Last week’s game of the week delivered everything expected and more. What looked like a potential disaster for the home team turned into a signature win for the Longhorns. Oregon was also upset by Drew Mestemaker and Oklahoma State after a shaky performance the week before. In all, it was an exciting week of college football.
This week, James Franklin and his Hokies head to College Park to face the undefeated Maryland Terrapins. Before zeroing in on this week’s upset pick, here’s a look back at Week 2 and who helped or hurt themselves most.
Freshman 15 College Football: Week 2 Recap
Upset Pick: Kansas over Missouri
The game started sloppy on both sides, which suited Kansas’ preferred style against Missouri’s offense. Kansas scored first via special teams (including a blocked field goal), raising hopes of an upset in the Border War. Missouri’s offense then found its rhythm and scored consistently.
The Tigers’ defense rattled Kansas quarterback Isaiah Marshall, who threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. Kansas’ running game was shut down at roughly 2.2 yards per carry. Missouri pulled away for a 38-21 victory in Lawrence, their fifth straight win in the rivalry. The Tigers have reason for optimism heading into a tough upcoming stretch that includes Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and Texas.
Saturday Spotlight: Ohio State vs. Texas
What a game in Austin. The Longhorns were thoroughly outplayed by the No. 1 team in the country early on. Texas managed little production in the first quarter and committed turnovers, while Julian Sayin was sharp and connected with Jeremiah Smith for six catches and about 110 yards in the first half alone. Ohio State led 23-3 entering the fourth quarter, and Texas appeared headed for a blowout loss. Then everything changed. Arch Manning took over, going 8-for-11 in the fourth quarter and converting key fourth downs to keep drives alive.
After Ohio State missed a field goal that would have made it a two-possession game, Manning led another decisive drive capped by Hollywood Smothers’ short touchdown run with about 25 seconds left. Texas scored 21 unanswered points to win 24-23. It was a 20-point fourth-quarter comeback—the largest of its kind against an AP No. 1 in recent decades—and Texas’ first win over a No. 1-ranked team in years. Hook ’em.
Who helped or hurt themselves the most in Week 2
Arch Manning and Steve Sarkisian
Several teams underwhelmed. Dan Lanning and Oregon followed a closer-than-expected home win over Boise State with a loss at Oklahoma State, raising questions about their standing in a strong Big Ten. Ryan Day’s Ohio State collapsed after building a large lead in Austin. Credit, however, belongs to the winners. Arch Manning and Steve Sarkisian showed the resolve of a team capable of more.
The 20-point fourth-quarter rally ranks among the most improbable comebacks against an AP No. 1. Sarkisian’s fourth-down aggressiveness proved decisive, and his defense adjusted to limit Jeremiah Smith later in the game. Manning’s calm, efficient play in the fourth quarter evoked comparisons to his uncle Eli. This signature home win will leave a lasting impression on the College Football Playoff committee.
Week 3 Saturday Spotlight
Maryland vs. Virginia Tech
These former rivals have a closely contested all-time series, with Virginia Tech holding a narrow edge (17-15). They have not met since the Hokies beat Maryland in the Pinstripe Bowl five seasons ago. Both enter undefeated after two tune-up games.
Maryland has stuck with coach Mike Locksley, who has built solid recruiting classes, particularly from the local pipeline. The Terrapins seek better balance this year instead of relying almost entirely on Malik Washington. Running backs such as Iverson Howard will be counted on to keep drives on schedule and create manageable third downs. Expect Maryland to attack with isolation matchups rather than heavy personnel packages into the teeth of the Virginia Tech defense.
James Franklin takes over at Virginia Tech with a stronger foundation than the prior regime; Brent Pry remains as defensive coordinator. The Hokies have been strong early in generating pressure (leading the FBS in sacks through two weeks in some tallies), thanks in part to players like Kemari Copeland and transfers such as Mylachi Williams and Cortez Harris from Penn State. The secondary’s ability to match up with Maryland’s receivers will be critical—look for battles involving Chris Durr and Virginia Tech’s Jacquez White.
This is one of the more underrated games of the week and earns the Saturday Spotlight.
Upset special: Houston over Texas Tech
This week’s upset pick is deep in the heart of Texas: Houston at Texas Tech.
The Red Raiders carry high expectations after a College Football Playoff appearance last season, but they are not the same team. Texas Tech has not run the ball as effectively, and quarterback Will Hammond has not matched the level of prior playmakers. Houston is stout against the run, with players like Khalil Laufau and Ashton Porter clogging lanes.
Conor Weigman has settled in as a dual-threat option after transferring from Texas A&M. Texas Tech struggled defensively against Oregon State earlier this season. Receivers such as Amare Thomas and Coby Young give Houston vertical threats. The Cougars’ path is straightforward: attack the secondary, create disruption up front, and stay aggressive on fourth downs. A 7.5-point spread favoring Texas Tech looks generous. Prediction: Houston 27, Texas Tech 20.
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