College football made a triumphant return over the weekend, much to the excitement of fans across the country. The first few weeks of the football season always typically include a number of David versus Goliath matchups where David rarely stands a chance, but this year provided us with some entertaining games.
Arguably the biggest game of the weekend took place in Dallas between the two perennial powers #3 Oregon and #4 LSU. In a battle that has already shaken up the national title picture, LSU lit up the scoreboard, taking advantage of four Oregon turnovers en route to a 40-27 victory. What makes the victory even more remarkable was the fact that LSU was without their starting quarterback Jordan Jefferson, who remains suspended indefinitely for his alleged role in an assault case stemming from a brawl outside of a bar.
Another marquee matchup pitted the constant BCS Cinderella program Boise State against the University of Georgia. Offensively highlighting the game was Kellen Moore’s three touchdown passes, helping him to break over 100 career touchdowns through the air. Using a 14-point third quarter the Broncos surged ahead and never looked back, defeating the Bulldogs by a score of 35-21 and earning their first win over an SEC opponent in five tries.
In noteworthy Big Ten action Minnesota fell to Southern California in what proved to be a much closer game than expected. Minnesota raised the eyebrows of USC and college football with an admirable comeback behind the arm of freshman backup quarterback Max Shortell after starting play caller MarQueis Grey went down with leg cramps. Shortell’s youth caught up to him as he threw a game-ending interception on the Gophers last drive with fifty three seconds remaining as the Gophers fell 17-19.
The new coaches of traditional Big Ten powers Ohio State and Michigan both walked away with their first victories, both over their respective MAC opponents. Ohio State’s quarterback controversy appears to be solved after senior Joe Bauserman played a game with minimal flaw, while Michigan appears to have found a running attack to help standout quarterback Denard Robinson shoulder the load.
Nebraska played their first game as a member of the Big Ten, showing off their prowess in the classical method of ground and pound football. Quarterback Taylor Martinez ran for three touchdowns, two of them further than 40 yards, showcasing a Nebraska ground attack that appears formidable for their first season under the banner of the Big Ten.
Finally the new-look Badgers opened the season in front of an anxious group of fans at Camp Randall. All eyes were fixed on Russell Wilson, the transfer quarterback from North Carolina State. Wilson did not disappoint in his Wisconsin debut going 10-13 through the air with two scoring passes. The highlight of the night and perhaps the game was an impressive 46-yard touchdown scamper in the second quarter where Wilson displayed impressive decision making. Pulling down the ball and following his blocks, Wilson showed poise and focus as he gave the students something to chant about. The dual threat Wilson adds to the Wisconsin offense behind center has Badger fans riding high on the chance to make a historic run.
Week One Awards
Biggest Surprise: Utah State nearly upsetting Auburn
The Aggies had a 14-point lead late in the fourth quarter before Auburn scored two touchdowns in less than a minute to avoid the upset.
Biggest Disappointment: Notre Dame
Perennially overrated, the Irish lost their opener to South Florida and underwent a quarterback change in the process. The glory days at Notre Dame are clearly done and each year we have been reminded.
Offensive Player of the Week: Robert Griffin III (Baylor)
Early Heisman talks are already circling after RG3 threw for 359 yards and 5 touchdowns against TCU, as well as catching an 11-yard pass to convert a crucial third down. Griffin looked impressive in week one and put his name in the early lead for the Heisman trophy.
Defensive Player of the Week: Brandon Herron (Michigan)
The linebacker had two defensive touchdowns, returning an interception for 94 yards and a fumble for 25 yards.
Play of the Week: Russell Wilson’s 46-yard touchdown run
Albeit biased, Wilson’s touchdown run gave the Badger fans much more to cheer about than just a score; it gives them something to look forward to for the rest of the year. What is more commendable than his spectacular play was the way in which he immediately went and thanked all of his linemen after the run. Chemistry issues look to be a non-factor for this Badger team.