Georgia Tech Rises as ACC Leader with Major Weekend Upsets

The landscape of college football shifted dramatically in Week 11, with significant upsets paving the way for Georgia Tech to ascend to the top of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Despite not playing, Georgia Tech capitalized on losses by No. 12 Virginia and No. 14 Louisville to secure its position.

In the Big 12, Texas Tech made headlines by defeating No. 8 BYU 29-7, while Indiana narrowly escaped a loss against Penn State, winning 27-24. Iowa faced a challenging match against No. 6 Oregon, ultimately losing due to a last-second field goal. Other notable results included Memphis’s defeat by Tulane and Miami’s victory over Syracuse, which could influence their rankings. Missouri also struggled, suffering a loss to Texas A&M, marking its third defeat of the season.

Indiana’s Last-Minute Heroics

In a thrilling finish at Penn State, No. 2 Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. made a spectacular play to keep the team’s undefeated season alive. With just 36 seconds left on the clock, Cooper caught a pass from Fernando Mendoza, ensuring a 27-24 victory. Indiana had to rally from a 13-point deficit as Penn State surged to a 24-20 lead late in the fourth quarter. However, they could not respond to Cooper’s decisive touchdown.

The game was a significant moment for Indiana, marking its first victory at Happy Valley in school history. This triumph solidified their standing in the national rankings as they continue their pursuit of a championship.

Texas Tech’s Impressive Performance

Texas Tech showcased its strength by overpowering BYU in a top-10 matchup. Stone Harrington set a school record by kicking five field goals, while linebacker Jacob Rodriguez contributed significantly with two turnovers. Quarterback Behren Morton passed for 219 yards and a touchdown, and running back Cameron Dickey added a rushing score. This victory improved Texas Tech’s record to 9-1 and ended BYU’s ten-game winning streak, which now stands at 8-1.

Oregon’s Narrow Escape

In Iowa City, No. 6 Oregon managed to secure an 18-16 victory over Iowa thanks to Atticus Sappington’s 39-yard field goal with only three seconds remaining. The Ducks’ Dante Moore orchestrated a crucial drive that set up Sappington’s game-winner. Iowa’s Mark Gronowski had briefly given the Hawkeyes the lead, but they could not hold on as Oregon extended its road winning streak to 11 games.

Texas A&M’s Dominance Continues

No. 3 Texas A&M continued its undefeated run with a commanding 38-17 win against No. 19 Missouri. Quarterback Marcel Reed threw for 221 yards and two touchdowns, while Rueben Owens II added 102 rushing yards and two touchdowns, both scored in the fourth quarter. Missouri’s freshman quarterback Matt Zollers struggled in his debut, completing only 7 of 22 passes. The Aggies are now poised to face South Carolina, while Missouri prepares to host Mississippi State.

The weekend also featured developments outside college football.

In the NFL, discussions have emerged regarding the potential naming of the new Washington Commanders stadium after former President Donald Trump. The White House stated that such a move would be “beautiful.” Trump may deliver this message during an upcoming game against the Detroit Lions, where American veterans will be honored at halftime.

Inter Miami Advances in MLS Playoffs

On the soccer front, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami secured a spot in the East semifinals with a dominating 4-0 victory over Nashville SC. Messi contributed significantly with two goals and two assists, leading his team through the playoffs. This match marks a historic achievement for Inter Miami, as they aim for their first MLS Cup title. The team will next face FC Cincinnati on November 22 or 23.

Golf Highlights from Abu Dhabi

In golf, Aaron Rai clinched his first European Tour title in five years by winning the Abu Dhabi Championship. Rai defeated Tommy Fleetwood in a playoff, making a birdie on the first extra hole. This victory adds to Rai’s impressive record, marking another milestone in his career.

Overall, the events of this weekend have set the stage for an exciting finish to the college football season and beyond, with teams and players making significant strides towards their respective championships.