Florida State Crushes Virginia 38-7 Behind Ashton Daniels’ Record Five Rushing Touchdowns

No. 5 SMU continued its unbeaten start to ACC play with one of its most efficient offensive performances of the season, sweeping Boston College 3-0 Sunday afternoon in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. The Mustangs won 25-19, 25-12, 25-18 , improving to 12-2 overall and 4-0 in conference play. The victory extended SMU’s winning streak to six matches and its ACC winning streak to 13, the longest active streak in the conference. Suli Davis powered the Mustangs with 16 kills on a career-best .556 hitting percentage. Davis also contributed a career-high six blocks as SMU combined a season-best offensive performance with another dominant showing at the net. SMU Pulls Away Late in Opening Set Boston College challenged the Mustangs throughout much of the first set. The opening frame featured eight ties and four lead changes, with the Eagles moving ahead 9-8 after a Reese Dunkle kill and a solo block from Audrey Ross. SMU could not immediately create separation, and Ross helped Boston College remain within striking distance. Her late kill reduced SMU’s advantage to 19-18. That was when the Mustangs took control. SMU closed the set on a decisive 6-1 run , turning a one-point margin into a 25-19 victory and establishing momentum for the rest of the match. The Mustangs also recorded seven blocks in the opening set, setting the tone for a defensive performance that repeatedly disrupted Boston College’s attack. Mustangs Dominate Second Set There was far less suspense in the second frame. SMU raced to a 5-0 advantage and never allowed Boston College to establish consistent offensive rhythm. The Mustangs maintained their efficiency while continuing to control play at the net. Boston College finally got on the board with a Sam Hoppes kill, but the Eagles could not slow SMU’s attack. A late stretch that included a service ace and consecutive blocks helped the Mustangs pull away for a 25-12 victory . The 13-point margin made it SMU’s most dominant set victory of the season. With a 2-0 match advantage, the Mustangs were one set away from completing another ACC sweep. Suli Davis Leads Season-Best SMU Attack Davis delivered one of the best all-around performances of her SMU career. Her 16 kills marked the 13th time in 14 matches this season that she reached double figures. She committed few mistakes while producing a career-best .556 hitting percentage and finished with 20 points . Those 20 points were the most recorded by an SMU player in a three-set match this season. Davis also made a major impact defensively with six blocks. Setter Hannah Beauford kept the offense operating efficiently with 32 assists. She also contributed five digs and two service aces. Jadyn Livings, making her second start of the season, provided another efficient attacking option with nine kills while hitting .438 . Together, the Mustangs produced a season-high .468 hitting percentage . SMU has now hit .300 or better seven times this season and has reached that mark in five consecutive matches. The Mustangs remain unbeaten under coach Sam Erger when hitting at least .300, improving to 54-0 in those matches. Boston College Challenges SMU in Third Boston College made another push early in the third set. The Eagles used kills from Laney Blevins and Sofija Marjanovic during a 3-0 run to move ahead 8-7. They later tied the score at 14-14 following an SMU attack error. Once again, the Mustangs responded immediately. SMU scored three straight points to regain a 17-14 advantage and never surrendered control again. Boston College received late kills from Ross, but the Mustangs closed out the frame 25-18 to complete the sweep. SMU’s offensive performance in the final set was remarkable. The Mustangs hit .682 , producing 15 kills on 22 attacks while committing only one error. It was the fifth-best single-set hitting percentage by SMU during the 25-point rally-scoring era. Mustangs Control the Net SMU’s efficiency was complemented by another imposing blocking performance. The Mustangs finished with 15 team blocks , tying their season high. They have now recorded at least 10 blocks in 10 matches this season, including three times during ACC competition. Favor Anyanwu led the defensive effort with eight blocks. It marked the fifth time this season Anyanwu has recorded at least eight blocks and the 13th such performance of her SMU career. That career total is tied for third most in program history. SMU’s two middle blockers combined for 12 kills, 14 blocks and a .450 hitting percentage . The Mustangs also held Boston College to a .091 team hitting percentage . It was the fourth time this season SMU has held an opponent below .100, with all four instances occurring over the last five matches. Audrey Ross Leads Boston College Ross provided Boston College’s most consistent offensive production. She matched Davis with a match-high 16 kills , hitting .211 while adding two digs and a block. Hoppes finished with five kills on a team-best .300 hitting percentage, while Brooklyn Yelland led the Eagles with seven digs. Lucie Vesela recorded nine assists, and Ava McBride contributed eight. Boston College dropped to 10-5 overall and 1-3 in the ACC . SMU Takes Winning Streak Into Top-Five Showdown The sweep continued an impressive stretch for the Mustangs. SMU has won six consecutive matches overall and 13 straight ACC matches . The Mustangs are also now 3-0 all-time against Boston College. Their next challenge will be considerably bigger. No. 5 SMU travels to face No. 2 Pittsburgh on Wednesday, Oct. 7 , in the first of two top-five showdowns between the programs. Boston College begins its first ACC road trip of the season against Wake Forest on Friday, Oct. 9 .

Amari Odom waited until just two days before kickoff to learn he would make his first career start for Syracuse. By the end of Saturday afternoon, he had delivered one of the most productive quarterback performances in program history. Odom accounted for six touchdowns , including the game-winning two-point conversion in overtime, as Syracuse survived UConn 42-41 at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford. The Orange improved to 2-2 , while UConn fell to 2-3 after nearly completing a comeback from a 20-point second-half deficit. Odom completed 27 of 37 passes for 335 yards and five touchdowns , tying Syracuse's single-game record for touchdown passes. He also rushed for a score. Odom Makes Immediate Impact in First Start Syracuse wasted little time putting the game in Odom's hands. On the Orange's opening possession, Odom connected with Umari Hatcher for a 40-yard touchdown , completing a 70-yard drive and giving Syracuse a 6-0 advantage after UConn blocked the extra point. UConn responded immediately. Kalieb Osborne found Cam Abshire for an eight-yard touchdown, and the extra point gave the Huskies a 7-6 lead. That advantage did not last. Odom threw a four-yard touchdown to Noah Meyers early in the second quarter before scoring himself on a six-yard run , putting Syracuse ahead 20-7. The Orange continued applying pressure after their defense forced an Osborne fumble. Odom found Hatcher again, this time for a 41-yard touchdown , stretching Syracuse's lead to 27-7. UConn answered before halftime when Trey Cornist scored on a four-yard run, cutting the deficit to 27-14. Syracuse Builds 20-Point Lead Syracuse took an aggressive approach on its opening possession of the second half. Facing a long fourth down from UConn territory, the Orange kept their offense on the field. Odom rewarded the decision by finding Daunte Bacheyie for a 34-yard touchdown . The score pushed Syracuse ahead 34-14 with 7:58 remaining in the third quarter. At that point, the Orange appeared to have complete control. UConn had other plans. UConn Scores 20 Straight to Force Tie The Huskies refused to abandon their running game despite the 20-point deficit. UConn answered with a 14-play, 75-yard drive, capped by Cyncir Bowers' 10-yard touchdown run . The extra point was missed, leaving Syracuse ahead 34-20. UConn continued applying pressure in the fourth quarter. Osborne connected with Xavier Watson for a seven-yard touchdown, pulling the Huskies within 34-27. Then Bowers delivered the biggest play of UConn's comeback. After Osborne opened the next possession with a 13-yard run, Bowers exploded for a 71-yard touchdown , completing an 84-yard drive and tying the game 34-34 with 11:52 remaining . Bowers finished with 163 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries . Osborne threw for 314 yards and three scores. Both Teams Miss Chances to Win in Regulation Syracuse responded to UConn's comeback by driving deep into Huskies territory. The Orange reached the UConn 7-yard line, but Jayden Price intercepted Odom at the 1-yard line , denying Syracuse a potential go-ahead score. UConn then drove 61 yards but turned the ball over on downs at the Syracuse 38. That gave Odom another opportunity. With 1:36 remaining, Syracuse moved into field-goal range. Shay Barker attempted a 44-yard field goal on the final play of regulation , but the kick missed right. The game headed to overtime tied at 34-34. Odom and Hatcher Deliver on Fourth Down UConn needed only two plays to score in overtime. Osborne connected with Trey Cornist for a 25-yard touchdown , and Jack O'Connor's extra point gave the Huskies a 41-34 advantage. Syracuse's possession became much more difficult. After moving inside the UConn 10, Odom was sacked by K'Von Sherman for a 10-yard loss and fumbled, although the ball went out of bounds. An incompletion then left Syracuse facing a decisive fourth down. On fourth-and-goal from the 17 , Odom escaped pressure and found Hatcher crossing the back of the end zone for the touchdown. UConn was also called for roughing the passer, moving the ball to the 1-yard line for the conversion. Rather than kick for another overtime period, Syracuse went for the victory. Odom kept the football and crossed the goal line for the two-point conversion , ending the game 42-41. The image on page 2 of the source captures that decisive sequence, showing Syracuse preparing for the two-point attempt with UConn leading 41-40. Hatcher Finishes With Three Touchdowns Odom's historic debut was complemented by a massive afternoon from Hatcher. The Syracuse receiver finished with 12 catches for 152 yards and three touchdowns , including the fourth-down score that kept the Orange alive in overtime. Tylik Hill provided balance on the ground, carrying a career-high 28 times for 140 yards . Syracuse finished with 509 total yards , converted 10 of 17 third downs and held the ball for more than 35 minutes. Odom's five touchdown passes tied performances by five other Syracuse quarterbacks, while his six total touchdowns tied for the second-most touchdowns responsible for in program history . Syracuse Escapes With Second Straight Overtime Win Over UConn The wild finish continued Syracuse's recent control of the series. It was the second consecutive season the Orange and Huskies went to overtime, with Syracuse winning both games. The victory also extended Syracuse's winning streak against UConn to seven consecutive meetings . Syracuse now faces its third consecutive road game when it travels to Virginia on Oct. 10 . UConn heads to Temple on Oct. 10 .

No. 21 SMU did not produce the explosive offensive numbers that have defined much of its season, but the Mustangs found another way to win Saturday. Quarterback Kevin Jennings accounted for three touchdowns , and SMU leaned on a disruptive defensive performance to defeat Boston College 25-16 in rainy conditions at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. The Mustangs improved to 4-1 overall and 2-1 in ACC play , while Boston College dropped to 2-3 overall and 0-2 in the conference. SMU managed only 218 total yards and was outgained by more than 100, but the Mustangs avoided turnovers, produced five sacks and repeatedly capitalized on opportunities created by their defense and special teams. SMU and Boston College Trade Early Touchdowns SMU struck first behind its rushing attack. Kendrick Raphael capped the Mustangs' early scoring drive with a two-yard touchdown run , putting SMU ahead. Boston College quickly answered through the air. Quarterback Mason McKenzie connected with Evan Dickens for a 43-yard touchdown , keeping the Eagles within striking distance. Jennings then used his legs to put SMU back in front, scoring on a four-yard touchdown run that helped send the Mustangs into halftime with a 13-10 advantage. It was not the offensive shootout SMU had become accustomed to, particularly with a light but steady rain affecting conditions into the second half. Jennings entered the game leading the FBS with 357 passing yards per game , but Boston College kept the Mustangs' passing attack from finding its usual rhythm. SMU Defense Creates Critical Third-Quarter Opportunity The Mustangs began creating separation after halftime, and their defense provided one of the game's biggest plays. Defensive lineman Marques White sacked McKenzie and forced a fumble . Aakil Washington recovered the loose ball and returned it 34 yards to the Boston College 13-yard line . SMU did not waste the short field. Jennings connected with Randy Pittman Jr. for a 14-yard touchdown , extending the Mustangs' lead to 19-10. White's sack was one of three he recorded during the game. SMU finished with five sacks , consistently disrupting Boston College despite the Eagles' advantage in total offense. The defensive effort was particularly important because the Mustangs never found their normal offensive pace. Boston College Misses Major Fourth-Down Opportunity Boston College remained close enough to threaten throughout the second half. Early in the fourth quarter, the Eagles drove deep into SMU territory and faced fourth-and-inches from the Mustangs' 8-yard line. McKenzie found Cameron Kossmann wide open , but the pass was dropped. The missed opportunity was especially costly because Kossmann had room to potentially reach the end zone. Instead of potentially cutting SMU's advantage to two points, Boston College turned the ball over on downs. It was one of several mistakes that prevented the Eagles from taking advantage of a game in which they controlled several statistical categories. Jennings Finds McFall for Late Touchdown SMU eventually delivered the touchdown it needed to create breathing room. A punt return gave the Mustangs possession at the Boston College 41-yard line. A roughing-the-passer penalty extended the drive on third down before Jennings connected with Derrick McFall for a 20-yard touchdown with 4:41 remaining. The score gave SMU a 25-10 advantage. Jennings finished 20-of-30 for 160 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions . His passing total was his lowest since the week he became SMU's starting quarterback early in the 2024 season. McFall caught three passes for 33 yards and the touchdown, while Jalen Cooper led the Mustangs with five receptions for 45 yards. Raphael finished with 45 rushing yards and a score on 15 carries. The statistics were modest by SMU's standards, but the Mustangs protected the football and converted the scoring opportunities that mattered most. Boston College Makes One Final Push The Eagles refused to go quietly. McKenzie led Boston College back down the field and connected with Danny Edgehille for a six-yard touchdown with 2:07 remaining. Boston College attempted a two-point conversion that could have reduced the deficit to seven, but the attempt failed, leaving SMU ahead 25-16 . The Eagles then attempted an onside kick. SMU recovered it and ran out the remaining time to secure its fourth victory of the season. McKenzie finished with 208 passing yards and two touchdowns without an interception . He also led Boston College with 74 rushing yards, though sacks reduced his official rushing total. Mustangs Win Despite Being Outgained Boston College finished with a 322-218 advantage in total offense and possessed the ball for more than 33 minutes. But SMU's defense repeatedly made plays when the game demanded them. White's three sacks highlighted a five-sack performance, and his forced fumble created the short field for one of Jennings' touchdown passes. Boston College also hurt itself with 11 penalties for 95 yards . Eagles coach Bill O'Brien pointed directly to the mistakes afterward, saying his team had not played with the discipline it expected. SMU had mistakes of its own. The Mustangs botched two extra-point attempts , including one caused by a high snap on the wet field and another when the snap was mishandled. Still, SMU coach Rhett Lashlee praised his defense after the game, calling it the unit's most complete performance from start to finish. SMU Moves to 4-1 Saturday's victory showed a different side of the Mustangs. SMU did not need Jennings to throw for 300 or 400 yards. The offense did not need to dominate the box score, either. Instead, the Mustangs won through defense, ball security, field position and timely scoring. The result moved No. 21 SMU to 4-1 and 2-1 in the ACC , keeping the Mustangs firmly in the conference race. Both teams now enter an open week before returning to action on Oct. 17 . SMU will host Virginia in the third game of a four-game homestand, while Boston College returns home to face Pittsburgh.

NC State needed one final defensive stand to stop Louisville’s comeback Saturday, and linebacker Harvey Dyson III delivered one of the biggest plays of the game. With the score tied 28-28 in the fourth quarter, Dyson chased down Louisville running back Keyjuan Brown on what appeared destined to become a long touchdown and forced a fumble at the NC State 13-yard line. The Wolfpack recovered, drove into scoring range and took the lead on Kanoah Vinesett’s 28-yard field goal before holding on for a 31-28 victory at Carter-Finley Stadium. NC State improved to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the ACC , while Louisville fell to 2-3 and 1-2 after its second consecutive loss. NC State Builds Early Advantage The Wolfpack controlled the opening stages in rainy conditions. Vinesett opened the scoring with a 46-yard field goal midway through the first quarter. NC State then put together a 14-play, 79-yard drive that ended with quarterback CJ Bailey finding Keenan Jackson for a 19-yard touchdown , extending the advantage to 10-0. Louisville finally responded with 5:51 remaining in the second quarter. Quarterback Lincoln Kienholz connected with Lawayne McCoy for a 33-yard touchdown , cutting the deficit to three. NC State answered before halftime with another lengthy possession, and Vinesett converted from 29 yards to send the Wolfpack into the break ahead 13-7 . Louisville had struggled to establish offensive rhythm early, but the Cardinals would eventually find the explosive plays they needed to mount a comeback. CJ Bailey Attacks Louisville Through the Air NC State immediately extended its advantage after halftime. Bailey directed a 75-yard scoring drive and connected with Tyran Warren for a 34-yard touchdown , pushing the Wolfpack ahead 20-7. Louisville answered through one of its most productive receivers. Kienholz found Tre Richardson for a 38-yard touchdown , finishing an 80-yard drive and pulling the Cardinals back within six. NC State responded again. Will Wilson scored on a one-yard touchdown run , and the Wolfpack successfully converted the two-point attempt to build a 28-14 advantage late in the third quarter. Bailey finished with a career-high 373 passing yards , completing 24 of 40 attempts with touchdown passes to Jackson and Warren. Louisville’s defense entered the matchup allowing 240.3 passing yards per game, and NC State repeatedly generated chunk plays through the air. Six of Bailey’s first 11 completions gained at least 15 yards. Louisville Storms Back From 14 Down The Cardinals refused to let the game get away. Keyjuan Brown scored on a one-yard run with 20 seconds remaining in the third quarter , cutting NC State’s lead to 28-21. Then Isaac Brown delivered Louisville’s biggest offensive play. On the Cardinals’ second play of the fourth quarter, Brown broke free for a 70-yard touchdown run , completing an 80-yard drive in only 34 seconds and tying the game at 28-28. Brown finished with 125 rushing yards on only nine carries , averaging 13.9 yards per attempt. It was his first 100-yard rushing performance of the season. Louisville rushed for 231 yards on 25 carries overall, giving the Cardinals a dangerous ground attack as the game entered its decisive stretch. Harvey Dyson Saves a Touchdown Louisville soon appeared ready to complete its comeback. Keyjuan Brown broke through the line and raced into the open field. With only the defense behind him, the play looked like it could become a 68-yard go-ahead touchdown . Dyson refused to give up. After initially rushing the quarterback, the NC State linebacker sprinted downfield, caught Brown from behind and stripped the football at the Wolfpack 13. Popo Aguirre recovered the fumble , his third recovery of the game. It completely changed the finish. Instead of Louisville taking its first lead of the afternoon, NC State regained possession with the score still tied. Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren later described Dyson’s pursuit and forced fumble as one of the best individual plays he had seen during his coaching career. Vinesett Gives NC State the Lead The Wolfpack offense immediately took advantage. NC State drove 76 yards over 10 plays, setting up Vinesett for a 28-yard field goal with 5:30 remaining . He converted, putting the Wolfpack ahead 31-28 . Louisville still had time to respond, but its final possessions went nowhere. The Cardinals fumbled on one possession and then went three-and-out on their final series. Dyson fittingly played another role in shutting down the comeback, recording a sack on Louisville’s final offensive play. NC State then ran out the clock. Turnovers Decide Three-Point Game Ball security ultimately separated the teams. Louisville fumbled five times and lost three , an abrupt reversal for a team that entered the afternoon without a lost fumble this season. NC State turned those takeaways into crucial points. Kienholz still delivered a strong performance despite playing after being considered a game-time decision. With both ankles heavily taped, he completed 21 of 30 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns without an interception . He also rushed for 24 yards. Richardson was his leading target, recording eight receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown , his highest receiving total since joining Louisville. The source imagery on page 7 captures Kienholz throwing in the rainy conditions at Carter-Finley Stadium, while another game photo shows NC State receiver Chance Robinson attempting to break away from Louisville linebacker T.J. Capers. NC State Finishes What Louisville Could Not Louisville never led despite twice fighting back from double-digit deficits. The Cardinals trailed 10-0 early and 28-14 late in the third quarter before tying the game, only to see turnovers derail their opportunity to finish the comeback. NC State, meanwhile, capitalized when the decisive opportunity arrived. Bailey's career day gave the Wolfpack the explosive passing attack it needed, Vinesett made all three of his field goals, and Dyson produced the defensive play that prevented Louisville from taking control late. For Louisville, the 31-28 defeat marked a second consecutive loss after the Cardinals fell to Wake Forest the previous week. The Cardinals now face a short turnaround before returning home to host Florida State on Friday, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. ET .

Pittsburgh overcame a 14-point deficit, the loss of its starting quarterback and one final Virginia Tech drive to escape Lane Stadium with a dramatic 35-33 victory Friday night. The game came down to the final play. Virginia Tech kicker John Love attempted a 36-yard field goal as time expired , but the kick went wide left, preserving Pitt's unbeaten season. The Panthers improved to 5-0 overall and 2-0 in the ACC , while Virginia Tech suffered its first loss and dropped to 4-1 overall and 1-1 in conference play. It was a remarkable escape for a Pitt team that trailed 14-0 just five minutes into the game and later lost starting quarterback Mason Heintschel to an injury. Virginia Tech Races to 14-0 Lead Virginia Tech could hardly have scripted a better start. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer helped the Hokies strike quickly, connecting with Que'Sean Brown for a 38-yard touchdown before scoring himself on a one-yard run. The two touchdowns gave Virginia Tech a 14-0 advantage just five minutes into the game . Pitt, however, refused to allow the early deficit to determine the outcome. The Panthers gradually settled into the game and began cutting into Virginia Tech's advantage. By late in the second quarter, the Hokies still led 24-14 and appeared positioned to carry momentum into halftime. A turnover changed that. Cameron Lindsey intercepted Grunkemeyer, and Pitt immediately capitalized. Heintschel connected with Cataurus Hicks for a 22-yard touchdown with 31 seconds remaining, reducing Virginia Tech's halftime advantage to 24-21 . It was the first of four Virginia Tech turnovers. Pitt Takes Lead After Halftime Pittsburgh carried its late first-half momentum into the third quarter. On the Panthers' opening possession after halftime, Damon Ferguson Jr. scored on a 15-yard touchdown run , giving Pitt its first lead at 28-24. But the drive came with a major setback. Heintschel suffered an injury on the fourth play of the second half and was unable to continue. After the game, he was seen on crutches, and Pitt coach Pat Narduzzi did not provide specifics about the severity of the injury. That put the offense in the hands of veteran backup Holden Geriner . Geriner entered under significant pressure, but Pitt did not surrender its momentum. Holden Geriner Delivers Off the Bench Geriner produced the biggest throw of his Pitt career early in the fourth quarter. The fifth-year senior connected with Hicks for a 29-yard touchdown , extending the Panthers' lead to 35-24 . Geriner finished 8-of-12 for 78 yards and a touchdown , helping Pitt survive the unexpected quarterback change. The performance came on his 23rd birthday and included only the second touchdown pass of his college career. Hicks became the critical receiving option regardless of which quarterback was throwing the football. He finished with 63 receiving yards and two touchdowns , catching one from Heintschel and another from Geriner. Pitt had scored 21 unanswered points during its comeback and suddenly held an 11-point fourth-quarter advantage. Virginia Tech was far from finished. Hokies Storm Back in Fourth Quarter Virginia Tech's defense provided a spark by forcing a safety, cutting Pitt's lead to nine. Jeffrey Overton Jr. then produced a 62-yard return , putting the Hokies in excellent field position. Grunkemeyer capitalized by finding Davion Brown for a 28-yard touchdown , Brown's first career scoring reception. The touchdown pulled Virginia Tech within 35-33 with 10:07 remaining. Neither team scored again, giving the Hokies one final opportunity to complete the comeback. Grunkemeyer drove Virginia Tech 62 yards on its final possession and moved the Hokies into field-goal range. With the game resting on one kick, Love lined up from 36 yards. The attempt missed left. Pittsburgh survived. Four Turnovers Help Pitt Overcome 499 Yards The final score told only part of the story. Virginia Tech dramatically outgained Pittsburgh 499-295 , with Grunkemeyer throwing for a career-high 434 yards . His performance was one of the most prolific in Virginia Tech history. Grunkemeyer's 434 yards rank as the second-highest recorded single-game passing total in program history , and he became only the third Virginia Tech quarterback since at least 1987 to surpass 400 yards. But Pitt repeatedly changed the game by forcing turnovers. The Hokies committed four turnovers , and Pittsburgh converted those mistakes into 14 points. The Panthers' defense recorded two interceptions, forced three fumbles and recovered two of them while also producing two sacks. That defensive disruption helped compensate for Virginia Tech's substantial advantage in total offense. Pitt Remains Unbeaten at 5-0 Pittsburgh is now 5-0 for the second time in three seasons , but Heintschel's health becomes a major storyline moving forward. For Virginia Tech, the defeat was especially painful because the Hokies controlled significant portions of the game, surrendered an early advantage, rallied from an 11-point fourth-quarter deficit and still had a chance to win on the final snap. Pitt returns home to face North Carolina on Oct. 10 , when the program will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its 1976 national championship team. Virginia Tech travels to California on Oct. 10 for its next ACC matchup. For the Panthers, the night in Blacksburg ultimately came down to survival. They lost their starting quarterback, surrendered nearly 500 yards and watched Virginia Tech line up for a potential game-winning kick. But when that kick sailed left, Pitt remained perfect.

Duke delivered its biggest scoring performance in more than seven decades Saturday, overwhelming William & Mary 62-7 at Wallace Wade Stadium behind five touchdown passes from quarterbacks Walker Eget and Dan Mahan. The Blue Devils improved to 4-0 and extended their winning streak to eight games dating back to last season, their longest since 2013. Eget threw two touchdown passes, Mahan added three, and running back Nate Sheppard rushed for 116 yards and a score as Duke controlled the game on both sides of the ball. The 62 points were Duke's most in a game since a 67-0 victory over Richmond in 1949 . Duke Strikes First Behind Walker Eget The Blue Devils established control immediately. Duke marched 75 yards on its opening possession, with Eget connecting with Jayden Moore for a 24-yard touchdown . It was Moore's first career touchdown and gave Duke a 7-0 advantage. William & Mary later received an opportunity after Duke failed to convert a fake punt, taking possession at the Blue Devils' 26-yard line. But the Tribe could not capitalize, and Luke Mergott eventually blocked Max Lipinski's 53-yard field-goal attempt. Duke responded with another scoring drive. Sheppard broke through for a 19-yard touchdown run , extending the advantage to 14-0. The nation's leading rusher entering the week finished with 116 yards on only nine carries. William & Mary Answers Before Duke Pulls Away William & Mary produced its only touchdown late in the first quarter. A 63-yard reception by freshman Khylil Johnson moved the Tribe deep into Duke territory. Quarterback Winston Watkins then connected with Jack Reuter for a six-yard touchdown , cutting Duke's lead to 14-7. It was Reuter's first career touchdown. From there, Duke took complete control. Cosme Salas kicked a 32-yard field goal before Mahan entered the game and immediately made an impact through the air. The second-year freshman found Kavon Simmons for a 29-yard touchdown , giving Duke a 24-7 advantage. Less than three minutes later, Mahan connected with Jaivon Solomon for another 29-yard score . Those were the first two touchdown passes of Mahan's career. Eget Finishes First Half With 95-Yard Drive Duke added another touchdown just before halftime with one of its most impressive possessions of the afternoon. The Blue Devils traveled 95 yards in only 90 seconds , with Eget finding Penn transfer Jared Richardson for a 28-yard touchdown reception . The rapid drive sent Duke into halftime with complete control of the game. Eget eventually finished 16-of-22 for 182 yards and two touchdowns , while Mahan completed six of seven attempts for 126 yards and three scores. The two quarterbacks combined for five touchdown passes to five different receivers. It was the first time since 1990 that two Duke quarterbacks threw multiple touchdown passes in the same game , while the five different touchdown recipients marked Duke's first such performance since 2009. Duke Keeps Scoring After Halftime Duke did not slow down after the break. Salas connected on a 39-yard field goal early in the third quarter before Mahan delivered his third touchdown pass, finding Brody Keefe for a 27-yard score to make it 48-7. The Blue Devils then turned to their rushing depth in the fourth quarter. Jayvian Tanelus scored on a four-yard run before CJ Givers broke free for a 28-yard touchdown , completing the 62-point performance. Eight different Duke players scored touchdowns, and no Blue Devil reached the end zone more than once. Nate Sheppard Extends 100-Yard Streak Although Duke's quarterbacks generated much of the attention, Sheppard continued his impressive start. He entered the week leading the nation with 528 rushing yards and added 116 yards against William & Mary despite receiving only nine carries. It marked Sheppard's fifth consecutive game with at least 100 rushing yards , the second-longest streak in Duke history. His first-quarter touchdown was his sixth rushing score and ninth total touchdown of the season. Duke Defense Shuts Down the Tribe Duke's defense was equally dominant after allowing William & Mary's first-quarter touchdown. The Blue Devils surrendered just 170 total yards , including only 17 rushing yards . Duke recorded nine tackles for loss, four sacks and two quarterback pressures. William & Mary did not score after halftime, marking Duke's second consecutive second-half shutout. Through four games, the Blue Devils have not allowed a second-half touchdown and have surrendered only six total points after halftime. Watkins finished with 137 passing yards and one touchdown for William & Mary, which fell to 2-3. The Tribe's streak of 13 consecutive games scoring at least 20 points also came to an end. Duke Reaches 4-0 With Historic Offensive Performance The victory gave Duke a 4-0 start for the third time in four seasons , while three of its first four opponents have been held to seven points or fewer. More importantly, the Blue Devils head into their open week unbeaten and riding an eight-game winning streak. Duke returns to action Oct. 10 at Georgia Tech , while William & Mary heads home to face Holy Cross.

Vanderbilt earned its first SEC victory of the season Wednesday night, sweeping LSU 3-0 at the Maravich Center in Baton Rouge. The Commodores won 25-22, 25-23, 25-16 , improving to 10-2 overall and 1-2 in SEC play . The victory also pushed Vanderbilt beyond the nine wins recorded by the program's 2025 team. Samantha Wunsch led Vanderbilt with 15 kills , while Reese Animashaun and Maya Witherspoon each added 13. Setter Avery Scoggins distributed 45 assists as the Commodores produced 50 kills and hit .241. Vanderbilt Builds Early Lead in First Set LSU remained within striking distance throughout the opening frame, but Vanderbilt consistently found ways to create separation. The Commodores used a 6-1 run to build an 11-7 advantage before eventually stretching the margin to seven points. LSU responded with a 9-3 surge that dramatically changed the set. That rally brought the Tigers within 22-21 , giving LSU an opportunity to steal the opening frame after spending much of it playing from behind. Vanderbilt responded at the critical moment, winning three of the final four points to secure the first set 25-22. LSU Nearly Completes Second-Set Comeback The Commodores created an even larger early advantage in Set 2, using an 8-1 run to put LSU in another difficult position. But the Tigers refused to allow Vanderbilt to cruise to a two-set advantage. LSU gradually worked its way back into the frame and eventually reduced Vanderbilt's lead to 24-23 . With the Tigers threatening to erase the deficit completely, Vanderbilt called timeout. The Commodores responded immediately after the break, winning the next point to escape with a 25-23 victory . Vanderbilt had survived LSU's second comeback attempt and carried a commanding 2-0 advantage into the third. Commodores Take Control in Third Set LSU briefly grabbed a 4-3 lead early in the third, but Vanderbilt quickly erased it. The Commodores answered with a 5-0 run , taking an 8-4 advantage and forcing LSU back into chase mode. This time, there would be no late Tigers comeback. Vanderbilt continued extending its advantage as the set progressed, eventually closing out LSU 25-16 to complete the straight-set victory. The final frame was Vanderbilt's most decisive win of the evening. Samantha Wunsch Leads Vanderbilt Attack Wunsch delivered the most productive offensive performance for the Commodores, finishing with 15 kills . She also contributed five blocks, giving Vanderbilt another important presence at the net. Animashaun and Witherspoon supplied 13 kills apiece , giving Vanderbilt three players with at least 13 kills. Scoggins kept the offense moving with 45 assists , helping Vanderbilt finish with 50 kills and a .241 hitting percentage. The balanced production made it difficult for LSU to focus its defense on a single Vanderbilt attacker. Vanderbilt Defense Records 68 Digs Vanderbilt's defensive performance was just as important. The Commodores recorded a season-high 68 digs , with Hailee Mack producing a season-best 22 digs . Witherspoon added 18 digs to her 13 kills for a double-double, while Scoggins paired her 45 assists with 13 digs for another double-double. Vanderbilt also limited LSU to 32 kills and a .157 hitting percentage , preventing the Tigers from establishing consistent offensive rhythm. Jurnee Robinson Leads LSU Senior outside hitter Jurnee Robinson provided LSU's top attacking performance with 12 kills while adding two blocks. Kiley Brooks and Ella Hemmings led the Tigers defensively with 17 digs each , with Hemmings establishing a career high. Sanaa Donaie provided LSU's strongest presence at the net, finishing with a match-high five blocks . LSU actually finished with advantages in both blocks, 9-6 , and service aces, 3-2 , but Vanderbilt's advantage in attacking production proved decisive. Vanderbilt Reaches 10 Wins The sweep moved Vanderbilt to 10-2 , giving the program more victories than its 2025 team recorded. More importantly in the immediate SEC race, Vanderbilt picked up its first conference victory of the season and improved to 1-2 in league play. LSU dropped to 6-6 overall and 1-2 in the SEC . Vanderbilt now travels to Ole Miss on Sunday at 2 p.m. , while LSU remains at the Maravich Center to host Missouri on Sunday, Oct. 4 at noon CT .