MAC Recap Week 5

Northern Illinois 26-Eastern Michigan 23 (3OT)
A wild finish in Ypsilanti as the Eagles (2-3, 0-2 MAC) had a chance to knock off Northern Illinois (2-3, 2-0) for the first time since 2007, but missed two key field goals and watched the Huskies score a touchdown in the third overtime to win yet again.
EMU took advantage of a Marcus Childers interception to start as the got a field goal and then on their next drive ended in a Tyler Wiegers 34-yard touchdown to Line Latu.
Then it was the Huskies turn as they got a field goal to wrap up the first and benefited from an Eagles' turnover to set up a Marcus Jones 2-yard touchdown. NIU capped the scoring in the first half with a field goal as time expired to take a 13-10 lead.
The punters were very active in the second half as EMU had the only two scoring opportunities. After being limited to 95 total yards through three quarters, the Eagles drove down the field, but a costly holding penalty forced them into a 45-yard field goal attempt that Chad Ryland sent wide left. Ryland would redeem himself with just three seconds left as he knocked through a 28-yard attempt to send the game to overtime.
In OT it took EMU just two plays to score as Shaq Vann ran in from 14 yards out. The Huskies needed five plays to answer as Childers connected with Ty Harmston for an 11-yard score. NIU looked like they were going to get a score again in the second overtime, but Tre Harbison fumbled and EMU recovered. The Eagles just needing a field goal, watched as Ryland missed wide right to send the game into a third OT.
In that third OT, EMU was stifled and settled for a field goal to go up 23-20. The Eastern defense held NIU at the one yard line, but on a third and goal, Harbison plowed across the goaline to give the Huskies the victory.
NIU will travel to Ball State (2-3, 1-0) while Eastern will head to Kalamazoo for the the first round of the Michigan MAC trophy with Western Michigan (3-2, 1-0).
Ball State 52-Kent State 24
Riley Neal threw for 402 yards, four touchdowns and ran for another as the Cardinals (2-3, 1-0 MAC) waxed the Golden Flashes (1-4, 0-1).
Neal's favorite target was Riley Miller who had 11 catches for 208 yards and a score. Justin Rankin had 19 carries for 75 yards and two scores in the the loss.
Ball State will host Northern Illinois (2-3, 2-0) while Kent State will host Ohio (2-2) who has not played a MAC game yet.
Western Michigan 40-Miami 39
Jon Wassink threw five touchdowns and Gus Ragland had three of his own as the two quarterbacks led their teams in a shootout that saw Western Michigan (3-2, 1-0 MAC) edge Miami (1-4, 1-1) as the Redhawks missed a game-winning field goal.
Maurice Thomas started things right away when he returned the opening kickoff 99 yards to put the Redhawks on the board. WMU responded with a 10-yard touchdown pass by Wassink. Miami tacked on a field goal, Wassink threw another TD to Jayden Reed, and Miami responded with a Ragland 17-yard touchdown to Dominique Robinson. The scoring finally stopped when the Broncos were stopped on the 2-yard line.
The remainder of the Broncos first half ended with a missed field goal and two fumbles. The Redhawks meanwhile added another field goal and another Ragland touchdown pass to make it 27-14 at the half.
After punting on their first drive of the second half, WMU couldn't be stopped as Wassink and Reed hooked up for the third time to get within six. That was pushed back to double digits as Jordan Rigg scored on a two-yard run, but Samuel Sloman missed a key extra point to only go up 33-21. Wassink found a new target in Drake Harris for a touchdown, but the Broncos also missed their extra point to end the third quarter.
After Miami was forced to punt, the Wassink to Reed connection found its way to the endzone for a fourth time to give the Broncos the lead. Ragland responded with his second touchdown pass to Robinson, but the Redhawks would leave points on the board again, as they missed a two-point conversion. Tired of throwing for touchdowns, Wassink used his legs to pick up a fourth and ten and then on the next play, ran it in for the final two yards. A failed two-point conversion made it a 40-39 game.
Miami converted a third and 21 to keep their hopes alive, but with 27 seconds left, Sloman was unable to connect on a 50-yard field goal.
The Broncos host EMU (2-3, 0-2) while Miami travels to Akron (2-1) for the Zips MAC opener.
Fresno State 49-Toledo 27
The Rockets (2-2) trailed 28-13 going into halftime and then watched Fresno State (3-1) drop 21 in the third quarter to blast Toledo out west.
Jon'Vea Johnson had two touchdown receptions in the fourth quarter and six catches overall for 112 yards to lead the way for the Rockets. Mitchell Guadagni was limited to just 59 yards passing and 55 yards rushing.
Toledo will open MAC play at home in the I-75 rivalry with Bowling Green (1-4, 0-1 MAC).
Army 42-Buffalo 13
Buffalo (4-1) was grounded by the keep away offense of Army (3-2) who added the Bulls to the undefeated teams they have knocked off.
The Bulls watched as the Black Knights held the ball for over 37 minutes and Buffalo was unable to make good use of the time they had the ball. nThey were 2 for 11 on third down and had just 255 total yards of offense.
Tyree Jackson looked like he could get the Bulls going when he threw a 53-yard touchdown pass to K.J. Osborn on the first drive of the game. Army rattled off 21 straight points, including a blocked field goal returned for a TD, before Kevin Marks scored from 1-yard out for the Bulls other score. Once again the Black Knights responded with 21 more points.
Buffalo returns to MAC play at Central Michigan (1-4, 0-1 MAC) next.
Ohio 58-UMass 42
The Bobcats (2-2) fell behind 21-7 to UMass (2-4), but scored 38 points in the second and third quarters to blow out the Minutemen.
Nathan Rourke shook off an early pick-six to throw three touchdowns and run for 189 yards and another score. Maleek Irons had a big day on the ground for the Bobcats as he carried the ball 13 times for 140 yards and two scores.
The Bobcats open MAC play next against Kent St (1-4, 0-1 MAC)
No. 21 Michigan St 31-Central Michigan 20
Central Michigan (1-4) held Michigan State (3-1) scoreless through the first quarter, but the Spartans outscored the Chippewa's 31-0 in the second and third quarters to avoid the upset.
Tommy Lazzaro had a passing touchdown, but threw two interceptions. He also led CMU in rushing with 32 yards.
The Chippewa's return to MAC play at home against Buffalo (4-1, 1-0 MAC) next.
Georgia Tech 63-Bowling Green 17
The Falcons (1-4) were privy-ed to the best fight song in college football quite a bit as Georgia Tech (2-3) rambling wrecked their way to eight rushing touchdowns.
Jarrett Doege threw for 305 yards and a touchdown, but also threw two picks in the loss.
The Falcons now head to Toledo (2-2) for the Battle of I-75.

Independents Recap Week 5

No. 8 Notre Dame 38-No. 7 Stanford 17
The Fighting Irish (5-0) were in another close game with Stanford (4-1) as they led just 21-14 at the half, but the defense shut down the Cardinal to win big 38-17.
Ian Book tossed four touchdowns and the Irish defense held Stanford to 229 yards of total offense. Dexter Williams had 21 carries for 161 yards and a score while Miles Boykin led all receivers with 11 catches for 144 yards and a score.
Notre Dame will travel to Virginia Tech (3-1) next.
No. 11 Washington 35- No. 20 BYU 7
The Cougars (3-2) amassed 194 yards and didn't score until Lopini Katoa punched it in for a 1-yard run with 41 seconds left in the game.
The Huskies (4-1) ran for 187 yards as a team and scored four times on the ground.
BYU will host Utah St (3-1) on Friday.
Army 42-Buffalo 13
The Black Knights (3-2) added another undefeated team to their victory belt as they stymied the high powered Buffalo (4-1) offense.
Tyree Jackson was held to just 152 yards passing and a touchdown while Army's Kelvin Hopkins Jr. was 4-of-5 for 91 yards and a touchdown. He also added 89 yards on the ground, but did not have one of the Black Knights four rushing scores.
Army takes a week off before hosting currently winless San Jose St.
Ohio 58-UMass 42
It was not a fun day for defensive coordinators as Ohio (2-2) and UMass (2-4) combined for over 1,100 yards in the Bobcats 58-42 victory.
The Minutemen actually led 21-7 after a score on their opening drive and then Isaiah Rodgers picked off Nathan Rourke for a 55-yard pick-six. Andrew Ford tossed four touchdowns and had 355 yards with 198 of those yards and three touchdowns going to Andy Isabella.
UMass will host undefeated USF (4-0) next.
Liberty 52-New Mexico 43
Antonio Gandy-Golden had a career day out west as he hauled in 11 catches for 245 yards and a touchdown to help Liberty (2-2) win a shootout in New Mexico (2-2).
His quarterback had three touchdowns and threw for 417 yards to help the Flames hold off a second half rally by the Lobos. Frankie Hickson and Peytton Pickett each had two rushing touchdowns in the victory.
The defense allowed 580 yards to New Mexico, but also got four key turnovers, including an interception to seal the victory.
Liberty will now play the first of their two games against New Mexico State (1-4) this season, with the Flames staying in the Land of Enchantment for the second week in a row.

Conference USA Week 5 Recap

Louisiana Tech 29-North Texas 27
The Mean Green (4-1, 0-1 CUSA) entered the game as one of 21 undefeated teams in the country, but two missed field goals late allowed La Tech (3-1, 1-0) to sneak away with a win.
Mason Fine lit up the Bulldogs for two touchdowns in the first quarter while Loren Easly added a 9-yard touchdown run to make it 21-6 after one. La Tech answered with a 20 point quarter of its own when J'Mar Smith tossed two touchdown passes and two Bailey Hale field goals made it 26-21 at the half.
The Bulldogs added another field goal to push the lead to eight when the Mean Green scored on Fine's second touchdown pass to Rico Bussey Jr. North Texas would miss the two-point conversion to keep it at 29-27. On their next drive Cole Hedlund missed from 41 yards out. The two teams traded punts before the Mean Green drove down to the La Tech 29 with 41 seconds left. Hedlund lined up for a field goal to win it, but the Bulldogs blocked the go ahead score to seal the victory in Denton.

La Tech will host UAB (3-1,1-0) next while North Texas should get back to its winning ways when they look to extend the nation's longest losing streak to 18 as they travel to UTEP (0-5, 0-1).

Marshall 20-Western Kentucky 17
Marshall (3-1, 1-0 CUSA) overcame four turnovers to fight off Western Kentucky (1-4, 0-1).
The Hilltoppers and Thundering Herd were knotted up at 10 going into halftime, but wouldn't continue the scoring until the fourth quarter. WKU started the fourth by fumbling and Marshall would turn that into a field goal. The two teams then traded interceptions before the Hilltoppers took the lead on an 11-yard touchdown pass from Steven Duncan to Mik'Quan Deane.
Isaiah Green threw another interception, but the Thundering Herd defense held this time to get the ball back with 4:23 remaining. Marshall moved quickly down the field and for the second time in the game, Green connected with Tyre Brady for a touchdown. Brady finished with eight catches for 162 yards.
The Hilltoppers were well within field goal range as they had a third and goal from the Marshall 10-yard line. Instead of lining of for the tie, WKU had Duncan attempt a pass and he was sacked by Ryan Bee, who also stripped him and Juwon Young recovered to seal the victory for the Thundering Herd.
Marshall will host Middle Tennessee St (2-2, 1-0) on Friday. WKU gets a week off as they'll travel to Charlotte on Oct. 13.
Middle Tennessee St 25-FAU 24
Florida Atlantic (2-3, 0-1 CUSA) held a 21-10 lead going into halftime, but were shut down by the Blue Raiders (2-2, 1-0) who stole a victory from the Owls on Saturday.
Devin Singletary had himself a day with 118 yards and two first half touchdowns to lead the Owls. FAU also got a rushing touchdown from quarterback Chris Robison in the first half. MTST was still in the game despite missing two field goals as Brent Stockstill completed a 1-yard touchdown pass to make it 21-10.
The second half featured sloppy play from both teams as they each committed two turnovers. FAU scored first in the third quarter with a field goal, but the Blue Raiders cut into that lead late in the frame with a 29-yard by Brad Anderson.
Trailing by seven, MTST took over with 3:45 remaining and had to convert two fourth downs, including a fourth and goal with 43 seconds left. They did so on a Tavares Thomas touchdown run and coach Rick Stockstill elected to put the ball in his son's hands for the win. The younger Stockstill found Gatling Casey for the go-ahead conversion. The Owls would go four and out to end the game, capped by a Jovante Moffatt interception to seal the victory.

The Blue Raiders head to Marshall (3-1, 1-0) on Friday while FAU hosts Old Dominion (1-4, 0-2) on Saturday.
UAB 28-Charlotte 7
The UAB (3-1, 1-0 CUSA) defense held Charlotte (2-3, 1-1) to just 69 yards rushing and forced two turnovers to drub the 49ers.
A.J. Erdely threw and ran for a touchdown while Spencer Brown added the other two touchdowns for the Blazers. Quarterback Chris Reynolds ran in the only score in the fourth quarter for Charlotte. Rico Arnold did have seven catches for 109 yards in the loss.
The Blazers head to La Tech (3-1, 1-0) next while the 49ers take week off before hosting WKU (1-4, 0-1) on Oct. 13.
UTSA 30-UTEP 21
UTSA (2-3, 1-0 CUSA) stopped UTEP (0-5, 0-1) on a fourth down late in the game and tacked on a late field goal to hand the Miners their 17th consecutive loss.
UTEP got on the board first when Kai Locksley ran it in for a 3-yard score, but fellow QB, Cordale Grundy, tossed two touchdowns and ran for another to help put the Roadrunners up 24-7 at the half.
Locksley threw for a touchdown in the third quarter while Quardraiz Wadley scored on a 3-yard run to inch the Miners closer at 24-21. The Roadrunners responded with a field goal and would stop the Miners on a fourth and one from their own 38. UTSA elected to kick a dangerous field goal, but Jared Sackett put the game out of reach with a 47-yard field goal to make it 30-21.
UTSA looks to take advantage of the weaker part of their schedule as they head to Rice (1-4, 0-1) while UTEP draws a tough task in North Texas (4-1, 0-1).
No. 10 Auburn 24-Southern Miss 13
Neither team could get a rhythm going as lightning would delay the game for nearly three hours, but Auburn (4-1) would take care of business against Southern Miss (2-2).
The Golden Eagles were held to just 45 yards rushing and their lone touchdown came when Jack Abraham found Quez Watkins for a 12-yard touchdown that at the time made it 21-13. Southern Miss would watch their next two drives end in punts, but they did recover a fumble at midfield for a chance to tie the game. That was short lived as they lost two yards and then Abraham was picked off by Christian Tutt, which set up a short field goal for Auburn to put the game out of reach.
The Eagles get a week off before heading to North Texas on Oct. 13
Wake Forest 56-Rice 24
The Owls (1-4) fell behind 42-3 in the first half to lose their fourth straight.
Shawn Stankavage tossed two touchdowns in the loss, but was also picked off twice by the Demon Deacons (3-2). Austin Walter had 18 carries for 165 yards and a score to go with five catches for 32 yards and a touchdown to lead Rice offensively.
They'll get a chance for their first win in a month as they take on UTSA (2-3, 1-0 CUSA).
ECU 37-Old Dominion 35
Last week Old Dominion (1-4) stunned No. 13 Virginia Tech, but ECU (2-2) accomplished the same feat back in 2015, so needless to say, they weren't impressed.
The Pirates and Monarchs settled things on the field as it was a back and forth affair that saw ECU up 21-20 after one half. Old Dominion set themselves up for the lead in the second half as they picked  off Reid Herring and Kesean Strong put the Monarchs on top with a 15-yard run. The Pirates answered on the next drive with a 49-yard scoring scamper by Holton Ahlers.
The Monarchs seized the lead with a Blake LaRussa 49-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Harper and then they converted a two-point conversion to go up by seven. ECU responded on the next drive when Herring found Tahj Deans for a 4-yard touchdown, but the PAT was blocked and the Pirates still trailed by one.
ECU would get the ball with 2:02 left in the game and drove down to the Old Dominion 21-yard line. That set up a Jake Verity 38-yard field goal to put the Pirates up 37-35. The Monarchs would get the ball back for one last drive, but in three plays went backwards 22 yards to secure the win for ECU.
Old Dominion travels to FAU (2-3, 0-1 CUSA) next.
FIU 55-APB 9
James Morgan threw for 341 yards and four touchdowns as FIU (3-2) routed FCS Arkansas Pine-Bluff (1-4).
D'Vonte Price added 110 yards on just five carries and had two touchdowns while Maurice Alexander led all receivers with 144 yards and a touchdown.
FIU returns to Conference USA play on Oct. 13 when they host Middle Tennessee St.

Big Ten Week 5 Recap

No. 4 Ohio State 27-No. 9 Penn State 26
In a game that a lot of pundits had going to Ohio State decisively, the Buckeyes (5-0, 2-0 Big Ten) had to rally late to knock off the Nittany Lions (4-1, 1-1) in Happy Valley.
The first half belong to Penn St as Jake Pinegar made two of his three field goal attempts to put the Nittany Lions up 6-0. That lead grew to 13-0 when Trace McSorley, who had never lost a home game, found K.J. Hamler for a 93-yard touchdown. A costly fumble late in the first half set up a short field for Ohio St and they capitalized with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Dwayne Haskins to J.K. Dobbins.
On the first drive of the second half, Dobbins would give the Buckeyes the lead with a 4-yard touchdown run. On their next drive a costly penalty would erase a field goal and on the following attempt Sean Nuemberger was way wide on his 48-yard attempt.
Penn State retook the lead when McSorley found Pat Freiermuth, who made a one-handed grab in the endzone. Ohio State would be stuffed on a fourth and one which led to a Miles Sanders 1-yard touchdown run. The Nittany Lions elected to go for two and missed on a chance to go up by 14.
The Buckeyes had the quick answer when Haskins tossed a 47-yard TD to Binjimen Victor, who did most of the work after the catch. Penn State would punt, but pinned Ohio State at their own 4-yard line. It was no matter as the Buckeyes drove down the field and got another Haskins touchdown pass, this time to K.J. Hill. OSU failed on their two point try to make it 27-26. The Nittany Lions got the ball into Ohio State territory, but a questionable run play call on fourth and five was snuffed out for a loss of two to secure the win on the road in the Whiteout.

Ohio State welcomes Indiana (4-1, 1-1) next while Penn State takes a week off to prepare for another potential ranked showdown at home, this time with Michigan State.
No. 14 Michigan 20-Northwestern 17
There's something dangerous for the Wolverines (4-1, 2-0 Big Ten) when they travel to Ryan Field and face the Wildcats (1-3, 1-1) who jumped out to a 17-0 lead in the first half.
Northwestern was given a huge hole to replace in the backfield as Jeremy Larkin was forced to medically retire due a condition that affects the spinal canal in the neck. With that being said, the Wildcats ran effectively by committee getting a rushing touchdown from John Moten IV and another on the ground from quarterback Clayton Thorson. Karan Higdon finally got the Wolverines on the board with 9:14 in the second quarter with a 4-yard touchdown run.
The second half was a different story as the Wildcats would punt on six of their seven drives. It looked like they may escape as Michigan couldn't score in the redzone and settled for two Quinn Nordin field goals to make it 17-13 at the end of the third.
Shea Patterson and Higdon put together a drive for the Wolverines that once again brought them inside the ten yard line. Unlike their previous trips, Michigan elected to spread the field with four receivers to one side, but ran out of that formation and caught Northwestern by surprise as Higdon ran it in from five yards out to give the Wolverines their first lead of the day.
The Wildcats got the ball back with 34 seconds and were able to get to midfield, but Thorson was sacked by Josh Uche to complete the Michigan comeback.

The Wolverines host Maryland (3-1, 1-0) next while Northwestern heads to Michigan State (3-1, 1-0).
Indiana 24-Rutgers 17
Another Big Ten game with a late comeback, but this time it would come up short as Indiana (4-1, 1-1 Big Ten) held off Rutgers (1-4, 0-2) late.
Shameen Jones started the scoring for the Scarlet Knights as he caught an 11-yard touchdown from Artur Sitkowski. Stevie Scott answered for the Hoosiers with a 16-yard touchdown run to tie the game. Quarterback Patrick Ramsey added another rushing score for IU before tossing a 2-yard score that put the Hoosiers up 21-7. A late field goal pushed that lead to 24-7.
Rutgers wouldn't make their move until a Scott fumble set up a short field for the Scarlet Knights. They needed just three plays to set up a Jonathan Hillman 1-yard touchdown. Another IU turnover, this time an interception, led to a Rutgers field goal to make it a one score game. The Scarlet Knights elected to kick it deep and nearly got the ball back, but couldn't hold the Hoosiers on a fourth and one to make the rally fall short.
Indiana gets the undefeated Buckeyes (5-0, 2-0) in Columbus while Rutgers hosts Illinois (2-2, 0-1).
Purdue 42-Nebraska 28
There was no comeback in this one as the Boilermakers (2-3, 1-1 Big Ten) put up points in every quarter to extend the Cornhuskers (0-4. 0-2) losing streak to eight games dating back to last season.
Nebraska has not seen a start this bad since 1945 and Purdue was more than happy to help them get there. The Cornhuskers committed 11 penalties for 136 yards with a turnover and watched the Boilermakers hold the ball for over 36 minutes.
David Blough threw for 328 yards and two total touchdowns while D.J. Knox had 15 carries for 87 yards and two scores for Purdue. Adrian Martinez had 323 yards passing and 91 yards rushing with two passing TDs in the loss. Devine Ozigbo ran 17 times for 170 yards and two scores in the loss.
Purdue takes the week off before facing Illinois while Nebraksa will look for their first win in the wrong place against ranked Wisconsin (3-1, 1-0) in Madison.
No. 21 Michigan St 31-Central Michigan 20
It wasn't pretty again for Michigan State (3-1), but the defense held CMU (1-4) to 245 yards of total offense and forced two turnovers.
Brian Lewerke had two rushing touchdowns, but just 185 yards passing with an interception.
Sparty welcomes Northwestern (1-3, 1-1) to East Lansing next.

Big 12 Week 5 Recap

No. 12 West Virginia 42-No. 25 Texas Tech 34
West Virginia (4-0, 2-0 Big 12) broke out to a 35-10 lead and Texas Tech (3-2, 1-1) lost starting quarterback Alan Bowman, but that didn't mean the Red Raiders weren't going down without a fight.
Jett Duffey took over for Bowman and helped score the only points of the third quarter when he found De'Quan Bowman for a 2-yard score to cut the lead to 35-17. Texas Tech added a field goal and then a 3-yard touchdown run by Duffey and with 7:50 still left in the game, the Red Raiders were within reach.
Texas Tech marched down the field with a little over three minutes left, but Duffey was picked off by Keith Washington, who returned it 51 yards for a touchdown that put West Virginia up 42-27. The Red Raiders did score with 38 seconds left, but couldn't recover the onside kick to hand the Mountaineers the win.
Will Grier had 370 yards and three touchdowns in the win. His favorite target was Marcus Simms who hauled in nine catches for 138 yards and a score. Antoine Wesley had eight catches for 110 yards and a score for the Red Raiders in the loss.

West Virginia hosts Kansas (2-3, 0-2) next while Texas Tech takes a week off before heading to TCU for a Thursday night showdown on Oct. 11.
No. 6 Oklahoma 66-Baylor 33
Kyle Murray didn't start because he was late to Friday's practice, it wasn't long enough for Baylor (3-2, 1-1 Big 12) as Murray threw six touchdowns and ran for another to lead the Sooners (5-0, 2-0) to a big win.
Murray had 432 yards passing and 45 yards rushing while Charlie Brewer threw for 400 yards and two touchdowns and ran for another in the loss. Marquise Brown had five catches for 132 yards and two scores while CeeDee Lamb had three catches for 101 yards and a score for the Sooners.
Denzel Mims and Jalen Hurd each had a touchdown and finished with over 100 yards receiving for the Bears.
Oklahoma will now face Texas (4-1, 2-0) in the Red River Shootout. Baylor welcomes Kansas State (2-3, 0-2) to Waco.
No. 18 Texas 19-Kansas St 14
Texas (4-1, 2-0 Big 12) jumped out to a 19-0 lead at the half, but the Wildcats (2-3, 0-2) would own the second half.
D'Shawn Jamison returned a punt 90 yards to set the tone for Texas early on. Sam Ehlinger connected with Collin Johnson for the Longhorns only offensive touchdown and Texas added a safety and a Cameron Dicker field goal to wrap up the first half.
In the second half Skylar Thompson put the Wildcats on the board with a 7-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Dicker would miss a 48-yard field goal and Kansas State would drive 70 yards when Alex Barnes capped the drive with a 1-yard plunge on fourth and goal.
The Wildcats would punt on their next drive, but the Longhorns would hold the ball for the remainder of the game to snap a five-game losing streak in Manhattan.
Texas will now prepare for a ranked showdown with Oklahoma (5-0, 2-0) in the Red River Shootout. Kansas St travels to Baylor (3-2, 1-1).
Oklahoma St 48-Kansas 28
The Cowboys (4-1, 1-1 Big 12) came out firing as they burst out to a 24-7 lead at the half and never looked back against the Jayhawks (2-3, 0-2).
Taylor Cornelius threw four touchdowns with 312 yards while Justice Hill scampered for 189 yards on 31 carries with a score. Landon Wolf and Tylan Wallace both had over 100 receiving with a touchdown while Tyron Johnson had 86 yards and two touchdowns in just three catches for Oklahoma St.
Carter Stanley tossed three touchdowns in the loss and Pook Williams Jr. added 97 yards rushing with a score and also caught six balls for 60 yards to lead Kansas.
Oklahoma State welcomes Iowa State (1-3, 0-2) while Kansas heads to West Virginia (4-0, 2-0)
TCU 17-Iowa St 14
A defensive showdown as Iowa State (1-3, 0-2 Big 12) was held to under 200 yards total offense while TCU (3-2, 1-1) had under 300 yards in total, but still managed to eek out a win.
Zeb Noland got the scoring started for the Cyclones with a 3-yard touchdown pass, but the Horned Frogs answered with a Taye Barber 10-yard touchdown reception from Shawn Robinson to make it 7-7 at the half.
The TCU defense made the big play in the third quarter as Ben Banogu scooped and scored from 47 yards out to hand the Horned Frogs their first lead of the game. With 7:51 left in the game, David Montgomery punched it in from one yard out on a third and goal to tie the game.
TCU moved the ball late in the game and set up for a 28-yard field goal to take the lead with just 37 seconds left. With one final shot, the Cyclones mustered just two yards in four plays to hand the ball over on downs.

Iowa State heads to Oklahoma State (4-1, 1-1) next while TCU takes the week off before playing Texas Tech on Thursday Oct. 11.

American Week 5 Recap

Tulane 40-Memphis 24
Corey Dauphine got the Tulane Green Wave (2-3, 1-0 American) on the board first and they never looked back as the defense smothered the high power Memphis (3-2, 0-2) offense. It was Tulane's first win against Memphis since 2000.
Dauphine had 87 rushing yards and two touchdowns, but Darius Bradwell had the big game with two touchdowns of his own and 143 yards on the ground.
Brady White tossed two scores for the Tigers. Darrell Henderson found the end zone for the ninth time this season on the ground and caught another, but he was bottled up for a season low 51 yards on just nine carries.
Tulane will head to Cincinnati (5-0, 1-0) next while Memphis hosts UConn(1-4, 0-2).
Cincinnati 49-UConn 7
It was 7-7 after one quarter, but the Bearcats (5-0, 1-0 American) romped to score 49 unanswered points against the Huskies (1-4, 0-2).
Desmond Ridder had two passing touchdowns and a rushing score while Michael Warren II led the Bearcats rushing attack with 13 carries for 106 yards and two scores. Tight end Josiah Deguara led all receivers with five catches for 112 yards and a score.
David Pindell connected with Kyle Buss for the Huskies only touchdown. Tight end Aaron McLean had four catches for 97 yards to lead UConn in the loss.
UC hosts Tulane (2-3, 1-0) next while UConn travels to Memphis (3-2, 0-2).
No. 13 UCF 45-Pitt 14
The nation's longest win streak was extended to 17 with great ease as the Golden Knights (4-0) pounded the Pitt Panthers (2-3).
McKenzie Milton added to his Heisman resume with four passing touchdowns and 328 yards to go with 51 yards rushing and two more touchdowns. Adrian Killins Jr. had three catches for 140 yards, including a 71-yard touchdown.
UCF looks to keep the streak alive at home next week when SMU (2-3, 1-0 American) comes to town.
Boston College 45-Temple 35
In the battle of Steve Addazio's current and former team it was his current squad, Boston College (4-1) that held off a late rally by Temple (2-3).
Trailing 38-21 in the third quarter, Ryquell Armstead took over for the Owls. He cut the lead to ten with a 1-yard touchdown in the third quarter and then brought them within three with another 1-yard scoring run. Armstead finished the game with 24 carries for 171 yards and four touchdowns.
Boston College had a big void to fill in the second half as leading rusher A.J.Dillon went down with an ankle injury. His replacement Ben Glines came up with the biggest play of the day when he scored with 3:11 left to put the Eagles up by 10.
The Owls return to conference play when they host ECU (2-2, 0-1 American) next.
ECU 37-Old Dominion 35
Last week Old Dominion (1-4) stunned No. 13 Virginia Tech, but ECU (2-2) accomplished the same feat back in 2015, so needless to say, they weren't impressed.
The Pirates and Monarchs settled things on the field as it was a back and forth affair that saw ECU up 21-20 after one half. Old Dominion set themselves up for the lead in the second half as they picked  off Reid Herring and Kesean Strong put the Monarchs on top with a 15-yard run. The Pirates answered on the next drive with a 49-yard scoring scamper by Holton Ahlers.
The Monarchs seized the lead with a Blake LaRussa 49-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Harper and then they converted a two-point conversion to go up by seven. ECU responded on the next drive when Herring found Tahj Deans for a 4-yard touchdown, but the PAT was blocked and the Pirates still trailed by one.
ECU would get the ball with 2:02 left in the game and drove down to the Old Dominion 21-yard line. That set up a Jake Verity 38-yard field goal to put the Pirates up 37-35. The Monarchs would get the ball back for one last drive, but in three plays went backwards 22 yards to secure the win for ECU.

ECU will travel to Temple (2-3, 1-0 American) next.
SMU 63-Houston Baptist 27
William Brown threw for 309 yards and two touchdowns as SMU (2-3) cruised to victory against FCS member Houston Baptist (1-3).
Braeden West added two rushing touchdowns while Reggie Roberson Jr. and Tyler Page each had over 100 yards receiving for the Mustangs. Punter Jamie Sackville also got in on the scoring as he completed as many passes as he had punts (2) and threw for a 4-yard touchdown.
SMU will head to UCF (4-0, 1-0 American) next.

ACC Recap Week 5

No. 3 Clemson 27-Syracuse 23
This game was everything I hoped it would be, but with their third string quarterback, Clemson (5-0, 2-0 SEC) avoided the upset with a fourth quarter comeback to hold off the Orange (4-1, 1-1).
Syracuse go the board first with a field goal and then forced a fumble on Trevor Lawrence to set up a short field an another field goal for a 6-0 lead. Travis Etienne got the Tigers ahead with a 1-yard run and a Syracuse fumble set up a field goal attempt for Clemson, but Greg Huegel missed a 47-yard field goal.
The Orange scored the final ten points of the half as Eric Dungey ran in from one yard out and Andre Szmyt to make it 16-7. On Clemson's second to last drive of the half, Lawrence took a shot to the head on a sack by Evan Foster and left the game. The second half would belong to Chase Brice, who was now the back-up after senior Kelly Bryant announced he was going to transfer when he lost the starting job.
Brice shook off an interception on the second drive of the second half to lead the Tigers down for a field goal that cut the lead to 16-10. Clemson would turn a Dungey interception into a field goal and trailed by three heading into the fourth quarter.
It was the Tigers turn to give points away as Amari Rodgers fumbled a punt return that set up a short field for another Dungey 1-yard touchdown run. Unfazed, Clemson got a couple of big runs from Etienne including a 26-yard score that made it 23-20 with 11:08 left to play.
Syracuse looked to be heading for a score when they converted a fourth and one with a big chunk pass play on a jump pass. However, the Orange were penalized as lineman Cody Conway was too far down field when the pass was thrown and Syracuse was forced to punt. Their next drive would end with a punt and they gave the ball back to the Tigers with six minutes to play, but pinned them at their own six.
Brice and Clemson remained composed as they converted a big fourth and six to keep the ball with 2:50 left to play. Brice then surprised the Orange defense as he used his legs to pick up 17 yards. Eventually that set up Etienne for a 2-yard scamper for the go ahead touchdown with 41 seconds on the clock.
Syracuse would implode on the final drive as the Orange were hit with a personal foul penalty on first down, Dungey was hit all the back to New York on a sack by Xavier Thomas and then an illegal shift made it fourth and 17 with 12 seconds left. The Orange were unable to do the impossible and Clemson survived the upset.
Etienne finished with 203 yards on the ground.

Clemson hits the road next as they face Wake Forest (3-2, 0-1) while Syracuse travels to Pitt (2-3, 1-1).
No. 16 Miami 47-North Carolina 10
UNC (1-3, 1-1 ACC) trailed by only four going into the second quarter, but the Hurricanes (4-1, 1-0) defense shut things down from their, busting out the Turnover Chain six times in the rout.
The quarterbacks were responsible for all the turnovers as Nathan Elliott fumbled three times and Chazz Surratt was picked off three times in ten attempts, but did score a rushing touchdown.
The Miami defense returned one of those fumbles and two picks back for touchdowns. DeeJay Davis led the way offensively as he carried the ball 11 times for 114 yards and a touchdown.
UNC and Miami will both take a week off. The Tar Heels host Virginia Tech while Miami faces Florida State.
Virginia Tech 31-No. 22 Duke 14
Duke's venture into the Top 25 was short lived as the Blue Devils (4-1, 0-1 ACC) were throttled by Virginia Tech (3-1, 2-0) who shook off their disastrous loss to Old Dominion.
Ryan Willis threw for 332 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Hokies, who started in place of the injured Josh Jackson. Daniel Jones returned to the starting role for Duke going 23-of-35 for 226 yards with a touchdown and a pick. Neither team had their running games going as Virginia Tech finished with 81 yards while the Blue Devils had just 71.
The Hokies will host a big showdown with Notre Dame (5-0) while Duke takes a week off before heading to Georgia Tech.
NCST 35-Virginia 21
NCST (4-0, 1-0 ACC) fell behind 7-3 after the first quarter, but used a 17 point surge to close the first half and close the door on Virginia (3-2, 1-1).
Ryan Finley threw for three touchdowns while Ricky Person Jr. took advantage of some playing time with 14 carries for 108 yards. Kelvin Harmon and Emeka Emezie each had over 90 yards and a score receiving for the Wolfpack.
Bryce Perkins threw for two touchdowns, but also had two interceptions. Olamide Zaccheaus led the Cavaliers in receiving (109 yards, two scores) and rushing (2 carries 39 yards).
NCST will host Boston College (4-1, 1-0) while Virginia takes the week off before host Miami.
Florida St 28-Louisville 24
Florida State (3-2, 1-2 ACC) used a big second half to knock off a struggling Louisville (2-3, 0-2) squad.
Jawon Pass tossed two touchdowns and ran for another in the first half to put the Cardinals up 21-7 at the end of the first half. However in the second half, Deondre Francois throw three of his four touchdown passes in the second half including the final TD that probably should have never happened.
With only two timeouts the Seminoles needed a stop trailing 24-21 with around two minutes left. The Cardinals converted, but instead of bleeding out the clock, Louisville elected to throw on first down. Pass had his attempt picked off by A.J. Westbrook who was already having a good day with a game high ten tackles. It took Florida State just five plays before Francois and Nyqwan Murray connected for a 58-yard touchdown. On their final drive Pass would be picked off again to wrap up the Florida St comeback.

Louisville will host Georgia Tech (2-3, 0-2) on Friday while Florida State heads to Miami (4-1, 1-0) on Saturday.
Boston College 45-Temple 35
The Owls (2-3) pushed Boston College (4-1) early, but used an 18-point second half to build a big enough lead to hold off Temple.
The Eagles were dealt a tough blow though in the beginning of the second half when running back A.J. Dillon left the game with an ankle injury. He finished the game with 28 carries, 161 yards, and two touchdowns. His replacement was no slouch though as Ben Glines had 23 carries for 120 yards and a score in relief.
Anthony Brown was just 15-of-33, but did throw two touchdowns. One of those touchdowns went to Jeff Smith, who returned the favor by throwing a 9-yard touchdown to Brown that put the Eagles up 38-21.
Temple made it interesting late, but BC was able to hold off the rally and Gines punched it in for a 1-yard score.
The Eagles face a tough task on the road next as they head to NCST to go against the undefeated Wolfpack (4-0, 1-0 ACC).
Wake Forest 56-Rice 24
It was not close in Winston-Salem as Wake Forest (3-2) built up a 42-3 halftime lead to cruise past Rice (1-4).
Sam Hartman threw for 241 yards and four touchdowns, with all four going to Greg Dortch. Dortch hauled in 11 receptions for 163 yards. Cade Carney had two rushing touchdowns in the win. The Wake defense forced three turnovers and allowed just 103 yards passing.
The Demon Deacons host Clemson (5-0, 2-0 ACC) next.
Georgia Tech 63-Bowling Green 17
The Falcons (1-4) had no answer for the option attack as Georgia Tech (2-3) ran for eight touchdowns and 372 yards in the rout.
The Yellow Jackets were led by quarterback Tobias Oliver on the ground as he had seven carries for 115 yards and two scores. Jordan Mason and starting QB TaQuon Marshall both had two rushing touchdowns as well. The Georgia Tech defense forced three turnovers.
Next up is a Friday night showdown in Louisville (2-3, 0-2 ACC).
No. 13 UCF 45-Pitt 14
The Pitt Panthers (2-3) had no answer for McKenzie Milton, who scored all six touchdowns for the Golden Knights (4-0) to keep the nation's longest winning streak (17) in tact.
Rafael Araujo-Lopes had an 86-yard punt return that started the scoring for Pitt. Maurice Ffrench added a 58-yard touchdown reception that came with UCF leading 45-7.
Pitt welcomes Syracuse (4-1, 1-1 ACC) next.

Meet the 21 Undefeated Teams Left in College Football (And the 4 who haven't won)

The 21 undefeated teams left in college football are sprinkled in from most of the conferences and have some big surprises like the Kentucky Wildcats (4-0), Syracuse Orange (4-0),and North Texas Mean Green (4-0). There's also the usual suspects like Clemson (4-0), Ohio State (4-0), and Alabama (4-0). Here's a look at the full list in order of their win strength (closest to 0 is good, closer to 130 is weak).

21.)No. 13 UCF (3-0, 102.3)

The Golden Knights are without the benefit of playing another Power 5 game because of Hurricane Florence, but even North Carolina (1-3) wasn't exactly a top tier team. They've also won blowouts against UConn (1-3), FCS SCST, and FAU (2-2). They should stay undefeated against Pitt (2-2) this weekend.

Best Player: McKenzie Milton- 895 yards passing, 147 yards rushing, 12 total touchdowns

Best Win: FAU

20.)No. 12 West Virginia (3-0, 99)

West Virginia is hurt by the fact that their best game to date (NCST) was canceled because of Hurricane Florence. With that being said, they're outscoring opponents 127-37. They'll get a tough task on the road against No. 25 Texas Tech (3-1).

Best Player: Will Grier- 1,117 yards passing, 14 touchdowns, 3 INT

Best Win: Tennessee

19.)Buffalo (4-0, 98.5)

Buffalo is scoring points in droves as they've scored at least 35 in all four contests. They do have a win against a Big Ten team albeit Rutgers (1-3). They'll have an interesting match-up against Army (2-2) who has been able to neutralize two high powered offenses already, Hawai'i and Oklahoma, by playing keep away.

Best Player: Tyree Jackson- 1,052 yards passing, 15 touchdowns, 3 INT

Best Win: Eastern Michigan

18.)Cincinnati (4-0, 98.5)

The win against UCLA (0-3) looked good in Week 1, but Cincinnati can only do what they've done best so far and win. Last week it took a comeback effort against the Ohio Bobcats (1-2) to keep the perfect season alive. They should remain undefeated as UConn (1-3) is up next.

Best Player: Michael Warren II- 93 carries, 435 yards, 8 touchdowns, 4 catches, 47 yards

Best Win: UCLA

17.)Syracuse Orange (4-0, 98.5)
Much like Buffalo, this New York school keeps winning. Just like Cincinnati, the Orange also have a marquee win marred by a rough season (Florida St). The real test comes on the road this Saturday as Syracuse heads to No. 3 Clemson (4-0).
Best Player: Eric Dungey: 763 yards passing, 9 touchdowns, 51 carries, 354 yards, 4 touchdowns
Best Win: Florida St

16.) Colorado Buffaloes (3-0, 95.7)
Another schedule full of wins that look good on paper, but in reality, its been a rough year for Colorado St (1-4) and Nebraska (0-3). The wins should keep coming with UCLA (0-3) on the docket next.
Best Player: Steven Montez- 855 yards, 8 touchdowns, 2 INT, 1 Rushing TD
Best Win: Nebraska

15.)No. 3 Clemson (4-0, 81.8)
Clemson is one of the few teams to find winning while also trying to find a quarterback. Kelly Bryant has now transferred after losing the job to freshman Trevor Lawrence. They had a close call at Texas A&M (2-2), but have coasted against their weaker opponents.
Best Player: Trevor Lawrence- 600 yards, 9 touchdowns, 2 INT
Best Win: Texas A&M

14.) South Florida (4-0, 80.8)
Playing teams at the right time helps bump the Bulls ahead of Clemson. They've needed some help here as a late rally was used to knock off Illinois (2-2) and ECU (1-2). The Bulls should have an easy path to 7-0 with UMass, Tulsa, and UConn on the schedule before De'Riq King and Houston host USF on Oct. 27.
Best Player: Blake Barnett- 1,099 yards, 8 touchdowns, 3 INT, 120 yards rushing, 4 TD
Best Win: Illinois

13.) No. 24 Cal Bears (3-0, 77.7)
The Cal Bears had a strong start to the season, but had an early bye, which should help them prepare for No. 19 Oregon (3-1) at home. If they survive the Ducks, the bottom of the PAC 12 awaits in Arizona, UCLA, and Oregon St before Washington comes to Berkeley on Oct. 27.
Best Player(s): Cal Defense- 7 turnovers, 1 defensive touchdown, six sacks, 14 tackles for loss, Evan Weaver (38 tackles), Jordan Kunaszyk (28 tackles)
Best Win: BYU

12.) No. 4 Ohio State (4-0, 77.3)
Aside from TCU (2-2), it's been an assortment of bottom barrel Power 5 schools and Tulane (1-3). The TCU win looks less impressive after they dropped of the rankings this week. With a weaker non-conference, the Buckeyes are doing what they need to, drop points. They've outscored opponents 218-68. A big blow came to the Buckeyes as Nick Bosa will be out for some time with a core injury. No. 9 Penn State (4-0) is up next in a white out.
Best Player: Dwayne Hasksins- 1,194 yards passing, 16 touchdowns, INT, 1 rushing TD
Best Win: No. 15 TCU

11.)NCST (3-0, 76)
The Wolfpack are another team impacted by Hurricane Florence. Their three games have come against the right opponent at the right time despite playing the likes of Georgia St and Marshall. NCST will face much tougher opponents next as they see Virginia (3-1), Boston College, Clemson, and Syracuse.
Best Player: Ryan Finley-1,056 yards passing, 5 touchdowns, INT
Best Win: Marshall

10.)  North Texas (4-0, 76)
North Texas is blowing everyone out, including a stunning rout of Arkansas. Even better is that they will unretire No. 75 for one game only, as they'll unveil a statue to "Mean" Joe Greene. Greene was a consensus All-American and is inducted into both the College and Pro Football Hall of Fame. North Texas has a chance to run the table at 12-0, but with their strength of schedule fading, don't expect to hear their name in the College Football Playoff discussion.
Best Player: Mason Fine- 1,328 yards passing, 10 touchdowns, INT, 2 rushing TDs
Best Win: Arkansas

9.)No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs (4-0, 74)
Georgia already has a win against a ranked opponent and doesn't looked to be challenged in the next couple weeks. However, starting in mid-October they face three currently ranked opponents in four games.
Best Player: Jake Fromm- 739 yards passing, 9 touchdowns, 2 INT
Best Win: No. 24 South Carolina

8.)No. 9 Penn St (4-0, 74)
It started out with a scare against Appalachian St, but the Nittany Lions have made sure that hasn't come close to happening again. In the last three games, they've outscored opponents 177-40. Their big test is this week at home against No. 4 Ohio St.
Best Player: Trace McSorley- 763 yards passing, 8 touchdowns, 2 INT, 235 yards rushing, 6 TDs
Best Win: Appalachian St (Seriously, they're better than you think)

7.)No. 6 Oklahoma (4-0, 71.5)
The Sooners survived a scare against Army and were even challenged by Iowa St, but Kyler Murray has been so good, they've walked away unblemished. They have to make sure not to look past Baylor before the Red River Shootout against now ranked Texas.
Best Player: Kyler Murray- 1,028 yards, 11 touchdowns, 2 INT, 240 yards rushing, 3 TD
Best Win: Army

6.)No. 17 Kentucky (4-0, 71.3)
Admit it, no one saw Kentucky going 2-0 in the SEC for the first time since 1977. Well here they are and both those conference wins were against ranked opponents. It's strange to see "Big Blue" in the rankings for college football.
Best Player: Benny Snell Jr.- 87 carries, 540 yards, 7 touchdowns, 43 yard-touchdown pass
Best Win: No. 14 Mississippi St

5.) No. 22 Duke (4-0, 58.8)
Another big surprise to the ranks, Duke has played some solid, but unranked opponents and that trend continues as they welcome Virginia Tech next.
Best Player: Quentin Harris- 388 yards passing, 6 touchdowns, 141 yards rushing, TD
Best Win: Baylor

4.)No. 7 Stanford (4-0, 58.3)
Two wins against ranked opponents and another win against a top tier Group of 5 team, the Cardinal have shown that they are unfazed when it comes to adversity. Whether it's Bryce Love getting bottled up or trailing big at Oregon. It doesn't get easier as they head to No. 8 Notre Dame next.
Best Player: J.J. Arcega-Whiteside- 17 catches, 408 yards receiving, 7 touchdowns
Best Win: No. 17 USC

3.) No. 5 LSU (4-0, 46.8)
LSU doesn't just have two wins against ranked opponents, they have two wins against top ten teams. Throttling Miami and kicking a last second field goal against Auburn, the Tigers can do it all, but the age old question is can they knock Georgia or Alabama from the top of the SEC?
Best Player: Nick Brossette- 83 carries, 409 yards, 5 touchdowns, 2 catches, 23 yards
Best Win: No. 7 Auburn

2.) No. 8 Notre Dame (4-0, 43.4)
As an independent Notre Dame doesn't have a lot of filler on its schedule. Ball State was by far the worst opponent, but the rest while not sexy, were respectable Power 5 opponents. They seem to have found their quarterback in Ian Book. They can get their second win against a ranked opponent with a win against Stanford next.
Best Player: Ian Book- 338 yards, 3 touchdowns, 40 yards rushing, 3 TDs
Best Win: No. 14 Michigan

1.) No.1 Alabama (4-0, 41.8)
Alabama has been crushing anything in their path and only has the one ranked win. However, they've gotten credit for week 1 Louisville, a 3-1 Arkansas St team, and a 3-1 Ole Miss team. There is no quarterback controversy as Tua Tagovailoa has clearly supplanted himself as the team leader.
Best Player: Tua Tagovailoa- 1,033 yards passing, 12 touchdowns, 103 yards rushing, two touchdowns
Best Win: No. 22 Texas A&M

And now the Bottom 4:
There were a lot of teams who picked up win number one last week, but four poor teams can't claim a victory yet. The real surprise is that the list includes a Big Ten and a PAC 12 school. No surprise is that the longest losing streak is still alive.

1.) Nebraska (0-3, 55)
Worst Loss: Troy
Best hope for first win: Purdue, Northwestern, Bethune Cookman

2.) San Jose St (0-3, 64.3)
Worst Loss: UC Davis (FCS)
Best hope for first win: Colorado St, UNLV

3.) UCLA (0-3, 64.7)
Worst Loss: Fresno St
Best hope for first win: Arizona

4.) UTEP (0-4, 110.3)
15-game losing streak
Worst Loss: Northern Arizona (FCS)
Best hope for first win: UTSA, Rice, Western Kentucky