Texas tops early rankings as LSU draws scrutiny in September college football roundup
Texas has emerged as the standout team in September, while LSU faces ongoing controversy. The month also saw notable individual performances and several programs struggling.
Texas entered the season as the top-ranked team after defeating No. 5 Ohio State and No. 17 Tennessee, winning both games against ranked opponents. The Longhorns led the Ohio State game only in the final 25 seconds and never trailed against Tennessee.
Miami led the ACC in offensive production, averaging 588.8 yards per game and 8.53 yards per play, and secured two road victories. Utah dominated the Big 12, winning each contest by at least 14 points and holding a halftime lead of 21 points or more in every game. Iowa, unbeaten at 4–0, led the nation in scoring defense, allowing just eight points per game. Boise State continued its Group of Six success with decisive wins over Memphis and Western Michigan.
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith posted 154.3 receiving yards per game, a pace that could set a 21st-century record, after a 217-yard, four-touchdown performance against Illinois.
Miami’s Darian Mensah topped the ACC in pass efficiency (228.24) while Texas Tech linebacker Austin Romaine recorded two consecutive pick-sixes and 26 tackles. Florida running back Jadan Baugh ranked second nationally in rushing yards (150 per game) and led in rushing touchdowns (11). Oregon State freshman Jesse Legree logged 100 or more receiving yards in each of his first four games.
Florida head coach Jon Sumrall was named Coach of the Month after guiding the Gators to a 4–0 start and a 52-point win over Mississippi. Duke’s Manny Diaz earned the ACC honor for reshaping the Blue Devils into a ground-oriented offense. Utah’s Morgan Scalley and UCLA’s Bob Chesney received similar recognition in the Big 12 and Big Ten, respectively.
Texas A&M, Georgia Tech, TCU, Rutgers and Navy were identified as the month’s underperformers, each struggling to compete against conference opponents.
Michigan Stadium hosted several dramatic finishes, including a last-second Hail Mary for Western Michigan and a walk-off touchdown pass for Iowa.
LSU’s program continued to attract attention due to head coach Lane Kiffin’s provocative style and ongoing disputes involving the university’s athletic department and state officials.
Tulsa’s 24-10 upset of Oklahoma State was highlighted as an unexpected result, while a fumble by CJ Bailey for North Carolina State was noted as a puzzling play.
The season’s FBS-vs-FCS matchups have been overwhelmingly lopsided, with a 111-6 overall record and numerous blowouts, prompting criticism of the competitive balance.
Overtime games have been scarce, with only five contests reaching extra periods, far below the typical average of 39 per season.