CFW Week 6 Forecast - James Madison, the cradle of coaches

 CFW Week 6 Forecast – James Madison, the cradle of coaches

Take your pick: It’s Georgia-Alabama

and Texas-Oklahoma weekend

 

LSU-Kentucky, UCLA-Oregon and Indiana-Nebraska will be exciting too

 

Among the Top-10 games this week, the SEC and the Big Ten equally share eight of the spots. The two conferences have four games each in the Top 10.

 

The “Game of the Week” belongs to the SEC. And man, what a game it is – Georgia at Alabama. Earlier this week the game looked iffy. There was talk of moving it to another location, moving it to another day or moving it to another time. But as of last night, it looks like Hurricane Uga….I mean….Hurricane Isaias will be well north of Tuscaloosa, somewhere in Tennessee, by Saturday evening – having passed over Tuscaloosa Saturday morning.

 

It still may be a little rainy and/or a little windy during the game, but heck, teams like Georgia and Alabama are used to playing in a little rain and/or a little wind. The important thing is how will the quarterbacks adapt to it.

 

The second of the four SEC games is LSU at Kentucky. With a 4-1 record, Kentucky is riding a high. The Wildcats are some kind of fired up. Lane Kiffin, on the other hand, wants to keep LSU’s playoff chances alive. After the loss to Ole Miss, a loss to Kentucky could damage those chances.

 

The third of the four SEC Top-10 games is the battle in Dallas for that good Texas State Fair food – like “blackened-shrimp baked potato,” “berry me in matcha,” “chocolate corny dogs,” “cowboy brisket nachos,” “pickle bacon ranch grilled cheese,” “deep-fried sweet tea,” “deep-fried latte,” “fried sriracha balls,” and more. This is none other than the Red River Rivalry – Texas vs. Oklahoma. I guess the winner gets the pick of the food.

 

The fourth game takes place in Columbia, Missouri – Texas A&M at Missouri. We know what happened in Columbia last week. It wasn’t pretty. Who will be ugly this week – the Aggies or the Tigers?

 

The first of the four top Big Ten games is the “Runner-Up” to the “Game of the Week” – UCLA at Oregon. We know UCLA is for real, but this is when we find out if the Bruins are really for real.

 

Next up among the top Big Ten games is a match between two undefeated teams – Indiana at Nebraska. It should be exciting times in Lincoln. Can the Huskers get it done?

 

Happy Valley hosts the third Big Ten game – USC at Penn State. The pressure is on USC coach Lincoln Riley. Some say he is on the hot seat. Penn State is in a funk. Somebody has to end up happy in Happy Valley when the game is over.

 

The fourth of the top Big Ten matchups is Iowa at Washington. Iowa likes to run and play defense. Washington likes to do whatever they have to do to win. Makes for an interesting game.

 

The Big 12 and the ACC have one game each in the Top 10. In the Big 12, it’s Houston at Kansas State. The Cougars could be seeing purple after this one. In the ACC, it’s Bill Belichick at Pitt….I mean….North Carolina at Pitt. The Panthers are undefeated.

 

Speaking of undefeated, going into Week 6, there are 15 undefeated teams – 13 Power Four teams and 2 Group of Six Teams. The two Group of Six teams are James Madison and North Dakota State.

 

And speaking of James Madison, do you know that JMU’s current coach and previous two coaches are undefeated? They are Billy Napier at James Madison (5-0), Bob Chesney at UCLA (4-0) and Curt Cignetti at Indiana (5-0). They used to call Miami (Ohio) the cradle of coaches. Soon they will be calling James Madison the cradle of coaches. When I was in college, James Madison was an all girl’s school. Times have changed.

 

There are a number of other crucial games to keep an eye on this week. They are North Dakota State at UNLV, South Florida at UTSA, Florida State at Louisville, Iowa State at BYU, UCF at Oklahoma State, Wake Forest at NC State and Boise State at Fresno State. Their outcomes will be interesting.

 

The Top-12 teams in this week’s FCS Coaches Poll are 1. South Dakota State (5-1), 2. Tarleton State (5-0), 3. Montana (5-1), 4. Stephen F. Austin (6-0), 5. Lehigh (6-0), 6. Montana State (5-1), 7. North Dakota (5-1), 8. Austin Peay (5-1), 9. Youngstown State (4-2), 10. Lamar (4-1), 11. UC Davis (4-2), and 12. South Dakota (4-2).

 

This week’s Saturday morning pregame shows: ESPN’s College GameDay will be in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for the Georgia-Alabama game. FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff will be in Lincoln, Nebraska, for the Indiana-Nebraska game. SECN’s SEC Nation will be in Dallas, Texas, for the Oklahoma-Texas game. And ACCN’s ACC Huddle will be in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for the North Carolina-Pitt game.

 

Former college football coach Dennis Franchione died on October 6. He was a head coach for 27 seasons at an assortment of schools, including Texas State, New Mexico, TCU, Alabama and Texas A&M. Franchione’s final head coaching job was a second stint at Texas State from 2011 to 2015. He was previously the head coach at Texas State from 1990 to 1991. In Franchione’s 27 seasons as head coach, he won eight conference championships. His overall record was 213-135-2. A native of Girard, Kansas, Dennis Wayne Franchione was 75.

 

English novelist and politician Jeffrey Archer died on October 5. Archer was a Member of Parliament from 1969 to 1974. His novel “Kane and Abel” (1979) remains one of the all-time, best-selling books in the world. An estimated 34 million copies sold globally. Overall, Archer’s books have sold more than 320 million copies worldwide. Other best-selling and well-known novels by Archer include “Not A Penny More, Not A Penny Less,” (1976), “The Prodigal Daughter” (1982), “First Among Equals” (1984) and “Honour Among Thieves” (1993), along with many others. He wrote more than 30 novels. Over the years, I read a lot of Archer’s books. A native of London, England, Jeffrey Howard Archer was 86.

 

She starred in some of Hollywood’s greatest films – “On the Waterfront” (1954), “Raintree County” (1957), “North by Northwest” (1959), “Exodus” (1960), “The Sandpiper” (1965) and more. Actress Eva Marie Saint died on October 6. Her performance in “On the Waterfront” earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. “North by Northwest” is one of my all-time favorite movies. A native of East Orange-Newark, New Jersey, and a graduate of Bowling Green State University in Ohio, Eva Marie Saint was 102.

 

Enjoy your weekend!

 

Touchdown Tom

October 8, 2026

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for

Week Six’s 10 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games….and then some

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. #2 Georgia (5-0) at #6 Alabama (5-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – We know Georgia and Alabama are both good teams. We just don’t know how good they are. We’re not sure either of them has played anybody yet. This could be the first real test for both teams. We do know that Alabama has improved as the season has progressed. So, Saturday night should give us a lot of answers. Depending on how the rest of the season plays out, the loser of this game could still be in the running for everything. In all likelihood, Georgia and Alabama could meet again on December 5 in the SEC championship game. And/or they could meet again in the CFP. Now here’s the kicker – a tropical depression or tropical storm could be moving overhead during the game. That means it could be pretty windy and pretty rainy. So, which quarterback plays better in the wind and rain? Which defense plays better in the wind and rain? That could be the deciding factor. Recent reports have the center of the storm north of Tuscaloosa during the game. Gunner Stockton is the more experienced quarterback – Georgia 28, Alabama 24.

 

RUNNER-UP: 2. #21 UCLA (4-0) at #13 Oregon (3-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBS – Has UCLA been playing over its head. The Bruins haven’t had the toughest competition, but they have looked impressive. UCLA will have tough competition this week. Oregon hosts the Bruins in Eugene. Oregon has already been upset once this season. That was on the road at Oklahoma State. It’s rare for the Ducks to be upset in Eugene. UCLA is definitely facing a challenge. It will be interesting to see how head coach Bob Chesney and the Bruins hold up. Chesney has been amazing as a head coach. Dan Lanning isn’t a bad coach either. Oregon won’t have quarterback Donte Moore for the matchup against UCLA. Moore is still ruled out after taking the hit to the head against USC two weeks ago. Dylan Raiola will quarterback the Ducks against the Bruins. The Bruins can’t waddle – Oregon 33, UCLA 30.

 

REST OF THE BEST: 3. #10 LSU (4-1) at #26 Kentucky (4-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN – After that overtime win against South Carolina last week, I’m not sure Kentucky has enough energy left for LSU. While the Wildcats were working hard, the Tigers were cruising over McNeese. Basically, LSU should be well rested. I’m thinking something wild will happen in this game because Lane Kiffin hasn’t been a headline news topic for a while. The Tigers steal the scene in Lexington – LSU 37, Kentucky 24.

 

4. #1 Texas (4-0) vs. Oklahoma (2-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – Oklahoma has looked downright awful this season. Many seem to think quarterback John Mateer is the problem. The Sooners have had no offense. One would think that OU coach Brent Venables will come up with something new. He has nothing to lose. Texas could enter the game overconfident. If so, and if OU is fired up, it could spell problems for the Longhorns. The game is a big rivalry, after all. Bevo has a big time in the “Big D” – Texas 27, Oklahoma 19.

 

5. #7 Indiana (5-0) at #31 Nebraska (5-0) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, FOX –  There are 15 undefeated teams left and Indiana and Nebraska are two of them. Which one won’t be undefeated after Saturday? Both teams are 5-0 but obviously the pollsters have a lot more faith in Indiana. Two weeks ago, Northwestern gave the Hoosiers a scare. The Wildcats lost by only 6 points to Indiana. And that was on Indiana’s home field. That should give Nebraska encouragement. Herbie will need more than encouragement. The Cream and Crimson beats the Scarlet and Cream – Indiana 34, Nebraska 28.

 

6. Texas A&M (3-2) at #14 Missouri (4-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ABC – What happened to Ole Miss two weeks ago and what happened to Florida last week will happen to Missouri this week. Two weeks ago, Ole Miss was still hungover from its win over LSU and the Magnolias lost to Florida. One week ago, Florida was still hungover from its win over Ole Miss and the Gators lost to Missouri. This week, Missouri will still be hungover from its win over Florida, and the Tigers will lose to Texas A&M. For two weeks, the Aggies were in a slump. They had no offense and dropped two games. The Aggies got out of that slump last week, returning to their winning ways. Truman enters the slump this week – Texas A&M 31, Missouri 30.

 

7. #19 USC (5-1) at Penn State (3-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, NBC – This isn’t an easy game to pick. Yeah, USC has the better record and is the ranked team of the two. But you always have these uneasy feelings with a Trojan team coached by Lincoln Riley. Generally, the Trojans can score. But a Lincoln Riley defense always leaves you scratching your head. Meanwhile, first-year Penn State coach Matt Campbell seems to be madder than hell. The Nittany Lions have lost two-straight games. Penn State’s competition during the first three games was about as weak as you can get. So, we are still not sure if the Nittany Lions have anything. But when you are playing against a Lincoln Riley defense, your offense always has something. Tommy Trojan fights on, the Nittany Lion doesn’t – USC 33, Penn State 31.

 

8. #20 Iowa (4-1) at Washington (3-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 9 pm ET, Friday, FOX – Like Penn State, Washington has fallen into a slump. The Huskies have lost back-to-back games by a combined 7 points. Iowa lost its first game last week, but the Hawkeyes have an excuse. They lost to Ohio State. Neither of these teams have been dynamic on offense. Both have played good defense. Iowa has played better defense. The Huskies sleep in Seattle – Iowa 20, Washington 14.

 

9. #22 Houston (4-1) at Kansas State (3-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, FOX – Last week, Houston was down 17-0 in the second half. The Cougars came back to win, 27-17. I think that made me a believer in Houston. Kansas State is still too much of an unknown. The Wildcats could be pretty good. Then again, they could be pretty bad. I’m going with pretty bad – Houston 27, Kansas State 23.

 

10. North Carolina (2-2) at #25 Pitt (5-0) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN –  In its two losses, Bill Bellichick’s Tar Heels have put up a good fight. They lost by 11 points to Notre Dame and 8 points to Clemson. That’s respectable. Pitt lost its quarterback last week in its win over Virginia Tech. Mason Heintschel is out for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL. His replacement is Holden Geriner. Geriner played well against the Hokies. North Carolina will make this another close one. But the Tar Heels come up short – Pitt 24, North Carolina 20.

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

 

South Carolina (2-3) at #16 Florida (4-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12:45 pm ET, Saturday, SECN – Can Florida pick itself back up after last week’s debacle in Columbia, Missouri? South Carolina needs to pick itself back up too. Both teams are going to be mad, coming into this game. The Gamecocks are desperate. They really don’t want to become 0-4 in SEC play. South Carolina will be out to try anything. Anything that can get the Gamecocks a victory. The Gators need to find a defense and get their offense recharged. The defense has been suspect all season. The Gators’ offense disappeared during the Missouri game. This contest will be a battle. Albert roasts a Chicken – Florida 30, South Carolina 21.

 

#29 Duke (4-0) at Georgia Tech (1-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN2 – The Dookies continue rolling under coach Manny Diaz. They should continue rolling this week. Quarterback Walker Eget and running back Nate Sheppard have contributed to the Dookies success. With 644 yards, Sheppard is the 3^rd leading rusher in the country. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech has been having its share of problems this season. The problems continue – Duke 31, Georgia Tech 17.

 

#32 Minnesota (4-1) at Purdue (2-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 8 pm ET, Saturday, BTN – Minnesota is on a hot streak. In the past two weeks, the Gophers have defeated Washington and Michigan. The opposition should be a little easier this week. However, Purdue knocked off Illinois last week. So, the Gophers can’t take the Boilers for granted. Purdue may have the better offense, but Minnesota definitely has the better defense. Defense wins – Minnesota 24, Purdue 23.

 

#33 Arizona (4-1) at West Virginia (3-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, TNT – West Virginia generally has no problems scoring on other teams. The problem is West Virginia’s opponents have no problem scoring on them. The last two weeks, against Big 12 competition, WVU has given up 85 points. Arizona’s offense is averaging 32 points a game. Something tells me there will be a lot of touchdowns and field goals in this game. WVU quarterback Michael Hawkins is the No. 1 rushing quarterback in the country. WVU running back Cam Cook is the No. 2 rushing running back in the country. Arizona counters with quarterback Noah Fifita, who is the No. 11 passer in the country. Mountaineers outscore the Wildcats – West Virginia 34, Arizona 33.

 

 

ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA:

 

New Mexico State (2-3) at FIU (2-2) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – 7:30 pm ET, Wednesday, ESPN2….

South Florida (4-1) at UTSA (4-1) – (AC vs. AC) – 7:30 pm ET, Thursday, ESPN….

 

Florida State (3-2) at Louisville (2-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 7 pm ET, Friday, ESPN….

UCF (3-2) at #18 Oklahoma State (3-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN2….

 

Stetson (1-4) at St. Thomas (4-2) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) – 2 pm ET, Saturday….

Florida A&M (1-4) at Alabama State (3-2) – (SWAC vs. SWAC) – 12 noon ET, Friday….

 

Northeastern State (3-3) at West Florida (3-2) – (UAC vs MIAA) – CANCELED….

Bethune-Cookman (3-2) at Alabama A&M (4-2) – (SWAC vs. SWAC) – 7 pm ET, Saturday….

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“If they’re not starting, they’re departing,” ESPN sports columnist Max Olson, on today’s college quarterbacks.

 

“Oh, I think it’s impossible. I don’t think anybody anywhere is recruiting depth out of the portal. I don’t think there are SEC level players in the country who are trying to go places where you have an established starter. I don’t think that’s a real thing,” Texas A&M coach Mike Elko, on recruiting quarterback depth behind an established starter.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

The next CFW – Week 6 Results – will be posted Monday morning, October 12.

 

CFW Week 5 Results - Northwestern dedicates new stadium

 CFW Week 5 Results – Northwestern dedicates new stadium

The glitter and glam is gone,

as two bubbles burst

 

Two bubbles burst Saturday – one in Columbia, Missouri, and the other in Starkville, Mississippi. The glitter and glam that had associated itself with the bubbles, faded as well. Turn out the lights, the parties are over – at least, temporarily.

 

Two weeks ago, Florida became the talk of college football after the Gators demolished No. 4 Ole Miss, 52-28. Florida, 4-0, moved to No. 8 in the rankings. Saturday, Florida was the talk of college football again. But this time it was the Gators who got demolished. Missouri slapped Florida silly, beating the Gators, 45-17. Basically, Missouri did to Florida what Florida did to Ole Miss.

 

Two weeks ago, Florida running back Jadan Baugh entered the Heisman Trophy talk, as he rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns against Ole Miss. Coming into the Missouri game, Baugh had 600 yards rushing on the season, averaging 150 yards a game. Saturday, Baugh disappeared from Heisman Trophy talk, as he rushed for only 13 yards (on 12 carries) and zero touchdowns.

 

Two weeks ago, first-year Florida coach Jon Sumrall was being hailed as the best hire of the 2026 season. Saturday, the honeymoon was over for Sumrall. Now the 4-1 Gators and Sumrall have seven remaining games to get back on track, beginning with South Carolina in Gainesville this Saturday. But for now, the glitter and the glam are gone.

 

Two weeks ago, Mississippi State was being hailed as the surprise team of the season, after the Bulldogs improved to 4-0, knocking off Missouri, 31-24. Miss State moved to No. 16 in the rankings. Saturday, talk of upsetting Alabama permeated Starkville. But it was Alabama who did the permeating. The Crimson Tide destroyed Miss State, 56-23.

 

Two weeks ago, Miss State quarterback Kamario Taylor entered the Heisman Trophy talk, as he passed for 360 yards and two touchdowns against Missouri. Former Alabama coach Nick Saban had a love affair going with Taylor, as he couldn’t stop talking about the Miss State quarterback. Saturday, Taylor disappeared from the Heisman Trophy talk. His one fumble and two interceptions set up three Alabama touchdown drives.

 

Miss State (4-1) and Taylor have seven remaining games to get back on track, beginning with LSU on October 17. But for now, the glitter and glam are gone.

 

Saturday, two other teams had their bubble burst. Iowa suffered its first loss, losing at home to Ohio State, 31-14. Friday night, Virginia Tech suffered its first loss, losing at home to Pitt, 35-33. With four turnovers and a missed 36-yard field goal, Virginia Tech literally handed the game to Pitt.

 

I call them the “Monsters of the Midway.” They are four Power Four teams who are dominating their opponents and, for three of them, dominating their conferences – Georgia from the SEC, Miami from the ACC, Ohio State from the Big Ten and Independent Notre Dame. Saturday, Georgia beat Vanderbilt, 38-14, Miami downed Clemson, 41-13, Ohio State toppled Iowa, 31-14, and Notre Dame put down North Carolina, 37-26. I’m still waiting for a Monster to surface from the Big 12. If it does, it will be either Texas Tech, BYU or Utah.

 

College football Week 5 began Thursday night in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Aggies of New Mexico State topped the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky, 34-13. New Mexico State running back James Jones rushed for 155 yards and one touchdown.

 

The second game Thursday night went to overtime. North Texas edged Tulsa, 45-44 (OT). North Texas running back Jahiem White rushed for 219 yards and one touchdown. Tulsa quarterback Baylor Hayes was 25-43-0, passing for 211 yards and three touchdowns.

 

Week 5 continued Friday night with three games. All Pitt had to do was recover fumbles and intercept passes in the Panthers 35-33 win over Virginia Tech. The Hokies had four turnovers. And as time expired, Tech blew a 36-yard field goal. Pitt couldn’t have asked for more from the Hokies.

 

Next up, Liberty racked up 439 total yards, beating Delaware 30-14. In Friday’s nightcap, Northwestern dedicated its new stadium. And a beautiful stadium it is too. Oh yes, Northwestern beat Penn State, 34-13. The Wildcats had two runners rush for more than 100 yards. Caled Komolafe rushed for 188 yards and one touchdown. Joseph Himon rushed for 162 yards and two touchdowns.

 

In a wild and unbelievable FCS game Friday night, winless Idaho scored back-to-back touchdowns in the final 10 minutes of the game to beat FCS No. 1 Montana State, 35-34. Montana State fell to 5-1. Idaho improved to 1-4.

 

In other action on Saturday, Wake Forest improved to 4-1. The Demon Deacons routed Stanford, 57-3. Wake Forest quarterback Gio Lopez passed for 265 yards and 2 touchdowns. Also in the ACC, Florida State trounced Virginia, 38-7. FSU quarterback Ashton Daniels rushed for 136 yards and 5 touchdowns. Have the Seminoles found themselves?

 

In the first game of the season among the Service Academies, Air Force beat Navy, 14-9. Combined, the two teams only had 523 total yards. In its first season in FBS football, North Dakota State has a good chance of becoming the Group of Six team in the College Football Playoff. Saturday, North Dakota State beat Wyoming, 28-0. The Bison defense held Wyoming to 162 total yards.

 

One of Saturday’s classic games took place in Columbia, South Carolina. It was an SEC battle between Kentucky and South Carolina. At the end of regulation, the game was tied, 27-27. Like so many of the Gamecocks’ games, South Carolina had the early lead. Until late in the second quarter, the Gamecocks led Kentucky, 17-0. And like so many of South Carolina’s games, the opponent rallies. In this case, Kentucky rallied to tie the score at 27-27 as the fourth quarter ended. In overtime, the Gamecocks scored first and went up 34-27. Kentucky scored and chose to go for 2 points. The Wildcats succeeded on the 2-point conversion and beat South Carolina, 35-34 (OT). The Gamecocks are 0-3 in SEC play.

 

While you were asleep Saturday night, Baylor beat Arizona State, 55-19. Baylor quarterback, former Florida quarterback, D.J. Lagway was 25-40-0, passing for 306 yards and four touchdowns. And Arizona downed Cincinnati, 34-7. Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita passed for 284 yards and two touchdowns.

 

After five weeks, my Heisman Trophy finalists in alphabetical order are Miami quarterback Darian Mensah, Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith and Miami receiver Malachi Toney.

 

The Top-12 teams in this week’s Top-25 AP Poll are 1. Texas (4-0), 2. Georgia (5-0), 3. Notre Dame (5-0), 4. Miami (5-0), 5. Ohio State (5-0), 6. Alabama (5-0), 7. Indiana (5-0), 8. BYU (4-0), 9. Ole Miss (3-1), 10. LSU (4-1), 11. Texas Tech (5-0), and 12. Utah (4-0).

 

Touchdown Tom

October 5, 2026

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

 

Weekend Recap

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: Bucks had the better Eyes – Ohio State 31, Iowa 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Ohio State 24, Iowa 14). Ohio State never trailed. The Buckeyes opened up with a 7-0 lead in the first quarter and increased the lead to 31-6 by early in the fourth quarter. Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin was 20-27-0, passing for 324 yards and three touchdowns. More impressive, Buckeyes receiver Jeremiah Smith had 11 receptions for 206 yards and 2 touchdowns. It was Smith’s second consecutive game with more than 200 receiving yards. Ohio State racked up 484 total yards, holding Iowa to 238 total yards. Ohio State dominated ball possession 38:02 to 21:58. Attendance in Iowa City: 69,250

 

RUNNER-UP: Keelon over Kamario – Alabama 56, Mississippi State 23 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 30, Mississippi State 21). Alabama never trailed and outscored Miss State 14-0 in the fourth quarter. Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell was 16-22-0, passing for 285 yards and 3 touchdowns. Alabama receiver Lotzeir Brooks had 4 receptions for 96 yards. The Tide racked up 483 total yards. Between the teams, there were six turnovers – four by Miss State. Attendance in Starkville: 60,417

 

REST OF THE BEST: The bottom fell out – Missouri 45, Florida 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 34, Missouri 24). Florida got its clock cleaned. For about 5 minutes in the first quarter, Florida had a 3-0 lead. That turned out to be the only lead Florida ever had. Mizzou went up 10-3 early in the second quarter and built its lead to 45-10 early in the fourth quarter. Missouri quarterback Austin Simmons was 23-30-0, passing for 340 yards and two touchdowns. Tigers running back Jamal Roberts rushed for 211 yards and three touchdowns. Mizzou receiver Cayden Lee had 8 receptions for 110 yards. Missouri racked up 560 total yards. Attendance in Columbia: 63,609

 

Tigers blown away – Miami 41, Clemson 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Miami 30, Clemson 20). Miami took a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter and never trailed. The Canes outscored the Tigers 17-6 in the first half and 24-7 in the second half. Clemson’s secondary was double-teaming Miami receiver Malachi Toney. That opened up Canes receiver Cooper Barkate who had 5 receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown. Miami’s defense held Clemson to 55 yards rushing. Attendance in Clemson: 80,463

 

We don’t need no Faizon – Tennessee 24, Auburn 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Tennessee 27, Auburn 23). Auburn actually led 7-3 at halftime. Tennessee outscored the Tigers 21-7 in the second half. After getting off to a sluggish start, Tennessee replaced starting quarterback Faizon Brandon with Gorge McacIntyre. Vols running back DeSean Bishop rushed for 220 yards and 3 touchdowns. Tennessee finished with only 86 yards passing but had 237 yards rushing. There were five turnovers – 3 by Auburn and 2 by Tennessee. Attendance in Knoxville: 101,915

 

Trojans hold on – USC 25, Washington 21 (Touchdown Tom said: USC 30, Washington 26). Washington went up 7-3 late in the first quarter. The Huskies held the lead until late in the third quarter when USC went up 22-21. Washington was scoreless in the fourth quarter. Both teams had a weak running game. Neither was particularly strong in passing. USC’s Jayden Maiava passed for 245 yards, but he also threw an interception. Washington was in USC’s redzone at the end of the game, but couldn’t punch it in. Attendance in Los Angeles: 59,136

 

Cougars rally – Houston 27, UCF 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Houston 27, UCF 20). UCF led 10-0 at halftime. The Knights even led 17-0 late in the third quarter. That’s when Houston woke up and scored 27 unanswered points in 16 minutes. Houston held UCF to 73 yards rushing. The Cougars had 23 first downs to 13 for the Knights. Attendance in Houston: 25,593

 

Why don’t you give the game away? – Pitt 35, Virginia Tech 33 (Touchdown Tom said: Virginia Tech 27, Pitt 24). That’s what Virginia Tech did. The Hokies literally gave the game to Pitt – four turnovers (almost 5) and a missed 36-yard field goal attempt that would have won the game as time expired. Virginia Tech had 499 total yards to 295 total yards for Pitt. Neither team could run the ball. Tech had 65 yards rushing and Pitt had 104 yards. The game was an offensive first half and a defensive second half – 45 of the game’s 68 points were scored in the first half. Pitt quarterback Mason Heintschel suffered a torn ACL and is out for the rest of the season. He was replaced by Holden Geriner early in the second half. Geriner went 8-12-0, passing for 78 yards and one touchdown. Attendance in Blacksburg: 65,632

 

What a dedication! – Northwestern 34, Penn State 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Northwestern 22, Penn State 21). Northwestern dedicated its new $875 million stadium with a 21-point win over Penn State. Northwestern dominated Penn State. The Wildcats led the Nittany Lions 31-7 as the fourth quarter began. The Wildcats had 506 total yards (413 yards rushing) and held Penn State to 48 yards rushing. Northwestern controlled ball possession 36:05 to 23:55. The Nittany Lions suffered their second-straight loss under first-year coach Matt Campbell. Attendance in Evanston: 35,000

 

Goldie survives – Minnesota 20, Michigan 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan 26, Minnesota 23). Minnesota beat Michigan at home for the first time since 1977. As the second quarter began, Minnesota led 7-0. At halftime, Michigan led 14-7. After three quarters, Michigan led 14-10. Then Minnesota outscored Michigan 14-0 in the fourth quarter. Both quarterbacks – Michigan’s Bryce Underwood and Minnesota’s Drake Lindsey – threw two interceptions each. Combined, the teams had ess than 445 total yards. Michigan only had 180 total yards and only 79 yards rushing. Between the teams there were 5 turnovers – 3 by Michigan and 2 by Minnesota. Attendance in Minneapolis: 51,012

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

 

If you like offense – Iowa State 45, West Virginia 42 (Touchdown Tom said: Iowa State 27, West Virginia 24). Iowa Stte led 21-14 at halftime. The game was tied 28-28 at the end of three quarters. Trailing WVU, 42-38, Iowa State scored a touchdown with 1:57 remaining to take a 45-42 lead. WVU was driving deep into Cyclones territory in the closing minute, when Iowa State recovered a WVU fumble. Mountaineers quarterback Michael Hawkins rushed for 149 yards and two touchdowns. WVU running back Cam Cook rushed for 142 yards and two touchdowns. Iowa State running back Aden Flora rushed for 212 yards and three touchdowns. Flora also threw two touchdown passes. Cyclones receiver Cody Jackson had 6 catches for 160 yards. The teams combined for 1,095 total yards. Iowa State dominated ball possession 38:14 to 21:46. Attendance in Ames: 52,724

 

Dawgs dominate – Georgia 38, Vanderbilt 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 30, Vanderbilt 15). A slow start for the Dawgs. Georgia led 21-14 at halftime. The Dawgs outscored Vandy 17-0 in the second half. Vandy freshman quarterback Jarred Curtis, who committed to Georgia but flipped to Vanderbilt, didn’t play due to a lower body injury. Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton was 25-32-0, passing for 295 yards and three touchdowns. Georgia racked up 471 total yards, while holding Vandy to 85 yards rushing. Attendance in Athens: 93,033

 

Another slow start – Nebraska 48, Maryland 23 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 31, Maryland 20). Trailing Nebraska 7-3 in the first quarter, Maryland scored 13 unanswered points to take a 16-7 lead over the Huskers as the quarter came to an end. Maryland scored a touchdown with 8:54 to go in the second quarter and took  a 23-14 lead. But the Terps never scored again. For the remainder of the game, Nebraska scored 34 unanswered points to win 48-23. Maryland quarterback Malik Washington threw two interceptions. Nebraska quarterback Anthony Colandrea was 26-39-1, passing for 238 yards and three touchdowns. Colandrea also ran for 108 yards. Huskers receiver Kwazi Gilmer had 11 receptions for 147 yards. Nebraska had 447 total yards and 28 first downs. Attendance in Lincoln: 85,033

 

Finally – Purdue 24, Illinois 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 29, Purdue 27). Purdue got its first Big Ten win since 2023. The Boilers took a 3-0 first quarter lead and never trailed. Purdue led 13-0 in the second quarter and 24-10 in the fourth quarter. Boilers quarterback Ryan Browne was 18-27-0, passing for 255 yards and one touchdown. Both teams finished with 345 total yards. Purdue only had 90 yards rushing. Attendance in Champaign: 60,670

 

Week 5 Results:  10 winners, 4 fumbles (71.4 percent)

For the Season:   59 winners, 17 fumbles (77.6 percent)

 

 

ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA:

 

Marist 28, Stetson 14 – Attendance in Deland: 2,177

Florida State 38, Virginia 7 – Attendance in Tallahassee: 55,782

 

Bethune-Cookman 16, Alabama State 10 – Attendance in Daytona Beach: 4,055

Florida Atlantic 66, Texas Southern 10 – Attendance in Boca Raton: 23,736

 

Temple 17, South Florida 13 – Attendance in Tampa: 36,349

Abilene Christian 35, West Florida 7 – Attendance in Abilene: 7,018

 

 

Superlatives

 

Weekend’s Best Passers:

 

Oregon State’s Braden Atkinson – 30-33-0 for 404 yards (5TDs); Missouri’s Austin Simmons – 23-30-0-340 (2TDs); Ohio State’s Julian Sayin – 20-27-0-324 (5TDs); South Alabama’s Jared Hollins – 14-9-0-321 (3TDs); Memphis’ Marcus Stokes – 20-25-0-318 (5TDs); Baylor’s D.J. Lagway – 25-40-0-306 (4TDs), and Bowling Green’s Jay Kastantin – 25-37-0-305 (2TDs).

 

Also, Georgia’s Gunner Stockton – 25-32-0 for 298 yards (3TDs); Alabama’s Keelon Russell – 16-22-0-285 (3TDs); Georgia State’s Cameran Brown – 14-20-0-284 (6TDs); Wake Forest’s Gio Lopez – 20-27-0-265 (2TDs); James Madison’s Camden Coleman – 21-32-0-263 (3TDs); Purdue’s Ryan Brown – 18-27-0-255 (1TD); Louisville’s Lincoln Kienholz – 21-30-0-254 (2TDs); Indiana’s Josh Hoover – 20-27-0-251 (4TDs), and New Mexico’s Toa Fa’avae – 15-19-1-249 (3TDs).

 

Also, Florida Atlantic’s Caden Veltkamp – 13-16-0 for 247 yards (4TDs); San Jose State’s Luke Weaver – 19-28-0-246 (2TDs); Boise State’s Maddux Madsen – 17-21-0-244 (2TDs); Notre Dame’s C.J. Carr – 20-29-0-234 (4TDs); Georgia Southern’s Max Johnson – 18-29-0-233 (3TDs); Miami’s Darian Mensah – 18-27-0-227 (1TD), and Eastern Michigan’s Noah Kim – 21-30-0-219 (2TDs).

 

Weekend’s Best Rushers:

 

Tennessee’s DeSean Bishop – 220 yards (3TDs); North Texas’ Jahiem White – 219 yards (1TD); Iowa State’s Aden Flora – 212 yards (2TDs); Missouri’s Jamal Roberts – 211 yards (3TDs); James Madison’s George Pettaway – 206 yards (2TDs); Indiana’s Turbo Richard – 204 yards (1TD); Toledo’s C.J. Miller – 196 yards (2TDs); Northwestern’s Caleb Komolafe – 188 yards (1TD), and UConn’s Cyncir Bowers – 163 yards (2TDs).

 

Also, Northwestern’s Joseph Himon – 162 yards (2TDs); Army’s Samari Hellums – 158 yards (1TD); New Mexico State’s James Jones – 155 yards (1TD); Central Michigan’s Angel Flores – 154 yards (1TD); West Virginia’s Michael Hawkins – 149 yards (2TDs); Liberty’s Kam Davis – 147 yards (2TDs); West Virginia’s Cam Cook – 142 yards (2TDs); Wisconsin’s Colton Joseph – 141 (1TD), and Syracuse’s Tylik Hill – 140 yards.

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“I’m sick to my freakin’ stomach,” Florida coach Jon Sumrall, after the Gators lost to Missouri, 45-17.

 

“I’m the best player in the country.” Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith, in his pitch to Heisman voters after the Iowa game.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

CFW Week 5 Forecast - Protect College Sports Act clears Senate

 CFW Week 5 Forecast – Protect College Sports Act clears Senate

Hawkeyes challenge the Buckeyes,

Keelon Russell meets Kamario Taylor

and Miami travels to Clemson

 

The Big Ten Conference takes command of the top games this week with four contests among the Top-10 games of the week, including the Game of the Week. That would be Ohio State at Iowa. Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith invade Iowa City to perform their magic in Kinnick Stadium.

 

This contest could boil down to a defensive battle. But it is hard to imagine Iowa stopping Sayin and Smith. However, if anybody can, it would be Iowa. The Hawkeyes do play pretty good defense. Iowa is giving up 8 points a game, 152 passing yards a game and 88 rushing yards a game. Not bad.

 

The Big Ten also gives us Washington at USC this week. Last week, Oregon came down the coast to take on the Trojans. This week it is the Huskies. USC lost to Oregon and as a result, Lincoln Riley is on the hot seat. I’d say he best beat Washington. Let’s hope his Trojans play a clean game this week.

 

Then the Big Ten gives us Penn State at Northwestern. Both teams lost last week. But Northwestern looked good, losing to Indiana. Penn State looked bad, losing to Wisconsin. Which team will look good and which team will look bad this week?

 

And finally in the Big Ten, we have Michigan at Minnesota. That should be a knockdown, drag out game in Minneapolis – a slobber knocker.

 

The SEC is still around this week with three of the Top 5 games. The Runner Up to the Game of the Week is Alabama at Mississippi State or Keelon at Kamario. Two of the upstart quarterbacks this season are Miss State’s Kamario Taylor and Alabama’s Keelon Russell. Nick Saban can’t stop talking about Kamario, which is kind of a slap in the face to Keelon, especially since Saban used to be the Alabama coach. Who will come out on top Saturday – Kamario or Keelon?

 

The third best game this week is Florida at Missouri. The Gators were awesome in their win over Ole Miss last week. They better stop celebrating that win and start thinking about Missouri. Otherwise, we could have an upset on our hands.

 

Lastly, the SEC offers Auburn at Tennessee. The Vols were in the spotlight last week. They lost a close one to Texas. They need to get that loss out of their minds and start thinking about Auburn. Otherwise, Auburn could come away with a win in Neyland.

 

The ACC has two very good and interesting games this week. The first of the two is Miami at Clemson. The Canes are undefeated, but we haven’t heard much from them recently. The Tigers have been improving. But have they improved enough to contend with Miami? We’ll soon find out.

 

The other top ACC game is Pitt at Virginia Tech. Both teams are 4-0. Pitt has the 3^rd-best defense in the country. The Panthers are giving up 8.3 points a game, 191 passing yards a game and 53 rushing yards a  game. The Hokies have their work cut out for them. But they are playing in Blacksburg.

 

Our final Top-10 game is a Big 12 encounter – UCF at Houston. Neither team is that strong on defense. Houston is 9^th in the country on offense. The Cougars are averaging 44.5 points a game, 258 passing yards per game and 248 rushing yards per game. UCF is not really strong on offense. I’d say the Knights better find a defense real quick.

 

Four other curious and intriguing games to keep an eye on this week are Baylor (3-1) at Arizona State (2-1), Cincinnati (4-0) at Arizona (3-1), Virginia (3-1) at Florida State (2-2), and Kentucky (3-1) at South Carolina (2-2). The results could be interesting.

 

The Protect College Sports Act passed in the Senate on Monday by a vote of 77-22. Now it will be sent to the House of Representatives. The House is on break and doesn’t reconvene until after the midterm elections. At the earliest, the House will vote on the bill in mid to late November. But don’t hold your breath. I suspect the bill could get held up in the House for some time.

 

The Top-12 teams in this week’s Top-25 FCS Coaches Poll are 1. Montana State (5-0), 2. South Dakota State (4-1), 3. Tarleton State (4-0), 4. Montana (4-1), 5. Stephen F. Austin (5-0), 6. Lehigh (5-0), 7. North Dakota (4-1), 8. Tennessee Tech (4-0), 9. Austin Peay (4-1), 10. Youngstown State (3-2), 11. Illinois State (4-1), and 12. South Carolina State (5-0).

 

The Saturday morning pregame shows this week: ESPN’s College GameDay is in Iowa City, Iowa, for the Ohio State-Iowa game. FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff is in Minneapolis, Minnesota, for the Michigan-Minnesota game. SECN’s SEC Nation is in Starkville, Mississippi, for the Alabama-Mississippi State game. And ACCN’s ACC Huddle is in Clemson, South Carolina, for the Miami-Clemson game.

 

Touchdown Tom

October 1, 2026

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

 

Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for

Week Five’s 10 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games….and then some

 

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. #5 Ohio State (3-1) at #14 Iowa (4-0) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, CBS – If Iowa is to win this game, it will be up to the Hawkeyes defense to get the job done. Iowa’s offense isn’t up to the job – not against Ohio State. Iowa’s offense isn’t that strong, and Ohio State’s defense is too tough. But if the ball bounces right, Iowa could knock off the Buckeyes. Iowa’s defense has to contend with Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith, and Smith isn’t easy to contend with. Ohio State has the stars. Iowa has the team. The Hawkeyes do play well as a team, not that Ohio State doesn’t. The sun will be shining in Iowa City on Saturday. But it won’t be shining on the Hawkeyes –  Ohio State 24, Iowa 14.

 

RUNNER-UP: 2. #7 Alabama (4-0) at #16 Mississippi State (4-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ABC – Alabama is back in its groove. The Tide got off to a good start last week. Miss State never has gotten out of its groove. Both teams should be at their peak. This will be a good matchup between Miss State quarterback Kamario Taylor and Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell. Former Alabama coach Nick Saban is in love with Kamario. Saban said if he was still coaching, he would recruit Kamario from the transfer portal. That must make Keelon feel like a second fiddle. That should fire up Keelon. The Bulldogs can score, but how good is their defense. That could be the difference. The weather in Starkville could be iffy. In the battle of the two K’s, Keelon outshines Kamario – Alabama 30, Mississippi State 21.

  

REST OF THE BEST: 3. #8 Florida (4-0) at #25 Missouri (3-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – Florida could easily fall victim to being hungover from the Gators big win over Ole Miss. Karma? That’s what happened to Ole Miss in Gainesville last week. Florida has the guns – Aaron Philo and Jadan Baugh. The Gators’ defense is improving. Missouri’s arsenal may be in short supply. The Tigers are still looking for a leader. But strange things happen in the SEC. And it’s hard to win on the road in the SEC. The weather should be good in Columbia. Albert show’s ’em – Florida 34, Missouri 24.

 

4. #4 Miami (4-0) at Clemson (3-1) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, ABC – Darian Mensah should be tired of all this Kamario Taylor and Trinidad Chambliss noise. And Malachi Toney should be tired of all this Jeremiah Smith noise. This is Mensah and Toney’s chance to shine. Prime time evening game at Clemson. They couldn’t ask for a better opportunity. Ever since the Tigers were blown off the field in Baton Rouge, Clemson has been improving. Dabo Swinney is a determined winner. Rain is predicted. The Hurricanes add the wind – Miami 30, Clemson 20.

 

5. Auburn (3-1) at #17 Tennessee (3-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) –  3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN – If it hasn’t already, Tennessee needs to get last week’s loss out of its head. The Vols have nothing to be ashamed of. Except for the final score, they played Texas on even terms. They played Texas as well as Ohio State did. Now the Vols need to think about Auburn. The Tigers aren’t a pushover. Coach Alex Golesh has Auburn fired up. Golesh is a familiar face around Knoxville. He was the Vols OC before leaving to take the South Florida job. I guess that says Tennessee should be familiar with his offense. Both teams have exciting quarterbacks – Faizon Brandon for Tennessee and Byrum Brown for Auburn. The Vols have the better defense. The weather is supposed to be bad. Rocky tops Aubie – Tennessee 27, Auburn 23.

 

6. Washington (3-1) at #18 USC (4-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, NBC –  Both teams lost last week. Neither team has looked all that good in their early season games – even in their wins. Washington quarterback Demond Williams has been a disappointment. USC’s defense has been a disappointment. Trojans coach Lincoln Riley is on the hot seat. He’ll be desperate for a win. It will be a hot, sunny day in LA. Trojans rebound, Huskies don’t – USC 30, Washington 26.

  

7. UCF (3-1) at #20 Houston (3-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, ESPN2 – Houston has the home field, and Houston has the better team. But UCF has an outstanding defense. UCF’s one loss was by 5 points to Pitt. Houston’s one loss was by 2 points to Texas Tech. Houston is better equipped at quarterback with Connor Weighman. A lot of rain is forecast. Cougars turn out the Knights’ lights – Houston 27, UCF 20.

 

8. #32 Pitt (4-0) at #30 Virginia Tech (4-0) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 7 pm ET, Friday, ESPN – Both teams are off to great starts. The Hokies have responded well to first-year coach James Franklin. Ethan Grunkemeyer has come on strong at quarterback for the Hokies. But Pitt has Mason Heintschel. He has thrown lots of touchdown passes. Tech appears to have the better running game. A gloomy, rainy day is on the horizon. Gobblers evade the Panthers – Virginia Tech 27, Pitt 24.

 

9. #28 Penn State (3-1) at #40 Northwestern (2-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 8 pm ET, Friday, FOX – Both teams suffered their first loss last week. Penn State was upset in the final 1:13 of its game. You could say Northwestern had a moral victory over Indiana. The Wildcats just lost by 6 points (29-23) to the Hoosiers. First-year Penn State coach Matt Campbell may be going through adjustment to Big Ten football. Northwestern coach David Braun is used to Big Ten football. Wildcats quarterback Aidan Chiles seems to be coming around – getting better. Penn State has the better quarterback in Rocco Becht. But Becht, like Campbell, is adjusting. Wildcats will be dedicating their brand new stadium. All the more reason to win. It will be a sunny day. No roar in the Lions – Northwestern 22, Penn State 21.

 

10. #31 Michigan (3-1) at #38 Minnesota (3-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, FOX –  Minnesota up and upset Washington last week. And at Washington too. At home this week, the Gophers would like to upset Michigan. The Wolverines have played good defense, but they have had problems getting their offense cranked up. Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham isn’t the most popular guy in Ann Arbor. He needs a good, strong win. Rain is forecast. Wolverines know where the Gophers’ holes are – Michigan 26, Minnesota 23.

 

 

YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

 

West Virginia (3-1) at Iowa State (2-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – 12 noon ET, Saturday, TNT – Both teams will be looking to get back on track this week. West Virginia is one of the strongest rushing teams in the country. Running back Cam Cook and quarterback Michael Hawkins have both racked up a lot of rushing yards. But that’s about all WVU can do. The Mountaineers are a one dimensional team. No passing and no defense. Iowa State is under first-year coach Jimmy Rogers. The Cyclones have struggled. The weather in Ames should be sunny. Cy avoids the buckshot – Iowa State 27, West Virginia 24.

 

Vanderbilt (3-1) at #2 Georgia (4-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – 12:45 pm ET, Saturday, SECN – Georgia took it to Oklahoma last week. This week, it’s Vanderbilt’s turn to lose to the Dawgs. Vandy freshman quarterback Jared Curtis is well-known to the Dawgs. Georgia coach Kirby Smart tried hard to recruit Curtis. He’d be Georgia’s starting quarterback next year. That was the plan. But Curtis surprised everyone and signed with Vanderbilt. Curtis may have a tough time of it on Saturday. Gunner Stockton will rule the day, leaving Curtis in his trail. Looks like a rainy day in Athens. Uga adds another notch to his dog house – Georgia 30, Vanderbilt 15.

 

Maryland (2-2) at #33 Nebraska (4-0) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 4 pm ET, Saturday, FS1 – Looks like the Huskers could be starting out 2-0 in Big Ten play. Maryland is having a tough time of it this season. And it looks like the Terps coach Mike Locksley is on his way out. Maryland quarterback Malik Washington started the season strong but has faltered the last couple weeks. Nebraska quarterback Anthony Colandrea is hanging in there. Looks like a bright, sunny day in Lincoln. The Turtles can’t reach the Corn – Nebraska 31, Maryland 20.

 

Purdue (1-3) at Illinois (2-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – 4:15 pm ET, Saturday, BTN – Illinois is one of the few Big Ten teams that Purdue has a chance of beating this season. But it’s only a chance. The Banned Indians fired their defensive coordinator last week. The Illinois defense may be a little out of order. Maybe the Boilers can take advantage of that. Illinois is giving up around 30 points a game. This could be an opportunity for Purdue quarterback Ryan Browne to shine. But Illinois has a pretty good offense. That spells trouble for Purdue. Sunny skies are expected in Champaign. Boilers run out of steam – Illinois 29, Purdue 27.

 

 

ELSEWHERE A ROUND FLORIDA:

 

Marist (2-2) at Stetson (1-3) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) – 1 pm ET, Saturday, YouTube….

Virginia (3-1) at Florida State (2-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) – 3:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN2….

 

#28 (FCS) Alabama State (3-1) at Bethune-Cookman (2-2) – (SWAC vs. SWAC) – 4 pm ET, Saturday….

Texas Southern (1-3) at Florida Atlantic (3-1) – (SWAC vs. AC) – 6 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN….

 

Temple (1-3) at South Florida (4-0) – (AC vs. AC) – 7:30 pm ET, Saturday, ESPNU….

#18 (FCS) West Florida (3-1) at Abilene Christian (1-4) – (UAC vs. UAC) – 8 pm ET, Saturday, ESPN+….

 

 

Quotes of the Week

 

“Do some soul searching…or else,” former Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel to the Texas A&M players this week.

 

“If I was still coaching, I would be encouraging Kamario Taylor to get in the transfer portal,” former Alabama coach Nick Saban, on the Mississippi State quarterback.

 

“Nick Saban goes head over heels over Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor,” sports writer Kevin Sacarbinsky.

 

“The offense has been hard on the eyes,” Houston Chronicle sports columnist Kirk Bohls, on the Texas Longhorns offense.

 

“What I think we saw here was the tale of an elite coach and a complete fraud as a coach, and I think everybody knows who the fraud is. It is Lincoln Riley. He is bringing the USC program down to the gutter,” ESPN’s Paul Finebaum.

 

Touchdown Tom

https://collegefootballweek.blogspot.com

 

The next CFW – Week 5 Results – will be posted Monday morning, October 5.