with a 42-yarder on the following drive. The Rebels regained the lead later in the quarter as Chambliss found Harrison Wallace III for a 25-yard strike that set up Lacy’s two-yard touchdown run, making it 10–3 . Oklahoma answered early in the second quarter when John Mateer hit Sategna for a 76-yard touchdown , tying the game 10–10 and sparking the home crowd. Moments later, Ole Miss’s defense changed the tone. Princewill Umanmielen and Will Echoles combined for a sack and a safety, giving the Rebels a 12–10 advantage. The Rebels then added a Carneiro field goal to make it 15–10 , before Lacy struck again late in the half — a two-yard touchdown following a 31-yard pass from Chambliss to Cayden Lee — extending the margin to 22–10 at halftime. Sooners Storm Back Oklahoma came alive in the third quarter. A mishandled fourth-down snap by Ole Miss gave the Sooners a short field, leading to a Sandell field goal to cut the lead to 22–13 . Moments later, Robinson broke loose for a 65-yard touchdown run , and on the next possession, powered in from nine yards out to give Oklahoma its first lead of the game, 26–25 , late in the third. The Sooners’ defense dominated the quarter, with Kip Lewis , Robert Spears-Jennings , and Kendal Daniels delivering several tackles for loss while containing Ole Miss’s rushing attack. But just as momentum swung toward the home team, the Rebels regrouped with composure. Rebels Regain Control Early in the fourth quarter, Chambliss orchestrated a poised, methodical drive capped by an eight-yard touchdown pass to Trace Bruckler , reclaiming the lead at 31–26 . The Rebels’ defense responded immediately. Kam Franklin and Suntarine Perkins anchored key stops, while the secondary disrupted Mateer’s timing and limited big plays downfield. Ole Miss then capitalized on special teams, as Bruckler forced a fumble on a punt return by Sategna , recovered by lineman Ethan Fields near midfield. Two plays later, Watkins hauled in a 43-yard reception to set up Carneiro’s 37-yard field goal , extending the lead to 34–26 with just over four minutes remaining. Defensive Finish Seals the Win Oklahoma mounted one final push behind completions to Deion Burks and Jaren Kanak , but Ole Miss’s defense refused to yield. On fourth down, Umanmielen pressured Mateer into an incompletion, forcing a turnover on downs. After one more defensive stop, the Sooners regained possession with just over a minute left, but their final drive fell short. Wydett Williams Jr. batted down Mateer’s last-second pass, clinching the Rebels’ seventh win of the season. Statistical Breakdown Ole Miss tallied 436 total yards , including 315 passing from Chambliss, who surpassed the 300-yard mark for the fourth time in six starts . Lacy’s 12th rushing touchdown of the season tied him for eighth on the program’s all-time single-season list. Watkins’s 111-yard outing marked the first 100-yard receiving game by a Rebel freshman since 2018, showcasing his explosive speed and precise route running. Defensively, Umanmielen led with six tackles, 2.0 for loss, and 1.5 sacks , while TJ Dottery and Kapena Gushiken added six tackles each. The Rebels’ defense produced five second-half stops on third down and limited Oklahoma to 16 rushing yards in the first half . Ole Miss controlled time of possession for over 35 minutes , including more than eight minutes in the fourth quarter — a critical factor in sealing the victory. For Oklahoma, Mateer finished 17-of-31 for 223 yards and one touchdown , while Robinson averaged over 12 yards per carry. Despite their second-half surge, the Sooners were unable to sustain drives late against the Rebels’ disciplined defense. What the Win Means The victory reinforced Ole Miss’s resilience following a narrow loss to Georgia the week prior. At 7–1 overall and 4–1 in SEC play , the Rebels remain squarely in contention for the SEC West title . Head coach Lane Kiffin’s squad has now won five of its last six one-score games , reflecting a growing confidence and ability to finish under pressure. For Oklahoma, the loss dropped the Sooners to 6–2 (2–2 SEC) and snapped their three-game home winning streak . Despite the defeat, their third-quarter surge showcased their competitiveness against top-tier programs. The Sooners’ defense recorded 14 tackles for loss , the longest active streak of double-digit TFL performances in program history. Looking Ahead Ole Miss returns to Oxford next weekend to host South Carolina , looking to strengthen its postseason positioning and remain in the playoff conversation. Oklahoma travels to Knoxville to face Tennessee , where both teams will battle for bowl positioning. The Sooners’ focus will be on starting faster offensively and closing games with greater consistency. Final Takeaway The 34–26 victory over Oklahoma showcased Ole Miss’s toughness, adaptability, and composure under pressure. With Chambliss’s leadership , Lacy’s steady production , and Watkins’s breakout performance , the Rebels displayed the balance and grit of a true contender. Meanwhile, Oklahoma’s late surge and defensive effort proved the Sooners’ potential remains strong despite the setback. In a clash of ranked powers, it was Ole Miss’s discipline in the closing minutes that made the difference — reaffirming its place among the SEC’s elite.

Cardinals Ride Explosive Ground Game to 38–24 Victory at Home LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The No. 19 Louisville Cardinals powered past Boston College on Saturday night, earning a 38–24 victory at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Running back Isaac Brown delivered a career performance, rushing for 205 yards and a touchdown on just 14 carries , while quarterback Miller Moss accounted for three total scores as the Cardinals improved to 6–1 overall and 3–1 in ACC play . Louisville’s 317 rushing yards defined the night, as explosive runs and second-half adjustments offset three turnovers and early inconsistency. Despite occasional miscues, the Cardinals’ big-play offense and defensive grit carried them to a third straight home win . For Boston College , the loss dropped the Eagles to 1–7 (0–5 ACC) , extending their losing streak to seven — their longest since 2016. Quarterback Grayson James threw for 244 yards and three touchdowns, but turnovers and defensive breakdowns derailed their upset hopes. Eagles Strike First Boston College set the tone early with a methodical 15-play, 55-yard drive that chewed up more than eight minutes of clock. Mixing quick passes with inside runs, the Eagles controlled tempo before settling for a 38-yard field goal from Luca Lombardo to take a 3–0 lead . Louisville’s response was immediate — and explosive. On the Cardinals’ first offensive snap, Isaac Brown burst through the middle for a 73-yard gain , setting up Moss for a one-yard quarterback sneak to give Louisville a 7–3 advantage . Boston College stayed composed, answering with another extended drive. James converted multiple third downs before connecting with Lewis Bond on a six-yard touchdown , capping a 75-yard march to reclaim the lead 10–7 . Cardinals Close the Half with Fireworks The second quarter began with both defenses asserting control, forcing punts and turnovers. Louisville’s offense struggled to find consistency until late in the half — then exploded. With under two minutes to play, Moss scrambled nine yards into the end zone, giving the Cardinals a 14–10 lead . Only 40 seconds later, Brown delivered another game-changing play, racing 62 yards down the sideline for his first touchdown of the night. The long run sent the home crowd into a frenzy and pushed Louisville’s advantage to 21–10 at halftime. By the break, Brown had already piled up 151 yards on just five carries , averaging an incredible 30.2 yards per rush — singlehandedly sparking the Cardinals’ offense. Boston College Claws Back The Eagles opened the second half with renewed energy. On Louisville’s first play of the half, Brown fumbled while fighting for extra yardage, and Boston College quickly capitalized. Two plays later, James found Kaelan Chudzinski for a 23-yard touchdown , trimming the deficit to 21–17 and momentarily swinging momentum back to the visitors. Louisville’s defense responded with composure, forcing two punts before the offense struck again. After Antonio Watts recovered a fumble at the Boston College 27, Moss hit Caullin Lacy on a 22-yard touchdown strike, rebuilding the Cardinals’ lead to 28–17 . Moss settled into a rhythm from there, finishing 15-of-27 for 187 yards , one passing touchdown, and two rushing scores . Behind him, the tandem of Isaac Brown and Keyjuan Brown provided balance — combining for 300 yards on the ground, with Keyjuan adding 95 yards on 10 carries . Defense Closes the Door Louisville’s defense turned dominant in the second half, forcing three turnovers and pressuring James into hurried throws. Wesley Bailey anchored the front with two sacks, while linebackers TJ Quinn and Cam’Ron Kelly clogged running lanes, limiting Boston College to fewer than 100 rushing yards . Despite being on the field for much of the first half, the defense found another gear after intermission. Two critical interceptions from James halted potential scoring drives and preserved the Cardinals’ control of the game. Still, Boston College refused to fade quietly. With six minutes remaining, James led a 68-yard drive , ending in a 21-yard touchdown to Jeremiah Franklin , narrowing the gap to 31–24 . But the comeback hopes ended there. Facing fourth-and-8 near midfield, Boston College opted to punt — a conservative decision that quickly backfired. Brown Finishes the Job With less than two minutes to play, Keyjuan Brown sealed the victory in style. On second down, the sophomore burst through a lane on the right side and sprinted 67 yards to the end zone , pushing the lead to 38–24 and sending the Louisville faithful into celebration. Between Isaac Brown’s early fireworks and Keyjuan Brown’s late dagger, Louisville’s rushing attack proved unstoppable. The team’s 317 rushing yards marked its highest total in a conference game this season — and its third straight outing with over 200 yards on the ground. Boston College’s Missed Chances For Boston College, the loss reflected a familiar story: long drives that failed to end in points. The Eagles dominated possession in the first half but couldn’t convert opportunities into touchdowns. Grayson James completed 23 of 46 passes for 244 yards , three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Chudzinski led the team with 80 receiving yards , while Bond and Franklin each added scoring grabs. Jordan McDonald contributed 80 rushing yards on 19 carries , giving the offense balance but not enough explosiveness to keep pace. Defensively, the Eagles showed flashes of improvement. Omar Thornton recorded nine tackles, while KP Price notched his second interception of the season and recovered a fumble. Freshman TJ Green added a strip-sack in the third quarter, giving Boston College one final chance — but turnovers erased any momentum. The loss officially ended Boston College’s two-year bowl streak and cemented its longest losing skid in nearly a decade. Statistical Snapshot Louisville outgained Boston College 504–381 in total yardage, averaging 7.6 yards per play . The Cardinals converted just 3-of-11 third downs , but their explosive scoring plays more than compensated, including three touchdowns of 20+ yards . Isaac Brown’s 205-yard performance marked Louisville’s first 200-yard rushing game since 2019. His 73-yard and 62-yard runs were the two longest plays of the night, accounting for more than half of the team’s rushing total. Despite committing three turnovers, Louisville’s defense created three of its own — turning two directly into touchdowns. The Cardinals have now scored 21 points off turnovers in their last two games, underscoring a growing opportunistic streak. What’s Next Louisville, now officially bowl-eligible , will travel to Virginia Tech next Saturday for a pivotal ACC clash. With their offense surging and defense among the league’s top five in yards allowed, the Cardinals remain squarely in contention for an ACC Championship Game berth . Boston College returns home to face No. 12 Notre Dame in its final non-conference game, seeking to halt its skid and regain confidence before the season’s closing stretch. Final Takeaway Louisville’s 38–24 victory over Boston College showcased both resilience and explosiveness. Despite uneven moments and turnovers, the Cardinals leaned on their dynamic rushing duo and timely defensive stops to deliver another conference statement. Isaac Brown’s breakout night , combined with Moss’s steady leadership and a defense that thrived on takeaways, reinforced Louisville’s identity as a fast, physical, and adaptive team capable of beating opponents in multiple ways. For Boston College , the fight was there — but execution and depth remain hurdles. For Louisville , the win was another stride toward something bigger: a season defined by toughness, balance, and belief.

Hurricanes Turn a Halftime Tie into a Statement Victory MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The ninth-ranked Miami Hurricanes shook off a sluggish first half to dominate Stanford 42–7 on Saturday night at Hard Rock Stadium. Behind a career-best performance from running back Mark Fletcher Jr. , Miami scored touchdowns on six of its final seven possessions to turn a 7–7 halftime tie into a decisive rout. Fletcher led the charge with 106 rushing yards and three touchdowns , setting a new career high while powering an offense that rediscovered its rhythm. Quarterback Carson Beck bounced back from last week’s struggles, completing 21 of 28 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown , as Miami outgained Stanford 404–144 . The victory improved Miami’s record to 6–1 overall and 2–1 in ACC play , while Stanford fell to 3–5 (2–3 ACC) after being outscored 35–0 in the second half. A Flat Start for the Hurricanes The first 30 minutes were far from the dominance Miami fans expected. The Hurricanes missed an early scoring chance when kicker Carter Davis pushed a 43-yard field goal wide, ending his streak of consecutive makes. Stanford capitalized, marching 74 yards on its opening drive to take a 7–0 lead . Running back Cole Tabb kept the drive alive with a fourth-down conversion and later broke free for a 28-yard run to set up the Cardinal deep in Miami territory. Quarterback Ben Gulbranson capped the series with a nine-yard touchdown pass to Caden High , giving Stanford its first-ever lead over Miami in the programs’ inaugural meeting. Miami’s offense sputtered through much of the half, plagued by penalties and missed assignments. But the Hurricanes’ defense found its footing, forcing multiple three-and-outs while neutralizing Stanford’s ground attack. Late in the second quarter, Miami finally broke through — Beck connected with CJ Daniels on a third-down fade for a six-yard touchdown to tie the game 7–7 heading into halftime. Hurricanes Flip the Script After the break, Miami looked like a completely different team. The defense forced a quick punt on Stanford’s first possession, and Malachi Toney delivered a 31-yard punt return to set up prime field position. Two plays later, Beck found Tony Johnson on a 22-yard crossing route, and Fletcher finished the drive with back-to-back short-yardage runs, including a one-yard plunge that gave Miami its first lead at 14–7 . From that moment forward, the Hurricanes dominated every phase. Their defense smothered Stanford, holding the Cardinal to just 25 total yards across their next eight possessions. Miami’s defensive front — led by Armando Blount and Wesley Bissainthe — relentlessly pressured Gulbranson into hurried throws and costly mistakes. Midway through the third quarter, Bissainthe intercepted a deflected pass and returned it to the Stanford three-yard line. Fletcher scored one play later for his second touchdown, extending the lead to 21–7 . On Stanford’s next series, Xavier Lucas picked off another pass and returned it to the 45-yard line. Four plays — all Fletcher runs — later, the sophomore tailback powered into the end zone again to make it 28–7 and put the game firmly out of reach. Total Control in the Fourth Quarter By the start of the fourth quarter, Miami had completely taken command. The Hurricanes controlled the ball for nearly 37 minutes , wearing down Stanford’s defense and dictating the tempo. Beck continued to find his rhythm, going 4-for-4 through the air on an eight-play, 76-yard drive capped by a 17-yard touchdown run from Jordan Lyle , stretching the lead to 35–7 . Backup quarterback Emory Williams entered late and guided one final scoring march, ending with a short touchdown by Girard Pringle Jr. to seal the 42–7 victory — Miami’s largest ACC win since 2021. Defensive Masterclass While the offense exploded in the second half, it was Miami’s defense that set the tone for the turnaround. After allowing 74 yards on Stanford’s opening drive, the Hurricanes surrendered just 70 total yards the rest of the game. Linebacker Bissainthe and cornerback Lucas each recorded interceptions that directly led to touchdowns. Blount anchored the defensive front with a key sack early in the third quarter, helping Miami finish with six tackles for loss , two sacks , and a suffocating 2.7 yards per play allowed . Gulbranson managed just 50 passing yards after the opening drive and finished with two interceptions. The Hurricanes’ secondary blanketed receivers, while the front seven stuffed Tabb , holding him to 64 yards on 13 carries . Cornerback Keionte Scott led Miami’s defense with five tackles, and the unit’s discipline and speed frustrated Stanford throughout the second half. Special Teams Spark Special teams provided the spark that shifted momentum. Malachi Toney totaled 73 punt return yards on just two attempts, including a 42-yard return that set up one of Fletcher’s touchdowns. Toney’s field-flipping returns energized the crowd of 63,892 and consistently gave Miami short fields. He also led the Hurricanes with five receptions for 52 yards , showcasing his growing impact on both offense and special teams. Historical Context and Momentum The 42–7 victory marked the first-ever meeting between Miami and Stanford and stood as one of the Hurricanes’ most complete performances in recent memory. Miami has now outscored opponents 118–27 in the second half over its last four wins, highlighting the team’s ability to adjust and finish strong. It was also a breakout game for Fletcher , who entered the night averaging just over four yards per carry but erupted for multiple long gains against one of the Pac-12’s more physical defenses. His three-touchdown effort tied Miami’s single-game high for the season and cemented his role as the team’s offensive centerpiece. For Beck , the outing served as redemption after a four-interception performance against Louisville. His accuracy and composure restored confidence in the passing attack, while the offense’s balance — 205 passing yards and 199 rushing yards — underscored Miami’s versatility. Stanford’s Struggles Continue Stanford’s early promise quickly faded as Miami tightened its grip. After their opening touchdown, the Cardinal managed just two first downs the rest of the night. Penalties, poor pass protection, and inconsistent execution left the offense stagnant. The loss dropped Stanford to 3–5 (2–3 ACC) with three of its last four games at home. Despite flashes of potential from Tabb and High , the Cardinal continue to struggle generating offense on the road, where they remain winless in conference play this season. Looking Ahead Miami now turns its attention to a road matchup against SMU in Dallas — its first out-of-state game this season. The Mustangs enter on a three-game winning streak and are undefeated at home, setting up a key test for the Hurricanes’ renewed momentum. If Miami can replicate the balance and intensity it displayed against Stanford, the Hurricanes’ path toward national contention will remain wide open. Final Takeaway After a sluggish first half, the Miami Hurricanes unleashed a second-half masterpiece — a blend of aggression, execution, and dominance. The 42–7 win over Stanford showcased everything this team can be when firing on all cylinders. With Fletcher leading the ground attack, Beck regaining his confidence, and a defense that refused to bend , Miami reasserted itself as a legitimate ACC and national contender . The second half wasn’t just dominant — it was a statement of how high this team’s ceiling truly is.

Crimson Tide Overcome Eight-Point Fourth-Quarter Deficit to Earn Seventh Straight Win COLUMBIA, S.C. — The No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide kept their championship hopes alive Saturday afternoon with a 29–22 comeback victory over South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium. Behind a late surge from quarterback Ty Simpson and wide receiver Germie Bernard , Alabama scored 15 unanswered points in the final two and a half minutes to secure its seventh consecutive win. The victory improved Alabama’s record to 7–1 overall and 5–0 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) , maintaining control of the SEC West standings . South Carolina fell to 3–5 (1–5 SEC) despite leading for much of the second half. Early Defensive Statement The opening quarter set the tone for a defensive battle as both teams traded punts before South Carolina struck first. A 15-play, 74-yard drive that drained more than seven minutes off the clock ended with a 24-yard field goal by William Joyce , giving the Gamecocks a 3–0 advantage. Alabama responded on defense. On South Carolina’s next possession, linebacker DaShawn Jones intercepted quarterback LaNorris Sellers on a tipped pass and returned it 18 yards for a touchdown , giving the Tide a 7–3 lead. The play marked Alabama’s second straight game with a defensive touchdown, continuing its streak of opportunistic defensive play. Midway through the second quarter, the Gamecocks cut the deficit to 7–6 on another Joyce field goal following a 14-play, 42-yard drive. But Alabama’s offense finally found its rhythm late in the half. Simpson engineered a nine-play, 81-yard drive capped by a three-yard touchdown pass to Josh Cuevas , extending Alabama’s lead to 14–6 at halftime . South Carolina Surges Ahead The second half swung dramatically in South Carolina’s favor. On the first play from scrimmage, Sellers connected with freshman Nyck Harbor for a 54-yard touchdown , cutting Alabama’s lead to 14–12 after a failed two-point try. The explosive play reignited the crowd and gave South Carolina momentum. The Gamecocks’ defense kept that energy going, holding Alabama scoreless on its next three drives and forcing consecutive punts. Taking advantage of field position, South Carolina took its first lead of the game on a 47-yard field goal by Joyce late in the third quarter, moving ahead 15–14 . Moments later, Alabama suffered a major special teams miscue. A punt deflected off a Crimson Tide player, gifting South Carolina possession at the 30-yard line. Six plays later, Sellers scrambled into the end zone from ten yards out to extend the lead to 22–14 with 10 minutes remaining. Williams-Brice Stadium erupted as the Gamecocks appeared poised for an upset — but Alabama, true to form, refused to fold. Tide Rally in the Final Minutes Trailing by eight, Alabama mounted a season-defining drive. Simpson led a 14-play, 79-yard march that chewed up more than six minutes of game time. On third-and-goal, he found Bernard in the corner of the end zone for a four-yard touchdown . The Tide then executed a flawless two-point conversion, with Simpson hitting Cuevas to tie the game 22–22 with just 2:16 remaining . On South Carolina’s ensuing possession, Alabama’s defense came up big again. Linebacker Deontae Lawson stripped Sellers near midfield, and the Tide recovered the fumble at the Gamecocks’ 38-yard line. Five plays later, Bernard took a direct snap and sprinted 25 yards down the sideline for the go-ahead touchdown with only 34 seconds left . His second score of the day capped Alabama’s furious rally — the program’s largest comeback since 2021 — and silenced the home crowd. South Carolina’s final drive stalled at midfield as Alabama’s pass rush closed out the win. Key Performances Ty Simpson completed 24 of 43 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns , marking his eighth straight game with multiple touchdown passes. His poise under pressure was crucial, converting four third downs on the tying drive and distributing the ball to five different receivers. Germie Bernard continued his breakout campaign, finishing with five receptions for 54 yards and a receiving touchdown, plus three carries for 23 yards and the game-winning rushing score. His versatility has made him one of Alabama’s most dynamic playmakers this season. Freshman Daniel Hill posted a career-high 76 receiving yards on four catches, including a 41-yard grab that sparked a key second-quarter drive. Ryan Williams added seven receptions for 72 yards to lead the team in catches. Defensively, Lawson’s forced fumble sealed the win, while Jones’ pick-six provided an early spark. Alabama’s defense registered seven tackles for loss , four quarterback hurries , and five pass breakups . Special teams also delivered, as punter Blake Doud averaged 55.4 yards on five punts , including a 60-yarder that flipped field position in the third quarter. South Carolina’s Missed Opportunities Despite flashes of brilliance, South Carolina’s mistakes proved costly. The Gamecocks committed two holding penalties that wiped out touchdowns and missed an early 35-yard field goal. LaNorris Sellers passed for 222 yards and one touchdown while adding 67 rushing yards and another score , but his late fumble sealed the team’s fate. Freshman receiver Nyck Harbor stood out with a career-long 54-yard touchdown, though South Carolina’s offense struggled to sustain drives in the second half. The Gamecocks ultimately could not capitalize on opportunities, allowing Alabama’s late surge to turn the game around. A Statement of Resilience Alabama’s 15-point burst in the closing minutes underscored the team’s mental toughness and balance. The Crimson Tide outgained South Carolina 117–2 in total yardage over the final 10 minutes, completely controlling both lines of scrimmage down the stretch. The comeback was Alabama’s largest since overcoming a 10-point deficit in 2021 and reflected the maturity and cohesion of a team built to withstand adversity. For head coach Kalen DeBoer , the victory reinforced the Tide’s identity — a blend of discipline, depth, and confidence under pressure . Each of Alabama’s last three road wins has come after trailing in the second half, a testament to the program’s resilience and championship DNA. Looking Ahead Alabama enters a much-needed bye week before hosting No. 20 LSU on November 8 in Tuscaloosa. The matchup will have major implications for the SEC West race , with both teams still in contention for a spot in the conference championship game. South Carolina will travel to No. 8 Ole Miss next weekend, looking to bounce back after consecutive heartbreaking defeats. The Gamecocks will need cleaner execution and improved consistency to keep their postseason hopes alive. Final Takeaway Alabama’s 29–22 victory over South Carolina served as another reminder of why the Crimson Tide remain among college football’s elite. Facing adversity on the road, they delivered a textbook display of poise and execution when it mattered most. With Simpson’s leadership , Bernard’s explosiveness , and a defense that thrives in crunch time, Alabama continues to prove its “ unbreakable ” mantra is more than just a slogan — it’s a standard. As the Tide head into November atop the SEC West, their comeback in Columbia wasn’t just another win — it was a statement of championship resolve .

Haynes King Accounts for Five Touchdowns as Yellow Jackets Improve to 8–0 ATLANTA — The seventh-ranked Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets continued their remarkable 2025 campaign with a dominant 41–16 victory over Syracuse on Saturday afternoon at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Quarterback Haynes King accounted for five total touchdowns and nearly 400 yards of offense as Georgia Tech remained undefeated through eight games for the first time since 1966 . The victory improved the Yellow Jackets to 8–0 overall and 5–0 in ACC play , their best start in nearly six decades. Syracuse fell to 3–5 overall and 1–4 in conference play after dropping its fourth straight game since the injury to quarterback Steve Angeli . King delivered another stellar performance, completing 25 of 31 passes for 304 yards and three touchdowns , while rushing for 91 yards and two scores . His command of the offense was evident from start to finish, leading scoring drives on seven of Georgia Tech’s ten possessions. His 80.6% completion rate set a new school record for a passer with at least 30 attempts. A Slow Start Before the Storm Syracuse began the afternoon with energy, forcing a turnover on Georgia Tech’s opening possession and turning it into an early field goal for a 3–0 lead . The Orange had first-and-goal at the one-yard line, but back-to-back penalties and a sack stalled the drive, forcing them to settle for three points — a missed opportunity that foreshadowed the rest of the day. From that point forward, Georgia Tech seized control. The Yellow Jackets scored the next 20 points, beginning with a pair of field goals from Aidan Birr and back-to-back touchdown passes from King to tight end Josh Beetham , who rebounded from an early drop to score his first two touchdowns of the season. Beetham’s receptions — from 21 and 13 yards out — capped off long, efficient drives that stretched the lead to 20–3 by halftime . The Yellow Jackets outgained the Orange 322–118 in the first half , dominating time of possession and limiting Syracuse to just five first downs . Despite missing two starters in the secondary, Georgia Tech’s defense forced multiple three-and-outs and stifled Syracuse’s running game before intermission. Syracuse Shows Life After the Break The Orange opened the third quarter with their best drive of the game. Quarterback Rickie Collins , starting his third consecutive contest, connected with Darrell Gill Jr. on a 34-yard touchdown down the sideline to cut the deficit to 20–10. The drive lasted just 41 seconds and briefly energized the visiting sideline. But the momentum didn’t last long. On the next possession, King responded with a 37-yard touchdown pass to Dean Patterson , reestablishing a two-score lead and silencing the Orange’s rally. From that point on, Georgia Tech controlled the game, scoring 21 of the final 27 points . Syracuse managed one final touchdown in the fourth quarter when Will Nixon scored from close range, but by then the outcome was all but decided. Georgia Tech’s defensive front sealed the win with two sacks and a key fumble recovery by Jordan Boyd midway through the second half. King’s Historic Day Saturday’s performance was another milestone in Haynes King’s breakout season. His 395 yards of total offense were a season high, and his five-touchdown outing matched his previous career best. The senior quarterback has now accounted for both a passing and rushing touchdown in 15 career games , extending his own school record . King’s balance of efficiency and explosiveness has transformed Georgia Tech’s offense into one of the ACC’s most dynamic units. His sixth career 300-yard passing game moved him into a tie for second in program history, behind only 1999 Heisman runner-up Joe Hamilton . Dean Patterson’s 37-yard score was his second of the season, while freshman Jordan Allen set career highs with six receptions for 64 yards in an expanded role due to injuries at receiver. Georgia Tech finished with 543 total yards of offense , its highest output in an ACC game in two years. Beetham’s Redemption Tight end Josh Beetham’s afternoon told a story of resilience. After dropping a potential touchdown in the first quarter, he responded with two scoring receptions in the second , giving the Yellow Jackets a 17-point cushion at halftime. The senior tight end entered the game with just three career catches but finished with the first multi-touchdown performance by a Georgia Tech tight end since 2023. Beetham’s emergence added another layer to Georgia Tech’s offensive versatility. His ability to block effectively and operate in multiple formations kept Syracuse’s defense guessing and opened space for King’s scrambles and red-zone success. Defensive Strength Despite Injuries Georgia Tech’s defense entered the game shorthanded, missing Jy Gilmore and Ahmari Harvey , and losing Zachary Tobe early to injury. Even so, the unit delivered one of its most complete performances of the season. The Yellow Jackets limited Syracuse to just 118 first-half yards and three points — the Orange’s lowest total in ACC play this year. Safety Clayton Powell-Lee led the secondary with consistent tackling and disciplined coverage, while linebacker Kyle Efford anchored the front seven with a team-high eight tackles. The defensive line controlled the trenches, highlighted by Jason Moore’s forced fumble recovered by Jordan Boyd — the first takeaway of Boyd’s career. The defense embodied the “ next man up ” mentality that has driven Georgia Tech’s unbeaten run. Despite multiple backups in the lineup, communication and physicality remained sharp from start to finish. Statistical Dominance Georgia Tech outgained Syracuse 543–381 , including a 322–118 advantage in the first half. The Yellow Jackets scored on seven of ten possessions and averaged 7.5 yards per play , their most efficient outing against an FBS opponent this season. Defensively, Tech limited Syracuse to just five third-down conversions on 14 attempts and allowed points on only three of ten drives. The victory extended Georgia Tech’s Homecoming winning streak to four straight and marked the program’s first sellout crowd for an ACC opponent in ten years , drawing 51,193 fans to Bobby Dodd Stadium. Program Milestones The Yellow Jackets’ 8–0 start is their best since the legendary 1966 season , when the program opened 9–0. It marks just the sixth 8–0 start in Georgia Tech’s 133-year football history . The team’s 5–0 ACC record is a first in program history, reflecting the steady rise under head coach Brent Key . Georgia Tech has now won seven straight ACC games , dating back to last season, and improved to 5–2 all-time against Syracuse , including 3–0 at home . The 41 points scored were their most in conference play this season. What’s Next Georgia Tech will travel to Raleigh next weekend to face NC State in a pivotal ACC matchup before entering its second bye week. The Wolfpack enter at 6–2 overall and unbeaten at home, setting up one of the toughest remaining challenges for the Yellow Jackets’ perfect record. Syracuse, meanwhile, will return home for a short turnaround to host North Carolina on Friday night, aiming to end its four-game skid and regain momentum in the ACC standings. Final Takeaway Georgia Tech’s 41–16 victory over Syracuse wasn’t just another step toward a potential ACC title run — it was a statement of balance, discipline, and maturity. Behind Haynes King’s record-setting efficiency and a defense that continues to deliver despite adversity, the Yellow Jackets proved again why they belong among college football’s elite. From start to finish, Georgia Tech displayed the poise of a team learning not just to win, but to dominate . As the Jackets head into November undefeated , one thing is clear: history isn’t just within reach — it’s being rewritten on The Flats.

Cavaliers Extend Win Streak to Six with Another Overtime Classic CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — For the third time this season, No. 16 Virginia found itself in overtime. And for the third time, the Cavaliers came out on top. On a crisp fall afternoon at Kenan Stadium, Virginia outlasted North Carolina 17–16 after stopping a two-point conversion attempt just short of the goal line, securing its sixth straight victory and remaining unbeaten in ACC play . The Cavaliers improved to 7–1 overall and 4–0 in conference play — their best start since 2007 — and extended their dominance in the South’s Oldest Rivalry with a fourth win in their last five visits to Chapel Hill. Running back J’Mari Taylor powered across the goal line for the go-ahead score in overtime, capping a resilient day for an offense that battled through an aggressive Tar Heel pass rush. Quarterback Chandler Morris threw for 200 yards and one touchdown, while Virginia’s defense once again proved decisive, forcing two key interceptions and shutting down North Carolina’s late surge. A Defensive Struggle from the Start Neither team found much rhythm early, with field position and turnovers shaping the flow of the game. Virginia struck first on a 34-yard field goal by Will Bettridge , following a red-zone fumble by UNC wide receiver Kobe Paysour that resulted in a touchback. The Cavaliers’ early lead held until the second quarter, when both offenses began to find momentum. Morris connected with Trell Harris on a 30-yard touchdown midway through the second quarter, giving Virginia a 10–3 advantage. Harris, one of the ACC’s most reliable deep threats, led the team with four catches for 72 yards. North Carolina quickly responded with a one-yard quarterback keeper by Gio Lopez to tie the score at 10–10 heading into halftime. From there, both defenses tightened. Neither team scored in the third or fourth quarters. North Carolina’s front, led by Melkart Abou Jaoude , recorded six sacks , while Virginia’s defense countered with three sacks and two takeaways to keep the game deadlocked. Virginia’s Defense Holds the Line The Cavaliers’ defensive front stood tall throughout the afternoon, limiting big plays and forcing crucial mistakes. Linebacker Kam Robinson recorded a career-high 13 tackles , while edge rusher Mitchell Melton made one of the game’s biggest plays late in the third quarter — intercepting Lopez near the goal line after deflecting his own pass. Melton’s interception prevented what could have been a go-ahead North Carolina score, marking the second straight week he recorded a takeaway. Safety Antonio Clary added another interception at the end of regulation, ensuring the game would head to overtime. Virginia’s defense forced six three-and-outs and held North Carolina to 353 total yards despite long stretches of possession. The Cavaliers have now forced at least one turnover in five consecutive games , all of which have resulted in victories. Taylor Finishes the Job in Overtime After winning the coin toss, North Carolina elected to play defense first. Virginia wasted little time capitalizing. Starting at the 25-yard line, Morris found Sage Ennis for a nine-yard completion, followed by short runs from Taylor that set up first-and-goal from the three. On a direct snap, Taylor powered through the middle for a one-yard touchdown — his ninth rushing score of the season and his second overtime game-winner of the year. Bettridge’s extra point put the Cavaliers ahead 17–10. North Carolina answered immediately as Lopez connected with Davion Gause for a nine-yard touchdown, trimming the margin to 17–16. Rather than attempt the extra point to extend the game, the Tar Heels opted for a two-point conversion and the win. On the decisive play, Lopez rolled right and threw to running back Benjamin Hall in the flat. Cornerback Emmanuel Karnley delivered the initial hit near the sideline, and nickelback Ja’son Prevard finished the tackle inches short of the goal line. The Virginia sideline erupted as the officials signaled the stop, sealing another overtime win for the Cavaliers. Complementary Football Defines Virginia’s Season Head coach Tony Elliott’s Cavaliers have developed a reputation for thriving under pressure. All three of Virginia’s overtime wins this season — against Florida State, Louisville, and now North Carolina — have come by a combined margin of just six points. Saturday’s win showcased the team’s commitment to complementary football . The offense did just enough behind Morris’s leadership, while the defense and special teams delivered game-saving plays. Punter Daniel Sparks had one of his best performances of the year, averaging nearly 49 yards per punt across eight attempts and repeatedly flipping field position. Freshman returner Jayden Thomas , filling in for the injured Cam Ross , contributed 58 return yards , including a 31-yard burst that sparked the Cavaliers’ sideline. North Carolina’s Missed Chances The Tar Heels controlled time of possession and outgained Virginia in total yards, but red-zone inefficiency proved costly. UNC turned the ball over twice inside the 10-yard line and came away empty on two other scoring opportunities. Quarterback Gio Lopez finished with 208 passing yards and one touchdown, but two interceptions and a late fumble reversal undermined the team’s consistency. Despite a strong showing from freshman receiver Madrid Tucker , who caught eight passes in his collegiate debut, North Carolina’s inability to finish drives ultimately defined the game. The loss dropped the Tar Heels to 2–5 overall and 0–3 in the ACC , extending their losing streak to four games — three of which have come by a single score. Historical and Program Context Virginia’s win carried significant historical weight. The Cavaliers have now won six straight games for the first time since 2007 and are off to their best ACC start under Elliott . The program’s 60th all-time victory over North Carolina also marked its most against any opponent in school history. The matchup was the 130th meeting in the South’s Oldest Rivalry , tying Georgia–Auburn for the second-most played series in FBS history. Virginia’s success in Chapel Hill continued an impressive run, with the Cavaliers now winning four of their last five at Kenan Stadium — including last season’s upset of then-No. 10 North Carolina, their first road win over a top-10 team in program history. Virginia’s defense has been particularly dominant late in games. The Cavaliers have not allowed a fourth-quarter touchdown in their last three contests and have outscored opponents 38–19 in that span, extending to 62–31 when including overtime periods. Looking Ahead The Cavaliers’ remarkable season now heads west for another first-time meeting. Next weekend, Virginia travels to Berkeley, California , to face the California Golden Bears in a matchup between two of the nation’s top public universities. Cal enters the contest 5–3 after a double-overtime loss to Virginia Tech. With Virginia and Georgia Tech standing as the ACC’s only unbeaten teams in conference play, the Cavaliers’ showdown in Berkeley could shape their pursuit of a berth in the ACC Championship Game and national recognition inside the top 15. Final Takeaway Saturday’s 17–16 overtime victory was another chapter in Virginia’s season of resilience and composure . The Cavaliers once again found themselves pushed to the brink — and once again, they responded with poise and toughness. From Taylor’s determined touchdown run to Prevard’s goal-line tackle , every inch mattered. In a year defined by narrow margins and high-pressure finishes, Virginia has built an identity on finding ways to win — no matter how long it takes.

Pavia’s Dual-Threat Brilliance Lifts Commodores to Historic Victory NASHVILLE, Tenn. — No. 17 Vanderbilt continued its stunning 2025 season with a 31–24 win over No. 10 LSU on Saturday afternoon at FirstBank Stadium. Quarterback Diego Pavia accounted for three touchdowns and 246 total yards, guiding the Commodores to their first victory over LSU in 35 years and matching their best start since 1950 . The victory moved Vanderbilt to 6–1 overall and 3–1 in SEC play , clinching bowl eligibility for a second straight season — the program’s first back-to-back postseason appearance since 2013. The Commodores also earned their second win over a top-15 opponent this year, marking a milestone in school history. Pavia completed 14 of 22 passes for 160 yards and one touchdown while rushing for 86 yards and two more scores. Running back Sedrick Alexander added a goal-line touchdown, and tight end Cole Spence recorded his first career touchdown reception to cap a balanced Vanderbilt offensive effort. First Quarter: Trading Blows Early LSU opened the afternoon with an efficient first drive led by quarterback Garrett Nussmeier , moving into Vanderbilt territory behind quick passes to Kyle Parker and Barion Brown . The Tigers settled for a 48-yard field goal from Damian Ramos , taking an early 3–0 lead. Vanderbilt responded immediately. Pavia ignited the offense with a 20-yard scramble before plunging into the end zone from the one-yard line, capping a 57-yard drive to give the Commodores a 7–3 advantage late in the opening quarter. The drive featured a steady rhythm of designed quarterback runs and short passes, establishing Vanderbilt’s physical tone early. Second Quarter: Momentum Swings Back and Forth LSU regained the lead seconds into the second quarter when Nussmeier hit freshman tight end Trey’Dez Green on a 24-yard strike over the middle, putting the Tigers up 10–7 . But Vanderbilt’s response was methodical and relentless — a 14-play, 75-yard drive that consumed nearly nine minutes of clock. Alexander finished the marathon possession with a one-yard touchdown run on fourth down, restoring Vanderbilt’s lead at 14–10 with 5:52 left in the half. LSU’s offense continued to move the ball efficiently but failed to convert in key moments. Ramos hit a 42-yard field goal just before halftime, trimming the deficit to 14–13 . However, the Commodores regained control with a late 46-yard field goal from Brock Taylor , who extended his streak to 17 consecutive makes, sending Vanderbilt into the locker room up 17–13 . Third Quarter: Pavia Takes Over Vanderbilt opened the second half with another statement drive. Pavia orchestrated a 75-yard march capped by a one-yard touchdown pass to Spence — the sophomore tight end’s first career score — to extend the lead to 24–13 . LSU struck back quickly. On the very next series, Nussmeier connected with Zavion Thomas for a 62-yard touchdown catch, trimming the margin to 24–21 after converting a two-point try to Green. But Vanderbilt’s quarterback answered in emphatic fashion. With under a minute left in the quarter, Pavia broke free for a 21-yard touchdown run , racing into the end zone and striking a Heisman pose as the crowd erupted. His second rushing score gave the Commodores a 31–21 advantage entering the fourth quarter and punctuated one of the most efficient performances of his Vanderbilt career. Fourth Quarter: Vanderbilt Finishes Strong The final frame tested Vanderbilt’s composure. LSU mounted one last surge, sparked by a 51-yard burst from Caden Durham that set up first-and-goal at the one-yard line. But penalties and stout defense forced the Tigers to settle for another short field goal from Ramos, cutting the lead to 31–24 with 11:39 to play. That was as close as LSU would get. The Commodores’ defense, anchored by Langston Patterson and Joshua Singh , delivered in the clutch. A fourth-quarter sack from Zaylin Wood halted LSU’s final threat, forcing a punt with eight minutes left. Vanderbilt’s offense milked the clock behind Alexander’s tough runs, and Pavia’s mobility kept the chains moving until the final seconds ticked away. When the final whistle blew, Vanderbilt’s players erupted in celebration as “Callin’ Baton Rouge” blared through the stadium speakers — a symbolic gesture marking the end of the Commodores’ 10-game losing streak to LSU. Offensive Balance and Efficiency The Commodores finished with 399 total yards , their most against an SEC opponent this season. They dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 36 minutes and 33 seconds — nearly 13 minutes more than LSU. Pavia was efficient throughout, responsible for three touchdowns and continuing his streak of recording at least one rushing or passing score in 25 consecutive games — the second-longest active streak in the FBS. His chemistry with Spence and wideout Makhilyn Young allowed Vanderbilt to control tempo and keep LSU’s defense on its heels. Alexander also continued his productive season with his 10th total touchdown and fifth on the ground, moving into eighth place on Vanderbilt’s all-time career rushing touchdown list. Defense Rises to the Moment Defensively, Vanderbilt’s front seven delivered one of its most complete performances of the season. Patterson led the team with five tackles, while Singh contributed four stops and 1.5 tackles for loss. Khordae Sydnor extended his streak to six consecutive games with a tackle for loss, and transfer Keanu Khot notched his first sack as a Commodore. The defense limited LSU to 100 rushing yards — 59 of which came on one play — and forced the Tigers to settle for field goals on four different red-zone trips. The containment of LSU’s running game proved pivotal, forcing Nussmeier into long passing situations that Vanderbilt’s secondary handled with discipline. A Historic Benchmark for the Program Saturday’s win carried immense historical weight for Vanderbilt football. The 6–1 start is the best in 75 years, dating back to 1950, and the first time the Commodores have beaten two ranked teams in the same season since 2008. It also marked their first victory over an AP Top 10 opponent since upsetting No. 1 Alabama last season. Head coach Clark Lea has now guided Vanderbilt to back-to-back bowl appearances for the first time since 2013 and has reestablished the program’s identity around toughness and discipline. The Commodores’ 31 points were also the most scored against LSU’s top-five ranked defense this season, further underscoring their offensive efficiency. For LSU, the loss dropped the Tigers to 5–2 (2–2 SEC) , extending a frustrating pattern of inconsistency. Despite 225 passing yards and two touchdowns from Nussmeier, LSU’s inability to sustain drives and capitalize inside the 20-yard line defined the game’s outcome. What’s Next Vanderbilt will return home next weekend to face No. 16 Missouri in another pivotal SEC matchup. With momentum building and postseason security already achieved, the Commodores have positioned themselves as one of the conference’s most intriguing storylines entering the second half of the season. LSU will regroup before traveling to College Station for a showdown with No. 4 Texas A&M , needing a win to remain in the SEC West race. Final Takeaway Vanderbilt’s 31–24 victory over LSU wasn’t just another upset — it was a validation of a program transformed . From Pavia’s dynamic leadership to a defense that thrived under pressure, the Commodores played with poise, control, and conviction. For the first time in decades, Vanderbilt football isn’t just competing — it’s contending . And on a sunlit Saturday in Nashville, the Commodores reminded the SEC that their climb back to relevance is no fluke.

Daniels’ Record Fumble Return and King’s Late Touchdown Keep Jackets Perfect DURHAM, N.C. — No. 12 Georgia Tech stayed unbeaten Saturday afternoon, defeating Duke 27–18 at Wallace Wade Stadium to move to 7–0 for the first time since 1966 . Fueled by a record-setting defensive play from Omar Daniels and a late surge from quarterback Haynes King , the Yellow Jackets remained perfect through four Atlantic Coast Conference games. The win also marked Georgia Tech’s fifth straight victory over Duke and its longest such streak since 2013. It was a tale of two halves — a defensive struggle early and an offensive showcase late — as the Jackets turned a 7–7 halftime tie into a convincing road win. Early Defense Defines the First Half Both teams opened strong defensively, forcing each other into long drives without points. Duke appeared poised to strike first midway through the opening quarter after a 71-yard march led by quarterback Darian Mensah and wide receiver Cooper Barkate , who repeatedly found soft spots in Georgia Tech’s secondary. But just as the Blue Devils reached the 1-yard line, Daniels delivered the play of the game — scooping up a fumble and racing 95 yards down the sideline for a touchdown , the longest fumble return in school history. The score was Georgia Tech’s first defensive touchdown on a fumble return since 2021 and gave the visitors a 7–0 lead. Duke’s next possession ended with a missed field goal from 35 yards, and both teams traded empty drives until the final minute of the half. Duke finally broke through just before the break, tying the game with a precise 80-yard drive capped by a 20-yard touchdown catch by Landen King . At halftime, the game stood deadlocked at 7–7 , despite Duke outgaining Georgia Tech 238–110 and dominating time of possession. Jackets Adjust and Find Rhythm Georgia Tech entered the second half needing a spark on offense, and King delivered it. After Duke took its first lead of the game on a short field goal, the Jackets responded with their best drive of the day — a 63-yard march that ended with a 40-yard field goal from Aidan Birr , knotting the score at 10–10 midway through the third quarter. The sequence flipped momentum. On Duke’s next drive, Georgia Tech’s defense — led by linebacker Jy Gilmore , who posted a career-high 11 tackles — forced a three-and-out, setting up another long possession. This time, King’s blend of poise and mobility shined. The junior orchestrated an 89-yard drive capped by another Birr field goal to regain the lead, 13–10 , early in the fourth. From that point forward, Georgia Tech’s offense and defense worked in tandem to wear down Duke. King Takes Over Late With just under six minutes remaining, Georgia Tech’s offense delivered the knockout blow. A 10-yard touchdown run from Malachi Hosley capped a 72-yard drive, stretching the lead to 20–10 . The Yellow Jackets leaned on a balanced attack, as King completed three passes for 38 yards while Hosley and Jamal Haynes combined for 34 rushing yards on the series. After another defensive stand, King sealed the win with his signature play — a 28-yard scramble on third-and-eight , bursting through the middle and sprinting to the end zone with 2:10 left. The touchdown, his tenth rushing score of the season , pushed the margin to 27–10 and showcased the dual-threat ability that has defined his breakout year. King finished with 325 total yards , including 205 through the air and 120 on the ground, marking the seventh time in his Georgia Tech career he’s surpassed 100 yards in both categories. Duke’s Late Push To their credit, the Blue Devils refused to fade quietly. Mensah led a rapid 75-yard drive, completing five straight passes before connecting with Sahmir Hagans on a 19-yard touchdown to close the gap to 27–18 . A two-point conversion to Barkate cut the deficit to single digits with 1:12 remaining, but the comeback ended there. Georgia Tech recovered the ensuing onside kick and ran out the clock to secure its seventh consecutive win. Duke’s offense posted 446 total yards , including 373 passing from Mensah and a career-high 172 receiving yards from Barkate . However, turnovers, red-zone inefficiency, and special teams mistakes proved costly — a recurring theme throughout the afternoon. Defensive Excellence While King’s late-game heroics will draw headlines, Georgia Tech’s defense laid the foundation for the victory. The unit forced two fumbles , recorded five pass breakups , and held Duke to just 68 rushing yards — the fewest the Yellow Jackets have allowed all season. Gilmore’s 11 tackles led all players, while Daniels’ 95-yard fumble return not only broke the program record but also tied for the fourth-longest in ACC history . The play swung early momentum and set the tone for a defense that grew stronger as the game progressed. After surrendering 238 yards in the first half, the Jackets limited Duke to just 116 on its first four possessions after halftime. Even when Duke moved the ball efficiently, Georgia Tech’s red-zone discipline forced the Blue Devils into settling for field goals or committing drive-ending errors. Program History and Milestones The victory carried historical significance for Georgia Tech. The 7–0 start is the program’s best since the 1966 season and only the eighth time in school history the Yellow Jackets have opened with seven straight wins. It also marked the first time since 1998 that Georgia Tech has started 4–0 in ACC play . The team’s five-game winning streak against Duke is its longest since a 10-game run from 2004 to 2013. King’s performance also etched his name further into school lore. With his 205 passing yards, he became only the fifth player in program history to surpass 6,000 career passing yards — and the first to achieve the mark in just three seasons. The Turning Point The game’s turning point came midway through the third quarter when the Jackets trailed 10–7. Duke appeared to have control after an eight-minute scoring drive, but Georgia Tech’s offense responded immediately, and its defense never wavered again. From that moment on, the Yellow Jackets outscored Duke 20–8 and controlled every phase of the game. The offensive line began opening consistent running lanes, and King’s command of tempo kept Duke’s defense guessing until the final whistle. Looking Ahead With the win, Georgia Tech improved to 56–35–1 all-time against Duke and 24–21 in games played in Durham . The Jackets remain one of only two undefeated teams in the ACC, joining Virginia atop the standings. Head coach Brent Key and his team will now return home for their Homecoming matchup against Syracuse at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field. A win would mark their first 8–0 start in nearly 60 years . Duke, meanwhile, enters a bye week before traveling to Clemson on November 1, aiming to regroup after its first conference loss of the season. Final Takeaway Georgia Tech’s 27–18 win over Duke reflected everything that has defined its 2025 season — resilience, balance, and composure under pressure. Despite a sluggish first half, the Yellow Jackets’ explosive second half showcased why they are one of the ACC’s most complete teams. Daniels’ historic fumble return set the tone, and King’s late touchdown run sealed it, ensuring that Georgia Tech’s magical run continues. As the program pushes toward national contention, Saturday’s victory in Durham may stand as the defining performance of its unbeaten campaign so far.

Cardinals Hand Hurricanes First Loss Behind Opportunistic Defense MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Louisville Cardinals stunned the second-ranked Miami Hurricanes 24–21 Friday night at Hard Rock Stadium, forcing four interceptions and reclaiming the Schnellenberger Trophy in a tense finish before 66,573 fans . The win marked Louisville’s first victory over an AP top-two opponent since 2016 and ended Miami’s 10-game home winning streak. The Cardinals improved to 5–1 overall and 2–1 in the ACC , while Miami fell to 5–1 and 1–1 in league play . Quarterback Miller Moss led the way with 248 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a rushing score . Wide receiver Chris Bell continued his breakout season with nine receptions for 136 yards and both touchdown grabs. Running back Isaac Brown added 113 rushing yards on 15 carries , as the Cardinals’ balanced offense struck early and survived a late Miami rally. Defensively, Louisville controlled the tempo. The Cardinals held Miami to just 63 rushing yards on 24 attempts and intercepted quarterback Carson Beck four times — his first career game with more than two interceptions. Linebacker T.J. Capers sealed the victory with a late interception at the Louisville 30-yard line with 32 seconds remaining. Cardinals Start Fast Louisville wasted no time attacking Miami’s defense. On the opening possession, the Cardinals drove 75 yards in 11 plays. A 28-yard burst from Brown set up a fake field goal at the one-yard line, and Moss punched it in to give the visitors an early 7–0 lead. After a quick three-and-out by Miami, the Cardinals struck again. Moss found Bell on a crossing route, and the receiver outran two defenders for a 35-yard touchdown, stretching the lead to 14–0 just 10 minutes into the game. The Hurricanes, stunned by Louisville’s tempo and play-calling creativity, finally responded on their next drive. Beck connected with C.J. Daniels and Malachi Toney on back-to-back completions covering 69 total yards, setting up a two-yard touchdown run by Mark Fletcher Jr. that cut the lead to 14–7 . The first quarter ended with Louisville ahead, having scored on its first two possessions while forcing Miami to abandon its running game early. Louisville’s Defense Takes Over Momentum briefly shifted in the second quarter when the Hurricanes’ defense tightened, but Louisville’s secondary stole it back. Linebacker Antonio Watts intercepted Beck’s deep throw on the opening play of Miami’s second drive, giving the Cardinals the ball near midfield. Though the turnover didn’t immediately translate into points, it flipped field position and allowed Louisville’s defense to dictate pace. Miami’s next drive ended the same way — another deep interception, this time by Jabari Mack , who stepped in front of a sideline pass to halt a promising Hurricane possession. Toney reignited Miami’s offense with a 61-yard catch-and-run to the Louisville 9-yard line, but the Cardinals’ defense held firm. Kicker Carter Davis connected on a 27-yard field goal to narrow the gap to 14–10 with under two minutes left in the half. At halftime, Louisville led despite generating only 71 yards in its final four drives of the half. Still, the Cardinals’ defense — ranked No. 1 in the ACC entering the week — had limited Miami’s ground game and intercepted two of Beck’s passes. Special Teams Extend the Lead Louisville opened the third quarter with another composed drive, marching to Miami’s 30 before settling for a 48-yard field goal by Cooper Ranvier that pushed the lead to 17–10 . Miami answered with a steady 46-yard march of its own, capped by another Davis field goal from 41 yards out to make it 17–13 . But Louisville continued to control possession, aided by Moss’s accuracy on third downs and Bell’s consistency in the slot. Late in the third, Moss engineered an 8-play, 75-yard drive that ended with his second touchdown pass to Bell — a 36-yard strike through double coverage — restoring an 11-point advantage at 24–13 . Hurricanes Rally Late Miami’s defense briefly revived the home crowd midway through the fourth quarter. After Capers intercepted Beck for the third time, Keionte Scott stripped Brown on the very next play, and safety Zechariah Poyser recovered the fumble, returning it 13 yards to the Louisville 12. On the next snap, Toney took a jet sweep around the left side for a 12-yard touchdown. The Hurricanes then pulled out a trick play on the two-point conversion — Toney took a handoff and tossed a short pass to Daniels to cut the deficit to 24–21 with 7:37 remaining. Hard Rock Stadium erupted, sensing another Miami comeback. But Louisville’s composure held. The Cardinals’ offense drained nearly three minutes off the clock before punting, and their defense did the rest. Capers’ Interception Seals the Upset Trailing by three with just over four minutes to play, Beck guided the Hurricanes to midfield with completions to Daniels and Keelan Marion , moving into field-goal range. A short run by Jordan Lyle pushed the ball to the Louisville 31. With 36 seconds left, Miami appeared poised to at least tie the game. But on the next play, Beck’s pass over the middle was read perfectly by Capers, who leapt in front of Elija Lofton to make the game-clinching interception. Louisville’s sideline erupted as Moss took a knee to close out the program’s most significant road win in nearly a decade. It was Louisville’s first victory against a top-10 opponent on the road in 19 tries and the first time the Cardinals had beaten Miami at Hard Rock Stadium since 2023. Statistical Breakdown Louisville finished with 411 total yards — 248 through the air and 163 on the ground — while holding Miami to 334 yards of offense. The Cardinals’ four takeaways proved decisive, setting up two of their three touchdowns. Miller Moss: 23-of-37, 248 yards, 2 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD Chris Bell: 9 receptions, 136 yards, 2 TDs Isaac Brown: 15 carries, 113 yards Louisville Defense: 4 interceptions, 5 tackles for loss Miami’s offense showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with turnovers. Beck finished 25-of-35 for 271 yards, while Toney accounted for 147 total yards and two scores — one rushing and one passing on the conversion. Daniels added seven receptions for 74 yards. Trophy and Tradition With the victory, Louisville reclaimed the Schnellenberger Trophy , a bronze set of boots honoring legendary coach Howard Schnellenberger , who once led both programs. The Cardinals’ triumph marked the third straight season the rivalry had been decided by a single score. Louisville also ended Miami’s unbeaten home streak and handed the Hurricanes their first loss since November 2023 — also against the Cardinals. Looking Ahead Louisville returns home to face Boston College next Saturday at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, seeking its first 6–1 start since 2016. Miami will host Stanford on October 25, aiming to rebound before back-to-back road contests in November. Final Takeaway Louisville’s performance in Miami represented more than just an upset — it was a statement. Behind Moss’s steady leadership, Bell’s breakout game, and a defense that forced turnovers in critical moments, the Cardinals delivered their most complete win of the season. For Miami, the loss served as a harsh reminder that even the nation’s elite are vulnerable when mistakes mount. The Hurricanes’ high-powered offense met its match in a Louisville defense that refused to break — and in the end, it was the visitors celebrating under the South Florida lights with the Schnellenberger Trophy back in hand.

Bishop and Lewis Combine for Three Touchdowns as Vols Survive Razorbacks’ Late Surge KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The No. 12 Tennessee Volunteers survived a scare on Saturday night, edging Arkansas 34–31 in a back-and-forth SEC showdown at Neyland Stadium. Running backs DeSean Bishop and Peyton Lewis powered the Volunteers’ offense, combining for 232 rushing yards and three touchdowns to help Tennessee improve to 5–1 overall and 2–1 in SEC play. It was an emotional evening for the Razorbacks (2–4, 0–2), who took the field for the first time since parting ways with head coach Sam Pittman . Under interim coach Bobby Petrino , Arkansas played with renewed aggression and nearly pulled off the upset, but turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately proved costly. The Vols rolled up 485 total yards — 264 on the ground and 221 through the air — while forcing three fumbles and sacking Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green five times. Quarterback Joey Aguilar led the balanced attack with 221 passing yards and a touchdown, while wide receiver Braylon Staley added six catches for 109 yards. Early Fireworks in Knoxville Arkansas set the tone early, winning the coin toss and scoring on its opening drive. Green capped a nine-play march with an 11-yard rushing touchdown to give the Razorbacks a 7–0 lead. Tennessee answered quickly, moving 75 yards in seven plays before Bishop burst through the right side for a 17-yard touchdown run that tied the game 7–7 with 7:39 left in the first quarter. The Razorbacks retook the lead late in the period with a 28-yard field goal from Scott Starzyk to go up 10–7 after one quarter. Tennessee responded again early in the second. Max Gilbert’s 37-yard field goal made it 10–10, but Arkansas punched back moments later when running back Mike Washington Jr. powered across the goal line from one yard out to restore the lead, 17–10, midway through the quarter. Just as the Razorbacks seemed to gain momentum, the Vols struck again. Aguilar found Staley deep downfield for a 42-yard completion, and two plays later hit tight end Miles Kitselman for an eight-yard touchdown to tie the score 17–17 with just under three minutes left in the half. Vols Take Control in the Third Quarter After a first half filled with explosive plays and offensive balance, Tennessee’s defense began asserting control after halftime. Gilbert’s 50-yard field goal on the opening drive of the third quarter gave the Vols their first lead of the night at 20–17. From there, the Volunteers’ defensive front dominated the line of scrimmage. Defensive ends Joshua Josephs and Jordan Ross consistently pressured Green, forcing hurried throws and three fumbles. Daevin Hobbs and Tyre West each added sacks as the Vols racked up nine tackles for loss on the night. Midway through the third, Tennessee extended its lead on a 74-yard drive highlighted by Bishop’s steady ground gains. On second-and-goal from the two, Lewis barreled up the middle for his first touchdown of the game, making it 27–17. The defense continued its relentless play. Josephs forced another fumble early in the fourth quarter that was recovered by freshman linebacker Jadon Perlotte at the Arkansas 19-yard line. Four plays later, Lewis scored again, running over defenders on a powerful eight-yard rush to extend the lead to 34–17 with just over 13 minutes remaining. Arkansas Mounts a Comeback Down 17, Arkansas refused to back down. Green led an impressive drive midway through the fourth, hitting tight end Rohan Jones for a nine-yard touchdown to narrow the gap to 34–24. The Razorbacks’ defense forced a quick Tennessee punt, setting up another scoring opportunity. Green capitalized again, connecting with wide receiver Kam Shanks on a 12-yard strike — his first touchdown as a Razorback — to make it 34–31 with 2:55 left on the clock. The Tennessee crowd fell silent as the Razorbacks lined up for a potential game-winning drive, but Aguilar’s composure under pressure sealed the win. On second down from his own 25, the quarterback kept the ball on a designed run, breaking free for 28 yards to move the chains. A few plays later, Lewis plowed ahead for another first down, allowing the Vols to run out the final two minutes and escape with a narrow victory. Bishop Shines Before Injury Before exiting late in the third quarter with a leg injury, DeSean Bishop delivered his best collegiate performance. The sophomore running back carried the ball 14 times for a career-high 146 yards, averaging more than 10 yards per carry. His first-quarter touchdown helped spark the Tennessee offense and set the tone for the game. When Bishop went down, Peyton Lewis stepped up seamlessly, finishing with 86 rushing yards on 17 carries and two scores. His physical running style wore down the Razorbacks’ defense and helped Tennessee control the clock late in the game. Aguilar’s efficiency complemented the ground attack. The junior quarterback completed 16 of 25 passes and displayed excellent pocket awareness, connecting with seven different receivers. Staley, in particular, was a consistent deep threat, notching his first 100-yard receiving game of the season. Defensive Grit and Key Takeaways While the offense provided the fireworks, Tennessee’s defense made the difference when it mattered most. The Vols’ ability to create turnovers and apply pressure proved crucial against a mobile quarterback like Green. Safety Andre Turrentine led the team with 11 tackles, while Edrees Farooq added nine stops, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup. Linebacker Arion Carter chipped in eight tackles and a fumble recovery, continuing his breakout season. Ross and Josephs were constant forces on the edge, combining for 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. Their disruption prevented Arkansas from establishing consistent rhythm, even as Green fought to keep drives alive with his legs. Despite giving up late scores, the defense held firm in the final minutes, allowing just 77 rushing yards in the second half after yielding 156 before the break. Razorbacks Show Fight Amid Transition For Arkansas, the loss came with both frustration and promise. Under interim coach Bobby Petrino , the Razorbacks played with urgency, displaying a more aggressive offensive approach. Green completed 23 of 35 passes for 256 yards, two touchdowns, and one rushing score while adding 63 yards on the ground. Running back Mike Washington Jr. was equally impressive, rushing for 131 yards on 19 carries — his second 100-yard performance since transferring to Arkansas. Wide receiver Raylen Sharpe caught seven passes for 74 yards, extending his streak of games with a reception to 35, one of the longest active runs in the nation. Defensively, linebacker Stephen Dix Jr. led the team with 11 tackles, marking his fourth career double-digit game and second of the season. Still, the Razorbacks’ inability to capitalize on turnovers and a failed fourth-down attempt deep in Tennessee territory proved decisive. What’s Next Tennessee’s victory kept its SEC title hopes alive and provided momentum heading into a crucial stretch that includes matchups against Alabama, Kentucky, and Oklahoma. The Vols’ offense continues to evolve, but their defense remains the foundation of their success. Arkansas, meanwhile, will look to regroup at home next week when it hosts Texas A&M . The Razorbacks will aim to clean up turnovers and build on Green’s improved command of the offense as they navigate the remainder of a challenging conference slate. In the end, Tennessee’s mix of explosive offense and opportunistic defense proved just enough to hold off a determined Arkansas team. The victory wasn’t perfect, but it was another reminder that the Volunteers remain a legitimate SEC contender .

Fighting Irish Win Fourth Straight Behind Carr’s Career Day SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The No. 16 Notre Dame Fighting Irish extended their winning streak to four games with a decisive 36–7 victory over the NC State Wolfpack on Saturday at Notre Dame Stadium. Despite a close first half that ended 10–7 in favor of the Irish, the home team erupted in the second half, scoring 26 unanswered points and shutting down one of the ACC’s top offenses. Quarterback C.J. Carr led the charge with a career-best performance, throwing for 342 yards and two touchdowns . His precision passing and command of the offense fueled a balanced attack that overwhelmed NC State’s defense. Wide receivers Will Pauling and K.K. Smith each found the end zone, while tight end Eli Raridon turned in his first career 100-yard game, catching seven passes for 109 yards. Running back Jeremiyah Love added 86 rushing yards and two touchdowns as the Irish improved to 4–2 on the season. Their defense, meanwhile, continued its dominant stretch, forcing four turnovers — including three interceptions — and recording a safety to cap off a second-half shutout. Early Battle: NC State Holds Strong Notre Dame opened the game with authority, driving 75 yards on its first possession. After several completions from Carr to Pauling, Love powered his way into the end zone from two yards out to give the Irish an early 7–0 lead . NC State, however, quickly showed it would not go quietly. The Wolfpack defense forced back-to-back punts and then capitalized on field position midway through the second quarter. Quarterback C.J. Bailey connected with wide receiver Terrell Anderson for a 45-yard touchdown strike, tying the game at 7–7. Anderson, who entered the game as NC State’s leading receiver, would later leave with an injury and not return. The Wolfpack defense followed with one of its best sequences of the afternoon, stopping Notre Dame on a fourth-down attempt deep in Irish territory. But the Irish regained momentum before halftime. With time winding down, Carr guided a quick drive featuring completions to Raridon and Malachi Fields , setting up kicker Noah Burnette for a 48-yard field goal that gave Notre Dame a 10–7 lead at the break. At halftime, NC State’s defense had held the Irish to just 59 rushing yards — tied for Notre Dame’s lowest first-half total this season — and looked poised to keep the game within reach. Second Half Surge: Notre Dame Pulls Away The tide turned completely in the third quarter. Notre Dame’s offense found its rhythm early, thanks to a well-timed fake punt that changed the game’s complexion. Facing fourth-and-two on their own 38-yard line, the Irish lined up to punt but shifted into a direct snap to backup quarterback Tyler Buchner , who powered forward for a first down. The successful trick play ignited the Notre Dame sideline and silenced the Wolfpack crowd. Moments later, Carr hit Smith on an 18-yard touchdown pass to extend the lead to 17–7 . The Irish would never look back. On NC State’s next possession, pressure from Notre Dame’s defensive front forced Bailey into a hurried throw that was intercepted by safety Adon Shuler and returned deep into Wolfpack territory. Although the Irish offense couldn’t reach the end zone on that series, Burnette’s 34-yard field goal pushed the lead to 20–7 . The Wolfpack offense unraveled from there. Bailey threw another interception on the following drive, this time to linebacker Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa , setting up another short field for Notre Dame. Two plays later, Carr connected with Pauling for a 12-yard touchdown, making it 27–7 midway through the third quarter. As the Wolfpack continued to struggle with ball control, the Irish defense tightened its grip. Defensive lineman Boubacar Traore recorded two of Notre Dame’s four sacks, repeatedly collapsing the pocket and forcing errant throws. The relentless pressure culminated in a disastrous sequence for NC State — a fumble in the end zone recovered for a safety — giving Notre Dame a 29–7 advantage late in the third quarter. Fourth Quarter Control: Irish Seal the Win The Irish added one more touchdown in the fourth quarter to complete the rout. Following the safety, Carr found Raridon on a deep route to set up Love’s second rushing touchdown of the game from four yards out. That score capped a 26–0 second-half surge and showcased Notre Dame’s offensive depth. Defensively, the Irish closed the game in dominant fashion. Cornerback Karson Hobbs intercepted a desperation pass from Bailey in the red zone on NC State’s final drive, marking the team’s third pick of the day. From there, Notre Dame entered victory formation to close out the 36–7 win. The second-half dominance was reflected in the numbers: Notre Dame outgained NC State 277–75 after halftime and controlled possession for over 19 minutes. The Irish finished with 485 total yards of offense , their second-highest output of the season, while holding NC State to a season-low 233 yards. Defensive Prowess and Key Performances Notre Dame’s defense once again proved why it’s among the nation’s best. The unit allowed just three touchdowns in its last three games and has generated seven interceptions over that span. Linebackers Drayk Bowen and Tae Johnson led the team with seven tackles apiece, while the front line dominated the trenches, recording five tackles for loss and a safety. For NC State, it was a frustrating day offensively. Bailey completed 17 of 30 passes for 186 yards and one touchdown but was intercepted three times. Running back Hollywood Smothers — the ACC’s leading rusher entering the game — was held to just 46 yards on 12 carries. The Wolfpack, averaging over 440 yards per game coming in, were limited to barely half that production. NC State’s lone bright spot came from linebacker Caden Fordham , who led all players with 10 tackles and a sack. But the Wolfpack defense struggled to contain Notre Dame’s passing game, allowing multiple receivers to surpass 100 yards for the first time this season. The Turning Point The game’s pivotal moment came with the fake punt early in the third quarter. That gamble shifted momentum firmly in Notre Dame’s favor, sparking three straight scoring drives and breaking open what had been a tightly contested matchup. From that point on, the Wolfpack never recovered, as turnovers and injuries compounded their second-half collapse. Notre Dame’s ability to adjust offensively — spreading the field through Carr’s passing attack instead of relying solely on its running game — was another key factor. By the fourth quarter, the Wolfpack defense had little left, overwhelmed by tempo and precision passing. Looking Ahead The win improved Notre Dame’s record to 4–2 and strengthened its case to move up in the national rankings. The Irish will return home next weekend for a marquee matchup against Southern California , looking to continue their climb toward a potential New Year’s Six bowl appearance. NC State, now 4–3 , will enter a much-needed bye week before traveling to Pittsburgh on October 25. The Wolfpack have lost three of their last four games, and head coach Dave Doeren’s group will look to regroup and refocus for the stretch run of conference play. For Notre Dame, the victory was a complete statement of balance and resilience. The Irish combined explosive offense, relentless defense, and sharp in-game adjustments to turn a narrow halftime lead into a commanding win. As October continues, the message from South Bend is clear — this team is playing its best football at the right time.

Longhorns’ Defense Shines as Arch Manning Leads Balanced Attack DALLAS, Texas — The annual Red River Rivalry delivered another classic chapter Saturday at the Cotton Bowl, but this time, it was Texas that dictated every phase of the game. Behind a smothering defense and a composed outing from quarterback Arch Manning , the Longhorns overpowered No. 6 Oklahoma 23–6, reclaiming the Golden Hat trophy and reasserting their place among the nation’s elite. The victory marked the second straight year Texas has defeated Oklahoma and the first time since 2008–09 that the Longhorns have won consecutive games in the historic rivalry. More importantly, it gave Texas (4–2, 1–1 SEC) its first victory over a top-10 opponent this season, while the Sooners (5–1, 1–1) suffered their first loss of the year. Manning completed 21 of 27 passes for 166 yards and one touchdown, spreading the ball across multiple receivers with precision and poise. Running back Quintrevion Wisner powered the ground attack with 94 rushing yards on 22 carries, adding 35 receiving yards to cap off a productive afternoon. Texas finished with 302 total yards, converting on third down at an extraordinary rate — 11-of-12 — while controlling time of possession and tempo throughout the contest. First Half: Oklahoma Strikes Early, but Texas Responds Oklahoma opened the scoring with a 42-yard field goal from Tate Sandell after an early defensive stop. On the Sooners’ next possession, a defensive stand by Texas forced another field goal, giving Oklahoma a 6–0 lead at the end of the first quarter. But from that point forward, the game shifted decisively in the Longhorns’ favor. The turning point came midway through the second quarter when Texas defensive back Malik Muhammad intercepted a pass from Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer near midfield. The takeaway energized the Texas sideline and set up a short drive that resulted in a 22-yard field goal from Mason Shipley , trimming the deficit to 6–3. The Longhorns’ defense struck again late in the half when Muhammad intercepted another pass — this time in the end zone — preventing an Oklahoma score before halftime. It marked the first multi-interception performance by a Texas player in the Red River Rivalry since 2016. Although Texas trailed 6–3 at the break, the second half would belong entirely to the Longhorns. Second Half: Manning and the Defense Take Over Texas wasted no time seizing control after the break. Manning orchestrated a 75-yard drive on the opening possession of the third quarter, completing all six of his pass attempts. He capped the drive with a 12-yard touchdown strike to wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. , giving Texas its first lead at 10–6 with 7:49 remaining in the third quarter. On Oklahoma’s ensuing drive, Texas’ front seven applied relentless pressure. Edge rusher Colin Simmons recorded his third consecutive game with a sack, pushing the Sooners out of scoring range. After another Texas stop, Shipley drilled a 48-yard field goal — the longest of his season — extending the Longhorns’ lead to 13–6 heading into the fourth quarter. The Texas defense continued to dominate, holding Oklahoma to just 88 total yards in the second half and forcing three interceptions overall — the most by Texas in the rivalry since 2002. Linebackers Brad Spence and Lance Jackson combined for a critical late-game sack that halted Oklahoma’s final drive, punctuating a complete defensive performance. Fourth Quarter: Niblett’s Punt Return Breaks the Game Open With less than 10 minutes remaining, Texas delivered the knockout blow. Following another defensive stand, freshman Ryan Niblett fielded a 48-yard punt near his own 25-yard line, sprinted up the right sideline, and broke free for a 75-yard touchdown — his first career return score and the longest punt return in the rivalry since 2013. The play sent the Texas sideline and the Cotton Bowl crowd into a frenzy, extending the lead to 20–6 with 9:59 left. Oklahoma’s offense, desperate to respond, managed only brief flashes of rhythm. A promising drive late in the fourth quarter stalled at the Texas 27-yard line after Mateer was sacked on consecutive plays and then threw incomplete on fourth down. Texas capitalized on the ensuing possession with Shipley’s third field goal of the day, this time from 39 yards, putting the game out of reach at 23–6. From there, the Longhorns’ defense closed the door. On Oklahoma’s final drive, Mateer was sacked again — this time by a combination of Spence and Jackson — before Texas ran out the clock to secure the dominant win. Defensive Brilliance Defines the Win The hallmark of the Texas performance was its defensive intensity and precision. The Longhorns held Oklahoma without a touchdown — the first time they have done so against a top-10 opponent since 1979, when they blanked Missouri 21–0. Texas limited Oklahoma to just 258 total yards , including 88 after halftime, and allowed the Sooners to convert only three of 13 third downs. The Longhorns also held their opponent under 100 rushing yards for the fifth time in six games this season. Muhammad’s two interceptions led a defensive unit that thrived on disruption. Simmons, Spence, and Jackson combined for three sacks, while defensive backs Graceson Littleton and Jahdae Barron provided lockdown coverage on the outside. Linebacker Anthony Hill added five tackles and a pair of quarterback pressures, contributing to a group that swarmed to the football on every possession. Special Teams and Offensive Efficiency Texas’ special teams were equally instrumental in the win. In addition to Niblett’s electrifying return, Shipley remained steady, going 3-for-5 on field goals, including makes from 22, 48, and 39 yards. His two long-range conversions helped Texas maintain control even when drives stalled. Offensively, Manning’s efficiency stood out. The sophomore quarterback finished with an 81 percent completion rate, including 11-for-12 passing on third downs — an exceptional mark that kept the offense moving and wore down Oklahoma’s defense. Wisner’s physical running style complemented Manning’s precision. His 37-yard burst in the second quarter set up Texas’ first field goal, while his short-yardage consistency allowed the Longhorns to stay ahead of the chains. Wide receivers Moore Jr. and Parker Livingstone provided reliable options in the passing game, while tight end Gunnar Helm contributed key blocks that helped open running lanes. Texas’ offensive line also deserves credit for protecting Manning, allowing just one sack against an Oklahoma defense that had averaged three per game entering the matchup. Oklahoma’s Missed Opportunities For the Sooners, the afternoon was one of frustration and missed chances. Quarterback John Mateer , making his return from hand surgery, threw for 202 yards but was intercepted three times — all at crucial junctures. Wideouts Deion Burks and Isaiah Sategna III each surpassed 60 receiving yards, while freshman Tory Blaylock led the team in rushing with just 33 yards. Defensively, Oklahoma’s front seven made occasional stops, with Kendall Daniels leading the team with six tackles and Taylor Wein adding three tackles for loss. However, the Sooners failed to generate consistent pressure, allowing Manning to settle into rhythm throughout the second half. The loss marked Oklahoma’s second straight in the Red River Rivalry, following a 34–3 defeat last season, and dropped them out of the ranks of the nation’s unbeaten teams. Looking Ahead With the victory, Texas improved to 65–51–5 all-time against Oklahoma in one of college football’s most storied rivalries. The Longhorns will travel to Lexington next week to face Kentucky, while Oklahoma heads to Columbia to take on South Carolina. The win restored momentum to a Texas team that entered the contest needing a statement performance. For head coach Steve Sarkisian’s squad, it was proof of growth — a display of balance, discipline, and defensive excellence that reestablished the Longhorns as a force in the SEC. From start to finish, the Longhorns outplayed, outcoached, and outlasted their fiercest rival, leaving Dallas with both the Golden Hat and a renewed sense of purpose for the rest of the season.

Cougars Overcome Weather Delay and Fourth-Quarter Deficit to Remain Perfect TUCSON, Ariz. — The No. 18 BYU Cougars remained undefeated in dramatic fashion Saturday night, overcoming a lightning delay, a double-overtime battle, and a ten-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Arizona 33–27 at Arizona Stadium. The victory improved BYU to 6–0 overall and 3–0 in Big 12 play , marking the first time in program history the Cougars have opened back-to-back seasons with six consecutive wins. Freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier powered BYU’s comeback with 172 passing yards and 89 rushing yards , accounting for three total touchdowns. His seven-yard rushing score in the second overtime sealed the win after a grueling five-hour contest that tested both teams’ stamina and composure. Running back LJ Martin turned in a career-best performance with 162 rushing yards and one touchdown , pacing an offense that produced 258 yards on the ground — the most Arizona has allowed in a game this season. Linebacker Siale Esera led BYU’s defense with a career-high 16 tackles as the Cougars held firm late to preserve the victory. For Arizona (4–2, 1–2 Big 12) , the loss was a heartbreaker. The Wildcats led 24–14 midway through the fourth quarter but were unable to hold off BYU’s late surge. Quarterback Noah Fifita threw for 219 yards and two touchdowns, while receiver Kris Hutson hauled in nine passes for 106 yards and a score. Fast Start for the Cougars BYU opened the game with precision and pace, dominating the early stages on both sides of the ball. The Cougars marched downfield on their second possession, with Martin bursting through the middle for a 28-yard touchdown that gave them a 7–0 lead midway through the first quarter. Moments later, Bachmeier connected with wideout Parker Kingston over the middle for a 75-yard touchdown strike, extending the advantage to 14–0. The Cougars appeared in full control, executing crisp blocking schemes and converting both third-down attempts on the opening drives. Arizona’s offense found rhythm late in the first quarter as Fifita began distributing the ball efficiently. A 14-play, 77-yard drive culminated in Chris Hunter’s 35-yard touchdown reception, trimming BYU’s lead to 14–7 early in the second quarter. Just as the Wildcats gained momentum, play was halted by a lightning delay caused by the remnants of Hurricane Priscilla. The stoppage lasted more than 75 minutes and shifted the tone of the game entirely. Arizona Takes Control After Delay The extended delay seemed to benefit the home team. When play resumed, Arizona’s defense tightened, forcing BYU into consecutive punts. Fifita capitalized late in the half, leading an efficient two-minute drive capped by a touchdown pass to Hunter, giving Arizona its first lead at 17–14 heading into halftime. BYU’s rushing attack, which dominated early, stalled under Arizona’s adjustments. The Wildcats’ front seven began winning battles at the line of scrimmage, limiting Martin’s space and disrupting Bachmeier’s rhythm. Arizona extended its lead in the third quarter, capitalizing on BYU’s first turnover. Fifita orchestrated a balanced drive, mixing short completions with runs from Kedrick Reescano , who broke multiple tackles for a 36-yard touchdown run. The score gave the Wildcats a 24–14 advantage with just over 11 minutes to play, putting the Cougars in unfamiliar territory. Bachmeier and the Cougars Battle Back Facing their largest deficit of the season, BYU turned to its freshman quarterback. Bachmeier responded with a poised, methodical approach that showcased both his arm and legs. On a crucial fourth-quarter possession, he led a 12-play, 75-yard drive, highlighted by two scrambles that kept the offense alive on third down. With less than 20 seconds remaining, Bachmeier rolled right and powered through defenders for a two-yard touchdown, tying the game at 24–24 and sending it to overtime. BYU’s defense matched the intensity. Esera and linebacker Faletau Satuala combined for multiple key tackles on Arizona’s ensuing drives, including a stop at the one-yard line that prevented the Wildcats from reclaiming the lead earlier in the quarter. The defensive front, led by Cashius Howell and Isaiah Glasker , disrupted Fifita’s timing and limited explosive plays downfield. First Overtime: Trading Blows The opening overtime period mirrored the game’s dramatic swings. Both teams exchanged field goals — BYU’s Randy Bond converted from 38 yards, while Arizona’s Trey Smack answered with a 42-yarder to make it 27–27 . BYU appeared poised to end it in the first extra session, but a third-down pass from Bachmeier was deflected at the line. The Wildcats’ defense momentarily held firm, setting up a second overtime that would determine the outcome. Second Overtime: Bachmeier Seals It In the second overtime, BYU wasted no time asserting control. On third-and-four from the seven-yard line, Bachmeier called his own number, slicing through the middle for the go-ahead touchdown. The two-point conversion attempt was broken up, keeping the score 33–27 and leaving the door open for Arizona. The Wildcats’ final drive ended in heartbreak. On fourth down, Fifita’s fade pass toward the back of the end zone slipped through receiver Javin Whatley’s hands, falling incomplete and sealing BYU’s sixth consecutive win. As the Cougars celebrated, their defense — which had endured nearly 90 plays — walked off the field with another defining moment in a season built on resilience and balance. Key Performances Bachmeier’s leadership under pressure defined the night. The freshman finished with 261 total yards and three touchdowns, becoming the first BYU quarterback since 2014 to lead a double-digit fourth-quarter comeback. His mobility and decision-making were instrumental in sustaining drives during the Cougars’ late push. Martin’s 162-yard outing marked the fifth 100-yard rushing game of his career and his third this season. The offensive line, led by Kingsley Suamataia , paved the way for 258 total rushing yards — BYU’s highest single-game total since joining the Big 12. Defensively, Esera’s 16 tackles doubled his previous career high, while Glasker’s interception in the third quarter halted an Arizona drive deep in BYU territory. The defense also tallied seven tackles for loss and two takeaways, including Howell’s late-game fumble recovery that flipped momentum in the fourth quarter. For Arizona, Fifita’s 219 passing yards and two touchdowns highlighted another efficient outing, but late pressure and dropped passes derailed potential scoring drives. Reescano’s 91 rushing yards and physical style gave the Wildcats balance early, while Hutson’s reliability in key situations kept the chains moving throughout the night. Historical Context and What’s Next The win cemented BYU’s place among college football’s most consistent programs under head coach Kalani Sitake , who secured his 75th career victory . It also marked the Cougars’ first overtime win since 2022, when they defeated Baylor 26–20 in Provo. For BYU, the victory not only preserved an undefeated record but also secured bowl eligibility for the eighth time in the Sitake era. The Cougars will now prepare for their next major test — a home matchup against rival Utah on Saturday, Oct. 18. Arizona, meanwhile, will look to regroup when it travels to Houston next weekend. Despite the loss, the Wildcats showed flashes of the offensive efficiency that fueled their early-season success. Final Takeaway Saturday night in Tucson offered a showcase of BYU’s character — a blend of grit, depth, and discipline that continues to define its ascent in the Big 12. Through lightning delays, a hostile crowd, and a double-overtime test, the Cougars proved once again why they belong among college football’s elite. For a young quarterback like Bachmeier and a team determined to sustain perfection, the 33–27 victory wasn’t just another win — it was a defining moment in a season built on composure, belief, and execution

Ty Simpson’s Poise and Late Touchdown Lead Tide to Victory in Columbia COLUMBIA, Mo. — No. 8 Alabama continued its midseason surge on Saturday afternoon, escaping Columbia with a hard-fought 27–24 win over No. 14 Missouri. Quarterback Ty Simpson threw for 200 yards and three touchdowns — including the game-clincher on fourth down late in the fourth quarter — to help the Crimson Tide secure their fifth consecutive victory and third straight against a ranked opponent. With the win, Alabama improved to 5–1 overall and 3–0 in SEC play , while Missouri suffered its first loss of the season after a 5–0 start. The Tigers’ 15-game home winning streak — the second-longest in the nation — came to an end in front of a sold-out crowd of 57,321 fans at Faurot Field. Simpson completed 23 of 31 passes and maintained his season streak of multiple touchdown games, while running back Jam Miller added 85 rushing yards before exiting with a concussion in the fourth quarter. Wideouts Kevin Riley and Isaiah Horton each caught touchdown passes, and freshman Daniel Hill hauled in the decisive score late in the game. On defense, Alabama leaned on linebacker Deontae Lawson and defensive end LT Overton , who combined for 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Defensive back Dijon Lee Jr. sealed the game with his first collegiate interception in the final minute, ending Missouri’s hopes of a last-second comeback. Fast Start for the Tigers Missouri began the game with confidence, silencing the crimson-clad visitors early. Quarterback Beau Pribula led a six-play, 78-yard opening drive, capped by a 26-yard strike to tight end Brett Norfleet for a 7–0 lead. The Tigers’ offense looked sharp, with Pribula extending plays on the ground and targeting mismatches across the middle. Alabama responded immediately. Simpson methodically led an 11-play, 78-yard drive, finishing with a six-yard touchdown pass to Riley. After a quick Missouri three-and-out, the Tide capitalized again as Simpson connected with Horton for a 16-yard touchdown, putting Alabama ahead 14–7 midway through the second quarter. Conor Talty extended the Tide’s lead with a 46-yard field goal, matching his career long, before Missouri added a late first-half field goal to make it 17–10 at the break. Missouri Fights Back Missouri’s defense opened the second half with energy. On the first play, defensive linemen Zion Young and Josiah Trotter combined for a strip-sack on Simpson, and Damon Wilson recovered the fumble at the Tide 19-yard line. Pribula capitalized quickly, faking a handoff and scrambling five yards for the game-tying touchdown to make it 17–17. For a moment, the momentum seemed to swing toward the home sideline. The Tigers’ defense continued to pressure Simpson, sacking him four times and forcing multiple hurried throws. But Alabama remained composed, controlling possession for nearly 39 minutes — a key factor in wearing down Missouri’s front seven. Late in the third quarter, the Tide regained control with a grinding 17-play, 66-yard drive that chewed up nearly nine minutes of clock. Talty capped the possession with a 22-yard field goal to restore Alabama’s lead at 20–17 heading into the fourth. Fourth Quarter Heroics With just over nine minutes left, Missouri’s offense stalled on its own 37-yard line facing a fourth-and-four. The Tigers attempted a fake punt, snapping the ball to up-back Jamal Roberts , who lunged toward the sideline but was ruled short of the line to gain. Alabama took over with prime field position, and the turning point of the game followed. On fourth-and-eight, Simpson delivered a perfect throw to freshman Lotzeir Brooks for a 29-yard gain down the sideline. The drive continued to the Missouri 2-yard line, where on fourth-and-goal, Simpson flipped a short pass to Hill for the touchdown that extended Alabama’s lead to 27–17 with 3:16 remaining. Missouri refused to fold. Pribula led a lightning-quick 75-yard drive, finishing with a three-yard touchdown to Donovan Olugbode with 1:39 left. The Tigers’ onside kick attempt failed, but their defense forced a three-and-out to give the offense one final chance. With 37 seconds remaining, Pribula fired toward Olugbode again, only to be intercepted by Lee Jr. , ending Missouri’s comeback hopes and preserving Alabama’s seventh straight win in the series dating back to 1978. Alabama’s Balanced Attack Alabama’s victory showcased its evolving offensive identity under head coach Kalen DeBoer . The Tide mixed tempo with precision, finishing with 325 total yards despite facing one of the SEC’s top defensive units. Simpson distributed passes to eight different receivers, with Brooks leading the group with 58 yards and multiple clutch receptions. The Tide’s offensive line held steady after a shaky start, allowing pressure early but tightening in key drives. The unit also paved the way for a 125-yard rushing effort that helped Alabama control the clock nearly two-to-one over Missouri. Hill’s fourth-quarter touchdown marked the first of his collegiate career, while offensive lineman Parker Brailsford added a memorable highlight, catching a deflected pass for his first career reception. Defensive Consistency Defines the Tide Defensively, Alabama continued its reputation for adaptability. Lawson and Chris Hill-Green anchored the linebacker corps, while Overton , a standout sophomore, delivered one of his best games with 1.5 sacks and consistent disruption. The defense held Missouri star running back Ahmad Hardy — the nation’s leading rusher entering the game — to just 52 yards on 12 carries . The Tide’s secondary stepped up when needed most. In addition to Lee Jr.’s game-sealing interception, safety Bray Hubbard notched a takeaway earlier in the second half, helping Alabama maintain momentum after the early fumble. The defensive effort underscored DeBoer’s “bend but don’t break” philosophy, as the Tide limited Missouri to just 1-for-10 on third-down conversions . The Tigers moved the ball between the 20s but repeatedly stalled under Alabama’s pass rush. Missouri’s Missed Opportunities Despite outgaining Alabama 330–325, Missouri’s inability to capitalize on key moments proved decisive. Pribula finished 16-of-28 for 167 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions while also leading the team in rushing with 61 yards. Hardy and Roberts combined for 102 rushing yards, but neither broke a run longer than 15 yards. The Tigers’ defense, led by Wilson and Trotter , sacked Simpson four times and forced a critical turnover, but couldn’t overcome Alabama’s fourth-down efficiency. Missouri converted just one of its 10 third-down attempts , an uncharacteristic struggle for an offense that entered the game ranked among the SEC’s best in sustained drives. Key Takeaways and What’s Next The win extended Alabama’s streak to seven straight victories over Missouri and marked its third consecutive win against a ranked opponent — a feat achieved by only five SEC teams in history. DeBoer improved to 18–3 all-time against AP Top 25 teams and 6–1 since joining Alabama, solidifying his status as one of college football’s most consistent big-game coaches. Alabama now returns to Tuscaloosa for a marquee showdown against No. 12 Tennessee on Oct. 18. Missouri, meanwhile, faces its first road test of the season at Auburn , looking to regroup and keep its SEC title hopes alive. Saturday’s thriller in Columbia was defined by grit, composure, and execution under pressure — trademarks of a championship-caliber team. For Alabama, the victory was more than another number in the win column. It was proof that the Crimson Tide, once again, are finding their stride at the perfect time.

Aggies Overpower Gators Behind Reed’s Dual-Threat Performance COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The fifth-ranked Texas A&M Aggies continued their undefeated run Saturday night at Kyle Field, defeating Florida 34–17 in front of 105,086 fans . With the win, the Aggies improved to 6–0 overall and 3–0 in SEC play , marking their best start since 2016 and solidifying their position among the nation’s elite programs. Quarterback Marcel Reed led the Aggies’ balanced offense with 234 passing yards , one touchdown, and a rushing score. The redshirt sophomore completed 16 of 26 passes and added 37 yards on the ground, showcasing the poise and versatility that have anchored Texas A&M’s undefeated season. Running back Rueben Owens contributed 51 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, while fellow back Le’Veon Moss added 46 yards and a score before exiting with an injury. Florida, meanwhile, fell to 2–4 (1–2 SEC) and continued its struggles away from home, dropping to 0–14 under head coach Billy Napier in road games against ranked opponents. Quarterback DJ Lagway threw for 245 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Amir Jackson and Dallas Wilson , but the Gators were held to just three points over the final three quarters after a strong opening frame. Aggies and Gators Trade Early Blows The first quarter set the stage for what looked like a shootout between two high-powered offenses. Florida struck first, capping an eight-play, 75-yard drive with Lagway’s one-yard touchdown pass to tight end Amir Jackson. The Aggies needed less than a minute to respond. On their first play from scrimmage, Reed hit Mario Craver for a 67-yard bomb, setting up his own eight-yard touchdown run two plays later to even the score at 7–7. Texas A&M’s next drive mirrored its first — methodical, balanced, and efficient. Reed engineered an 81-yard march capped by a 22-yard touchdown pass to freshman Jamarion Morrow , giving the Aggies their first lead at 14–7. Florida answered immediately with another long drive, as Lagway connected with Wilson for a six-yard touchdown to tie it at 14 apiece. The first quarter featured a combined 353 yards of offense, with both teams trading punches in an explosive start. Texas A&M averaged 13.1 yards per play in the opening period, while Florida averaged just over nine. However, as the night went on, the Aggies’ defense began to assert itself, turning the game from a track meet into a grind. Texas A&M Takes Control Before Halftime Momentum began to shift early in the second quarter. Running back Le’Veon Moss broke free for a 22-yard touchdown run to give the Aggies a 21–14 lead — a margin they would not relinquish. From that point on, Texas A&M controlled the pace on both sides of the ball. Defensively, the Aggies tightened coverage and began winning the battle up front. Linebacker Daymion Sanford led the charge with eight tackles, a forced fumble, and a quarterback hurry, while cornerback Tyreek Chappell and safety Marcus Ratcliffe provided key stops in coverage. The defensive line’s pressure limited Lagway’s effectiveness, forcing hurried throws and stalling Florida’s drives. Despite a few missed opportunities, Texas A&M entered halftime with confidence. The Aggies’ three first-half touchdowns came on their first three possessions, producing 21 points on 231 yards of offense. Meanwhile, Florida’s early rhythm began to fade, as the Gators failed to capitalize on a late scoring chance before the break. Aggies Defense Takes Over in the Second Half The third quarter showcased Texas A&M’s defensive dominance. After forcing a fumble on Florida’s opening drive, Sanford’s recovery at the Gators’ 29-yard line set up a 26-yard field goal from kicker Randy Bond , extending the Aggies’ lead to 24–14. The turnover marked Sanford’s second consecutive game forcing a fumble, continuing his emergence as a defensive leader. Florida responded with a 45-yard field goal from Trey Smack to cut the deficit to 24–17, but it would be the last points the Gators scored. The Aggies’ defense tightened, holding Florida to just 101 total yards over the second and third quarters combined. The Gators converted only one of ten third-down attempts , a continuation of Texas A&M’s remarkable third-down dominance this season — holding SEC opponents to a combined 2-for-33 on conversions. While the defenses settled in, Texas A&M’s offense methodically wore down the Gators’ front seven. Reed’s composure under pressure and steady play-calling kept drives alive, even when big plays weren’t available. Sealing the Win with Clock Control Early in the fourth quarter, Florida had a chance to shift momentum when safety Jordan Castell intercepted Reed in the end zone. But the Gators’ ensuing drive stalled near midfield, and their decision to go for it on fourth-and-six backfired. Lagway’s pass fell incomplete, handing possession back to the Aggies — a turning point that would effectively end the comeback bid. Texas A&M responded with its most punishing drive of the night — a 12-play, 53-yard march that consumed more than eight minutes of game time. Owens capped the series with a two-yard touchdown run to make it 31–17 with 4:39 remaining. Florida’s next possession ended almost immediately when Dayon Hayes sacked Lagway and forced a fumble, leading to another Bond field goal that sealed the 34–17 final. The Aggies finished with 417 yards of total offense , including 183 on the ground , marking their fifth consecutive game surpassing 400 yards. It was a statement of balance and depth — hallmarks of head coach Mike Elko’s disciplined approach through six weeks. Standout Performances Marcel Reed once again served as the catalyst for Texas A&M’s attack. His ability to extend plays and deliver under pressure was evident throughout, and Saturday’s performance marked his seventh career game with both a passing and rushing touchdown. Wide receiver Mario Craver provided a major spark with 77 receiving yards , including his 67-yard first-quarter grab that set up the Aggies’ opening touchdown. His effort pushed him past 1,000 career receiving yards . Meanwhile, Owens and Moss combined for nearly 100 rushing yards despite Moss leaving before halftime. Defensively, Sanford’s all-around impact stood out, while defensive end Cashius Howell recorded his eighth sack of the season — continuing his streak of at least one sack in every SEC game. The Aggies’ depth on defense was on full display, as they recorded multiple stops on third down and forced two key turnovers. Florida’s Frustration Continues For the Gators, Saturday’s defeat added to a string of missed opportunities on the road. Lagway’s 245 passing yards and two touchdowns kept Florida competitive early, but the offense faltered once the Aggies’ defense adjusted. Wide receiver Vernell Brown III led Florida with 77 receiving yards, while tight end Amir Jackson scored his first career touchdown. Still, Florida’s inability to convert third downs and sustain drives proved costly. Despite showing flashes of promise, the Gators were once again unable to translate early momentum into a full 60-minute performance. The loss dropped Florida to 0–10 in true road games against ranked teams under Napier, continuing a troubling trend that has defined much of his tenure. Looking Ahead Texas A&M will take its unbeaten record on the road next weekend, beginning a three-game stretch away from Kyle Field. The Aggies face Arkansas on Saturday, Oct. 18, followed by matchups with Ole Miss and LSU later in the month. With their balanced offense and dominant defense, they remain well-positioned for a potential SEC title run. Florida returns home for Homecoming to host Mississippi State . The matchup offers an opportunity for the Gators to rebound, but their continued struggles in hostile environments remain a major storyline as the season progresses. In College Station, the message from Texas A&M remains clear: stay focused, stay disciplined, and finish . Saturday’s 34–17 victory reaffirmed that this Aggies team is not just undefeated — it’s evolving into a championship-caliber squad built on consistency and control.

Hoosiers Snap Oregon’s 18-Game Home Winning Streak in Historic Upset EUGENE, Ore. — The No. 7 Indiana Hoosiers made history Saturday night at Autzen Stadium, taking down No. 3 Oregon 30–20 in a statement road win that sent shockwaves across the college football landscape. Behind a poised fourth-quarter performance from quarterback Fernando Mendoza and a dominant defensive showing, the Hoosiers handed Oregon its first regular-season loss in nearly two years. The victory marked Indiana’s first win over a top-five opponent since 1967, when they defeated then-No. 3 Purdue, and their second-ever win over a top-five team on the road. It also snapped Oregon’s 18-game home winning streak — the longest active run in the nation — and an even longer 23-game regular-season winning streak . Mendoza led the way with 215 yards passing and one touchdown, while running back Roman Hemby added two short rushing scores. Wide receiver Elijah Sarratt recorded eight catches for 121 yards, including the game-winning touchdown midway through the fourth quarter. On defense, Indiana produced six sacks, forced two interceptions, and limited Oregon’s high-powered offense — which entered averaging over 500 yards per game — to just 267 total yards . Early Exchanges and a Physical First Half The game opened with Oregon receiving the kickoff and immediately testing Indiana’s defense on a fourth-and-one near midfield. The Hoosiers held firm, forcing a turnover on downs that led to a 42-yard field goal by Nico Radicic for a 3–0 lead. Oregon responded quickly, capitalizing on a miscommunication in Indiana’s secondary. Quarterback Dante Moore connected with Malik Benson for a 44-yard touchdown strike, giving the Ducks a 7–3 lead — their only explosive play of the first half. Hemby answered for Indiana with a three-yard touchdown run on the ensuing drive, pushing the Hoosiers ahead 10–7. Oregon’s Atticus Sappington tied the game 10–10 late in the second quarter with a 40-yard field goal, but missed another attempt from 36 yards moments later. With just seconds left before halftime, Indiana’s special teams delivered a momentum swing — Brendan Franke drilled a 58-yard field goal, tying a program record and setting an Autzen Stadium mark. The Hoosiers entered the locker room up 13–10 . Defense Dominates the Trenches Indiana’s defense controlled the game from the start, neutralizing Oregon’s speed and limiting explosive plays. The Hoosiers held the Ducks to just 81 rushing yards on 30 attempts — a mere 2.7 yards per carry — and forced Moore into quick throws on nearly every dropback. The defensive front, anchored by Mario Landino and Aiden Fisher , overwhelmed Oregon’s offensive line that had allowed only one sack all season. Indiana finished with six sacks , the most given up by the Ducks since the 2024 College Football Playoff. Fisher and Rolijah Hardy led the team with 13 tackles apiece, while Fisher added 1.5 sacks — a new career high. Oregon’s offense, which had thrived on tempo and big plays, struggled to find rhythm. Outside of the first-quarter touchdown, Moore’s passes mostly came in the form of short screens and quick outs, with Indiana’s corners closing in immediately. By halftime, the Ducks had been held under 150 total yards, their lowest first-half output in two years. Third Quarter: Hoosiers Extend the Lead After a defensive exchange to start the third quarter, Oregon tied the score 13–13 with a 33-yard field goal from Sappington. Indiana responded with its best offensive drive of the night — a 10-play, 75-yard march capped by a two-yard touchdown run from Hemby, his second of the game, giving the Hoosiers a 20–13 advantage. Hemby’s performance, though not flashy on the stat sheet, was critical. He finished with 70 rushing yards and 25 receiving yards, consistently moving the chains and setting up short-yardage conversions. His pair of touchdowns doubled Indiana’s season total from its starting running backs in red-zone carries. The quarter ended with Indiana controlling possession and tempo. The Hoosiers’ defense, still relentless, forced Moore into hurried throws as Oregon’s offensive line continued to break down under pressure. Fourth Quarter: Indiana Closes Out the Upset The game’s defining moments came in the final 12 minutes. Trailing 20–13, Oregon tied the contest on a dramatic play when freshman cornerback Brandon Finney intercepted Mendoza and returned it 35 yards for a touchdown, bringing Autzen Stadium to life. But Mendoza showed resilience that defined Indiana’s night. On the very next possession, he led a methodical 12-play, 75-yard drive, converting two critical third downs before finding Sarratt for an eight-yard touchdown to put Indiana ahead 27–20 with just over six minutes left. From there, the Hoosier defense took over. Linebacker Isaiah Jones intercepted Moore on Oregon’s next series, halting a potential comeback. After a short drive, kicker Brendan Franke added his second field goal of the game — a 22-yarder — extending the lead to 30–20 with just over two minutes remaining. Moore’s final attempt to rally the Ducks ended with another interception, this time by veteran safety Louis Moore , sealing the upset. Historic Milestones and Individual Highlights The win placed Indiana in rare company. It was only the second time in program history the Hoosiers had beaten a top-five opponent, and their first win at Autzen Stadium since 2004. The 6–0 start is also just the third in school history, joining the 1967 and 2024 squads. Statistically, Mendoza finished 20-of-31 for 215 yards and one touchdown, tying for ninth on Indiana’s single-season passing touchdown list with 17. Sarratt’s 121-yard outing marked his 13th career 100-yard receiving game and extended his streak of consecutive games with a catch to 44 — the longest active streak in the nation. Defensively, Fisher’s 13 tackles and 1.5 sacks were career highs, while Hardy matched him with 13 tackles in his first double-digit outing. Landino added one sack in his first career start. The Hoosiers’ six total sacks tied their highest single-game mark under head coach Curt Cignetti . On special teams, Franke’s 58-yard field goal tied the Indiana program record for distance and broke the Autzen Stadium record by two yards. Radicic , meanwhile, remained perfect on the season, extending his field-goal streak to nine consecutive makes. Oregon’s Struggles For Oregon, the night was a sobering reminder of the challenges of Big Ten play. Quarterback Dante Moore completed 21 of 34 passes for 186 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. The Ducks’ leading rusher, Jordon Davison , was limited to just 59 yards, and the team’s overall production marked its fewest total yards in a game under head coach Dan Lanning . Despite a strong defensive performance from linebacker Bryce Boettcher , who tallied 11 tackles, and Finney’s electrifying pick-six, Oregon couldn’t overcome costly turnovers and missed opportunities. Sappington’s missed field goal late in the second quarter loomed large, as Indiana capitalized immediately to swing momentum before halftime. What’s Next The victory solidifies Indiana’s position as a legitimate Big Ten contender, with a home game against Michigan State up next. A win there would mark the program’s best start since 1967. Oregon, now 5–1, will regroup on the road next week against Rutgers before returning home to face Wisconsin . Despite the setback, the Ducks remain in the College Football Playoff conversation, though their margin for error has narrowed considerably. Saturday’s game will be remembered not just for the upset itself, but for the way Indiana achieved it — through physical defense, disciplined execution, and mental toughness. Against one of the most formidable teams in college football, the Hoosiers didn’t just survive the pressure of Autzen Stadium — they silenced it .

Altmyer’s Career Day Propels Illini to Second Straight Rivalry Win WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The No. 22 Illinois Fighting Illini delivered a commanding offensive performance on Saturday afternoon, defeating Purdue 43–27 at Ross-Ade Stadium to retain the Cannon Trophy and solidify their place among the Big Ten’s top teams. Quarterback Luke Altmyer led the way with a career-high 390 passing yards, while wide receiver Hank Beatty turned in a career-best 186 receiving yards and a touchdown as Illinois improved to 5–1 overall and 2–1 in conference play . The Boilermakers, meanwhile, dropped to 2–3 overall and 0–2 in the Big Ten despite another productive showing from quarterback Ryan Browne , who threw for more than 300 yards for the second time this season. Purdue’s early momentum quickly unraveled in the face of Illinois’s explosive second quarter and timely defensive plays. Purdue Strikes First Purdue opened the game with an impressive 10-play, 62-yard drive that showcased balance and rhythm. Browne capped it with a one-yard quarterback sneak to give the Boilermakers a 7–0 lead midway through the first quarter. The home crowd erupted, sensing an opportunity to reclaim the Cannon after Illinois’s win in 2024. Illinois responded calmly. After settling for an early field goal to make it 7–3, the Illini’s offense found its stride early in the second quarter. The turning point came on a Purdue fumble that shifted momentum completely. Wide receiver Michael Jackson III appeared to have secured a short completion, but a video review overturned the call, ruling the ball loose before he was down. Illinois capitalized immediately — Altmyer found Beatty wide open on the next play for a 62-yard touchdown, giving the Illini their first lead at 10–7. The Illini Take Control From that moment, Illinois dominated the remainder of the half. On the next possession, Altmyer connected on several key passes to keep the drive alive before running back Kaden Feagin powered into the end zone from six yards out, extending the lead to 17–7. The Boilermakers’ defense, plagued by penalties and missed tackles, struggled to regain composure. Illinois’s offense struck again just minutes later. A deep 49-yard connection to Ashton Hollins set up another big play — a 25-yard touchdown burst by Ca’Lil Valentine . The score pushed the lead to 24–7, capping a rapid two-play, 80-yard drive that left Purdue’s secondary reeling. The Boilermakers finally responded when Browne hit Corey Smith for a 60-yard touchdown down the right sideline, trimming the deficit to 24–14 with just over a minute remaining in the half. But Illinois wasn’t done. The Illini closed the second quarter with a 42-yard field goal by David Olano to make it 27–14 at the break. In total, Illinois poured in 27 points during the second quarter — the program’s most productive single quarter of the season — and entered halftime firmly in control. Purdue’s Missed Opportunities The Boilermakers began the third quarter determined to claw back into contention. Running backs Antonio Harris and Devin Mockobee each found success on the ground behind a resurgent offensive line. Harris broke free for a 41-yard touchdown run midway through the period, cutting the Illinois lead to 30–21 after Olano had opened the half with another field goal. Purdue’s defense followed with a crucial stop, forcing a punt and giving its offense a chance to close the gap. However, a costly special teams miscue proved devastating. Jackson III, who had been a bright spot in the passing game, mishandled the punt under pressure, and Illinois recovered the fumble at the Boilermaker 25-yard line. The turnover led to yet another Olano field goal, pushing the margin to 33–21 and stalling Purdue’s comeback hopes. Moments later, Illinois delivered the knockout blow. Altmyer orchestrated a quick five-play, 68-yard drive highlighted by a 49-yard strike to Beatty that set up a one-yard touchdown plunge by Feagin. That score made it 40–21 late in the third quarter and effectively sealed the outcome. Offensive Showcases Illinois finished with 507 total yards of offense , including 390 through the air and 117 on the ground. Altmyer’s accuracy — completing 19 of 22 passes — kept Purdue’s defense guessing all afternoon. Beatty emerged as the star of the receiving corps, recording explosive plays of 40, 49, and 62 yards to lead all players in yardage. Valentine’s blend of speed and vision added another dimension to the Illini’s attack, as he totaled 95 rushing yards and a touchdown. Olano’s performance was equally pivotal. The kicker tied the Illinois record with five made field goals in a single game , converting from distances of 40, 42, and 45 yards among others. His consistency ensured that Illinois maintained separation whenever Purdue gained momentum. On the other side, Purdue’s offense moved the ball effectively but failed to finish drives. Browne completed 30 of 50 passes for 302 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for another score. His connection with Jackson III and Smith accounted for most of the team’s big plays, but turnovers and defensive breakdowns ultimately doomed their chances. Jackson III led Purdue’s receivers with 14 catches for 94 yards, while Smith’s long touchdown highlighted the team’s ability to strike quickly. Harris led the ground game with 69 yards on just four carries, and Mockobee contributed 58 yards and a fourth-quarter touchdown. The Boilermakers finished with 453 total yards — impressive on paper, but not enough to match Illinois’s explosive production. Defensive Highlights Illinois’s defense, though tested early, forced the game’s most decisive moments. Dylan Rosiek’s fumble recovery in the second quarter set up the Illini’s first touchdown and shifted the tone of the game. The defensive front pressured Browne throughout, limiting Purdue’s deep passing opportunities and forcing quick throws. For Purdue, linebacker Charles Correa continued his standout season with 15 tackles — his fourth double-digit tackle performance in five games. Mani Powell added 14 stops, and the Boilermakers recorded two sacks — one from CJ Nunnally IV and another split between Demeco Kennedy and Ryan Turner . Despite their efforts, the defense could not contain Illinois’s rhythm or explosive playmaking ability. Rivalry and Implications The victory gave Illinois back-to-back wins over Purdue for the first time since 2001–2002 and marked their first consecutive road wins in the series in more than two decades. Retaining the Cannon Trophy once again underscored the team’s progress under head coach Bret Bielema , who has built a balanced, disciplined roster capable of competing against any Big Ten opponent. For Purdue, the loss was a sobering reminder of growing pains under a developing system. The Boilermakers have now allowed 132 points over their last three games , despite flashes of offensive success. With a trip to Minnesota next on the schedule, the defense will need immediate adjustments to stop the skid. Looking Ahead Illinois will return home next weekend to host top-ranked Ohio State in a nationally televised matchup. The Illini enter that contest on a three-game winning streak and riding a surge of offensive confidence. If Altmyer and Beatty can maintain their current form, Illinois could prove to be a serious challenger in the Big Ten West race. Purdue’s focus shifts toward recovery and improvement. The Boilermakers have demonstrated offensive potential but continue to struggle defensively against elite opponents. Next week’s road test against Minnesota will offer an opportunity to regain footing before midseason. Saturday’s battle in West Lafayette showcased two teams headed in different directions — one finding consistency and identity, the other searching for answers. Illinois’s explosive offense and opportunistic defense defined the day, while Purdue’s valiant early effort faded under relentless pressure. As the Illini celebrated with the Cannon Trophy once again, their ambitions grew clearer: not just rivalry wins, but championship contention.

Miami Holds Off Late Florida State Rally to Remain Unbeaten TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The third-ranked Miami Hurricanes continued their unbeaten run with a hard-fought 28–22 victory over No. 18 Florida State on Saturday night at Doak Campbell Stadium. In a game defined by explosive plays, key defensive stands, and a furious fourth-quarter rally, the Hurricanes did just enough to preserve their perfect record and strengthen their position atop the ACC standings. The win improved Miami to 5–0 overall and 1–0 in conference play , marking the program’s second straight 5–0 start and its first road victory over a ranked opponent since 2021. Florida State dropped to 3–2 overall and 0–2 in the ACC, suffering its first home loss of the season. A Rivalry Renewed Saturday’s clash marked the first time since 2016 that both teams entered the rivalry ranked, rekindling the intensity of one of college football’s most storied matchups. The atmosphere at Doak Campbell Stadium was electric as both programs sought to prove their relevance on the national stage. Florida State struck first, opening with an 11-play, 70-yard drive capped by a short field goal from Jake Weinberg . Quarterback Tommy Castellanos found running back Ousmane Kromah on a critical third-down play to sustain the drive, handing the Seminoles a 3–0 lead — the first time all season Miami had trailed. The Hurricanes responded immediately. Quarterback Carson Beck led a precise nine-play, 79-yard drive, capped by a four-yard touchdown pass to CJ Daniels . That connection gave Miami a 7–3 lead late in the first quarter and set the tone for three quarters of control. Hurricanes Build a Commanding Lead Miami’s defense wasted no time asserting itself. Early in the second quarter, cornerback Bryce Fitzgerald intercepted a deep pass intended for Duce Robinson , halting an FSU scoring threat near midfield. On the next play, Beck executed a perfectly timed flea-flicker, hitting Malachi Toney for a 44-yard touchdown. The quick strike silenced the home crowd and pushed Miami ahead 14–3. Florida State’s offense struggled to find rhythm for much of the half, plagued by penalties and turnovers. Miami’s defensive front, led by Akheem Mesidor , applied relentless pressure on Castellanos, recording multiple sacks and forcing hurried throws. Though the Seminoles slightly outgained the Hurricanes 181–150 in total yards, Miami’s control of field position and tempo gave them a two-score lead at halftime. The third quarter began with Miami at its best. Receiving the kickoff, the Hurricanes marched 75 yards in 10 plays, finishing with another Beck-to-Toney touchdown — this time a 40-yard strike over the middle. The score stretched the lead to 21–3 and highlighted Beck’s growing confidence. Moments later, Miami’s defense delivered again. Safety Jakobe Thomas intercepted Castellanos in the end zone, stopping another FSU drive. Miami capitalized immediately, as Beck found Daniels once more — this time for a 24-yard touchdown. With 7:34 left in the third quarter, Miami led 28–3 and appeared headed toward a comfortable victory. Florida State Fights Back Rivalry games rarely end quietly, and Florida State made sure of that. With just over ten minutes remaining, Castellanos finally found rhythm, leading a 10-play, 47-yard drive capped by an eight-yard touchdown pass to Lawayne McCoy . A successful two-point conversion trimmed Miami’s lead to 28–11 and reignited the crowd. The Seminole defense held firm on the following Miami possession, forcing a punt that set up another chance for Castellanos. He delivered again, orchestrating a grueling 19-play, 96-yard drive capped by a six-yard touchdown toss to Randy Pittman Jr. Another two-point conversion narrowed the gap to 28–19 with just over three minutes left in the game. Florida State attempted an onside kick but failed to recover. Miami’s offense stalled, giving the Seminoles one last opportunity with just over a minute to play. Castellanos quickly moved FSU into field-goal range, and Weinberg connected from 35 yards to make it 28–22 with twenty seconds remaining. However, Miami recovered the ensuing onside kick, securing the win and escaping Tallahassee unscathed. Offensive Firepower and Defensive Poise Carson Beck turned in a near-flawless performance, completing 20 of 27 passes for 241 yards and four touchdowns. His chemistry with CJ Daniels and Malachi Toney fueled Miami’s aerial dominance, as both receivers finished with two touchdowns apiece. Toney led all players with seven receptions for 107 yards, while Daniels added 78 yards on five catches. Miami’s offensive line was instrumental, keeping Beck upright and providing the time needed to stretch the field. While the ground game was modest, Mark Fletcher provided balance with 40 rushing yards on 12 carries, helping Miami sustain drives when it mattered most. Defensively, the Hurricanes delivered one of their most complete efforts of the season. They forced three turnovers — two interceptions and one fumble — and contained Florida State’s high-powered offense for nearly three full quarters. Keionte Scott led all defenders with 11 tackles, while Fitzgerald, Thomas, and Mesidor each contributed key impact plays. Despite being outgained 404–338 overall, Miami held the Seminoles scoreless for nearly 45 minutes, a testament to the unit’s discipline and resilience. The Hurricanes limited a team averaging 53 points per game entering the contest to just 22, most of which came in the final minutes. Florida State’s Late Rally Falls Short Tommy Castellanos finished with 272 passing yards and two touchdowns, completing 25 of 45 attempts while adding 57 yards rushing. Despite three turnovers, he displayed impressive composure during the comeback. Robinson led the Seminoles with 87 receiving yards, while Pittman added 63 and a touchdown. The Florida State defense tightened in the final quarter but could not overcome the early deficit. Missed opportunities and turnovers in the first half proved decisive, as Miami’s opportunistic defense repeatedly flipped field position. Hurricanes Reclaim State Supremacy With the victory, Miami improved to 37–33 all-time against Florida State and secured back-to-back wins over the Seminoles for the first time since 2003–2004. The Hurricanes also swept in-state opponents — South Florida, Florida, and Florida State — for the second consecutive year, reaffirming their dominance within Florida. Miami’s triumph reflected a team capable of winning with both flair and grit. While the offense supplied explosive plays, the defense maintained its identity as one of the nation’s most disciplined units. The result further solidified Miami’s claim as a legitimate College Football Playoff contender heading into the second half of the season. Looking Ahead Miami enters its bye week at 5–0 before returning home to host Louisville on October 17, a game that could shape the ACC title race. Florida State, now 3–2, remains in Tallahassee to face Pitt on October 11, aiming to rebound and regain its offensive rhythm. Saturday night’s contest was a showcase of rivalry passion and championship poise. In the end, Miami’s blend of experience, balance, and composure ensured the Hurricanes left Tallahassee undefeated — their sights still firmly set on a return to national glory.

Wolverines Overcome Early Deficit to Secure Fourth Victory of the Season ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The No. 20 Michigan Wolverines continued their strong start to the 2025 campaign with a 24–10 victory over the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday afternoon at Michigan Stadium. Behind the poised leadership of freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood and the power running of Justice Haynes , Michigan improved to 4–1 overall and 2–0 in Big Ten play. The win marked Michigan’s fifth straight season opening with at least four wins in its first five games. It was also the Wolverines’ second consecutive victory over Wisconsin, giving them back-to-back wins in the series for the first time since 2002. A crowd of 111,070 packed “The Big House,” marking Michigan’s 326th consecutive home game with attendance surpassing 100,000 fans — a streak unmatched in college football. Early Battle Between Two Physical Teams Wisconsin struck first with an impressive, clock-eating opening drive. The Badgers marched 75 yards in 12 plays, using a mix of short passes and zone runs to control tempo before Dilin Jones capped the possession with a five-yard touchdown run. The drive consumed nearly seven minutes, giving Wisconsin an early 7–0 lead and quieting the Michigan crowd. The Wolverines quickly answered. True freshman Justice Haynes , one of the Big Ten’s top rushers entering the game, broke free for a 43-yard gain on Michigan’s first drive — the longest run allowed by Wisconsin all season. That explosive play set up a short touchdown run by Haynes, knotting the score at 7–7 midway through the first quarter. Both defenses settled in after the early exchanges. In the second quarter, Michigan’s Dominic Zvada nailed a 32-yard field goal to give the Wolverines their first lead. From there, field position and defensive stops defined the half. Wisconsin held a narrow 152–142 edge in total yards at intermission and led time of possession 19 minutes to 11, but Michigan’s defensive adjustments were beginning to take shape. By halftime, the Wolverines had limited Wisconsin’s run game to modest gains and were starting to win battles up front — a shift that would prove decisive in the second half. Second Half Surge from Michigan Coming out of the locker room, Michigan made a concerted effort to dominate the trenches. The Wolverines opened the third quarter with a promising drive that reached the red zone but came up empty after a botched snap led to a missed 27-yard field goal. It was their final miscue of the afternoon. Moments later, the defense delivered a momentum-changing play. Safety Rod Moore intercepted a pass deep in Michigan territory, halting a potential Wisconsin scoring drive. The takeaway ignited the home crowd and provided the spark Michigan needed. On the ensuing possession, Bryce Underwood engineered his best series of the season. The freshman quarterback completed three straight passes, capped by a 29-yard touchdown strike to Donaven McCulley late in the third quarter. The score — McCulley’s first as a Wolverine — extended Michigan’s lead to 17–7 and showcased Underwood’s precision and poise in high-pressure moments. In the fourth quarter, Michigan sealed the win with another dominant drive. Relying on Haynes and the offensive line, the Wolverines churned out a physical 75-yard march, ending with Haynes’ second rushing touchdown of the game. That score put Michigan up 24–7 and erased any doubt. Wisconsin added a late field goal to close within 24–10, but Michigan’s defense continued to suffocate the Badgers, holding them to just seven rushing yards and 100 total yards in the second half. Standout Performances Offensive Leaders Freshman Bryce Underwood delivered the most complete performance of his young career. He finished 19-of-28 passing for 270 yards and one touchdown, exhibiting excellent decision-making and accuracy. His yardage total ranks among the highest for a first-year Michigan quarterback, placing him fourth all-time behind multiple outings from Chad Henne in 2004. Transfer running back Justice Haynes continued his remarkable consistency, rushing for 117 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries. The Alabama transfer extended his streak of 100-yard games to five — the longest by a Michigan back since Blake Corum’s eight-game run in 2022. Haynes also became the first player this season to record a 20-yard rush against Wisconsin’s top-ranked run defense. Receiver Donaven McCulley led the receiving corps with six catches for 112 yards, becoming the first Wolverine to eclipse the 100-yard mark this season. Freshman Andrew Marsh added four receptions for 80 yards, helping Michigan post its best aerial output of the year. Defensive Strength Michigan’s defense again proved dominant. The front seven, led by Troy Bowles and Mason Graham , controlled the line of scrimmage throughout the afternoon. Moore’s interception — his seventh career pick — came at a critical juncture and swung the game’s momentum. Overall, the defense limited Wisconsin to 2.7 yards per carry and forced at least one turnover for the fifth straight game, underscoring its reliability. Wisconsin’s Missed Opportunities Wisconsin’s afternoon started with promise but unraveled as the game progressed. Quarterback Hunter Simmons , making his first start since transferring from Southern Illinois, completed 20-of-35 passes for 177 yards but threw one interception. Receiver Vinny Anthony stood out with nine receptions for 97 yards, while Jones led the ground attack with 63 yards and a touchdown. The Badgers’ inability to sustain drives after their opening score proved costly. They failed to convert on six straight possessions between the second and fourth quarters and scored just once after halftime. Time of possession flipped in Michigan’s favor as the Wolverines dictated pace and wore down Wisconsin’s defense. A Statement Win in Ann Arbor Saturday’s performance represented a significant step forward for Michigan’s young roster. The Wolverines displayed offensive balance, defensive toughness, and in-game resilience — a combination that reinforced their status as a legitimate Big Ten contender. The victory also extended Michigan’s dominance at home against Wisconsin, improving the all-time series to 53–17–1 , including 25–7 in Ann Arbor . Head coach Sherrone Moore’s squad showcased composure and maturity well beyond its experience level, setting a strong tone heading into October. Next week, Michigan travels west to face USC in Los Angeles — a key early test in its Big Ten expansion schedule. Wisconsin returns home for its Homecoming matchup against Iowa , aiming to regroup after consecutive conference losses. In a season defined by emerging stars and steady leadership, Michigan’s 24–10 triumph over Wisconsin served as a clear reminder: the Wolverines’ mix of young talent, physical defense, and championship mindset continues to make them one of the most complete programs in college football.

Crimson Tide Extends Home Winning Streak to 15 TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The No. 10 Alabama Crimson Tide continued their midseason surge with a 30–14 victory over No. 16 Vanderbilt on Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Despite an early setback, Alabama’s offense and defense settled into rhythm, controlling the second half to hand the Commodores their first loss of the season. The victory marked Alabama’s fourth consecutive win and extended its home winning streak to 15 games, tied for the second-longest active streak in the nation. The result improved the Crimson Tide to 4–1 overall and 2–0 in SEC play, while Vanderbilt dropped to 5–1 and 1–1 in conference competition. A Competitive Start Vanderbilt began the afternoon with momentum, striking first on a 65-yard touchdown run by Sedrick Alexander to cap a 93-yard drive that showcased its offensive balance. Alabama’s defense initially struggled to contain the run, allowing 113 rushing yards in the opening quarter before finding its footing. The Tide’s response came after a key defensive stand. A forced fumble deep in their own territory halted a promising Vanderbilt drive and set up Alabama’s first touchdown. Quarterback Ty Simpson led a composed 12-play, 92-yard drive, capped by a touchdown pass to Ryan Williams , displaying the precision and confidence that have become hallmarks of his recent play. The first half continued as a back-and-forth battle between two well-prepared teams. Vanderbilt briefly regained the lead on a short touchdown pass late in the second quarter, but Alabama answered quickly with a six-play, 78-yard drive ending in a 27-yard scoring connection to Germie Bernard . The Tide entered halftime tied 14–14, having weathered the early storm and begun to assert control at the line of scrimmage. Alabama Takes Control Coming out of halftime, Alabama’s adjustments were immediate and effective. The defensive front, which had struggled early, began winning the battle in the trenches. Vanderbilt’s once-dynamic rushing attack was held to just 22 yards over the final two quarters. Offensively, Alabama’s approach became increasingly deliberate. Simpson maintained composure under pressure, efficiently distributing the ball while Jam Miller anchored the ground game. Miller’s vision and power carried the Tide through long, clock-consuming drives that gradually wore down the Vanderbilt defense. He finished the night with 136 rushing yards on 22 carries and a touchdown, his most productive performance of the season. A 38-yard field goal midway through the third quarter gave Alabama its first lead at 17–14. Another field goal extended the margin to 20–14 heading into the fourth. The defense continued to clamp down during this stretch, limiting Vanderbilt’s passing lanes and forcing turnovers that shifted momentum firmly in Alabama’s favor. Defensive Dominance Seals the Win In the final quarter, Alabama’s defense delivered its most complete stretch of the season. Vanderbilt’s quarterback was limited to short throws, and two interceptions killed potential scoring drives. The Tide’s front seven consistently applied pressure, while linebackers filled gaps to eliminate explosive runs. The defining moment came late in the game when Alabama forced a turnover deep in Vanderbilt territory. The offense capitalized immediately as Miller powered into the end zone for a 20-yard touchdown, sealing the 30–14 victory. Defensively, Alabama produced three takeaways — two interceptions and one forced fumble — and held Vanderbilt to just nine rushing yards in the second half. Redshirt senior Justin Jefferson led the way with a career-high 14 tackles, one sack, and a tackle for loss, anchoring a unit that allowed only 14 points to an offense averaging nearly 50 per game entering the matchup. Offensive Efficiency and Quarterback Leadership Simpson’s continued development at quarterback has been central to Alabama’s resurgence. Despite an early interception, he finished with 23 completions on 31 attempts for 340 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to remain poised under pressure and deliver accurate throws to multiple targets allowed Alabama to sustain drives and control time of possession. The Tide’s receiving corps played a pivotal role. Williams hauled in six receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown, while Bernard added 82 yards and a score. Their consistency helped open running lanes for Miller and stretched Vanderbilt’s secondary throughout the second half. Alabama dominated possession, holding the ball for more than 37 minutes, and converted all four red-zone opportunities — a continuation of their season-long efficiency inside the 20-yard line. Vanderbilt’s Missed Opportunities Vanderbilt showed flashes of explosiveness in the first half but could not sustain its early rhythm. Quarterback Diego Pavia threw for 183 yards and added 58 on the ground, but critical turnovers derailed promising drives. Two red-zone giveaways led directly to 10 Alabama points, swinging momentum permanently toward the home team. Running back Sedrick Alexander was a bright spot, finishing with 98 all-purpose yards and both Vanderbilt touchdowns. Yet once Alabama’s defense adjusted, the Commodores struggled to find balance. Their inability to convert on third downs in the second half allowed the Crimson Tide to dictate tempo and control possession. Key Performances and Statistical Highlights Alabama’s success came from complementary football. The offense sustained drives through precision passing and a dominant rushing game, while the defense tightened coverage and generated turnovers. Head coach Kalen DeBoer improved to 5–1 against Top 25 opponents since arriving at Alabama and notched his 17th career win over a ranked team. The Crimson Tide also continued their remarkable consistency at home, improving to 17–1 in SEC home openers since 2008. Over that span, they’ve outscored opponents by more than 20 points per game, reinforcing Bryant-Denny Stadium as one of college football’s toughest venues. For Vanderbilt, the loss served as both a setback and a learning opportunity. The Commodores showed they can compete with ranked opponents but were reminded that execution and discipline are essential to sustain success in conference play. Looking Ahead Alabama’s victory solidified its position among the SEC’s elite heading into a road matchup with No. 19 Missouri next weekend. With its blend of defensive pressure, offensive versatility, and composure under adversity, the Tide continue to look like legitimate championship contenders. Vanderbilt will enter a bye week before hosting LSU on October 18. The Commodores will focus on correcting mistakes and regaining rhythm as they prepare for the remainder of their SEC schedule. As the Crimson Tide left the field beneath the Tuscaloosa sun, their message was unmistakable — Alabama’s identity as a disciplined, resilient contender is once again taking full shape.

Cavaliers Capture Second Straight OT Win Behind Defense and Determination LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The No. 24 Virginia Cavaliers extended their impressive run of resilience with a 30–27 overtime victory against Louisville at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. The win marked their second straight overtime triumph and improved their record to 5–1 overall and 3–0 in ACC play, their best start in the conference since 2007. Virginia once again leaned on its defense and special teams to overcome an uneven offensive outing. Despite producing just 237 total yards, the Cavaliers found ways to control momentum, capitalize on mistakes, and make critical plays in decisive moments. Defense Sets the Tone The Cavaliers established control early through defense. On Louisville’s first drive, the Cardinals attempted a fourth-and-one conversion, but a mishandled pitch led to a fumble that was scooped up and returned 61 yards for a touchdown. The turnover instantly gave Virginia a lead and a surge of confidence that carried into the next series. Louisville answered with a steady drive that ended in a short touchdown run, leveling the score before the end of the first quarter. Virginia’s offense responded midway through the second with a 19-yard touchdown strike that put the Cavaliers back in front. Louisville quickly matched the score, tying the game at 14–14 heading into halftime. Both teams displayed strong defensive discipline during the opening half, with neither side allowing sustained offensive rhythm. A Defensive Masterclass Virginia’s defense continued its dominance after the break. Linebacker Kam Robinson intercepted a pass in the third quarter and returned it 47 yards for another touchdown, giving the Cavaliers their second defensive score of the day. The play completely changed the game’s momentum and put Virginia ahead by a touchdown. A 46-yard field goal from kicker Will Bettridge later in the quarter extended the lead to 24–14. Bettridge’s accuracy and composure helped the Cavaliers maintain control as the offense struggled to establish consistency. The defense kept the pressure on Louisville’s quarterback, registering five sacks in the second half and forcing hurried throws on nearly every possession. The Cardinals’ offensive line struggled to handle the speed and power of Virginia’s front seven, and the Cavaliers’ coverage downfield forced Louisville to settle for short gains. Louisville’s Late Surge Despite being contained for much of the third quarter, Louisville found life in the fourth. The Cardinals’ passing attack started to click, and a long drive cut Virginia’s lead to three. Late in regulation, a 50-yard field goal tied the score at 24–24 and pushed the contest into overtime. The momentum appeared to shift in Louisville’s favor, but Virginia remained composed. Their ability to respond under pressure once again defined their performance. Closing It Out in Overtime Louisville opened the extra period with a short field goal to take a 27–24 lead. On Virginia’s ensuing possession, quarterback Chandler Morris guided the Cavaliers methodically down the field, mixing short passes and runs to keep the defense off balance. Running back J’Mari Taylor sealed the victory with a two-yard touchdown run on a direct snap, lifting Virginia to another dramatic overtime win. Taylor finished with 68 rushing yards and 29 receiving yards, providing stability throughout the game. His balance of patience and power gave Virginia the spark it needed to close out a contest where the defense had carried much of the load. Team Balance and Execution The Cavaliers’ defensive unit once again proved to be the backbone of their success. Virginia forced two turnovers that directly resulted in touchdowns and consistently disrupted Louisville’s passing rhythm. Linebackers and defensive linemen combined for multiple sacks and tackles for loss, while the secondary eliminated deep passing threats by keeping plays in front of them. Special teams continued to contribute in key moments. Bettridge connected on all four of his field goal attempts, while punter Elijah Slibeck flipped field position with a booming 71-yard punt in the third quarter. That play, the longest by a Virginia player since 2019, helped the Cavaliers regain control at a crucial point in the match. The victory also marked the sixth consecutive game in which Virginia scored at least 30 points. The Cavaliers have maintained a perfect record this season when forcing turnovers, a reflection of their ability to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes and turn defense into offense. Louisville’s Missed Chances Louisville outgained Virginia 448–237 in total offense but failed to convert opportunities when it mattered most. The Cardinals’ two turnovers proved decisive, both directly leading to Cavalier touchdowns. Despite their statistical edge, the mistakes and late-game execution lapses overshadowed strong performances from several offensive contributors. The loss ended Louisville’s four-game winning streak and handed them their first defeat of the season. The Cardinals showed moments of explosive potential but struggled to maintain rhythm against Virginia’s physical defense and timely pressure. A Statement of Resilience Virginia’s win was another example of how the program has evolved into one that thrives under pressure. Each of the Cavaliers’ last three victories has featured critical defensive plays, precise special teams execution, and a steady focus on fundamentals. Even when the offense faltered, the team’s discipline and conditioning allowed them to stay in control deep into the fourth quarter and beyond. The Cavaliers’ 5–1 start is their best since 2017, and their 3–0 conference record places them in strong contention within the ACC standings. This stretch also marks the first time in school history that Virginia has won consecutive overtime games. Louisville, meanwhile, enters its bye week needing to regroup before facing Miami in what will be a pivotal matchup in the conference race. Ball security and red-zone efficiency will be key areas of improvement after Saturday’s costly turnovers. Looking Ahead Virginia now enjoys a well-earned week of rest before hosting Washington State on October 18 at Scott Stadium. The Cavaliers will aim to extend their winning streak to five and continue building momentum toward a potential postseason run. Saturday’s victory over Louisville underscored the team’s toughness, adaptability, and growing confidence. While the offense continues to seek consistency, Virginia’s defense and special teams have positioned them as one of the most complete and determined squads in the conference.  With their second straight overtime win, the Cavaliers demonstrated once more that they can finish games in any fashion necessary — a mark of a program learning not just how to compete, but how to win.

Bulldogs Bounce Back Behind Gunner Stockton’s Dual-Threat Performance ATHENS, Ga. — The No. 12 Georgia Bulldogs returned to form Saturday afternoon, defeating Kentucky 35–14 in front of a Homecoming crowd of more than 93,000 at Sanford Stadium. Quarterback Gunner Stockton accounted for three total touchdowns as Georgia’s offense delivered one of its most balanced and complete performances of the season. The victory lifted Georgia to 4–1 overall and 2–1 in SEC play, while Kentucky fell to 2–3 and 0–3 in conference competition. The Bulldogs extended their winning streak over the Wildcats to 16 games and improved their Homecoming record to 83–18–2, maintaining one of the best marks in college football history. Fast Start for the Bulldogs After sluggish first halves in previous games, Georgia made it a point to start fast. Receiving the opening kickoff, the Bulldogs orchestrated a 12-play, 75-yard drive capped by a seven-yard rushing touchdown from Stockton. The sophomore quarterback showed command early, mixing quick passes with timely scrambles to keep Kentucky’s defense off balance. Running back Chauncey Bowens provided key support, picking up tough yards between the tackles. Following a quick three-and-out by Kentucky, Georgia took over deep in its own territory at the four-yard line. The offense responded with another statement drive, covering 96 yards over 13 plays. Stockton again found the end zone, this time on a designed keeper that fooled the Wildcats’ front. By the end of the first quarter, Georgia had already built a 14–0 lead and complete control of tempo. Kentucky’s offense finally found life early in the second quarter. Quarterback Cutter Boley led a four-play, 75-yard drive that ended in a 29-yard touchdown strike to tight end Josh Kattus , cutting the deficit to 14–7. The Wildcats’ momentum was brief, as Georgia quickly answered with another long drive. Dillon Bell scored on a three-yard end-around, extending the Bulldogs’ lead to 21–7 with less than three minutes left in the half. Kentucky reached the Georgia 10-yard line just before halftime but failed to convert, as kicker Jacob Kauwe missed a 26-yard field goal. Georgia entered the locker room with a 21–7 lead after outgaining the Wildcats 241–160 and converting six of seven third-down opportunities. Defense Takes Over in the Second Half Georgia’s defense wasted no time making an impact after the break. On Kentucky’s opening possession of the third quarter, linebacker CJ Allen forced and recovered a fumble, giving the Bulldogs prime field position at the Wildcats’ 38-yard line. Two plays later, Stockton connected with tight end Oscar Delp for a 36-yard gain down to the five-yard line. Bell punched it in moments later for his second touchdown of the day, extending Georgia’s lead to 28–7. The Bulldogs dominated both lines of scrimmage from that point on. The defensive front consistently pressured Boley, forcing hurried throws and limiting Kentucky’s run game. The Wildcats, who entered the contest averaging over 150 rushing yards per game, managed only 45 for the afternoon. Midway through the third quarter, Georgia effectively put the game out of reach. Stockton delivered a perfectly placed 16-yard touchdown pass to Cash Jones , capping another efficient drive and pushing the lead to 35–7. Stockton exited early in the fourth quarter after completing 15 of 23 passes for 196 yards and three total touchdowns — two rushing and one passing — in a performance that showcased his dual-threat capability. Kentucky managed a late score on a five-yard touchdown pass from Boley to Kendrick Law , but it was too little, too late. Georgia’s reserves closed out the final minutes, maintaining possession and controlling the pace to secure the 35–14 win. A Complete Offensive Effort Georgia finished with 425 total yards of offense, including 180 on the ground. Chauncey Bowens led the rushing attack with 70 yards on 15 carries, while Bell added two rushing touchdowns and 33 receiving yards. The offensive line, even after losing Monroe Freeling to a leg injury, provided consistent protection and created running lanes throughout the contest. Third-down efficiency proved pivotal for Georgia’s offense. The Bulldogs converted nine of their first ten third-down attempts and held the ball for more than 33 minutes. Sustained drives kept Kentucky’s defense on the field, wearing down its front seven and limiting opportunities for offensive adjustments. Defensive Execution and Key Contributions Defensively, Georgia was dominant from start to finish. The Bulldogs held Kentucky to 270 total yards, forced two turnovers, and recorded four sacks. Linebacker CJ Allen anchored the unit with six tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack, while cornerback Ellis Robinson IV sealed the game with a late interception. Georgia’s defensive front clogged running lanes and consistently collapsed the pocket, forcing Boley to rely on short, quick throws. Kentucky converted only three of twelve third-down opportunities and struggled to sustain drives. The Wildcats’ failure to capitalize on their few red-zone chances — including the missed first-half field goal — proved costly. Kentucky’s Missed Chances Kentucky flashed potential in spurts but failed to sustain consistency. Boley finished 25 of 41 for 207 yards and two touchdowns but was under constant duress from Georgia’s pass rush. Receiver Kendrick Law led with six receptions for 64 yards and a score, while tight end Josh Kattus added the team’s other touchdown. The Wildcats’ defense showed effort but couldn’t contain Georgia’s ground game. Missed tackles and penalties extended Georgia’s drives, and a lack of situational discipline cost them points before halftime. The failed red-zone possession late in the second quarter was a turning point that prevented Kentucky from closing the gap before the break. Momentum Restored For Georgia, the win represented a timely rebound following the previous week’s narrow loss to Alabama. The Bulldogs executed with precision, focus, and balance, demonstrating that they remain a legitimate SEC contender. The offense found its rhythm early, and the defense delivered one of its most complete showings of the season. The combination of Stockton’s steady leadership, Bell’s versatility, and a dominant front seven provided the formula Georgia needed to reassert itself among the conference’s elite. The Bulldogs’ renewed physicality and discipline reflected head coach Kirby Smart’s emphasis on identity and toughness — qualities that have long defined Georgia football. Looking Ahead Georgia will travel to Auburn next weekend to renew the Deep South’s oldest rivalry. The Bulldogs have won eight straight against the Tigers, including three consecutive victories at Jordan-Hare Stadium. A win would further solidify Georgia’s position in the SEC East race. Kentucky heads into a bye week before hosting No. 9 Texas on October 18 in Lexington. The Wildcats will use the break to regroup and address issues in red-zone execution and clock management. Saturday’s performance served as a reminder of Georgia’s resilience. Behind Gunner Stockton’s dual-threat brilliance, Dillon Bell’s versatility, and a relentless defense, the Bulldogs reestablished their rhythm and sent a clear message — Georgia remains very much in the championship conversation.

Ducks Silence White-Out Crowd in Happy Valley On a night when more than 111,000 fans filled Beaver Stadium for Penn State’s famed White-Out, Oregon spoiled the party. The sixth-ranked Ducks survived a furious Penn State comeback and secured a 30-24 double-overtime victory, handing the Nittany Lions their first loss of the season. The game marked Oregon’s 23rd consecutive regular-season win, a streak that now leads the nation. It also gave head coach Dan Lanning his first road victory over a top-five opponent, cementing the Ducks’ status as a College Football Playoff contender. Back-and-Forth Battle Neither team found rhythm in the first half. A field goal from Ryan Barker gave Penn State a 3-0 lead before Oregon’s Atticus Sappington tied it late in the second quarter. Both defenses dominated, holding the score to 3-3 at halftime. The Ducks finally struck in the third quarter when quarterback Dante Moore found Dierre Hill Jr. on an eight-yard touchdown pass. Moments later, Jordon Davison powered through on fourth-and-one for an eight-yard rushing score, putting Oregon up 17-3. Boos rained down from the Penn State crowd as the Nittany Lions offense continued to stall. But quarterback Drew Allar kept fighting, and his connection with receiver Devonte Ross soon reignited the stadium. Penn State Forces Overtime With just over seven minutes left, Allar hit Ross for a 35-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 17-10. Penn State’s defense held, giving Allar another chance. In the final minute, he drove the Nittany Lions 62 yards, capping the march with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Ross that tied the game at 17-17 with only 30 seconds remaining. Penn State carried momentum into overtime, as Kaytron Allen punched in a four-yard touchdown. But Moore answered with a shovel pass to tight end Jamari Johnson, sending the game into a second extra period. Ducks Deliver in Double OT On the opening play of the second overtime, Moore connected with Gary Bryant Jr. for a 25-yard touchdown, giving Oregon a 30-24 lead. Though the Ducks failed on their mandatory two-point conversion, their defense delivered the final blow. On Penn State’s first snap, Dillon Thieneman jumped in front of Allar’s throw, intercepting the pass and sealing the victory for Oregon. The Ducks sideline erupted in celebration, while stunned Penn State fans filed out of the stadium in silence. Moore Shows Poise Dante Moore showcased why many consider him one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. The sophomore completed 29 of 39 passes for 248 yards and three touchdowns, including both of Oregon’s overtime scores. He also added 35 rushing yards, converting key fourth downs that kept drives alive. After the game, Lanning praised his quarterback’s composure, calling Moore the best in college football. Moore, unfazed by the environment, said the moment was everything he had dreamed of growing up. Ducks Defense Holds Strong While Oregon’s offense delivered in crunch time, its defense was equally vital. The Ducks held Penn State’s vaunted rushing attack to just 139 yards, a stark contrast to the nearly 300 yards the Nittany Lions piled up in last year’s Big Ten title game. Linebacker Bryce Boettcher led Oregon with 12 tackles, while defensive linemen Bear Alexander and A’Mauri Washington clogged running lanes. Thieneman’s interception, the only turnover of the game, was the defining moment. Penn State’s Missed Opportunity For Penn State, the loss was another setback in high-stakes matchups. Head coach James Franklin fell to 4-21 against top-10 teams during his tenure. Allar threw for 189 yards and two touchdowns but was undone by the late interception. Ross provided the spark, catching both of Penn State’s fourth-quarter touchdowns. Despite the loss, the Nittany Lions remain in the Big Ten race but face questions about their ability to finish against elite opponents. Looking Ahead Oregon, now 5-0 and 2-0 in the Big Ten, heads into its bye week before hosting No. 11 Indiana in a clash with conference implications on October 11. Penn State, meanwhile, will try to rebound when it travels to UCLA next weekend. The Ducks’ win in Happy Valley was more than a regular-season victory. It was a defining moment that proved they can thrive in the most hostile environments, with championship stakes on the line.

A Stunning Night in Tempe Arizona State gave its fans a performance to remember Saturday night, erasing a 17-point deficit to stun No. 24 TCU, 27–24, in Tempe. The victory not only marked back-to-back come-from-behind wins for the Sun Devils, but it also delivered an early-season signature moment for a team still building its identity under pressure. The drama reached its climax in the fourth quarter when kicker Jesus Gomez trotted onto the field for a 23-yard field goal with just over a minute left. Gomez had missed twice earlier, but when the game hung in the balance, he delivered the deciding kick, splitting the uprights and sending the Arizona State sideline into celebration. For a program looking to prove it can contend against ranked opponents, the final moments provided a defining exclamation point. A Game of Two Halves What made the victory even more striking was how far Arizona State had to climb just to make it competitive. Midway through the second quarter, the Sun Devils trailed 17–0. The Horned Frogs had opened the game with precision, capitalizing on both short drives and explosive plays. Quarterback Josh Hoover tossed a 10-yard touchdown to Trent Battle , and running back Jeremy Payne broke free for a 16-yard score. When TCU added a field goal to stretch its advantage, it appeared the Horned Frogs were in full command. But momentum in college football can turn quickly, and Arizona State seized its opportunity. Quarterback Sam Leavitt uncorked a 57-yard strike to wideout Jordyn Tyson , igniting the comeback and bringing the home crowd back to life. Leavitt later capped a drive with an 8-yard touchdown run, and suddenly a game that seemed destined for a blowout tightened to 17–14 by halftime. Offensive Leaders Step Up From there, the Sun Devils’ offense grew sharper and more confident. Leavitt’s composure under pressure defined the night. The sophomore quarterback finished with 278 passing yards and two touchdown throws, in addition to his critical rushing score. When Arizona State needed big plays, he found them, often turning to Tyson, who emerged as the star of the receiving corps. Tyson’s eight receptions totaled 126 yards, highlighted by his two touchdown catches that tilted momentum in ASU’s favor. The ground game provided an essential balance. Running back Raleek Brown carved through TCU’s front for 147 rushing yards, often turning modest carries into chain-moving gains. His ability to keep the offense on schedule gave Leavitt more flexibility to attack downfield. Without Brown’s consistency, the comeback effort may never have materialized. TCU’s Missed Opportunities For TCU, the loss was as much about what went wrong as it was about what Arizona State did right. Hoover, while throwing for 242 yards, struggled to protect the football, committing three turnovers that swung the game’s momentum. A strip-sack late in the fourth quarter set up Arizona State’s decisive scoring drive, and a last-minute interception sealed the Horned Frogs’ fate. Perhaps more alarming was TCU’s inability to establish any kind of running game. The Horned Frogs mustered only 10 total rushing yards , a figure that underscored how thoroughly Arizona State’s defensive line controlled the trenches. An offense that thrives on balance was forced to become one-dimensional, and the Sun Devils exploited that vulnerability. Defensive Heroics Seal the Win Arizona State’s defense deserves equal credit for the upset. The unit produced six sacks and forced three turnovers, constantly pressuring Hoover and limiting TCU’s explosive potential. Each big stop further energized the crowd, which became a factor as the game wore on. Linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr was a bright spot for TCU with 13 tackles and two sacks, but his efforts could not mask the breakdowns around him. In contrast, ASU’s defensive front operated with cohesion and relentlessness, repeatedly collapsing the pocket and bottling up the run. Their dominance allowed the Sun Devils to claw their way back into the game and ultimately finish the job. The Takeaway The win showcased Arizona State’s resilience and ability to respond under adversity. For the second straight week, the Sun Devils found themselves in a hole and fought their way out, displaying a level of poise uncommon for a young team. The upset of a ranked opponent is more than just another mark in the win column—it’s a potential turning point for the season. For TCU, the loss exposed lingering weaknesses. Protection breakdowns and the lack of a run game left Hoover vulnerable, while turnovers erased what had been a commanding lead. If the Horned Frogs hope to contend in the Big 12, they will need to address these issues quickly before they derail the season. What’s Next Arizona State will look to ride this momentum into conference play, where consistency will be the next challenge. If the Sun Devils can build on their balanced offense and aggressive defense, they may prove to be more than just spoilers in the Pac-12 race. TCU, meanwhile, faces the difficult task of regrouping after a stunning defeat. The Horned Frogs will need to reestablish their offensive rhythm and fix protection issues before facing tougher opponents ahead. How quickly they respond could determine whether this setback becomes a turning point or a troubling trend.

Jackets Rally From 17 Down to Stay Unbeaten Georgia Tech extended its perfect season in dramatic fashion, storming back from a 17-point third-quarter deficit to defeat Wake Forest 30-29 in overtime on Saturday afternoon at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. The 16th-ranked Yellow Jackets improved to 5-0 for the first time since 2014, while the Demon Deacons fell to 2-2 overall and 0-2 in ACC play. The comeback was a testament to resilience. Georgia Tech, trailing 20-3 late in the third quarter, closed regulation on a 20-3 run before sealing the win in overtime. Quarterback Haynes King shouldered the load, accounting for 349 yards of offense and three touchdowns. King Leads the Charge King’s versatility defined the afternoon. He threw for 243 yards and a touchdown on 28-of-42 passing, while rushing for 106 yards and two scores. His second rushing touchdown, a two-yard keeper on the opening possession of overtime, gave the Jackets a 30-23 lead. Wake Forest immediately answered with a 25-yard scoring burst by running back Demond Claiborne. First-year head coach Jake Dickert opted to go for two and the win, but quarterback Robby Ashford’s pass under pressure was intercepted by Clayton Powell-Lee at the goal line, sparking Georgia Tech’s celebration. Wake Forest Controls Early The Demon Deacons controlled the first half, fueled by explosive plays and steady quarterback play. Ashford scrambled for a four-yard touchdown in the second quarter, while Claiborne broke free for a 27-yard scoring run. A late field goal sent Wake into halftime with a 17-3 advantage. When Connor Calvert added another short field goal to start the third quarter, Wake stretched its lead to 20-3. At that point, the Deacons had outgained Georgia Tech 323-134 and looked poised to hand the Jackets their first loss. Jackets Storm Back Georgia Tech regrouped with urgency. Eric Rivers caught his first touchdown as a Yellow Jacket on a 14-yard strike from King midway through the third, capping a 78-yard drive. Minutes later, King found the end zone on the ground to cut the deficit to 20-17. By the early fourth quarter, Aidan Birr’s field goal tied the game at 20-20. Though Wake Forest briefly regained the lead after a forced fumble set up another Calvert kick, the Jackets refused to fold. King directed a late nine-play, 54-yard march, and Birr drilled a 33-yarder with just two seconds left to send the contest into overtime. Controversy Before Overtime One of the game’s pivotal moments came late in regulation when officials missed an apparent offsides call on Georgia Tech. Wake Forest believed it had a free play on third-and-five but saw its deep pass fall incomplete with no flag thrown. Instead of a first down that could have allowed the Deacons to run out the clock, the Jackets regained possession and drove for the tying field goal. An ACC spokesperson later confirmed that a penalty should have been called. Dickert expressed frustration afterward but stood by his team’s effort and his decision to chase victory with the two-point try. Claiborne Shines in Defeat Despite the heartbreak, Claiborne turned in a memorable performance for Wake Forest. The senior tailback carried 21 times for 119 yards and scored twice, including the electric overtime run that nearly delivered a signature win. Ashford added 222 passing yards and 29 more on the ground, but he left the field limping after the final play. The Demon Deacons’ defense also had bright spots, with Quincy Bryant and Nick Andersen leading the unit with 11 tackles apiece. Linebacker Dylan Hazen forced a key fumble to set up Wake’s late go-ahead field goal. Jackets Keep Rolling For Georgia Tech, the victory secured the program’s best start in over a decade and highlighted King’s emergence as one of the ACC’s top dual-threat quarterbacks. The win also marked the Jackets’ fifth straight over Wake Forest and their longest winning streak in the series since 1985. Head coach Brent Key praised his players’ belief, noting that even trailing by 17, no one on the sideline doubted the outcome. His team now heads into a bye week before facing Virginia Tech on October 11, while Wake Forest travels to Virginia Tech next weekend seeking its first road win of the season.

A Historic Night in Charlottesville The atmosphere at Scott Stadium was electric as Virginia captured its most significant football victory in years. In front of 50,107 fans, the Cavaliers outlasted No. 8 Florida State 46-38 in a double-overtime contest. It marked Virginia’s first home win over a top-10 opponent since defeating the Seminoles two decades earlier. Head coach Tony Elliott called the night a championship-level moment for the program and a glimpse of what he believes Virginia football can become. Morris Guides Cavaliers to Victory Quarterback Chandler Morris carried the Cavaliers with five total touchdowns. He rushed for three scores, threw for two more, and delivered the decisive four-yard run in the second overtime. Virginia was required to attempt a two-point conversion, and Morris connected with Trell Harris in the end zone to extend the lead. On Florida State’s final possession, cornerback Ja’Son Prevard intercepted a pass in the end zone for his second takeaway of the night, sealing the victory and sending fans rushing onto the field. Morris completed 26 of 35 passes for 229 yards and added 59 rushing yards. Running back J’Mari Taylor provided balance with 99 yards on the ground and a touchdown, helping Virginia control the tempo in the second half. Seminoles Rally But Fall Short Florida State fought back after a disastrous start. The Seminoles fell behind 14-0 after two first-quarter turnovers but used their own takeaways to mount a rally. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos led three straight scoring drives, highlighted by a short rushing touchdown, to put FSU ahead 21-14 before the break. Even after Virginia regained the lead in the fourth quarter, Florida State responded once more. Castellanos engineered a late 67-yard march in the final two minutes and found Randy Pittman Jr. for the tying touchdown on fourth down with just 36 seconds left. That play sent the game into overtime at 35-35. Trading Blows in Overtime The first overtime ended with both teams trading field goals, Florida State hitting from 36 yards and Virginia answering from 39. In the second overtime, Morris’s rushing score and two-point conversion gave the Cavaliers an eight-point advantage. Florida State’s chance to answer ended in disappointment as Castellanos’s pass was picked off in the end zone by Prevard. Receiver Duce Robinson was Florida State’s top weapon, finishing with nine receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown. Castellanos threw for 254 yards and rushed for 78 but could not overcome Virginia’s timely defense. Running back Gavin Sawchuk added 74 rushing yards and a touchdown, while safety Earl Little Jr. led the Seminoles with 13 tackles. Significance for Both Programs The win gave Virginia a 4-1 overall record and a 2-0 start in ACC play. It was a landmark result that energized the fan base and underscored the team’s ability to compete with the best. Balanced contributions from veterans and emerging players highlighted the Cavaliers’ depth and resilience. Florida State, now 3-1, saw its promising season stumble after a high-profile win over Alabama earlier in September. Head coach Mike Norvell acknowledged that the Seminoles did not start the game with the urgency they needed, even as they showed fight to rally multiple times. Looking Ahead Virginia now prepares for a critical road matchup at Louisville on October 4, where the Cavaliers will attempt to build on their momentum in a crowded ACC race. Florida State heads back to Tallahassee for a rivalry showdown with Miami, hoping to regroup and reassert itself as a conference contender. For Virginia, the double-overtime triumph was more than just a win. It was a reminder of the unpredictability of college football and a night that will be remembered for restoring belief and proving that the Cavaliers can rise to meet the moment against one of the sport’s heavyweights.

A Rivalry With Lasting Implications When Miami and Florida take the field, the game is never just about the final score. It is about pride, bragging rights, and carrying momentum in one of the most heated rivalries in college football. On Saturday night inside Hard Rock Stadium, the Hurricanes left little doubt about their superiority, delivering a 26-7 victory that not only pushed them to 4-0 on the season but also extended their dominance over the Gators in recent years. The win marked Miami’s ninth victory in the last 11 meetings against Florida, a streak that speaks to the Hurricanes’ ability to show up in high-stakes rivalry games. For head coach Mario Cristobal, this victory carried special weight. It was not just about extending the unbeaten start but about proving Miami’s physical identity against a proud SEC opponent. First Half: Hurricanes Set the Tone From the opening whistle, Miami’s defense set the tone. The Hurricanes stuffed Florida’s first two rushing attempts and forced an early three-and-out, immediately sending a message that this would be a long night for the Gators. On the ensuing drive, Miami marched 68 yards downfield behind a mix of inside runs and short passes. Running back Marty Brown capped it off with a powerful two-yard touchdown, putting the Hurricanes ahead 7-0. The rest of the first half belonged to Miami’s defense. The Hurricanes held Florida to just 32 total yards and a single first down through the first two quarters. Quarterback Carson Beck, steady but unspectacular, managed the offense with precision and led two more scoring drives that ended in field goals. By halftime, Miami had built a 13-0 cushion while Florida looked completely out of sync. The Gators’ offensive struggles were glaring. Their line failed to protect quarterback D.J. Lagway, and Miami’s pass rush forced hurried throws that never found their mark. As the teams headed into the locker room, Florida looked frustrated and overwhelmed, while Miami looked poised to slam the door shut. Florida’s Brief Push in the Third Quarter Momentum briefly shifted after halftime. Florida’s coaching staff made adjustments, leaning heavily on the ground game. On their opening drive of the third quarter, running back Jadan Baugh broke through with a seven-yard touchdown run, capping an 80-yard march that brought the Gators within striking distance at 13-7. The energy in the stadium shifted, and things got tense when Beck threw an interception on Miami’s next possession, handing Florida the ball near midfield. For a moment, it appeared the Gators might mount a comeback. But the Hurricanes’ defense once again rose to the occasion, shutting down Florida on a critical fourth-down attempt. That stop effectively ended any hopes of a Florida rally. From that point on, the Gators never threatened again, undone by poor execution and Miami’s suffocating defense. Hurricanes Close With Authority With their lead narrowing, Miami responded with their most important drive of the game. The Hurricanes pieced together a 13-play, 80-yard march that ate up valuable clock and sapped Florida’s energy. Brown delivered his second touchdown of the night, extending the lead to 19-7. Moments later, running back Mark Fletcher Jr. hammered in a one-yard score, finishing the night with 116 rushing yards and Miami’s exclamation point touchdown. The Hurricanes’ rushing duo of Fletcher and Brown proved too much for Florida, combining for nearly 200 yards on the ground and three touchdowns. Beck finished with 160 passing yards on 17 completions, managing the game well despite one costly turnover. Yet, it was Miami’s defense that stole the spotlight. The Hurricanes held Florida to just 141 yards of total offense and an abysmal 0-for-13 on third downs. It was Florida’s worst offensive output in over two decades, a testament to the relentless pressure applied by Miami’s front seven. Implications for Both Programs For Miami, the victory solidifies their position as one of the nation’s most balanced and dangerous teams. They now enter a stretch of ACC play brimming with confidence and momentum. The defense has shown the ability to suffocate opponents, while the running game provides a reliable foundation. A looming showdown with Florida State promises to be one of the highlights of the season, and Miami has positioned itself as a legitimate national contender. For Florida, however, the struggles are mounting. At 1-3, the Gators find themselves in their worst start since 1986. Lagway’s inconsistent play, combined with an offensive line that failed to establish control, left the team searching for answers. Although the defense fought hard for three quarters, they eventually wore down under the constant strain of being on the field. Head coach Billy Napier admitted postgame that his team must improve its discipline, particularly on offense. The Gators now face a pivotal stretch of games that will determine whether they can salvage respectability in a season that is quickly unraveling. Final Takeaway The Hurricanes’ 26-7 triumph was more than just a win over a rival. It was a statement of intent. With a smothering defense, a punishing rushing attack, and the ability to deliver in key moments, Miami showcased all the traits of a top-tier program with championship aspirations. Florida, meanwhile, leaves with bruises both physical and emotional, and the pressure on Napier will only intensify as the losses pile up. The rivalry may go dormant for now, but the message from Miami is clear: the Hurricanes are back, and they are here to dominate.

LSU’s Offense Breaks Through BATON ROUGE, La. – Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier delivered the most complete performance of his career on Saturday night as No. 3 LSU rolled past Southeastern Louisiana, 56-10, inside Tiger Stadium. The win pushed LSU to 4-0 on the season, while the Lions fell to 2-2 heading into Southland Conference play. The game was a showcase of LSU’s offensive versatility and defensive discipline, as the Tigers dominated from start to finish. Nussmeier completed 25 of 31 passes for 273 yards, throwing three touchdowns and adding a rushing score. His poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays defined the evening, as he spread the ball to a variety of targets. Running back Ju’Juan Johnson chipped in with 43 rushing yards and his first two career touchdowns, while tight end Bauer Sharp led the receivers with five catches for 73 yards and a touchdown. The Tigers also leaned on their defense, which smothered Southeastern’s attack, holding the Lions to just 204 total yards and forcing repeated three-and-outs. Linebacker Dahvon Keys paced the defense with three tackles, a pass breakup, and a quarterback hurry. The front seven created constant pressure, giving Southeastern little time to develop rhythm. First Half: A Statement of Control The first quarter opened with both teams trading punts as LSU’s offense settled in. The breakthrough came midway through the frame when Nussmeier engineered a 13-play drive, capped by his one-yard keeper that gave LSU a 7-0 lead. The Tigers capitalized again moments later after Southeastern failed to convert on fourth down. Johnson punched in his first touchdown from two yards out, doubling the advantage. From there, LSU seized full control. On a fourth-down attempt late in the half, Nussmeier connected with Zavion Thomas for 17 yards, setting up Johnson’s second touchdown of the night, a 10-yard burst through the middle. Barion Brown then joined the scoring parade, catching a 17-yard touchdown pass that stretched the lead to 28-0. The Tigers weren’t finished. With just 15 seconds left in the half, Nussmeier avoided a sack and floated a strike to Thomas for a nine-yard touchdown. By halftime, LSU led 35-0, overwhelming Southeastern with 317 total yards compared to just 77 for the Lions. Second Half: Depth Takes Over The second half began the same way the first ended—with LSU in command. Nussmeier capped his night by hitting Bauer Sharp for a 23-yard touchdown, completing an 87-yard drive that made it 42-0. His work done, Nussmeier gave way to backup quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr., who seized the opportunity to make his own mark. Southeastern finally broke through midway through the third quarter, as quarterback Carson Camp connected with Deantre Jackson for a 14-yard touchdown. It was a brief moment of celebration for the Lions, who struggled to establish any offensive consistency. Van Buren answered quickly, recording his first career rushing touchdown on a one-yard keeper. He followed with a 27-yard touchdown pass to Kyle Parker early in the fourth quarter, extending LSU’s lead to 56-7. A late Lions field goal brought the final score to 56-10, but by then the outcome had long been decided. Standout Performers Nussmeier’s precision set the tone for LSU, and his three touchdown passes were a reflection of his growing confidence as the starter. Johnson’s two rushing scores provided a glimpse of the Tigers’ future backfield potential, while Sharp emerged as a key target at tight end, showcasing both reliability and athleticism. On defense, LSU’s balance was evident. Keys played with high energy in the middle, while the defensive front disrupted nearly every Lions possession. Southeastern’s offensive line struggled against LSU’s speed and size, resulting in limited time for Camp to execute plays. For the Lions, linebacker KK Reno impressed with 14 tackles, continuing his role as the heart of the defense. Defensive lineman Kaleb Proctor added two sacks and three tackles for loss, proving that even in defeat, Southeastern has talent capable of standing out. What This Win Means for LSU This performance reinforced LSU’s credentials as a national title contender. The Tigers scored on six of their first eight possessions, demonstrating efficiency and focus. The 530 total yards were a season-high, and the 35 first-half points marked their best start since last season’s SEC run. Head coach Brian Kelly emphasized afterward that the win wasn’t just about the score but about discipline and consistency. LSU committed few penalties, avoided turnovers, and played with sharp execution throughout. That formula will be critical as the Tigers now turn their attention to conference play. Looking Ahead Next week, LSU faces its first major SEC test on the road at Ole Miss. With Nussmeier developing into a reliable playmaker and a deep receiving corps backing him up, the Tigers appear primed to challenge for the SEC West crown. Southeastern, meanwhile, returns home to face UTRGV in its Southland Conference opener. While the loss was lopsided, the Lions gained valuable experience against one of the nation’s best teams and will look to carry those lessons into league play. Final Takeaway LSU’s 56-10 dismantling of Southeastern Louisiana was more than just a nonconference win—it was a statement of depth, execution, and balance. Nussmeier’s leadership, combined with a suffocating defense and explosive supporting cast, underscored why the Tigers are ranked among the nation’s elite. For Southeastern, the night was a reminder of the challenges of facing a powerhouse program, but also an opportunity to grow ahead of the games that matter most in their pursuit of a conference championship.

A Much-Needed Breakthrough for the Fighting Irish The Notre Dame Fighting Irish finally earned their first win of the season, defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 56-30 at Notre Dame Stadium. After opening the year with back-to-back narrow losses, the Irish responded with resilience, showcasing offensive firepower and defensive improvement. A nearly two-hour lightning delay added drama to the contest, but Notre Dame stayed composed and turned the break into momentum. Running back Jadarian Price was the centerpiece of the win, scoring four touchdowns, including a stunning 100-yard kickoff return just before halftime. His all-purpose effort electrified the Irish sideline and proved to be the turning point of the night. Explosive Start and Early Answers Notre Dame struck first with a long touchdown pass from freshman quarterback C.J. Carr, who connected with Malachi Fields for a 66-yard score. Purdue quickly countered with trickery, as running back Devin Mockobee threw a 14-yard touchdown pass to quarterback Ryan Browne, tying the game at 7-7. The Irish regained control on their next drive, leaning on running back Jeremiyah Love, who bulldozed into the end zone after several strong gains. While Purdue stayed within striking distance with timely field goals, Notre Dame’s balance on offense—spread between Carr’s passing and the ground game of Price and Love—made it difficult for the Boilermakers to gain sustained momentum. Price’s first rushing touchdown came midway through the second quarter, extending Notre Dame’s advantage. However, Purdue capitalized on a late fumble recovery and narrowed the gap with a touchdown drive just before the weather interruption. Lightning Delay Shifts Momentum With less than two minutes before halftime, lightning forced officials to halt play for nearly two hours. Instead of losing focus, Notre Dame used the extended break to reset. When play resumed, Price delivered the highlight of the game—a 100-yard kickoff return that silenced Purdue’s rally and swung the energy decisively back to the Irish. The return ignited the crowd and set the stage for a dominant third quarter. Notre Dame scored three consecutive touchdowns during the frame, turning what had been a competitive battle into a runaway victory. Irish Take Control in the Third Quarter Price’s second rushing touchdown opened the floodgates, and Carr remained steady at quarterback, completing 10 of 12 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns. His efficiency kept Purdue’s defense guessing, while receivers Jordan Faison and Fields both turned in explosive plays downfield. Love added another highlight-reel run, racing 46 yards to the end zone, while Faison capped the third quarter with a 48-yard touchdown reception. By the time the fourth quarter began, Notre Dame held an insurmountable lead, and the outcome was all but sealed. Purdue’s Response and Key Playmakers The Boilermakers showed flashes of offensive creativity, particularly with the trick play touchdown in the first quarter and a quick-strike drive late in the second. Quarterback Ryan Browne threw for 250 yards and added a touchdown reception, while receiver Nitro Tuggle hauled in 66 yards and a score. Defensively, Purdue struggled to contain Notre Dame’s speed and power. Linebacker Myles Slusher provided a bright spot with 11 tackles and a strip sack that briefly gave the Boilermakers life. Special teams also contributed, with kicker Spencer Porath converting all three of his field goal attempts, including a career-long 48-yarder. Despite these efforts, Purdue’s inability to stop the Irish rushing attack proved costly. The defense that had been reliable in earlier wins gave up 216 rushing yards and multiple explosive plays. Final Numbers and Takeaways Notre Dame’s offense finished with over 450 total yards, including 157 on the ground from Love and 74 from Price. Price’s four touchdowns highlighted his versatility, while Carr’s poise under center showcased his growth as a young leader. On defense, Notre Dame bounced back from early struggles, recording two sacks and two interceptions. The adjustments after halftime reflected a more disciplined approach, holding Purdue to just one touchdown in the final 28 minutes of play. For the Irish, the win was more than a notch in the standings. It was a response to early adversity and a statement that this team remains a contender when playing to its potential. For Purdue, the game served as both a lesson and a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in high-stakes matchups. Looking Ahead Notre Dame improved to 1-2 and will next travel to Arkansas, carrying renewed confidence after their breakthrough performance. The win not only ended a frustrating start but also reasserted the Irish’s ability to dominate when executing on both sides of the ball. Purdue, now 2-2, enters a bye week before resuming Big Ten play against Illinois. Despite the setback, the Boilermakers showed offensive promise, and the extra week of preparation may give them the reset needed to compete in conference play.

A Road Test for a Freshman Quarterback All eyes were on freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood as No. 21 Michigan entered Memorial Stadium to face Nebraska in its Big Ten opener. After struggling in his first road start at Oklahoma earlier this season, Underwood faced another difficult challenge in front of 87,000 fans and a national television audience. While his passing statistics were modest—12-of-22 for 105 yards—the young signal caller displayed poise, mobility, and leadership that played a crucial role in the Wolverines’ 30-27 victory. His 37-yard touchdown run in the first quarter set the tone and showed the dual-threat ability Michigan needed to lean on. Nebraska’s Missed Opportunities The Cornhuskers had a chance to seize early momentum but failed to capitalize on promising drives. An opening possession that reached the Michigan five-yard line ended on downs, and a second drive into Wolverine territory resulted in a missed 44-yard field goal. Those empty possessions haunted Nebraska as Michigan converted turnovers and opportunities into points. Quarterback Dylan Raiola still showcased his talent, throwing for 308 yards and three touchdowns, including a highlight 52-yard Hail Mary connection with Jacory Barney Jr. to tie the game at halftime. Yet despite his heroics, pressure from the Michigan defense proved relentless. Raiola was sacked seven times, losing 49 yards in the process, which undercut Nebraska’s offensive rhythm. Explosive Plays Define the Game Michigan’s offense thrived on big plays that shifted momentum. Justice Haynes once again powered the rushing attack, racking up 149 yards on 17 carries, highlighted by a stunning 75-yard touchdown run late in the first half. Jordan Marshall added another spark with an electrifying 54-yard touchdown in the third quarter, his longest career run. Together, Michigan’s backfield duo delivered 229 rushing yards, part of a dominant 286-yard team effort on the ground. These explosive runs balanced Underwood’s modest passing output and kept Nebraska’s defense on its heels. Michigan’s three long touchdowns of 37, 54, and 75 yards provided the difference in a game where the Huskers otherwise held the edge in first downs and time of possession. Nebraska Fights Until the End Despite being gashed by big plays, Nebraska never folded. Raiola spread the ball effectively, completing 30 of 41 passes while finding Barney six times for 120 yards and two touchdowns. The Huskers added a late scoring drive capped by a three-yard touchdown pass to Heinrich Haarberg, trimming the deficit to three points with under two minutes remaining. Nebraska attempted an onside kick to keep its hopes alive, but Michigan recovered and ran out the clock. The loss extended the Cornhuskers’ losing streak to 28 games against Top 25 opponents, a bitter reminder of the program’s ongoing challenge to regain its place among college football’s elite. Defensive Grit Carries the Wolverines Michigan’s defense played a central role in the victory. Coordinator Wink Martindale unleashed a wave of pressure, producing seven sacks and consistently collapsing the pocket. Linebacker Cole Sullivan’s interception early in the first quarter set up Underwood’s touchdown run and established Michigan’s aggressive tone. The defensive front also shut down Nebraska’s rushing attack, limiting the Huskers to just 43 net yards on the ground. That dominance at the line of scrimmage offset Nebraska’s success through the air and ultimately secured the win. The Takeaway for Michigan For the Wolverines, the victory was as much about resilience as it was about explosive plays. After allowing a halftime tie, Michigan regrouped and relied on its physicality and experience to close out the game. Acting head coach Biff Poggi praised Underwood’s leadership, noting the freshman’s ability to maintain composure even when Nebraska surged. The performance showed Michigan remains a tough, balanced team capable of contending in the Big Ten despite inconsistencies in the passing game. With head coach Sherrone Moore set to return from suspension, the Wolverines head into their bye week at 3-1, riding confidence from another statement win. Nebraska’s Silver Linings Although the Huskers walked away with a loss, the effort provided evidence of growth under head coach Matt Rhule. Raiola demonstrated his potential as one of the conference’s top quarterbacks, and Barney emerged as a reliable playmaker on the outside. Nebraska’s ability to go toe-to-toe with a ranked opponent offers optimism, but inconsistency in finishing drives and protecting the quarterback remain glaring concerns. The Blackshirts defense also struggled against Michigan’s rushing attack, allowing too many explosive plays at critical moments. Looking Ahead Michigan will rest during the bye week before hosting Wisconsin in another key conference matchup. Nebraska, meanwhile, also has a week off before returning to Memorial Stadium to face Michigan State. For both teams, the showdown in Lincoln offered lessons and momentum as the Big Ten season moves forward.

A Historic Rivalry Comes to a Close In what may have been the last chapter of one of college football’s most storied rivalries, TCU defeated SMU 35–24 in the 104th edition of the Battle for the Iron Skillet. The win gave the Horned Frogs a 54-43-7 all-time edge in a series spanning more than a century. With conference realignments and scheduling shifts, this could mark the end of the annual matchup that has defined football in North Texas. Played before a raucous record student crowd at Amon G. Carter Stadium, the game lived up to the legacy of the rivalry. Both teams exchanged momentum swings, but TCU’s late-game heroics proved decisive. McAlister and Hoover Shine Wide receiver Eric McAlister delivered one of the greatest individual performances in TCU history, hauling in eight catches for 254 yards and three touchdowns. His receiving total marked the second-highest single-game performance in school history. Quarterback Josh Hoover was equally impressive, completing 22 of 40 passes for 379 yards and a career-high five touchdown passes. McAlister’s dominance was never more evident than in the fourth quarter. After SMU grabbed its only lead at 24–21 with just over ten minutes remaining, McAlister responded with a 70-yard catch-and-run to reclaim the advantage. Only three minutes later, he struck again with a 44-yard touchdown, effectively sealing the game for the Horned Frogs. Hoover praised his star receiver after the game, noting that McAlister’s ability to make plays after the catch changed the momentum. Head coach Sonny Dykes echoed that sentiment, crediting McAlister’s instincts and toughness for turning broken plays into game-defining moments. SMU’s Fight Falls Short For SMU, the loss was a painful reminder of missed opportunities. Quarterback Kevin Jennings played well, throwing for 290 yards and three touchdowns, but costly interceptions in the closing minutes stalled the Mustangs’ comeback hopes. Jennings showed poise throughout much of the game, connecting with Jordan Hudson, Matthew Hibner, and Yamir Knight for scoring plays, but the Horned Frogs’ defense tightened when it mattered most. Despite holding a fourth-quarter lead, SMU was unable to finish the job. Head coach Rhett Lashlee lamented his team’s struggles late in games, pointing out that the Mustangs had already let two leads slip away this season. Still, he highlighted his team’s potential to compete for an ACC title, reminding critics of SMU’s recent 22 wins across the past two seasons. Turning Points and Defensive Plays While McAlister stole the headlines, other Horned Frogs made critical contributions. Joseph Manjack IV scored his first touchdown of the season early in the third quarter, breaking tackles on a powerful 4-yard effort that gave TCU temporary breathing room. Defensively, Jamel Johnson’s pair of interceptions in the final five minutes shut down SMU’s rally attempt and preserved the victory. The Mustangs’ defense also had moments of brilliance, including Jaelyn Davis-Robinson’s highlight interception in the end zone, ripping the ball away from McAlister to save a touchdown. However, SMU’s inability to contain explosive plays ultimately proved costly. Looking Ahead With the win, TCU improved to 3–0 and will turn its attention to a quick turnaround against Arizona State on Friday night. The Horned Frogs enter Big 12 play with momentum and confidence, powered by one of the most dangerous quarterback-receiver duos in the country. SMU, now 2–2, enters a bye week before opening ACC play at home against Syracuse. For the Mustangs, the focus will be on shoring up late-game execution and capitalizing on their offensive firepower in crucial moments. A Rivalry Remembered The Battle for the Iron Skillet has always been about more than just football—it represented regional pride and generations of tradition. Saturday’s showdown had all the hallmarks of classic rivalry games: big plays, emotional swings, and a charged atmosphere. If this truly was the final Iron Skillet matchup, it ended fittingly—with drama, passion, and a performance for the history books. TCU walked away with the win and the skillet, while SMU left with the bitter taste of a missed opportunity. For fans, it was another unforgettable chapter in a rivalry that helped define Texas football for more than a century.

A Historic Upset Ends a 16-Game Losing Streak Vanderbilt football delivered one of its most memorable performances in recent history, stunning No. 11 South Carolina 31-7 at Williams-Brice Stadium. The victory snapped a 16-game losing streak against the Gamecocks, giving the Commodores their first win in the series since 2008. It also marked Vanderbilt’s first 3-0 start since 2017 and the first time since 2011 that the program won its SEC opener. Head coach Clark Lea dedicated the triumph to his mentor, Bobby Johnson, the last Vanderbilt coach to beat South Carolina. With a balanced offensive attack and a defense that forced four turnovers, the Commodores dominated every facet of the game.  Offensive Efficiency from Diego Pavia Graduate quarterback Diego Pavia showcased poise and efficiency, completing 18 of 25 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns. He orchestrated Vanderbilt’s opening drive—a nine-play, 73-yard march that ended with an 18-yard touchdown strike to Sedrick Alexander. That early statement set the tone and quieted the sold-out South Carolina crowd. Pavia later connected with Junior Sherrill for a five-yard touchdown in the second quarter, giving Vanderbilt a 14-7 halftime advantage. While he did throw an interception in the red zone, his command of the offense and even his willingness to throw a key block on a reverse play earned praise from Coach Lea, who emphasized that Pavia’s leadership was fueling the entire team. Game-Changing Plays The third quarter proved decisive as running back Jamezell Lassiter broke loose for a 44-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 21-7. Vanderbilt’s defense continued to apply pressure, disrupting South Carolina’s rhythm and capitalizing on turnovers. Later in the game, kicker Brock Taylor drilled a 51-yard field goal, his 14th consecutive make, putting the Commodores up by three scores. Alexander capped off his standout night with a two-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, securing the 31-7 final margin. Alexander’s performance was especially notable, as he scored twice and became the first Vanderbilt player since 2012 to record touchdowns in each of the first three games of a season. South Carolina’s Struggles The Gamecocks’ offensive hopes unraveled when quarterback LaNorris Sellers, a Heisman hopeful, exited in the second quarter after a helmet-to-helmet hit by linebacker Langston Patterson. Patterson was ejected for targeting, but the damage had been done. Sellers finished 6 of 7 for 94 yards with a costly interception before being replaced by Luke Doty, who struggled to generate offense. South Carolina managed just 86 rushing yards, their lowest total of the season, and penalties plagued them at key moments. Running back Rahsul Faison provided the lone bright spot with 74 rushing yards and a first-quarter touchdown, but the Gamecocks failed to score again in the final 50 minutes. To compound frustrations, star defender Dylan Stewart was ejected late in the fourth quarter for unsportsmanlike conduct, underscoring the Gamecocks’ inability to maintain discipline under pressure. Vanderbilt’s Defensive Statement Defensively, Vanderbilt shined. The Commodores forced two interceptions and two fumbles while holding South Carolina scoreless after the opening drive. CJ Heard recorded a season-high 12 tackles, while Nick Rinaldi tallied 2.5 tackles for loss, including his eighth career sack. Several other defenders reached milestones, including Zaylin Wood’s first interception as a Commodore and Bryce Cowan’s first forced fumble. The four forced turnovers highlighted a growing identity for Vanderbilt as a defense that thrives on physicality and opportunistic play. Their 12-minute edge in time of possession further emphasized how they controlled the pace of the contest. The Significance of the Win This upset carries major implications for both teams. For Vanderbilt, it’s proof that the program is taking meaningful steps forward under Coach Lea. Winning convincingly on the road against a top-15 opponent demonstrates balance on both sides of the ball and sends a message that the Commodores can compete in the SEC. For South Carolina, the loss is a harsh setback. Their national title hopes are now in jeopardy, and the uncertainty around Sellers’ health only magnifies the challenges ahead. Offensive inconsistency, combined with penalties and turnovers, exposed weaknesses that must be addressed quickly. Looking Ahead Vanderbilt (3-0, 1-0 SEC) returns home next Saturday to host Georgia State, aiming to build on its historic start. If the Commodores continue their balanced play, they could emerge as one of the SEC’s biggest surprise stories in 2025. South Carolina (2-1, 0-1 SEC) travels to Missouri next week in what now feels like a pivotal moment for their season. Whether Sellers can return will likely determine how competitive the Gamecocks remain in conference play. Final Takeaway Vanderbilt’s 31-7 victory over South Carolina wasn’t just an upset—it was a statement. With Diego Pavia leading the offense, a defense that forced four turnovers, and a renewed sense of belief, the Commodores proved they are far more than an afterthought in the SEC. For South Carolina, the night was a sobering reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in college football, and how critical health and discipline are to sustaining success.

A Statement Victory in Miami Gardens MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The No. 5 Miami Hurricanes showcased their depth, discipline, and dominance on Saturday night, overpowering the No. 18 South Florida Bulls 49–12 at Hard Rock Stadium. The win improved Miami to 3–0 while handing USF its first defeat of the season. It also sent a message to the college football world that the Hurricanes are prepared to contend on the national stage. Quarterback Carson Beck was nearly flawless, completing 23 of 28 passes for 340 yards and three touchdowns. He added another score with his legs, further solidifying his growing reputation as one of the most consistent quarterbacks in the nation. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. complemented the aerial attack with 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while wideout Joshua Moore caught two touchdown passes in the first quarter to ignite Miami’s early surge. First-Half Momentum Too Much for USF Early Strikes by the Hurricanes Miami wasted no time imposing its will. Beck connected with Joshua Moore on back-to-back touchdown passes, giving the Hurricanes a 14–0 lead before the Bulls could settle into the game. Those quick strikes immediately placed USF on the defensive and forced them into a pass-heavy approach. A lightning delay that stretched an hour and 42 minutes could have slowed Miami’s momentum, but the Hurricanes remained sharp. Fletcher exploded for a 38-yard touchdown run shortly after play resumed, and Beck added a two-yard bootleg score just before halftime. By the break, Miami led 28–6, leaving little doubt about the eventual outcome. USF’s Lone Bright Spots Despite the lopsided score, USF quarterback Byrum Brown continued to fight. He threw for 274 yards and a touchdown, but he also tossed an interception that ended his school-record streak of 252 pass attempts without a pick. Wide receiver Chas Nimrod provided a spark with 128 yards on four catches, while freshman Christian Neptune added seven receptions and his first career touchdown. Even with those efforts, USF could not sustain drives. Miami’s defense repeatedly closed off running lanes, holding the Bulls to just 40 rushing yards on 27 carries. Every attempt to claw back into the game was met by swarming defenders and timely stops. Hurricanes Seal the Deal Defensive Dominance The second half followed a familiar pattern: Miami’s defense smothered USF’s attack, while the offense continued to produce explosive plays. Defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. delivered a highlight moment when he stopped Brown on a crucial third-quarter run, preventing USF from converting in scoring territory. That defensive stand set the tone for the rest of the evening. Offensive Firepower Following Bain’s stop, Miami engineered a 91-yard touchdown drive that showcased their balance. Beck mixed in precise throws with Fletcher’s ground power, culminating in another rushing touchdown that extended the lead. From there, Miami’s reserves entered the game, but the Hurricanes still managed to maintain their rhythm. By the final whistle, Miami had amassed 576 total yards of offense compared to USF’s 314. The disparity reflected both the Hurricanes’ efficiency and the Bulls’ struggles to adapt to the relentless pressure. Looking Ahead Miami’s Big Picture For the Hurricanes, this win was more than just another notch in the victory column. It marked Miami’s largest margin of victory over a ranked opponent since 2001, underscoring how far the program has come under its current leadership. Beck, Fletcher, and Moore continue to headline a unit that has proven it can score quickly, sustain drives, and close out games with physicality. Next week, Miami faces Florida in a highly anticipated in-state clash. With confidence at an all-time high, the Hurricanes will look to solidify their top-five ranking and push closer to playoff contention. USF’s Path Forward The Bulls, meanwhile, drop to 2–1 but leave the game with lessons that could benefit them in the long run. While the defeat was humbling, the emergence of Nimrod and Neptune as reliable targets gives USF more offensive options moving forward. Head coach Alex Golesh will likely emphasize improving the run game and shoring up the offensive line before the Bulls host South Carolina State. Final Takeaway Miami’s 49–12 win over USF was a complete performance that highlighted both talent and execution. From Beck’s poise to Fletcher’s physicality and a defense that allowed virtually no ground game, the Hurricanes proved themselves as legitimate contenders. For USF, the game was a reminder of the gap between being a top-25 team and breaking into the elite tier of college football. If Miami continues to play with this balance and intensity, their season could mirror the glory days of Hurricanes football, while USF will regroup and aim to bounce back stronger in conference play.

A Slow Start Turns Into a Commanding Finish In a long-awaited renewal of a rivalry not played since 2010, No. 20 Utah traveled to Laramie to face Wyoming at War Memorial Stadium. The game opened as a defensive standoff, with Wyoming’s front seven keeping Utah from finding the end zone throughout the first half. Despite dominating time of possession and nearly doubling Wyoming’s yardage, the Utes went into halftime with only a 3-0 lead. The Cowboys’ defensive resilience and timely stops gave their home crowd reason to believe an upset might be brewing. The second half, however, told a very different story. Utah’s offense caught fire behind quarterback Devon Dampier, who led four consecutive touchdown drives. By the end of the game, Utah had turned a tight contest into a commanding 31-6 win, proving their ability to impose control once adjustments were made. Dampier Sparks the Offense The third quarter provided the turning point. Dampier orchestrated an 83-yard drive capped by NaQuari Rogers’ one-yard touchdown run, breaking the Cowboys’ defensive hold. That score opened the floodgates as Utah’s tempo and physicality began to wear down the Wyoming defense. Dampier displayed maturity beyond his years, completing eight consecutive passes during the stretch and keeping the defense guessing with designed runs. He finished with 230 passing yards and two touchdowns, adding another 86 yards on the ground. One of the game’s most memorable plays came when Dampier fumbled a snap in the red zone. Instead of panicking, he scooped the ball, rolled out to his right, and delivered an off-balance eight-yard touchdown pass to Larry Simmons. The improvisation highlighted Dampier’s poise and athleticism, as he continued to prove himself as Utah’s leader under center. Wyoming’s Defense Holds, Then Breaks Wyoming’s defense showed grit early, forcing Utah into mistakes and creating opportunities to stay within striking distance. The Cowboys blocked a field goal just before halftime, and linebacker Evan Eller recorded a career-high 12 tackles to keep the Utes in check. Safety Andrew Johnson added 11 tackles and recovered a fumble, while nickelback Desman Hearns delivered one of the game’s biggest first-half turnovers. But as the second half unfolded, Utah’s physical ground game wore down Wyoming’s defense. The Utes racked up 311 rushing yards by the end of the night, repeatedly moving the chains and keeping Wyoming’s defense on the field. Despite their early resistance, the Cowboys could not stop Utah from scoring four unanswered touchdowns. Utah’s Defense Remains Elite Although the offensive explosion defined the second half, Utah’s defense once again proved why it is considered among the best in the nation. The Utes limited Wyoming to just 229 total yards and forced the Cowboys into long third downs all night. Quarterback Kaden Anderson managed only 108 passing yards, while the rushing attack mustered 121 yards against Utah’s imposing front line. Defensive end John Henry Daley made a huge impact by recording two sacks, doubling his season total. Jackson Bennee added another interception, continuing Utah’s trend of forcing turnovers at key moments. The defense’s discipline and relentless pressure gave Wyoming few chances to build any momentum. Key Performances on Both Sides Utah’s offense thrived behind the connection between Dampier and Ryan Davis, who finished with 10 receptions for 91 yards. Rogers added 60 rushing yards and another short-yardage touchdown, while Hunter Andrews delivered 106 all-purpose yards and the final score of the game. On defense, Daley and Bennee led a unit that consistently suffocated Wyoming’s passing and rushing lanes. For Wyoming, Samuel Harris provided a spark with 68 rushing yards and 37 receiving yards. Terron Kellman added a late touchdown in the fourth quarter, accounting for Wyoming’s only points of the night. While the defense had standout performers in Eller, Johnson, and Hearns, the lack of sustained offensive production left them on the field too long. What the Win Means for Utah Utah’s 31-6 win reinforced their standing as one of the nation’s most complete teams. Head coach Kyle Whittingham emphasized his team’s resilience, crediting the ability to overcome early mistakes and dominate after halftime. This marked the Utes’ third straight win to start the season, giving them confidence heading into Big 12 play. For the second consecutive week, the team surpassed 500 total yards while holding its opponent under 250, a level of balance few programs can match. The result highlighted Utah’s ability to grind out wins even when the first half does not go according to plan. With Dampier quickly developing into a dual-threat quarterback capable of commanding long drives, the Utes appear poised to compete not only for a conference crown but also for a spot in the College Football Playoff conversation. Looking Ahead Utah now turns to a pivotal Big 12 opener against No. 21 Texas Tech, a matchup that will test their continued growth against a ranked opponent. The Utes will look to build on the momentum of this dominant second half and carry their confidence into conference play. Wyoming, meanwhile, falls to 1-2 but showed enough defensive grit in the first half to take positives from the loss. The Cowboys will aim to regroup as they prepare to face Colorado, focusing on improved offensive execution and consistency to complement their defense. In the end, the rivalry clash offered a glimpse of Utah’s ceiling as a team with legitimate championship aspirations, while Wyoming gained valuable lessons about staying competitive against top-25 opposition.

Crimson Tide Roll at Home The atmosphere inside Bryant–Denny Stadium was electric as No. 19 Alabama hosted Wisconsin for the Badgers’ first-ever trip to Tuscaloosa. What started with some promise for the visitors quickly turned into a showcase of Alabama’s offensive firepower. Behind quarterback Ty Simpson’s career-best outing, the Crimson Tide pulled away for a 38–14 victory, improving to 2–1 on the season and handing Wisconsin its first loss. Simpson Leads the Tide Ty Simpson turned in the finest performance of his young career, completing 24 of 29 passes for 382 yards and four touchdowns. He added 25 rushing yards, making him responsible for 407 of Alabama’s 454 total yards of offense. His accuracy and command of the game allowed Alabama to stay efficient throughout, at one point stringing together 13 consecutive completions. Simpson’s favorite target was freshman sensation Ryan Williams, who turned five receptions into 165 yards and two touchdowns, including scoring plays of 75 and 41 yards. Germie Bernard contributed both as a runner and receiver, adding a two-yard rushing touchdown and a 43-yard scoring catch. Isaiah Horton chipped in with a 13-yard touchdown reception, while the offensive line held firm to give Simpson ample time to distribute the ball. The Crimson Tide offense demonstrated explosiveness, with a mix of quick strikes and sustained drives. A highlight came late in the second quarter when Simpson engineered an eight-play, 98-yard march capped by Horton’s touchdown grab. Defense Clamps Down On the other side of the ball, Alabama’s defense held Wisconsin to just 209 total yards, limiting the Badgers to 92 on the ground. The unit tallied four sacks and forced two turnovers, both coming on interceptions by defensive back Bray Hubbard. Linebacker Deontae Lawson led the way with nine tackles, while LT Overton, Yhonzae Pierre, Qua Russaw, and London Simmons each recorded a sack. Hubbard’s pair of interceptions proved pivotal, setting up Alabama scores and ending Wisconsin’s momentum before it could build. The Tide defense suffocated the Badgers’ running game, forcing backup quarterback Danny O’Neil into long-yardage situations where mistakes mounted. Wisconsin’s Uphill Battle Wisconsin entered Tuscaloosa with sophomore Danny O’Neil starting in place of the injured Billy Edwards Jr. After an impressive debut against Middle Tennessee, O’Neil struggled against Alabama’s speed and pressure. He threw for just 117 yards on 12 completions with two costly interceptions that stalled promising drives. The Badgers’ lone highlights came in special teams and a late offensive spark. Early in the third quarter, Trech Kekahuna returned a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, putting Wisconsin on the board after falling behind 28–0. Later, O’Neil connected with Jayden Ballard for a 41-yard touchdown pass to trim the deficit in the fourth quarter. Beyond those moments, however, the Badgers’ offense sputtered, averaging just 2.7 yards per carry and surrendering four sacks. Wisconsin’s defense initially held strong against Alabama’s ground game, limiting the Tide to just 72 rushing yards. But repeated breakdowns in the secondary allowed Simpson and Williams to connect for explosive plays that broke the game open. Turning Points Alabama took control midway through the first half. After building a 14–0 lead, the Tide struck just before halftime with Horton’s touchdown catch to make it 21–0. On the first play of the third quarter, Simpson found Williams for a 75-yard bomb, extending the lead to 28–0. Although Kekahuna’s kickoff return briefly lifted the Badgers, Alabama quickly answered with another Williams score on its next drive, effectively sealing the outcome. What It Means For Alabama, the win extended head coach Kalen DeBoer’s perfect start at Bryant–Denny Stadium to 9–0, the longest home-opening streak by a Crimson Tide coach since the early 20th century. More importantly, it showed that the Tide can still dominate opponents through the air even when the ground game stalls. With Simpson building confidence and Williams emerging as a star, Alabama looks poised to contend in the SEC. For Wisconsin, the defeat was a reminder of the gulf between building programs and established powers. The Badgers’ offensive line struggled with consistency, their young quarterback looked unsettled against elite competition, and their defense was unable to keep pace with Alabama’s speed. Head coach Luke Fickell will need to regroup quickly, with Maryland looming in Big Ten play. Final Takeaway Alabama’s 38–14 victory over Wisconsin was decisive in every phase. Ty Simpson’s career day, Ryan Williams’ explosiveness, and a disciplined defensive effort left no doubt about the Tide’s quality. Wisconsin showed flashes, including a kickoff return touchdown, but turnovers, sacks, and penalties ensured they never truly threatened. The result reinforced Alabama’s ability to adapt under new leadership while highlighting Wisconsin’s need for growth before it can compete with the nation’s elite.