Ionescu Leads Liberty to Crucial Win Over Sun, Snapping Four-Game Skid

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 Strong Start Meets a Tough Response CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. – Harvard women’s volleyball (0-6) opened its first match of the Eagle Classic with energy and precision, stunning Boston College (10-0) by taking the first set, 25-22. The Crimson executed early runs, defended well at the net, and looked confident against the undefeated Eagles. Yet, the home team adjusted quickly, taking control in the next three sets (25-17, 25-15, 25-16) to seal a 3-1 victory. Harvard came out aggressive in the first frame, racing to a 4-0 lead and extending its advantage to 15-10 at the media timeout. Behind five blocks and efficient attacking, the Crimson kept Boston College’s hitters in check. Despite a late push by the Eagles, Harvard’s poise held steady, with timely kills and defensive stops carrying them to a 1-0 match lead. Momentum Shifts to the Eagles The second set began with Harvard once again taking an early advantage, hitting .571 to go up 10-6. But Boston College showed why it entered the match undefeated, stringing together a 6-0 run to swing momentum. Harvard managed to briefly reclaim a 14-12 edge, but the Eagles’ firepower took over as they closed the set on a 13-3 run. That comeback evened the score at one set apiece and visibly shifted the tone of the contest. In the third frame, Boston College stormed out to a 6-1 lead and never allowed Harvard to recover. The Crimson struggled to break through the Eagles’ defensive wall, while BC’s attack clicked from multiple positions. The hosts never trailed in the set and pulled away comfortably, taking a 2-1 match lead after a 25-15 win. The fourth set offered Harvard another opportunity to claw back. The Crimson fought to a 12-12 tie, but the Eagles once again delivered a decisive run, scoring eight of the next nine points to put the match firmly in their hands. A final push from Harvard fell short, and Boston College closed out the contest 25-16, securing the match 3-1. Standout Performances For Harvard, senior Brynne Faltinsky led the way with 14 kills while hitting .265, also adding six digs and contributing to three blocks. Her aggressive swings kept the Crimson in contention during long rallies. Ali Farquhar and Sofia Rossi chipped in eight kills apiece, showcasing balance in the attack. Taylor Larkin provided another spark with seven kills on an efficient .417 hitting percentage while also posting six blocks. First-year setter Sophia Wei turned in one of her strongest performances yet, recording 23 assists, nine digs, and two service aces, while also adding her first two collegiate kills. Her poise and versatility offered Harvard critical stability as the match grew more challenging. On the other side of the net, Boston College was powered by junior standout Audrey Ross, who delivered a season-high 20 kills while also posting four blocks. Freshman Bella Ehrlich impressed with seven blocks and 10 points, while Sam Hoppes added nine kills. The Eagles’ depth at the net and their ability to sustain scoring runs made the difference after the first set. Signs of Growth Despite the Loss Though the result dropped Harvard to 0-6, there were encouraging takeaways. The Crimson registered a season-best 11 blocks and displayed sharper execution in stretches compared to earlier matches this season. Their ability to secure the first set against an undefeated opponent underscored the team’s potential when fundamentals and energy align. The loss, however, highlighted the challenge of sustaining momentum against top competition. Harvard’s early leads in the second and fourth sets evaporated due to extended scoring runs by Boston College. Limiting those lapses will be key as the Crimson seek their first victory. What’s Next Harvard will return to the court tomorrow in Chestnut Hill for its second match of the Eagle Classic, facing Bryant University at 4:00 p.m. ET. That contest represents another opportunity for the Crimson to build on their progress and test their resilience. For Boston College, the win marked their 10th consecutive victory to start the season, reinforcing their status as one of the hottest teams in the ACC. The Eagles will continue their Classic schedule looking to remain unbeaten. Final Takeaway The Eagle Classic opener showed flashes of what Harvard is capable of, particularly with its strong blocking game and standout performances from veterans and newcomers alike. Yet, it also served as a reminder that turning early advantages into sustained success remains the team’s biggest hurdle. Boston College, meanwhile, displayed the depth and composure expected of a team riding a perfect start. The Eagles’ ability to adjust after a first-set loss demonstrated both their maturity and their dominance at home. For Harvard, the lessons learned in this four-set battle could provide the foundation for growth as the season continues. Each set revealed both areas of strength and aspects needing refinement. While the Crimson are still searching for their first win, the performance offered hope that their breakthrough may come sooner rather than later.

A Night of Momentum and Milestones The Stephen F. Austin Ladyjacks welcomed their first ranked opponent in nearly thirty years when the No. 10 SMU Mustangs arrived at Shelton Gym in Nacogdoches, Texas. The packed house brought energy and anticipation, but SMU quickly showed why they are one of the nation’s top programs, completing a decisive 3-0 sweep by set scores of 25-22, 25-11, and 25-16. The Mustangs improved to 7-2 on the season with the win, their first over SFA since 2021, while also demonstrating the balance and efficiency that has made them a national contender. Set One: A Tight Battle Settled by Composure The opening set was defined by intensity and crowd-driven momentum. SFA battled evenly with the Mustangs through 14 ties and six lead changes, feeding off the home crowd’s energy. At one point, the Ladyjacks led 18-16 and looked poised to steal the opener. SMU, however, responded with composure, showcasing the poise expected from a top-10 program. Graduate opposite Malaya Jones and sophomore middle Natalia Newsome sparked the offense, and freshman outside hitter Jadyn Livings delivered the finishing touches with her fourth kill of the frame. The Mustangs closed out the set 25-22, hitting .310 while weathering SFA’s most competitive stretch of the night. Set Two: Carlson’s Serving Sparks Dominance The second set quickly swung in SMU’s favor thanks to a remarkable run from setter Averi Carlson. With the score knotted at 9-7, Carlson stepped to the service line and unleashed a 10-point run that broke the set wide open. During this stretch, the Mustangs displayed offensive balance, as Jones, Livings, and Newsome each contributed with kills while the SMU block completely shut down SFA’s attack. By the time the Ladyjacks called a timeout, the score had ballooned to 18-7, and the energy in the building had shifted dramatically. The Mustangs continued to pile on, finishing the set with a 25-11 win. Their blocking at the net proved overwhelming, with Jones and Newsome leading the way. SMU’s hitting efficiency climbed even higher, and SFA’s offense sputtered under the pressure. Set Three: Closing in Style SMU wasted no time seizing control of the third set. The Mustangs raced out to an 8-4 lead, then stretched it to 11-6 with sharp execution on both offense and defense. SFA briefly attempted to rally, cutting the deficit to three points, but SMU responded once again with a five-point burst. Junior middle Favor Anyanwu contributed kills and blocks during the sequence, helping the Mustangs push ahead to a commanding 23-12 lead. From that point, SMU never looked back. Jones hammered home a kill to bring the Mustangs to match point, and Livings sealed the sweep with one last powerful swing. The set ended 25-16, with SMU hitting an outstanding .457 in the frame. The Mustangs limited SFA to just .086 hitting for the night, completing a performance that combined offensive precision with defensive dominance. Standout Performances SMU’s sweep was driven by three standout hitters who all reached double figures. Freshman sensation Jadyn Livings recorded 14 kills on a blistering .500 hitting percentage, marking her fifth straight double-digit performance. Graduate leader Malaya Jones added 13 kills without committing an error, hitting .464 while providing steady veteran leadership. Meanwhile, sophomore middle Natalia Newsome enjoyed a career night with 12 kills on .611 hitting, five blocks, and contributions on both ends of the court. Setter Averi Carlson orchestrated the attack with 37 assists, adding seven digs and two aces. Defensively, Mia Silva anchored the back row with a career-high nine digs, while Favor Anyanwu posted five key blocks to disrupt the Ladyjacks at the net. For SFA, Kennedy Jones led the way with nine kills, while Jayden Flynn added 10 digs and two aces, cementing her place in the Ladyjacks’ record books as one of the program’s all-time leaders in service aces. What the Win Means for SMU This sweep reinforced SMU’s position as a legitimate top-10 program. After setbacks against Kentucky and Purdue the previous week, the Mustangs responded with a performance that highlighted their efficiency and depth. Their .383 hitting percentage was their second-highest of the season, and their defensive wall at the net left SFA searching for answers. The win also marked SMU’s third sweep of the year and gave them momentum heading into their final non-conference matchup against UTEP. With conference play on the horizon, including a high-profile battle with No. 5 Pittsburgh, SMU enters the next phase of the season with confidence. The trio of Livings, Jones, and Newsome provides a potent offensive core, while Carlson continues to establish herself as one of the nation’s most dynamic setters. Looking Ahead Stephen F. Austin dropped to 5-5 with the loss but showed resilience against one of the country’s top teams. The Ladyjacks will look to regroup as they wrap up non-conference play. For SMU, the road ahead includes opportunities to prove their ranking and cement their status among the nation’s elite. Their sweep over SFA not only silenced a hostile crowd but also served notice to the rest of college volleyball: the Mustangs have the talent, depth, and balance to contend with anyone in the nation.

A Rivalry Match With High Stakes The Keystone Classic returned to Rec Hall with a nationally ranked showdown between No. 5 Pitt and No. 13 Penn State. In front of a loud home crowd, the Panthers secured a 3-1 victory, extending their dominance in the rivalry with a third consecutive win. This matchup carried added intensity, as both programs entered the contest with strong resumes. Pitt had already secured multiple ranked wins earlier in the season, while Penn State, the reigning national champion, aimed to defend its home court and prove its depth against a top-five opponent. Set One: Pitt Withstands a Late Penn State Push Pitt opened the night strong, jumping out to a 12-7 lead thanks to the balanced attack of Olivia Babcock, Bre Kelley, and Ryla Jones. Penn State responded with an 8-2 run, fueled by Kennedy Martin’s hitting and solid blocking, to take a 15-14 lead at the media timeout. The set tightened in the closing points, with the Nittany Lions leading 23-22 before Pitt’s composure showed. A kill from Jones tied the score, followed by a kill and block from Dagmar Mourits to clinch the opener, 25-23. Set Two: Panthers Dominate Behind Serving Runs The second set began with both teams trading points until 11-11. Pitt’s front line, led by Mourits, delivered two blocks and a kill to spark momentum. Babcock then took control from the service line, propelling the Panthers on a 7-1 run that forced Penn State to call a timeout. With Mosher distributing the ball effectively, Pitt’s pin hitters kept the pressure on. Blaire Bayless closed the frame with a decisive kill, giving Pitt a 25-17 win and a commanding 2-0 match lead. Set Three: Penn State Fights Back Facing elimination, the Nittany Lions displayed resilience in the third set. After trailing 15-12 at the media break, Penn State clawed back to tie the score at 22-22. Strong swings from Martin and Alexis Ewing, paired with a timely ace, shifted momentum. Addie Lyon sealed the set with another ace, and Martin followed with a kill to give Penn State a 25-23 victory. The home crowd roared back to life as the Nittany Lions extended the match. Set Four: Pitt Finishes Strong The fourth set opened with Penn State taking a quick 3-0 lead. However, Pitt’s balanced attack regained control, highlighted by Babcock’s powerful kills and Mosher’s steady serving. The Panthers went on a 5-0 run to move ahead 15-10 at the media timeout. Despite Penn State’s attempts to rally, Pitt’s depth proved too much. Mourits and Jones provided the finishing touches, with Jones delivering the final kill to secure a 25-17 set win and a 3-1 match victory. Standout Performances Olivia Babcock recorded 16 kills, 13 digs, three aces, and four assists, marking her second career double-double. Brooke Mosher finished with 39 assists, seven digs, four kills, three blocks, and an ace, setting the Panthers to a .299 hitting percentage. Dagmar Mourits matched her career high with 13 kills and five blocks, adding a personal-best five assists. Ryla Jones nearly notched a double-double with nine kills and nine blocks. Penn State’s Kennedy Martin and Emmi Sellman paced the Nittany Lions, but Pitt’s blocking and serving pressure consistently disrupted their rhythm. What This Win Means for Pitt For Pitt, the victory underscored their position as a legitimate contender for the ACC crown and a deep NCAA Tournament run. The Panthers’ combination of strong serving, front-line dominance, and clutch execution in key moments showed why they are ranked No. 5 nationally. This also marked Pitt’s fourth ranked win of the season, following victories over TCU, Arizona State, and Kentucky. The Panthers improved to 10-2 heading into conference play, riding the momentum of eight straight wins after an 0-2 start. Looking Ahead for Penn State The defending champions fell to 4-4 on the season but demonstrated they could push a top-five team. Penn State’s third-set victory highlighted their ability to fight back, though inconsistency at the net proved costly. Head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley pointed to serving and rally discipline as areas for improvement. With players like Martin and Ewing emerging as reliable options, the Nittany Lions remain a dangerous Big Ten opponent capable of bouncing back quickly. Final Takeaway The Keystone Classic once again delivered a thrilling chapter, with Pitt holding off Penn State in four sets. The Panthers’ grit, blocking strength, and offensive balance propelled them to a third straight win in the rivalry. For Pitt, this was more than a victory—it was a statement of national intent. Penn State, meanwhile, leaves with lessons to refine but also confidence in its young talent. The rivalry continues to grow, and the next meeting promises to be just as fierce.

A Strong Home Showing in Chapel Hill The North Carolina Tar Heels made a statement on their home court with a 3-1 victory over Appalachian State in Chapel Hill. The win improved the Tar Heels’ record to 6-1 on the season and extended their perfect streak against the Mountaineers at Carmichael Arena. North Carolina now holds a 17-0 all-time home record against Appalachian State, highlighting decades of dominance whenever the two programs meet in Chapel Hill. The crowd at Carmichael Arena witnessed a team that knew how to respond to adversity. After letting the second set slip away, UNC regrouped and controlled the rest of the match with defensive consistency and offensive depth. Appalachian State, now 7-2, proved competitive and stole momentum in stretches, but the Mountaineers could not maintain their rhythm long enough to challenge North Carolina’s overall balance. First Set: Hampton Leads Early Charge North Carolina wasted little time asserting control in the opening frame. Junior outside hitter Safi Hampton delivered six kills in the first set, igniting a 7-1 run that put the Tar Heels firmly in command. Setter Emily Bobbitt distributed the ball well across the rotation, forcing the Mountaineers to defend multiple options instead of focusing on a single threat. Although Appalachian State kept pace in the early rallies, unforced errors and difficulty in serve receive gave the Tar Heels room to build separation. Once UNC reached the 20-point mark, the Mountaineers had no answer, and the Tar Heels closed the set with a comfortable 25-17 win. Second Set: Mountaineers Answer Back The Mountaineers refused to fold after dropping the opener. In the second set, they capitalized on North Carolina’s miscues while bringing energy at the net. Senior leader Ali Morris stepped up with key kills, and a six-point surge highlighted by a solo block from Maya Winterhoff turned the tide. North Carolina tried to rally late with contributions from Laynie Smith and Hailey Pearce, but the Mountaineers executed in the closing points to secure a 25-20 win. By evening the match at one set apiece, Appalachian State showed it could challenge a nationally ranked opponent when playing at its best. Third Set: Tar Heels Regain Control The third set marked a decisive shift back in North Carolina’s favor. The Tar Heels started fast with a 7-2 lead, powered again by Hampton and aided by Jackie Taylor’s presence at the net. UNC’s defense stifled Appalachian State’s rhythm, holding the Mountaineers to a .138 hitting percentage in the frame. Taylor’s combination of timely kills and solid blocking kept pressure on the visitors. By the time UNC built its lead past the midway point of the set, there was little doubt about the outcome. The Tar Heels sealed the set 25-15, taking back control of the match with their most dominant performance of the night. Fourth Set: Finishing Strong Appalachian State attempted to extend the match to a deciding fifth set, but UNC’s depth proved too much. Bobbitt’s precise setting allowed the Tar Heels’ attackers to maintain steady pressure. Smith and Pearce continued to provide timely kills, while Hampton added the final touches on her standout performance. Despite strong moments from Winterhoff and Keionna Mackey for the Mountaineers, including quick kills and aggressive net play, errors once again undermined their effort. UNC closed the door with a 25-18 victory, completing the 3-1 match win. Looking Ahead North Carolina’s victory reinforced its top-25 ranking and provided a confidence boost ahead of a high-profile home matchup with No. 21 Kansas State. With Hampton leading the offense, Bobbitt orchestrating the attack, and Taylor anchoring the defense, the Tar Heels appear well-prepared to sustain their momentum in conference play. Appalachian State, though disappointed by the result, showed encouraging signs. Morris emerged as a steady leader, while Winterhoff’s play at the net gives the team a foundation to build on. If the Mountaineers can clean up their unforced errors, they will be a dangerous opponent as their season unfolds. Final Takeaway No. 25 North Carolina demonstrated resilience, composure, and superior execution in its four-set win over Appalachian State. While the Mountaineers earned a set and displayed grit throughout the night, the Tar Heels’ ability to adjust after setbacks and lean on multiple contributors defined the match. The result extended UNC’s long-standing dominance over Appalachian State and reaffirmed its status as a program capable of competing with the nation’s elite. For the Tar Heels, the win was more than just another non-conference victory—it was a statement about their depth, balance, and growing confidence as the season intensifies.

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.