Florida State Defeats Jacksonville 3-1 Behind Kyleene Filimaua’s 16 Kills

No. 6 SMU delivered one of the biggest victories of the 2026 women's college volleyball season Wednesday night, defeating previously unbeaten No. 2 Pittsburgh 3-1 and ending the Panthers' nation-leading 58-match home winning streak. The Mustangs overcame an opening-set loss to win 21-25, 25-19, 38-36, 25-22 at Pittsburgh, highlighted by a dramatic third set that featured 21 ties and six lead changes. SMU improved to 13-2 overall and 5-0 in ACC play, extending its winning streak to seven matches and its conference winning streak to 14. Pittsburgh suffered its first defeat of the season, falling to 14-1 overall and 4-1 in the ACC. Natalia Newsome and Suli Davis led SMU with 17 kills apiece, while setter Hannah Beauford recorded a career-high 54 assists. Pittsburgh Takes Opening Set Pittsburgh entered the matchup carrying one of the nation's most impressive winning streaks, and the Panthers initially appeared ready to continue their dominance. After the opening set reached a 3-3 tie, Pitt scored three consecutive points to establish an advantage it would not surrender. Back-to-back kills from Blaire Bayless helped the Panthers build a 14-7 lead, putting SMU under early pressure. The Mustangs gradually recovered, cutting the deficit to 16-14 and later closing within 23-21. However, Pittsburgh maintained its composure. An SMU service error gave the Panthers set point before Olivia Babcock delivered the decisive kill, securing a 25-21 victory. Pitt had taken the early advantage, but SMU was far from finished. SMU Responds to Even the Match Pittsburgh carried its momentum into the second set, winning seven of the first 10 points to establish a 7-3 advantage. SMU again faced an early deficit but began finding success through its balanced offense and blocking. Trailing 11-9, the Mustangs produced a 4-0 scoring run to move ahead. The momentum shifted as SMU's hitters became increasingly effective against Pittsburgh's defense. The Mustangs eventually stretched their lead to 22-18, forcing a Pittsburgh timeout. SMU closed out the frame 25-19, tying the match at one set apiece. The victory also ended Pittsburgh's streak of 28 consecutive sets won, which dated back to September 6. With the match tied, both teams entered a third set that would become the night's defining battle. Epic 38-36 Third Set Changes Everything The third set developed into an extraordinary contest between two nationally ranked programs. Neither team could establish consistent separation early. SMU erased a 10-8 deficit with four consecutive points and eventually built an 18-14 advantage. Pittsburgh responded behind Bayless, Jordyn Dailey and Babcock, eventually tying the score at 23-23. What followed was a remarkable exchange of set points. Both teams repeatedly created opportunities to finish the frame, only to see the other respond with a kill, block or defensive stop. SMU had multiple chances to close out the set, while Pittsburgh continued finding answers through Babcock and its front-row defense. At 29-29, the Mustangs appeared to secure the set when Pittsburgh was called for four contacts. A review overturned the decision, forcing the point to be replayed. The Panthers capitalized on the replay, with Izzy Starck recording a solo block to tie the score at 30-30. The battle continued. Babcock helped Pittsburgh stay alive with several crucial kills, including one that put the Panthers ahead 35-34. SMU answered again. After Dailey delivered another important point for Pittsburgh, the Mustangs responded to level the score at 36-36. Finally, SMU recorded consecutive kills to win the set 38-36, taking a 2-1 advantage in the match. The marathon frame featured 21 ties and six lead changes and is believed to be the highest-scoring set of Pittsburgh coach Dan Fisher's tenure, dating back to at least 2013. Mustangs Finish the Upset in Fourth Set Pittsburgh refused to surrender after losing the third set. The Panthers opened the fourth with three straight points, and a Babcock service ace helped them establish a 5-1 lead. SMU responded with a four-point run to tie the score at 7-7. The teams continued trading momentum, with Pittsburgh briefly moving ahead 17-15 after an Abbey Emch kill and an SMU attack error. But the Mustangs answered with three consecutive points to take an 18-17 advantage. Pittsburgh battled back, and Babcock's 24th kill tied the score at 20-20. SMU responded once again. The Mustangs scored three straight points to move ahead 23-21 before a block brought them to match point at 24-21. Pittsburgh saved one match point, but SMU completed the 25-22 fourth-set victory, ending the Panthers' unbeaten season and remarkable home winning streak. Natalia Newsome and Suli Davis Lead Balanced Attack SMU's offensive balance was central to the victory. Newsome recorded a career-high 17 kills while hitting .519, providing exceptional efficiency against one of the nation's strongest opponents. Davis matched Newsome with 17 kills and contributed nine digs and four blocks. Jadyn Livings delivered a season-high 13 kills on a .435 hitting percentage, while Gabi Placide and Favor Anyanwu added 10 kills apiece. Five Mustangs finished with double-digit kills. Beauford directed the attack with a career-high 54 assists, helping SMU finish with a .347 hitting percentage. The performance marked SMU's sixth consecutive match hitting above .300. Under coach Sam Erger, the Mustangs improved to 55-0 when reaching that offensive benchmark. SMU Defense Makes the Difference SMU also delivered an impressive defensive performance. The Mustangs outblocked Pittsburgh 12.5 to 6, with Anyanwu leading the way with nine blocks. Anyanwu has now recorded at least eight blocks in six matches this season, strengthening her standing among SMU's most productive blockers. Victoria Harris anchored the backcourt with 20 digs, her second 20-dig performance of the season. She also recorded four service aces, matching her career high. SMU finished with a 61-48 advantage in digs, consistently extending rallies and forcing Pittsburgh to work for points. The Mustangs held the Panthers to a .252 hitting percentage after Pitt entered the contest leading the nation at .325. Olivia Babcock Breaks Two Pittsburgh Records Despite the defeat, Pittsburgh star Olivia Babcock delivered a historic individual performance. Babcock finished with a match-high 25 kills, seven digs, two service aces and two blocks. Her performance established two Pittsburgh career records. Babcock increased her career kills total to 1,864, surpassing Diana Andreyko's previous program record of 1,852. She also reached 177 career service aces, breaking Lindsey Zitzke's previous school record of 175. Bayless added 13 kills for the Panthers, while Ayanna Watson contributed 10. Setter Izzy Starck recorded 47 assists, eight digs and three blocks. The milestones highlighted Babcock's individual excellence, but SMU's balanced performance ultimately proved decisive. SMU Strengthens Its ACC Position The victory represented another major achievement for SMU under Erger. The Mustangs have now defeated the nation's No. 2, No. 3, No. 8 and No. 9 teams during the 2026 season. Wednesday's result also marked SMU's sixth victory over a top-five opponent and ninth over a top-10 opponent under Erger. It was the program's first victory over Pittsburgh on the road and its second win against the Panthers overall. SMU also extended its ACC winning streak to 14 consecutive matches, the longest active run in the conference. The two programs will not have to wait long for another meeting. No. 6 SMU hosts No. 2 Pittsburgh at Moody Coliseum in Dallas on Sunday, October 11, for the second match of their home-and-home series. The rematch is scheduled for 2 p.m. CT on ESPN.

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 .

Florida State needed a response after consecutive losses to ranked opponents, and quarterback Ashton Daniels delivered one of the most productive rushing performances ever by a Seminoles quarterback. Daniels rushed for five touchdowns , setting a Florida State quarterback record, as the Seminoles overwhelmed Virginia 38-7 Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee. After falling behind 7-0, Florida State scored 38 unanswered points to improve to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the ACC. Virginia dropped to 3-2 and 1-1 in conference play. Daniels finished with a career-high 136 rushing yards on 17 carries while completing 12 of 19 passes for 183 yards. His five rushing scores also established a Doak Campbell Stadium single-game record and tied Florida State’s single-game scoring record. Virginia Strikes First Virginia opened the game with momentum as its defense forced Florida State to punt on each of its first two possessions. The Cavaliers then took a 7-0 lead with 6:04 remaining in the first quarter when quarterback Beau Pribula connected with Da’Shawn Martin for a 13-yard touchdown . But that would be Virginia’s only score of the afternoon. Florida State responded in the second quarter with a 98-yard drive. Daniels connected with Micahi Danzy for 22 yards before finding Quintrevion Wisner on a 48-yard screen pass. Daniels finished the possession himself, scoring on a four-yard run to tie the game at 7-7. The Seminoles quickly took control from there. After the Florida State defense forced a three-and-out, the offense started at Virginia’s 33-yard line. Daniels eventually scored from three yards out for his second touchdown, giving Florida State a 14-7 advantage. Gabe Panikowski added a 44-yard field goal before halftime to extend the lead to 17-7. Florida State Pulls Away After Halftime Virginia had an opportunity to make the game competitive again on its opening possession of the second half. The Cavaliers drove to the Florida State 22 but faced fourth-and-1. Chris Jones stopped Xavier Brown for no gain, turning the ball over to the Seminoles. Florida State immediately capitalized. Daniels completed three consecutive passes and then broke loose for a 20-yard run as the Seminoles marched 78 yards in eight plays. He finished the possession with his third rushing touchdown , extending the lead to 24-7. Virginia never recovered. Ashton Daniels Breaks Loose for 81-Yard Touchdown Daniels produced the biggest play of his record-setting afternoon on Florida State’s next scoring possession. The quarterback found an opening and exploded through the Virginia defense for a career-long 81-yard touchdown run , giving him his fourth rushing touchdown and extending Florida State’s advantage to 31-7. Daniels eventually made history late in the fourth quarter. After runs from Wisner and Ousmane Kromah moved Florida State to Virginia’s 1-yard line, Daniels powered into the end zone with 3:41 remaining for his fifth rushing touchdown . That score completed Florida State’s 38-point unanswered run and produced the final 38-7 margin. Daniels’ five rushing touchdowns established single-game records for a Florida State quarterback and at Doak Campbell Stadium. He also tied the program’s single-game scoring record originally set by Ron Sellers in 1968. Florida State Defense Records 10 Sacks While Daniels controlled the game offensively, Florida State’s defense delivered an equally dominant performance. The Seminoles recorded 10 sacks , an enormous jump after producing only seven sacks across their first four games. Rylan Kennedy led the pressure with two sacks, while Chris Jones recorded 1.5. Florida State’s 10 sacks tied the most by a team in an ACC game in records dating to 2005. It was also the Seminoles’ first double-digit sack performance this century. Florida State previously recorded 11 sacks against Wake Forest in 1997. Pribula finished 14 of 32 for 168 yards and spent much of the afternoon under pressure. On one fourth-quarter possession, Florida State sacked the Virginia quarterback on three consecutive plays. Seminoles Shut Down Virginia’s Running Game Florida State also neutralized a Virginia rushing attack that entered the game averaging 192.8 yards per contest . The Cavaliers managed only 37 rushing yards on 40 attempts , averaging less than one yard per carry. Florida State, meanwhile, rushed for 281 yards and averaged 6.1 yards per attempt. Kromah contributed 80 yards on 17 carries, continuing his streak of recording at least 80 rushing yards in each of Florida State’s first five games. The Seminoles finished with 464 total yards , compared with only 205 for Virginia. Virginia punted seven times and failed on all four of its fourth-down attempts. After Martin’s first-quarter touchdown, Florida State held the Cavaliers scoreless on their final 11 possessions. Florida State Gets the Response It Needed The victory represented an important turnaround for a Florida State team coming off losses to SMU and Alabama . After a slow opening quarter, the Seminoles controlled the line of scrimmage, created explosive plays and prevented Virginia from establishing any consistent offensive rhythm. Florida State has now scored at least 30 points in four of its first five games. For Virginia, the defeat continued its struggles in Tallahassee. The Cavaliers fell to 1-10 in road games against Florida State and suffered their first true road loss of the 2026 season. Florida State now turns its attention to its first ACC road game of the season when the Seminoles travel to Louisville on Friday . Virginia returns home to face Syracuse on Saturday .

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.