Game 732: Baugh rambles as Gators devour Seminoles, 40-21

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Gainesville, FL – Added the Florida Gators vs. Florida State Seminoles last minute as Game 732 during Thanksgiving week in the Sunshine State. Think collegefootballfan.com settled for a bye this week just to watch games on TV? No way. This isn’t the rivalry we all remember for its vaunted history in the 80s and 90s, but it remains intense. Our game No. 166 featured No. 1 Florida defeating No. 2 Florida State, 52-20 on January 2, 1997, for the National Championship at New Orleans in the Sugar Bowl.

The Seminoles had already defeated the Gators in the regular season, 24-21. Florida HC Steve Spurrier offset FSU HC Bobby Bowden’s pass rush in the rematch. He had Heisman-winning QB Danny Wuerffel operate from the shotgun to avoid pressure. The result became part of collegefootballfan.com history. Even this past Saturday, enjoyed being in Gainesville first-hand for all the passion and ferocity despite the two rivals struggling this past season. Just wanted you to know, we didn’t stumble and took advantage of this nearby opportunity.

Memorable years of Florida Gator championships adorn the facade at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Memorable years of Florida Gator championships adorn the facade at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Gators vs Seminoles 2025

5-6 Florida State’s goal this evening, win and become bowl eligible. 3-8 Florida’s focus: don’t let FSU win and go to a bowl game, no matter what.  90,007 avid fans sold out Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. At the least, you have to figure both teams impacted college football’s playoff format this season. Florida State’s season looked promising opening their season with a surprising 31-17 upset over Alabama. Florida gave notice after a 1-3 start upending high-ranked Texas, 29-21. The loss sends pollsters packing noting that a third loss against a 4-8 program presents a legitimate obstacle allowing the Longhorns into this season’s CFP.

Today’s contest, however, proved rivalries still bring out the best in crowd attendance.  At least the Gator team determined its primary goal to keep the Seminoles at home during bowl season. To do that, a secondary goal needed to get teammate RB Jadan Baugh over the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the season. 

Gators ran Baugh over, around and through Seminoles

Baugh ran the ball four times during the Gators’ first series to put Trey Smack into position to boot a 23-yard FG. Next, the Gators halted the Seminoles at their 22 to take over on downs. Baugh carried three times. Then, QB DJ Lagway led the Gators with a no-huddle passing attack to the FSU five.  He connected with WR J. Michael Sturdivant with a slant pass over the middle for a TD and a 10-0 lead.

The Seminoles started a drive thereafter putting them at the UF 39 to start the second.  With 13:39 left in the period, Thomas Castellanos connected with WR Michahi Danzy for a 13-yard scoring play. With a mix of runs by Baugh and passes by Lagway, the Gators retaliated with a 75-yard scoring drive.  This time Lagway rolled right and tossed a pass into the end zone from nine yards out to TE Tony Livingston to go up, 17-7. 

RB Jadan Baugh rips off yards against the Seminoles for the Gators in first half action.
RB Jadan Baugh rips off yards against the Seminoles for the Gators in first half action.

Turnover time

FSU moved into Florida territory.  The Gators stopped the drive with Bryce Thorton’s sack of Castellanos.  The QB fumbled and Caleb Brown recovered on the Florida 26. What went around came back around quickly, two plays later. Seminole DB Edwin Joseph picked off Lagway and put his offense back in business at the Florida 22. With 1:11 left to play in the half, Castellanos ducked a would-be tackler and ran it in for a TD. The play initiated a lot of feistiness between the two teams after. Two penalties assessed against the Noles set their subsequent kickoff up on their 20. No scoring after that, but still some pushing and shoving among fired -up rivals.  The half ended with the Gators on top, 17-14.  Looked forward to more intensity in the second half.

J. Micaha Sturdivant grabs pass from DJ Lagway for Gators' first TD.
J. Micaha Sturdivant grabs pass from DJ Lagway for Gators’ first TD.

Defenses dominate second half start

The Noles forced a three-and-out following two sacks of Lagway. However, Tommy Doman’s 71-yard punt put FSU back on its 20 following the touchback.  The Seminoles went for a first down with one yard to go at their 40, but the Gators held Castellanos to no gain and took over in FSU territory. Baugh ran for 20 yards and then 14 more.  A facemask penalty put the Gators on the three. The turnover resulted with a three-yard TD pass from Lagway to TE Hayden Hansen. Florida extended its lead, 24-14. 

Later in the period, the Gators took over on their 42. Baugh culminated this drive with his longest run of the day.  He hauled the ball over from 22 yards out on a sweep to the left.  At 31-14, the Gators looked like they controlled the final outcome.

FSU QB Thomas Castellanos sweeps right for four-yard TD to close score to 17-14 in late second period.
FSU QB Thomas Castellanos sweeps right for four-yard TD to close score to 17-14 in late second period.

No Dice for Noles

Early in the fourth, PK Jake Weinberg misfired on a 42-yard FG for FSU.  An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty set the Gators back on their 12. Extracurricular activities continued throughout the game.  However, the penalty did not totally impede the Gator drive.  Trey Smack added to their lead with a 54-yard FG with plenty of room to spare.

The Seminoles hung in to try to come back.  Their ensuing 83-yard drive resulted in a 17-yard scoring pass to WR LaWayne McCoy (6 receptions for 116 yards, TD) to cut the score with 3:07 left.  Their onsides kicks was easily fielded by Florida. The Gators started play again at the Seminole 46.  With a fourth and three at the FSU 12, UF called its final time-out. Showing no mercy to their hated in-state rival, Baugh took it over for his second score.  Smack, recovering from his 54-yard score, missed the PAT.  With a final score of 40-21, Baugh finished the day with 38 of his team’s 42 carries for 266 of Florida’s 272 rushing yards.

Gator fans light up and fire-up before fourth period to the late Tom Petty's hit, I won't back down. Petty was a Gainesville native and Gator fan during his lifetime.
Gator fans light up and fire-up before fourth period to the late Tom Petty’s hit,”No, I won’t back down.” Petty was a Gainesville native and Gator fan during his lifetime.

Future records for Baugh?

His game stats came up short of the 316 yards rushing record set by Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith in 1989 against New Mexico. However, if Baugh, a sophomore, sticks around to play for newly announced Head Coach Jon Sumrall, he may get a few more opportunities to catch up with Smith.  We’ve seen Sumrall coach Troy twice in his two-year career with the Trojans. His team went 23-4 in those two seasons. In his last game as HC before exiting to Tulane, we watched his team defeat Appalachian State 49-23 to win the Sun Belt Championship.

In that game, Troy’s prime RB Kimani Vidal, now with the LA Chargers, exploded for five rushing touchdowns and 233 yards on 26 carries. Since Sumrall’s move to Tulane, the Green Wave record stands at 19-7 the last two seasons. Now, they await a bowl bid or possible CFP bid after the American Athletic title game against North Texas next Saturday. Point is: Sumrall wins wherever he goes, and he builds a team quickly.  Gator fans will love him. Baugh and returning teammates should hang in there and work with him.  Collegefootballfan.com thinks they have a lot to look forward to!

Gators on a John Deere Gater. I got backed over by one of those at another college game in the northeast once. Not sure of the brand, I never saw it coming. Oh, the memories.
Gators on a John Deere Gater. I got backed over by one of those at another college game in the northeast once. Not sure of the brand. I never saw it coming. Oh, the memories.

Week Fourteen leaves these two out, but…

Also, as “Rivalry Week” played out and playoffs started among the non-FBS, our path opened up for two good battles next weekend. On Friday night, Collegefootballfan.com returns to Jacksonville, AL for the Conference USA championship. The JSU Gamecocks (8-4, 7-1) defend their title and host the surprising Kennesaw State Owls (9-3, 7-1). Last year, we watched JSU blast Western Kentucky in the final, 52-12. This year at AmFirst Stadium, they dominated Delaware, a first-year FBS program, 38-25. Last season, we saw Kennesaw defeated twice on their way to a 2-10 season. We saw the Gamecocks decimate the Owls at Kennesaw, 63-24. In 2025, enter new HC Jay Mack with an impressive resume to KSU. In Jacksonville, Kennesaw lost its only CUSA game this year, 36-25. We look for a close, hard-fought game for this year’s title. Should be a good competitive game with the Owls having some added incentive.

The next day for a noon game, we travel 90 minutes away to Mount Berry, Georgia. There, the Berry College Vikings (9-1, 7-0) host Southern Athletic foe Trinity University (TX) (10-1, 6-1). The Vikings defeated the Tigers, 29-6, in regular season play. In round one, Trinity defeated Hardin-Simmons (9-2) of Texas, 34-24. The Vikings had a bye in the first round. The winner of this game will play the winner of perennial D3 power Mount Union (11-0) and upset-minded John Carroll (10-1). Fun game to be enjoyed at D-3 level.

Check out other historic games we’ve attended over the years. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 732 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Enjoyed watching Florida Gator dance team perform during time-outs.
Enjoyed watching Florida Gator Dance Team perform during time-outs.

Game 731: Diego Pavia leads Commodores to whip Kentucky Wildcats, 45-17

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Nashville, TN – Vanderbilt Commodores QB Diego Pavis passed for 484 yards and five TD passes. His No. 12 Commodores charged out to a 45-3 lead over Kentucky at the end of three periods.  He also added 48 yards and a TD on 15 carries. At the end of the third, Vandy totaled over 500 yards of offense with Pavia leading the attack.

The tough Commodore defense held the Wildcats to less than 100 yards of total offense to that point. With one game remaining against No. 18, archrival Tennessee (8-3, 5-3), No. 12 Vandy remains in the hunt for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).

All of Music City is fired up for the Commodores

With Country Music recording star Dierks Bentley participating in the pregame VU “Anchor Down” ceremony donning a Pavia “2” jersey, the Dores showed appreciation for Nashville’s support right away.  In front of a 35,000-seat sell-out, the defense forced a quick three-and-out on the Wildcats. Next, the Commodores put three up on the board with Brock Taylor’s 39-yard filed goal. These first two series consumed almost every second of the first period.  After that, Pavia led his team to six touchdowns over their next eight possessions.

Country Music Star Dierks Bentley pays tribute to Diego Pavia wearing his # 2 home jersey during teh Vanderbilt Anchor Down ceremony before kick-off.
Country Music Star Dierks Bentley pays tribute to Diego Pavia wearing his # 2 home jersey during the Vanderbilt Anchor Down ceremony before kick-off.

Two out of three ain’t bad

On two of the next three Commodore series, Pavia connected with WR Tre Richardson. For the first, Richardson made a 17-yard over the shoulder catch to go up, 10-0.  A sack of UK QB Cutter Boley by S Marlen Sewell and LB Nick Rinaldi put Kentucky back on their nine to punt.  The Commodores started their next drive from the 40.  This time, Pavia connected on a swing pass with Richardson on the left. He scored on a 10-yard pass to increase the lead, 17-0.

Only time UK found the other side of the 50 until Q4

Kentucky took advantage of a mishandled snap on a Vanderbilt “wildcat” play on fourth and one. The visitors possession at the Vanderbilt 30. With 1:04 left in the first half, the best Kentucky could come away with was on a 47-yard FG by Jacob Kauwe.  

The Commodore defense never allowed Kentucky QB Cutter Boley and the Wildcats to ever cross the 50-yard line for three quarters while the first team played on the field.
The Commodore defense never allowed Kentucky QB Cutter Boley and the Wildcats to ever cross the 50-yard line for three quarters while the first team played on the field.

Not to waste the time remaining, HC Clark Lea looked to make a statement in this game. He got one.  Three plays later, once again Pavia placed a pass on Richardson’s hip on a fly pattern from 56 yards. It extended the VU lead before halftime, 24-3.  To avert any UK retaliation, Martel Hight picked off a Boley pass to thwart any chance for a Wildcat score.  At the break, the Commodores led the Wildcats in total offense, 303 yards to 81.  Would the rout continue? 

Unusual surprises for Nashville visitors

Prior to the game, Guest Game Analyst Greg Kopazna and I went to The Local, an establishment found not too far from First Bank Stadium. First time revisited since first time here seven years ago. Without a parking space to tailgate nearby, we sought other options to eat and drink for our pre-game fest. Like the first game ever attended here against South Carolina, the majority of the visiting fans packed the bar.  Many Wildcat fans proceeded ahead of us to the address we walked to. Outside seating hosted primarily hungry fans wearing royal blue and white.  It seems to be a location well knowns by visitors from other schools.  They have probably frequented this place for years after years of victories.

 It hales a short walk to the stadium.  Unlike previous seasons, however, the visiting team fans have learned that this spot no longer launches their team on to easily won victory parties to be celebrated later in down on Broadway. Later, the Kentucky Wildcat fans found little to cheer about in recently refurbished First Bank Stadium.

The Commodores' football success has brought a lot of positive energy into FirstBank Stadium this season.
The Commodores’ football success has brought a lot of positive energy into FirstBank Stadium this season.

2025 Commodores sweep up in Nashville

This season became the first since 1982 when the Commodores won every home game. This victory established a new mark at 7-0. Since 1945, today Vanderbilt recorded only its fourth undefeated season at home. With such success, maybe more Dore’s fans will be frequenting and filling The Local with their team’s improvement.  It beckons to us locals as a place that we’ll have to try out during the offseason.  Could be another venue to enjoy the nightly music scene in Nashville.

A ”perfect” third quarter for Commodores

The Commodores remained relentless in the third period.  No team can do any better than this. They scored touchdowns on all three possessions. The defense ousted the Kentucky offense with three-and-outs both times they had the ball.  Commodore scores came on drives of 75 yards (twice) and 69 yards. The first TD resulted with Pavia’s seven-yard pass to WR Junior Sherrill. Next came on a six-yard run by Pavia. Lastly, a 32-yard pass came on a leaping grab. With arms extended by WR Richie Hoskins at the goal Iine, he scored with a defender grabbing his arms.

Commodore football success and excitement start right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.
Commodore football success and excitement start right here with No. 2, quarterback Diego Pavia.

Commodore QB of the future?

In the fourth, Pavia started the next series to break the Vanderbilt record for 484 passing yards.  He exited the game to the cheers of the Vanderbilt faithful. Junior Blaze Berlowitz replaced him.  He completed four of five passes for 55 yards and picked up eight yards on two carries.  Will he be the replacement for Pavia next season? He looks promising based on the little bit we watched him perform.

Closing out the victory

Kentucky scored twice to close out the scoring and pad some stats as Clark Lea substituted non-starters for the balance of the game.  Smart move with the opportunity facing the Commodores next week when they head to Knoxville. The stands of Neyland Stadium filled with Orange-clad Volunteers fans will be fired up for this one. Will the Commodores leave unscathed for CFP consideration?

Tennessee will be challenged by a tough Commodore defense. Twelve players made either four or three tackles in this game. LB Bryce Cowan (22) played his part among a balanced Vanderbilt defense.
Tennessee will be challenged by a tough Commodore defense. Twelve players made either four or three tackles in this game. LB Bryce Cowan (22) played his part among a balanced Vanderbilt defense.

Week Fourteen – Big Games and CFF game to yet be determined

Vanderbilt at UT as mentioned for pride, bowl games and a possible CFP bid.  Kentucky takes their 5-6, 2-6 record to face traditional rival Louisville, 7-4, at the Cardinals’ L&N Stadium.  The Cardinals enter this rivalry on a 3-game losing streak.  They come off a 38-6 loss to SMU. Can the Wildcats continue the trend to gain a bowl bid of their own with a sixth win?

As for collegefootballfan.com, we’ve decided to forgo Rice at South Florida since the game provides no real interest regarding the post season coming up.  We may consider going to the Florida vs. Florda State game in Gainesville since we’ll be spending Thanksgiving in the Sunshine State.  Catch up with us here in a few days. We still have one regular season game on our slate – Army vs. Navy on December 13.

CFF plans underway all the way through January 19, 2026

Before and after Army-Navy, we have plans to be finalized for other playoffs at all Division levels. Several CFP opportunities we’ve committed to already – the Capital One Orange Bowl CFP on January 1 and the CFP National Championship game on January 19.  Finally, we’re in!

Still kicking around some other options not knowing exact teams, times and places, but we’re piecing together the best of what we can and would like to see.  At best, we will offer our tentative plans subject to change as certain opportunities come and go. Check us out here on Thanksgiving Day after enjoying your turkey, stuffing, desserts and whatever football you plan to watch on TV that day (for us: Navy at Memphis in the evening for sure, among other traditional games college and pro). Hope to be attending some entertaining game next Saturday.  Two games penciled in for the following weekend on December 5-6: the ConferenceUSA championship supposedly in Jacksonville, Alabama. Next day, a D3 or FCS game, either will probably be played in Georgia. After Army-Navy, we’ll be flexible to roll with the brackets and select bowl committees.

Jacksonville State defeated Western Kentucky last season in their title game to win the C-USA championship. Will they do it again this season without HC Rich Rodrigues who moved on to West Virginia? Will Delaware step right in to compete for the C-USA title this year? We'll be at Burgess-Snow Filed to find out.
Jacksonville State defeated Western Kentucky last season in their title game to win the C-USA championship. Will they meet again this season? We’ll be at Burgess-Snow Field to find out.

Check out all FBS team histories including Vanderbilt. Read all about them!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 731 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

It would be great to see Vanderbilt find its way into the CFP this season. Who could have ever imagined that among all the SEC teams expected, the Commodores were never considered among that mix.
It would be great to see Vanderbilt find its way into the CFP this season. Who could have ever imagined that among all the SEC teams expected, the Commodores were never considered among that mix.

Game 730: Wake Forest knocks Tar off of UNC Heels, 28-12

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Winston-Salem, NC – Two long touchdowns by WR Carlos Hernandez and a bend-but-don’t break Demon Deacon defense highlighted the Wake Forest win over North Carolina and former Super Bowl HC Bill Belichick, 28-12. In an interview during the week, pundits pushed Belichick on the possibility of him leaving UNC to coach the New York Giants.  His reply to that, “The only team I’m focused on this week is Wake Forest.” 

To this, our friend, host and die-hard Demon Deacon alum, Jim “Bugaluga” Harton responded, “No one has ever been quoted saying that about Wake Forest!” Indicates the rep the Demon Deacs have risen up to since Jim’s WFU days back in the’70s.  And he’s proud of it.

On top of Military Appreciation Day, Wake Forest honored baseball alum Nick Kurtz this evening. Kurtz won the American League Rookie of the Year for 2025 as a member of the Oakland A's.
On top of Military Appreciation Day, Wake Forest honored baseball alum Nick Kurtz this evening. Kurtz won the American League Rookie of the Year for 2025 as a member of the Oakland A’s.

32,390 on hand for Military Appreciation

The Deacons scored one TD in each quarter. UNC scored with four FGs by Rece Verhoff.  However, two of his other attempts by were blocked by the tough Wake specialty team. Of course, Jim’s former WFU roommate, celebrating Military Appreciation Night as a retired Army officer of 30+ years, Jay Yuengling, took credit for both blocks as claims, “he called them.”  Flyovers and military marches paid tribute to the veterans in attendance. Medal of Honor Award winner Kyle White and his family were honored for his heroism in 2007 during Operation Enduring Freedom.  He will enter the Wake Forest Executive MBA program.

Wake Forest turns mistake into points

On the Deacons first possession, QB Robby Ashford (who we’d seen at Auburn two years ago) fumbled the ball on his carry near midfield. Swift WR Carlos Hernandez (six catches,100 yards, two TDs) scooped the ball off the turf and raced down field to take the ball in for a 51-yard score. Carolina went on the attack from the 25.  They drove to the Wake 24 for a first down as the first period ended. 

RB Demond Claiborne (1) rushes 12 yards up the middle for a Wake Forest lead, 14-3.
Wake Forest RB Demond Claiborne (1) rushes 12 yards up the middle for a Wake Forest lead, 14-3.

Second quarter action

The Deac defense held their ground, and an illegal motion penalty against UNC forced a field goal.  Verhoff made good on a 40-yarder to close the score, 7-3.  Later in the period, a UNC punt put Wake Forest on their 11.  RB Demond Claiborne fumbled and LB Khmori House recovered to put the Heels at the Wake Forest 31.  Not only did the Deacs hold UNC to another FG attempt from the 39, they blocked it! Wake Forest took over on their 21.

Wake HC Jake Dickert, first year here after leaving Washington State, called for his team to focus on the ground attack.  From what we’d seen so far, Ashford struggled with accuracy in the passing game. He finished with 15 of 25 attempts for 191 yards. Most on his incompletion’s went low to his intended receivers. Many completions came on tough catches.

“Wheels” in motion

 On the other hand, our prime Guest Game Analyst (GGA), Wake Forest grad Benny (her father wanted a boy), friend of Jim’s and known to her WFU classmates as “Wheels”, was frustrated by her team’s play calling. She noted the offense ran the same running play up the middle to start every possession. 

To her surprise, this time, the Deacs started with a pass. After that, they went primarily to the ground game.  Eventually, Wake Forest out-rushed North Carolina 223 yards to 56 in the end. At the UNC 12, Claiborne went right up the middle for a touchdown run to take a 14-3 lead with 1:47 left in the second.  Belichick’s Heels started from the 25. With 0:03 left, Verhoff booted a 57-yard FG.  Jay Yuengling should have said something.  Wake led 14-6 heading into the half. They would kick off to start the second.

UNC kicker Rece Verhoff (90) nails a 57-yard FG as first half ends.
UNC kicker Rece Verhoff (90) nails a 57-yard FG as first half ends.

“Wheels” was right!

The Deacs defense forced a three and out on the Tar Heels’ opening possession.  They took over from their 33 and drove to the UNC 24.  On a fourth and two. Dickert decided to go for the first. Wheels said aloud, ”Kick it.  We can’t get one yard. Why do we expect to get two?” She called for a field goal. Her Deacs gave the ball up over on downs.  Once again, the Deacs halted the Heels next drive to a fourth and eight at the 24.  Verhoff put the ball up from 42 this time. They trailed now, 14-9.

Wake Forest answers fast!

It didn’t take long. After a five-yard run by Claiborne, Ashford connected with Hernandez to his right. He weaved, dodged and broke past UNC defenders for a 70-yard catch and run TD. He extended the lead to two scores, 21-9.

 North Carolina started its next series from the 25. They proceeded all the way to the Wake Forest 18.  There, DL Nuer Gatkouth sacked QB Gio Lopez for seven yards to force another Verhoff FG.  Yuengling says he called for it again. Matteen Ibirogba blocked this one. Wake Forest led, 21-9, heading into the fourth.

Wake Forest DL Nuer Gatkouth sacks QB Gio Lopez to set up for a field goal. The Deacons blocked their second field goal attempt of the evening.
Seven on seven: Wake Forest DL Nuer Gatkouth (7) sacks QB Gio Lopez (7) to set up for a field goal. The Deacons blocked their second field goal attempt of the evening.

Wake Forest TDs beat UNC FGs every period

Verhoff got to launch a 47-yard FG successfully with 11:03 left to narrow Wake’s lead.  With 5:16 remaining to play, Wake stuck strictly with the run. Belichick had to use his three time-outs hoping his team would get the ball back. With 0:22 left, Ashby ran it around right end from the two to finalize the score, 28-12.  

For Dickert, it was his first coaching win over another FBS team from North Carolina.  Wake Forest’s record now stands at 7-3, 4-3. Carolina fell to 4-6, 2-4 in the ACC.

Playoffs? Super Bowl? Bill Belichick still trying to figure out get his UINC team to a bowl game this year.
Playoffs? Super Bowl? Bill Belichick still trying to figure out how to get his UNC team into a bowl game this year.

Update the Wake Forest nickname

With this our 15th Wake Forest game attended since 1980, the Deacons won for the 13th time! This record impresses many Demon Deacon stalwarts. For this win, I’m now known among them as “Thirteen and Almost Oh Koreivo!” I feel honored! Of course, with seven wins this season, the Deacs will be bowling in the post-season.  They look forward to going, but in all cases, all their die-hards agree – they hope it’s somewhere warm!

A Collegefootballfan.com first: attended games with parents of players and band members in the past. Tonight, we sat with proud Wake Forest alumni and fans, Chip and Carol Holden. Their granddaughter is a member of the Wake Dance team. She dances on the left with her Deacon Dance line in their pregame routine.
A Collegefootballfan.com first: attended games with parents of players and band members in the past. Tonight, we sat with proud Wake Forest alumni and fans, Chip and Carol Holden. Their granddaughter is a member of the Wake Dance team. She dances on the left with her Deacon Dance line in their pregame routine.

For WEEK Thirteen and beyond

Wake Forest hosts FBS newcomer Delaware (5-5) of Conference USA next Saturday. They finish at Duke in an ACC clash to finish the regular season.  Dickert gets a chance to defeat another in-state Carolina rival.

The Tar Heels will host Duke next week and finish at NC State.  Belichick’s squad need to win both for bowl eligibility.  That doesn’t mean the Super Bowl, of course.

We at Collegefootballfan.com take a short drive this week to downtown Nashville after road trips the last three weeks to Arkansas, Notre Dame and Wake Forest.  We’ll see No. 12 Vanderbilt (8-2, 4-2) host Kentucky (5-5, 2-5) in an SEC bout to stay on course for a hopeful CFP bid. No. 20 Tennessee (7-3, 4-3) looms the following week in Knoxville.  

Speaking of Wake Forest and all FBS team histories, Read all about ours!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 730 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

The entire Wake Forest Demon Deacon Dance Line strikes a pose.
The entire Wake Forest Demon Deacon Dance Line strikes a pose.

Game 729: Notre Dame blows past Navy in the second, 49-10

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South Bend, IN – No. 9 Notre Dame led Navy at halftime, 21-10, but like the cold, snowy wind that came through, the Fighting Irish blew out the Midshipmen, 49-10 in the second half. The writing seemed to be on the wall at the start. Navy QB Blake Horvath came out for the coin flip without pads nor helmet.  He keys the offense running their dynamic option/run-pass option on the field.  Irish QB C.J. Carr dominated through the air with 218 yards and three TDs.  Horvath’s replacement, Braxton Woodson, made his first start since the 2023 season. We saw him then lead Navy to a 14-0 victory over Charlotte.  Of course, Notre Dame poses a different animal.

 All-American RB candidate Jeremiyah Love scored on a one-yard run to cap a 94-yard drive to start the scoring in the first period.  Navy (7-2, 5-1) countered in the second with a two-yard TD run.  After that, the Irish scored on two drives with Jadarian Price running in from the two. WR Jordan Faison caught a five-yard TD pass to put Notre Dame up, 21-7.  The Mids closed the score, 21-10, with 15 seconds to play in the half with Nathan Kirkwood’s 33-yard FG.  All the while, a soaking rain came down. By halftime the rain drops turned into snowflakes.  The crowd of 76.622 became soggier and got colder.

Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love finds running room among his 94 yards gained on the day.
Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love finds running room among his 94 yards gained on the day.

Irish Sweepstakes in second half

On Notre Dame’s first possession in the third, on first and ten at the USNA 48 Navy took Love down. However, but he never touched bottom. He rolled over a tackler, bounced up on his feet and sped all the way to the end zone for a sudden, 28-10, lead. Desperate to stay in the game, Navy went for first on fourth and two from their 33.  Woodson came up a yard short.  On one long pass over the middle against a slower secondary, Carr struck KK Smith in the end zone to widen the lead, 35-10. More of the same followed.

Navy went three-and-out and12 yards back, before punting from their 13. With no-huddles and from the shotgun, Notre Dame scored in six plays on a 49-yard drive before the third ended.  Carr connected with TE Ty Washington for a four-yard score. The Fighting Irish dominated.

Love on a long gainer to put Notre Dame into navy territory.
Love on a long gainer to put Notre Dame into Navy territory.

Notre Dame follows through to finish

The snow swirled, the wind blew harder, and the stands started to empty. Our group decided enough was enough.  We had to catch a shuttle back to our tailgate lot and hit the slushy road back to our VRBO in Goshen- about a 40-minute ride. 

After we left, QB Kenny Minchey stepped in for Carr.  The Sophomore lives near some of us who came up from Middle Tennessee where he quarterbacked nearby Pope John Paul 2 High School in Hendersonville. He led the Irish on a nine-play, 93-yard drive capped by Aneyas Williams’ 54-yard TD run.  Final score, Notre Dame 49 Navy 10.  We had hoped that the Mids would have put on a better showing than they had last year. Rather difficult when basically millionaire athletes compete against government employees who haven’t gotten a paycheck since the shutdown.  Quite challenging even if the government didn’t shut down this year.  Next year, these two will meet again in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

Not only were Irish Eyes smiling, they had much to smile about on a cold, rainy-turn-to-snow evening.
Not only were Irish Eyes smiling, they had much to smile about on a cold, rainy-turn-to-snow evening.

At least our tailgate was great!

We attended and tailgated with friends who visited South Bend to see a Notre Dame game here on campus for the first time and some who had attended with us before. Afterward on Facebook, Will Bresznyak admitted a game at ND was on his “bucket list.” Traveling from Tennessee (originally from Brooklyn, NY) he drove up with some of our other Brother Knights of Coumbus from Lebanon, TN: Ed Conrads (also an original Jersey guy) and Scott Schell, our Grand Knight. Both also visited Notre Dame for the first time. Scott is one of the best BBQ-ers we’ve gotten to know since moving to Tennessee. He brought venison burgers and did his masterful grilling for all of us in the Blue Lot.

Also joining us from New Jersey came Les Di Vite, Bell Serafin and Steve Cielsa. All had attended Notre Dame with us for games here before. Also, they’ve tailgated with us in Annapolis and at several ArmyNavy venues. On Friday, we toured the campus – the Grotto, the bookstore, the stadium, admin building and even the Notre Dame Knights of Columbus Council 1477 Hall. Disappointed to see artwork with Christopher Columbus covered up though the tapestries were supposed to be removed per the schedule noted nearby. We also met up with Bill’s son Stephen who received his master’s degree here and Bill’s two grandchildren. As traditionally provided by Bill at the tailgates or Polar Bear Plunges for Special Olympics, he brought Jameson for the pregame party.

On our campus tour on a beautiful day on Friday, we visited the Grotto. Bill takes a knee to say a prayer before we headed to the Linebacker Lounge soon after.
On our campus tour on a beautiful day on Friday, we visited the Grotto. Bill takes a knee to say a prayer before we headed to the Linebacker Lounge soon after.

First time for all of us in Goshen, Indiana: convenient to visit Notre Dame

Les’s brother, Al, traveled up joining us from North Carolina where he’s retired. He stays busy training and keeping horses, mules and donkeys. However, he was very confused. He thought the Navy mascot was a mule. He had to be straightened out. First time here for Al, who subscribes and follows Notre Dame Blue and Gold religiously. Mike, another friend of Bill’s, enjoyed his experience in the land of the Irish as well. Frank Rafferty who coached our sons and other kids with me for many years in baseball in Byram Twp. NJ, came along for the first time. In the past, I’d have to send him pictures or video of the Notre Dame band. That’s his favorite. He also got to come up with his brother earlier this season for his first time at the Purdue game.

The first time we all got together, we met at The Linebacker Lounge, adjacent to the ND campus. A visit there became a tradition there many years ago when we first went. All had a great time at our VRBO in Goshen about 40 minutes from South Bend. We enjoyed favorite foods, snacks, a pretty good Mexican restaurant nearby (El Zocado), a coffee shop-bakery (Chocolatte) and watching pro and college games in the evenings. Some heard loud train freight horns not far from us overnight – but not all of us. Good time with a great bunch of guys, many meeting for the first time, for a memorable football weekend at Notre Dame.

We Collegefootballfan.com Tailgaters celebrated together before the rains came in the Blue Lot at Notre Dame.
“Under the cold, gray November skies” (to paraphrase the late, great sportswriter Grantland Rice), Collegefootballfan.com Tailgaters celebrated together before the rains came in the Blue Lot at Notre Dame.

Coming up in WEEK Twelve

Notre Dame visits No. 24 Pitt (7-2, 5-1) for a noon start Saturday. Only two more ACC foes await the Fighting Irish after – Syracuse (3-7, 1-6) and Stanford (2-5, 1-6). We plan to get to a few College Football Playoff (CFP) games. The Irish have a good shot. We may see them again.

Navy returns for a tough home match against No. 25 South Florida (7-2. 4-1). The Bulls and then a road trip to play Memphis (8-2, 4-2) on Thanksgiving Day evening lie ahead for the Mids.  If Horvath returns healthy, they will welcome the senior back for a shot at the American Conference Championship.  Two wins by Navy here may get them into the AAC title game, but other teams with one conference loss each – Tulane, North Texas and East Carolina – will all have some influence regarding that title game. We may go depending on travel options for Friday, December 5. We will definitely see the Mids again when they clash with Archrival Army in Baltimore on December 13 in Baltimore for their 126th meeting.

Oh, on to Wake Forest!!

We head to Wake Forest to our annual event with our Demon Deacon friend, Jim “Bugaluga” Harton.  With he and his fellow Demon Deacon Alum, we’ll be cheering against the UNC Tar Heels against first-year HC Bill Belichick.  He’s mainly the reason we requested to attend this one.  In our long history, the Deacs stand at 12-2 in our presence.  They stood undefeated in our presence up until a late 62-59 loss in 2019 to Louisville and Lamar Jackson. 

At that game, my Wake Forest nickname changed from “10 and Oh Koreivo” to “10 and almost Oh.” When I first met these Deacon fanatics, all with designated nicknames since their college days over 40 years ago, they could not believe anyone had seen their alma mater play eight games and win them all! “Nobody has ever done that,” they all insisted. Thus, my WFU moniker bestowed upon me became “Eight and Oh Koreivo.” They are still impressed with the record despite the two recent losses.

In 2023, Florida State finally dominated them to stall my record at 11-2.  Seeing a win over NC A&T last year provided win No. 12 (hey, all the Power Fives do it!).  With Belichick, a win here would be more rewarding as “13 and almost Oh” for this celebrated part of our history. Go Deacs!

At Notre Dame, this statue of Moses next to the Theodore Hesburgh Library is called "First down Moses." To CFF.com, he's saying, "On to Wake Forest!"
At Notre Dame, this statue of Moses next to the Theodore Hesburgh Library is called “First down Moses.” To CFF.com, he’s saying, “On to Wake Forest!”

Speaking of things no one else has ever done before! Read all about it!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Among 729 college games attended to date, we’ve seen all 136 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams play in person at least once. This tells our story! Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today. If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our current and future adventures. Bowls and play-off games lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Can't visit Notre Dame without taking a picture of "Touchdown Jesus!"
Can’t visit Notre Dame without taking a picture of “Touchdown Jesus!”

Game 728: Late Mississippi State comeback topples Arkansas who racks up 193 penalty yards

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Fayetteville, AR- The Mississippi State Bulldogs trailed Arkansas, 35-21, with 13:43 left in the game. On fourth and three at the Arkansas 18, Blake Shapen connected with Antony Evans III with :43 left to play. MSU scored to take home the win, 38-35. For Mississippi State, the result ended a four-game losing streak. They slammed the brakes on a 16-game SEC losing skid dating back to 2023. Despite the dramatics, collegefootballfan.com and many partisan Arkansas fans took umbrage to some of the 18 penalties for 193 yards against the Razorbacks.  To put that total into perspective, Arkansas QB Taylen Green threw for 194 yards in this game (19 of 31 and one TD).

Tough calls to begin with

Several subjective calls came against the Hogs for supposedly flagrant violations. Could not agree on all counts. There are egregious, uncalled for hits. There are also collisions of impact occurring at a moment’s notice based on momentum and a high-rate speed. Trying to halt some of these collisions are not only unavoidable by nature, but dangerous to the aggressor if halted as well as to the target.  We’ve questioned the same at other games. Today, there were more of these in an intense atmosphere between two conference foes competing to 0-4 conference records. 

The rules should be further assessed by the NCAA.  Of course, making these calls more subjective could cause even more controversies.  On the other hand, in this game Mississippi State surrendered 30 yards on only four penalties. Not saying they should have received more, but penalties definitely made a difference in this game. 

In this country, only one school prides itself with this monicker!
In this country, only one school prides itself with this monicker!

Mississippi State scores early; Arkansas often

Mississippi State took the early lead on and eight -yard TD pass from Blake Shapen to RB Davon Booth for his only reception of the day.  The score remained 7-0 going into the second period. At this point, we realized we get around. This wasn’t our first rodeo seeing Shapen at QB.  In November 2022, he led Baylor against Texas when we saw those two play in Austin. 

At 1:17 into the second, Green tossed a three-yard TD pass to TE Rohan James for his only catch of the day to knot the score, 7-7. Later in the period, Arkansas RB Mike Washington converted a on a fourth down and four to keep a Razorback drive alive at the Arkansas 42.  The drive resulted in a 42-yard FG by Frosh PK Scott Starczyk. On the next Razorback possession. On a fourth and one, Green connected with Washington for a 14-yard gain for the first.  With 0:01 on the clock Starcyk connected for a 30-yarder to take the home team into halftime with a 13-7 lead.  Washington led all in rushing this day with 119 yards and a TD on 19 carries.

Mississippi State's Davon Booth makes his way into the end zone for the Bulldogs' early lead.
Mississippi State’s Davon Booth makes his way into the end zone for the Bulldogs’ early lead.

Offenses take off in second half

The Bulldogs went right to work to start the second half from their 25. They started off appropriately with 15 more yards on a roughing penalty. Shapen left the game and Freshman Kamario Taylor stepped in and didn’t miss a beat. On second and eight at the Arkansas 45, Taylor connected with Anthony Evans III for a TD. It took three PAT attempts for Kyle Ferrie to make it good after two offside calls against Arkansas. The Razorbacks blocked his first attempt.

Starting from the 25, the Arkansas offense went to work. Washington performed the brunt of the work to get to the MSU 45.  Green took over from there with a few completions and a run to get to the Bulldog eight.  In a beautiful fake hand-off, he whirled and took it eight yards into the end zone for a 20-14 Razorback lead.

evens the score in the second as the shadows star to overtake the field at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
TE Rohan James evens the score in the second as the shadows star to overtake the field at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

Mississippi State sputters; Arkansas thrives

With Taylor still under center, the Bulldogs got down to the Razorback 39. On fourth and seven, MSU HC Mike Lebby decided to go for the first. However, Taylor’s pass went incomplete.  Arkansas took over from there. Raylen Sharp burst for 41 yards on the handoff to the Mississippi State 20. Next play, Washington went the distance and the Hogs extended their lead. Interim and former Arkansas HC Bobby Petrino called for the two-point conversion.  Green passed for two to lead. 28-14, with 6:18 left in the third.

Arkansas penalties galore

Two consecutive unsportsmanlike penalties against Arkansas’s CJ Brown went for five yards and then half the distance. It forced the Hogs to kick off from their ten.  On the return, the runner went out of bounds at the MSU 45.  This is where the hit out of bounds looked basically inconsequential from this view high above Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.  The returner still stood after he bounced off a couple of Razorbacks along the sideline. However,  the referees spotted the ball at the Arkansas 45.    

Some confusing calls and a targeting call that was eventually overturned after much discussion, put MSU at the Arkansas 15. They lost five yards on a pass play to set up for second and 15 at the Arkansas 20.  Taylor ran it right up the gut for a 20-yard score. Even the post-game play-by-play seems very confusing regarding this series.

Arkansas RB Mike Washington rambles 20 yards for a TD to give the The Hogs a two-touchdown advantage in the third.
Arkansas RB Mike Washington rambles 20 yards for a TD to give The Hogs a two-touchdown advantage in the third.

Mississippi State about to fade?

In the final minutes of the third, Arkansas punted back after it’s next series. On the return, the Razorbacks got called for a facemask. State started from its 37. A pass tipped by the Arkansas secondary ended up in the hands of DB Jordan Young. It put U of A back in business at the MSU 41. The Hogs had second and 10 at the Bulldog 15.  With 13:43 left, Arkansas extended the lead back to 14 with Raylen Russell’s two-yard run.

Further into the fuzzy fourth

Shapen returned at QB.  A sack by DT Quincy Rhodes Jr. gave Mississippi State a second and 20 from their 38. Next play, Shapen connected with Anthony Evans for a 33-yard pass.  A flag flew against Razorback LB Xavier Sorey Jr. He was in the action of making a sack before hitting Shapen just after he released the football.  This was one of those bang-bang calls where a defender can’t stop a natural football move.  They tacked on 15 more yards for roughing.  Mississippi State had a first down at the Arkansas 14.  Pass interference placed MSU on the two.  Davon Booth took it through the middle for a score to make it, 35-28.

Arkansas punted away and Mississippi State started from its 29. On this drive, Rhodes Jr. slammed Booth to the ground after a five-yard loss that was no doubt a roughing call.  The Bulldogs continued down to the Razorback 33. Ferrie’s kick went wide let with a little over five minutes left.  But wait! Flag! Arkansas ran into the kicker – five yards.  With 5:07 on the clock, Ferrie converted a 46-yard field goal to close the gap, 35-31.

Mississippi State vs. Arkansas: Fight for 1-4 or 0-5

Starting from the 25, Arkansas looked like they could make a go of it when Green picked up 13 yards on second and three. Nope. Holding call – 10 yards back.  Punted on fourth and nine from the 26.  Mississippi State took over on their 31.

A 32-yard pass from Shapen to Thompson put MSU at the 34 as they came to the two-minute time-out (at least still one too many clock stoppages in a college football game). On third and four at the Arkansas 18, DB Kani Walker broke up a Shapen pass – no flags!  On fourth down with :51 left to play, Shapen hit Evans on the right and he raced to paydirt for the score.  Ferrie put up the extra point with :43 left to play.  A short completion followed by a sack an incomplete and a sack stalled Arkansas at their 22. Game over. Mississippi State wins, 38-35! Mississippi State takes home a 5-4, 1-4 record back to Starkville.  Arkansas fell to 2-7, 0-5. The Razorback players and interim HC Bobby Petrino all wonder where they go from here.

Mississippi State QB Blake Shapen (2) scrambles for a gain on the Bulldogs' final touchdown drive.
Mississippi State QB Blake Shapen (2) scrambles for a gain on the Bulldogs’ final touchdown drive.

WEEK Eleven coming up!

Despite the win to get the Bulldogs within one game remaining to be won to become bowl eligible, the going for Mississippi State only gets tougher.  Three ranked SEC teams loom ahead – No 5 Georgia at home, No. 19 Missouri on the road, and No. 7 archrival Ole Miss in The Egg Bowl back in Starkville.  Not much better for Arkansas – at LSU without Brian Kelly, at No. 13 Texas, and back here for No. 19 Mizzou.

Hopefully, Navy was caught looking ahead

We travel to South Bend, IN to see No. 10 Notre Dame (6-2) host Navy (7-1, 5-1).  The Mids lost their first game of the season last Saturday to American Athletic foe North Texas State (8-1-4-1), 31-17.  Looking for respectability to win a big game, Navy could only hope to give the Irish a challenge this season.  This week is their one and only chance.  Looking forward to a fun time otherwise with a good bunch of guys from over the years for our 729th college football game!  In our history, the Irish lead this series over the Naval Academy, 8-1. We say, “Go Navy!”

No one else can claim to have done this before! Read all about it!!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

Collegefootballfan.com: Fast football times in Tennessee

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Lebanon, TN – Now that in our fifth football season located here in Middle Tennessee, we have to say that we made a great move to follow what’s going on a few hours mostly west of the Smokies.  Some unexpected turns both better and for worse. However, it’s allowed us to keep a finger on the pulse of Tennessee college football not only regarding nearby FBS and FCS programs. We also follow more on the happenings of regarding Power Fours and more Groups of Five teams.  We have some of each within a day’s travel distance.

Of course, the biggest surprise came with the rise of Vanderbilt football.  We didn’t expect to acquire any great interest to see much going on with what we always considered VU the “doormat of SEC football.”  Well, times changed since we relocated.  Close to Nashville, Vanderbilt stirs the interest not only around Tennessee, but throughout the country.  And LSU fans I met at their game at FirstBank Stadium the week before last confirmed what many feel. 

At Vanderbilt, things are looking up for the Commodores! We'll be back at FirstBank when Kentucky comes to town.
At Vanderbilt, things are looking up for the Commodores! We’ll be back at FirstBank when Kentucky comes to town.

The player that stirred the pot

They attributed the turnaround not so much to HC Clark Lea, but to QB Diego Pavia.  Of course, Lea deserves some credit.  He enticed Pavia to transfer to Vanderbilt the season after he led Mexico State to an unexpected 10-5 record including a 31-10 victory at SEC stalwart Auburn. However, he also enticed NMSU OC Tim Beck.  Prior to coaching at Las Cruces, Beck led highly successful D-2 Pittsburg State (KS) as head coach. He brought stability and direction to keep Pavia on course and improving.

Vandy’s record stands at 7-1 now, first time since 1990.  We watched them defeat No. 10 LSU, 31-34, to jump into that same spot in the AP poll last week as well. Then, they not only hosted No. 15 Missouri, but Game Day also showed up in Nashville for the first time since 2008 (couldn’t believe it wasn’t longer that). With the win over Missouri, the now No. 9 Commodores not only have a shot to make the College Football Playoff this year, in Pavia they also have a leading Heisman candidate.

Whoever saw this coming when we made our move to Middle Tennessee five years ago?  Have to admit, it’s great to have some big-time college football excitement now not far from Broadway in Nashville! We banked on Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro stepping up. That’s not happening. More on that later.

Welcome back to this part of Tennessee, Tigers! Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.
Welcome back to this part of Tennessee, Tigers! Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.

Then there’s No. 14 Tennessee

We came here feeling the Volunteers would definitely be Top Dog in the Greenest State in the Land of the Free (“Davey, Davey Crockett – King of the Wild Frontier”).  In 2021, we watched Tennessee play in the Music City Bowl. At Nissan Stadium here in Nashville, Purdue pulled a last second upset, 48-45. Even with the 7-6 Vols surrounded by a sea of Orange (hard on these eyes).  In 2023, we watched the Vols in their season opener destroy Virginia, 49-13, on their way to a 9-4 record.  Note since relocating to Tennessee, we haven’t visited Neyland. 

Did get to Neyland in 2009. The Volunteers opened the season against FBS newcomer Western Kentucky. They triumphed to the tune of 63-7. “Are you sick of ‘Rocky Top‘”‘ yet?” whispered the grandmother next to me. I sat with her, her husband and grandson who I bought my ticket from for $25).  I can’t find a ticket price anywhere near that at any games played in Knoxville since. Maybe I’ll wait for the right price at the right time when the right game comes along. However, I have other college football priorities to achieve before I have to get back to Neyland for a high-price ticket right now.

My long-time friend and former work colleague, Mary Jean Shannon, who bleeds "Tennessee Orange", (second from left) joined us at the Tennessee-Virgina game at Nissan Stadium. From left to right, her daughter Grace, MJ, my wife "St. Laurie", MJ's husband Bruce, and a friend of Grace's joined us for pregame drinks and the UT win. All but St. Laurie attended the U of Tennessee.
My long-time friend and former work colleague, Mary Jean Shannon, who bleeds “Tennessee Orange”, (second from left) joined us at the Tennessee-Virgina game at Nissan Stadium. From left to right, her daughter Grace, MJ, my wife “St. Laurie”, MJ’s husband Bruce, and a friend of Grace’s joined us for pregame drinks and the UT win. All but St. Laurie attended the U of Tennessee.

A Tennessee team usually considered a foe

Being a Navy fan and as season ticket holder in Annapolis for 12 years, the Midshipmen generally compete with these Tiger in pretty significant conference games. The two have competed in some epic battles.  I’ve seen the Memphis Tigers play in Annapolis.  Navy won an exciting game, 22-21, in 2018.  After moving in 2021, the Tigers defeated the Mids at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, 35-17.

 The two will meet there again on Thanksgiving evening this year.  Our family has other plans elsewhere, but this will be a major event.  Navy currently stands 7-0, 5-0. They have some tough games ahead including at No. 12 Notre Dame. We’ll be there.  If they can get past two other good AAC foes (North Texas and USF), the game against the Tigers could mean the AAC title.  The No. 25 Tigers got by 18th-ranked South Florida last week, 34-31.  The week before, however, they suffered a 31-24 upset at the hands of UAB.  We will have to plan more games in this series at both teams’ venues over the years to come.

Memphis always hosts entertaining games. Besides teh Tigers, we have also seen some great matchups in the Liberty Bowl.
Memphis always hosts entertaining games. Besides the Tigers, we have also seen some great matchups in the Liberty Bowl. We plan to see Navy play the Tigers there again in the future.

Tennessee FCS teams

Last Saturday, we made our first trek to Cookeville to see the No. 8 Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles (8-0) host the Southeast Missouri Red Hawks (4-4) in a Big South-OVC clash.  Visited Cookeville several times years ago on business trips that influenced me to consider retiring to Tennessee.  Actually, supported a facility in nearby Sparta and not sure it it’s still there.  It may be a side trip. 

Tennessee Tech ties

The Tech HC in his second season is Bobby Wilder.  We attended Old Dominion games when that program started at the FBS level when he coached there.  Our Navy son lived in nearby Virgina Beach at the time. So, our trips to see ODU were special to us.  Wilder has his new program on a roll. We added Tucker Stadium as our 201st college football venue.  We hope that if our schedule works out after the regular season that we can catch an FCS playoff game there again.  Having seen No. 1 North Dakota State unleashed against struggling FCS Tennessee State earlier, we can make some comparisons to the best.  On January 6, 2026, the championship game will entertain us at FirstBank Stadium right here in Nashville, Tennessee. NDSU has dominated the FCS for years. Always tough to beat.

Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future.
Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future. Hopefully, an FCS play-off game this season will fit into our schedule.

Tech not the only FCS rodeo in Tennessee

Since moving to this great state, travels took us to see UT Chattanooga, Austin Peay and UT Martin action.  UTC has microbreweries just beyond both end zones at Finley Stadium.  Enjoyed the energy at Austin Peay when new, young HC Scotty Walden led that program.  He moved on to UTEP the year before last.  Going on an overnight to UT Martin, St. Laurie and yours truly had the opportunity to stop in Paris, Tennessee. We took pictures in front of the Eifel Tower there, of course. 

With photos, we could fool some family members that we visited the real Paris, France.  However, it did influence us somewhat to visit the real one on our vacation. Last June, we cruised the Seine River in France to visit Normandy Beach battle fields. Great honor to visit where the US forces and our Allies started freeing the European continent.

 Saw Tennessee State play twice; once at Austin Peay under Heisman award-winning HC Eddie George. The other at “home” in Nissan Stadium where they got demolished by FCS No. 1 North Dakota State in WEEK Two this season.

North Dakota State RB Barika Kpeenu starts the slaughter with his first of three touchdowns against the TSU Tigers at Nissan. Most likely, we'll see the Bison play at FirstBank later this season for FCS title once again.
North Dakota State RB Barika Kpeenu starts the slaughter with his first of three touchdowns against the TSU Tigers at Nissan. Most likely, we’ll see the Bison play at FirstBank later this season for FCS title once again.

Future Tennessee football considerations

Still have to get to an East Tennessee State home game. Tusculum plays D2 football out in Greenville not far from the Smokies.    What the heck, we even attended a game this year at D3 Sewanee, known as the University of the South.  It was a nostalgic trip for our friend Dave Oakley, class of ’69, who shared some memories running the Wing T formation for HC Shirley Majors. They just defeated South Atlantic foe Rhodes in Memphis last week to go 3-4.  Two more wins would match their highest victory total since 2011.

The Maryville Scots stand at 6-1. Get this: 9,285 fans showed up at their Lloyd Thornton Stadium with a capacity of 5,500. They defeated Centre College of Kentucky, 33-13. However, they fell a week later on the road to Berry who leads the SAC with a 4-0 record.  Maybe next year we’ll try to squeeze into Thornton when Berry visits.  Sounds like a fun D3 experience.

One stop this season included Sewanee vs. Brevard for our first D3 game in Tennessee. Nice to get break going to games without any media time-outs.
One stop this season included Sewanee vs. Brevard for our first D3 game in Tennessee. Nice to get a break going to college games without any media time-outs.

Biggest Tennessee disappointment

Coming to Tennessee, initially Vanderbilt’s rep couldn’t stimulate fandom and Tennessee Orange hurts the eyes from experiences at five bowl games they play in when we attended.  Then as mentioned, Neyland ticket prices exceeded the budget generally from week to week. So, Middle Tennessee seemed to offer the best chance to follow some good, local college football.  They started out ok, but the last two years, the team just can’t stir as much interest.  Derek Mason stepped in as coach with SEC experience and last season, like most schools, stocked up on the transfer portal.  At Red Floyd Stadium, the empty aluminum seats make the stadium look colder than what it is. 

No disrespect to HC Derek Mason, but having seen Scotty Walden coach at Austin Peay, he seemed like a young coach that could bring some new energy to Murfreesboro.  He went on to UTEP instead.  We invested in season tickets the previous two years before this one.  Mostly for the weekday games and for a couple of bigger programs when Colorado State and Duke came to town. However, the program isn’t giving us the impetus to follow as closely as we’d hope for. 

They now stand 1-7, 0-4 in Conference USA.  They lost close games, but that just doesn’t cut it.  Somehow the Blue Raider program has to generate some more excitement.  Kind to taking a wait and see approach to them in the future.  Hopefully, they can turn things around.

The MTSU Dance Team now ranks as one of our favorites! We hope their football program will be as much fun to watch in the future.
The MTSU Dance Team now ranks as one of our favorites! We hope their football program will be as much fun to watch in the future.

November for us

This weekend we head west to Arkansas to see the Razorbacks play at Donald W. Reynolds Razorbacks Stadium for our first ever Razorback home game. They and Mississippi State both show up with 0-4 SEC records. Should be a good game.  The following week, we head to South Bend, Indiana where we hope to see Navy (7-0) play No. 12 Notre Dame tougher and with fewer mistakes than they did last season when we saw them play each other in The Meadowlands. We recorded our 700th game that day.

On November 15, we return to Winston-Salem, NC to catch up with Jim “Bugaluga” Harton and friends to see what his Demon Deacons can do against a North Carolina team under struggling under college coach Bill Belichick. After that, a home game of sorts for us as we drive over to FirstBank Stadium to see Vanderbilt host Kentucky.  With family Thanksgiving in Florida, we plan to check in to see South Florida host Rice the Saturday after.  We’re hoping it’ll be a scouting trip in case USF clashes with Navy in the AAC championship game on Friday, December 5. Fun Saturdays ahead in November!   

Arkansas cheerleaders had lots to be happy about after the 2022 overtime Liberty Bowl win! Hope they have something to cheer about when we see their Razorbacks take on the MSU Bulldogs this weekend.
Arkansas cheerleaders had lots to be happy about after the 2022 overtime Liberty Bowl win! Hope they have something to cheer about when we see their Razorbacks take on the MSU Bulldogs this weekend.

Of course, more football history abounds beyond Tennessee in our latest book on Amazon.com. Recording fantastic football memories since 1972!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

It was definitely a beautiful day to attend a game in Annapolis when we watched them defeat Air Force this season. Hopefully, Navy will show up with their best effort whens we see them play at Notre Dame on November 8.
It was definitely a beautiful day to attend a game in Annapolis when we watched Navy defeat Air Force this season. Hopefully, the Mids will show up with their best effort when we see them play at Notre Dame on November 8.

Game 727: No. 8 Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles fly by SE Missouri State Red Hawks, 42-23

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Cookeville, TN – Tennessee Tech won their eighth game of 2025 to stay atop the Big South-OVC conference and continued to contend for a home seed in this year’s Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs.  TTU had won 12 straight games coming in dating back to last season.  They currently continue the longest winning streak in all of Division 1 football.

They started fast against the visiting SE Missouri State squad (4-5, 2-3), gave way to a QB change by SEMO, and then soared away in the fourth quarter for a 42-23 victory.  The Golden Eagles flourish under second-year HC Bobby Wilder.  We’d seen him lead Old Dominion on several occasions when he led the Monarchs from the FCS into the FBS in 2014-15.  Several TTU fans admitted, the success has come surprisingly fast this year after years of struggles.  We look forward to an opportunity to see Tech play again this season if they host an FCS playoff game.

Tremel Jones (2) hauls in a 13-yard scoring pass for Tennessee Tech's 7-0 lead in the first quarter.
Tremel Jones (2) hauls in a 13-yard scoring pass for Tennessee Tech’s 7-0 lead in the first quarter.

TTU makes turnover count

DB Andrew Smith put the Golden Eagles at the Red Hawk 37 with an interception thrown right at him by SEMO QB Johnny Weber.  Weber started his second game of the season replacing Jax Leatherwood who sat out the previous two games with an injury. TTU QB Kekoa Visperas connected with Tremel Jones on a 13-yard TD pass for their 7-0 lead at the end of the first.

Midway through the second, Justin Keller put the Red Hawks on the board with his 31-yard FG.  On the Golden Eagles’ next possession, a 30-yard pass to Noah Robinson brought TTU to the SEMO 19.  At the 11, Q’ Daryus Jennings took it over for an 11-yard touchdown. The review showed that as he dove, he shifted the ball from one hand to the other allowing him hit the pylon before going out of bounds to secure the score.  

Quintel Quinn sweeps around left end for a gain in first half action for Tennessee Tech.
Quintel Quinn (28) sweeps around left end for a gain in first half action for Tennessee Tech.

“Dull game” through most of first half

Envision that observation coming from this week’s Guest Game Analyst, St. Laurie. Finally got her to a game this season. Dinner at Craw Daddy’s and the Red Silo Brewing company after enticed her somewhat. The Golden Eagles methodically moved the football. The Red Hawks totaled 57 yards on offense in the first, turned the ball over at their 37 on their first possession, and settled for field goals. The first half did drag along. With media time-outs on a warm but beautiful sunny day, the game lacked excitement.

Holding the Red Hawks to a three-and-out, Tre’ Holloway returned the ensuing punt 37 yards to the SEMO 27. Visperas proceeded to throw a short pass left to Aidan Littles for a 14-yard TD.  In response trailing 21-3, SEMO HC Tom Matukewicz called on Jax Leatherwood to replace Weber.  The Red Hawks came out throwing more effectively.  Their initial drive with a new QB under center went 48 yards to the TTU 22.  From there, Keller converted on his second field goal.  The Golden Eagles went into the locker room at halftime leading, 21-6. Looked like No. 8 would dominate.

TTU QB Keokoa Visperas slides for a first down on a touchdown drive in the second quarter.
QB Kekoa Visperas (0) slides for a first down on a Golden Eagle touchdown drive in the second quarter.

Unusual second half start

SEMO did not defer the kick to open the game. In a rarity, they chose to receive the football first in the second half.  So TTU opened the third with the ball, but punted away.  Leatherwood remained at QB for the RedHawks.  Things changed significantly. On a fourth and one at the Tennessee Tech 29, SE Mizzou picked up the first.  However, they had to settle for Keller’s third FG. This one came through from 36 yards.

The Red Hawks defense held and forced the Golden Eagles to punt from their 28. The SEMO drive commenced from their 31.  With Leatherwood under center, they mixed runs and passes for 14 plays as Cole Ruble ran over from the two with 1:33 left in the third.  Suddenly, we had a ball game. The Red Hawks now threatened No. 8 TTU, 21-16. Leatherwood seemed to have turned the game around.  He outdistanced Weber this afternoon with 278 yards and a TD compared to 103 yards and an INT in his start during the first half.

Cole Ruble (15) carries the ball over to close the score to for SE Missouri State to trail, 21-16, in the third period.
Cole Ruble (15) carries the ball over to close the score to for SE Missouri State to trail, 21-16, in the third period.

Golden Eagles take off

TTU started the fourth quarter on their drive with a second and four at the SEMO 24. Quintel Quinn finished off the drive with a ten-yard run to extend the lead, 28-16. The Red Hawks could not answer. The Tech defense rose up to the new challenge.  Starting the SE Missouri drive from the 25, DL Chima Iwuagwu sacked Leatherwood for an eight-yard loss. Very next play, he and Idris King racked up the Leatherwood once again to force a fumble.  Iwuagwu recovered the ball in the end zone for a Golden Eagles score to go up, 35-16.

On the ensuing Red Hawk possession, Leatherwood capped a 75-yard drive with a 38-yard TD pass to Calvin Gilbert to continue to challenge TTU once again.  To maintain momentum, the Golden Eagles responded following an unsportsmanlike penalty and Tre’ Holloway’s 26-yard return to the TTU 44-yard Ine.  With 4:53 left, Jennings finalized the scoring with a seven-yard TD run.  Southeast Missouri turned the ball over on downs, and Tennessee Tech ran out the clock to the final score of 42-23.  

Tech’s unbeaten streak continues at 13 games.  It most likely maintains it ranking in the FCS Top Ten. They dwell atop the Big South-OVC conference at 5-0 in conference play.  We hope we may catch the Golden Eagles, if possible, among our plans to see post-season games at most levels of NCAA football this season.

Tennessee Tech - building their program and adding to their stadium before joining the Southern Conference in 2026.
Tennessee Tech – building their program and adding to their stadium before joining the Southern Conference in 2026.

WEEK Ten coming up

The Golden Eagles remain at Overall Field at Tucker Stadium (home stands under reconstruction) to host the Gardner- Webb Running Bulldogs. They trail TTU in second place in conference standings (5-3, 3-1). SE Missouri State (3-5, 2-2) returns home to Cape Girardeau to play Charleston Southern (3-6, 2-3) in another Big South-OVC conference game. Alert: next season, Tennessee Tech joins the Southern Conference, an organization that has had many teams transition to the FBS level in recent years. For the Golden Eagles, the switch brings a few more intra-Tennessee rivalries. UT Chattanooga and East Tennessee State may stir some more intense natural rivalries as this program improves under HC Wilder.

Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future.
Looking forward to more Tennessee Tech games in Cookeville in the future.

SEC! SEC!

We at collegefootballfan.com head to Fayetteville, Arkansas for our first game there ever. The struggling Arkansas Razorbacks (2-6, 0-4) will entertain the Mississippi State Bulldogs (4-4, 0-4). Both seek their first SEC win.  The Hogs come off a 33-24 loss against Auburn at home this past Saturday.  The Bulldogs come off a 45-38 OT loss to the No. 20 Texas Longhorns. Neither team has a clear shot to make any bowl games. Both play some of the top teams in the SEC in their three remaining games after this one.

This will be a rematch of our first and only trip to see a Mississippi State home game in Starkville.  These two hooked up when we attended in November 2004. Seems like yesterday. Arkansas won 24-21.  The key play occurred when Arkansas blocked a field goal attempt for a 10-point swing.  Arkansas DB Pierre Brown made an over the shoulder catch of the deflected ball and raced 76 yards for the score.  How can I be so sure?  Read about it in my first book: Tales from the Tailgate: From the Fan who’s seen ‘em all!

Another reason for the dull start to this game. The Golden Eagle mascot had to be the most docile we ever witnessed. He looked ready for a nap here.
Another reason for the dull start to this game. The Golden Eagle mascot had to be the most docile we ever witnessed. He looked ready for a nap here.

Of course, more football history abounds in our latest book on Amazon.com. Recording such fantastic memories since 1972!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

CFP Playoffs for Tennessee Tech? We hope so!
CFP Playoffs for Tennessee Tech? We hope so!

Game 726: No. 17 Vanderbilt upends No. 10 LSU, 31-24; Pavia stokes Heisman campaign

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Nashville, TN – A last minute change to our game originally scheduled landed us in one of the best games possible this past weekend. No. 17 Vanderbilt (6-1, 2-1) defeated No. 10 LSU ((5-2, 2-2) for the first time since 1990, 31-24. Our plans for No. 16 Missouri at Auburn fell through. Logistics became more difficult for the 6:45 pm CT kickoff.  What to do instead?  Well, this game just happened to be kicking off at 11 am CT Saturday within about a 30-minute drive.  Couldn’t beat it as about more than half the sell-out crowd garbed in LSU purple and gold agreed with us.  And why not? The Tigers had beaten these Commodores in ten meetings since that loss 35 years ago.

LSU fans showed up in great numbers to fill many of the 35,000 seats at FirstBank Stadium. Since 1990, they enjoyed celebrating wins here and partying on Broadway!
LSU fans showed up in great numbers to fill many of the 35,000 seats at FirstBank Stadium. Since 1990, they enjoyed celebrating wins here and partying on Broadway!

The fans from Baton Rouge felt some confidence bestowed when the Tigers started the scoring for the day. Damian Ramos’s 48-yard field goal put them ahead, 3-0. However, the Dore’s came back with a quick response.  Tre Richardson returned the ensuing kick for 43 yards out to the VU 43.  QB Diego Pavia broke loose for 24 yards to the LSU one.  With 3:38 to play in the first, he took it over on a one-yard plunge. LSU got right back to work, however.

Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.
Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia (2) plunges over the LSU defense to take a 7-0 lead.

Louisiana Lightning and Anchor Down!

On the first play of the second, Tiger QB Garrett Nussmeier connected with TE Trey’Dez Green in the right flat on a swing pattern to run the ball in for a 24-yard score to go back up, 10-7.   Pavia and the Dores would not settle on falling behind. Starting from the 25, Vanderbilt pieced together a 14-play drive. Highlighted by a 21-yard pass, TE Cole Spence advanced to the LSU four. Sedric Alexander dove for another one-yard plunge to retake the lead for the Dores, 14-10.

The VU kickoff went out of bounds to start LSU from its 35.  However, Ramos’s 53-yard attempt went just wide. Next, Vanderbilt started from the 35 with 2:33 left in the first half. With a fourth and one from their 44, HC Clark Lea made the decision to go for the first. LSU LB West Weeks foiled that plan with a sack.  The Tigers took over at the 36. The Vanderbilt defense halted the drive on their 25.  Ramos put up a 42-yarder to get within one point with 45 seconds still to be played before halftime.

Vanderbilt TE Cole Spence makes one of five catches including one for a TD among 56 yards gained on the day.
Vanderbilt TE Cole Spence makes one of five catches including one for a TD among 56 yards gained on the day.

Building Heisman and NFL resume

Tre Richardson returned the kickoff to the 22.  Pavia didn’t settle, nor flinch.  A 25-yard completion, a 16-yard completion and a nine-yard run took the Commodores to the LSU 28. With :02 left in the second, Brock Taylor made good or a 45-yard field goal.  The Dore’s would get the ball to start the second half. Now they led, 17-13 because Pavia demonstrated how to move his offense down the field. He runs misdirection plays magnificently. He rolls out one way and counters to the opposite. Pavia finds a wide-open receiver he’s helped to shake loose. Otherwise, he finds a hole and room to run for good yardage with his speed.  Fun to watch!

Vanderbilt wastes no time to start second half

After a touchback, the Commodores started from their 25. A ten-play drive keyed by Makhilyn Young’s 28-yard burst put VU on the LSU one.  Again, over the course, misdirection plays kept the Tigers guessing and chasing.  At the one, Pavia connected with TE Cole Spence (five snags for 56 yards and a TD) who had a big day, to widen their lead, 24-13. The Tigers came in ranked fifth in the nation on defense allowing only 11.8 points per game.

RB Makhilyn Young (22) ran five times for 82 yards to set up TDs with gains of 22 and for 43 yards on two separate drives for the Commodores.
RB Makhilyn Young (22) ran five times for 82 yards to set up TDs with gains of 22 and for 43 yards on two separate drives for the Commodores.

The ensuing Tiger drive ended quickly after only five plays. A holding call on the return set them up at their eight.  Nussmeier led his team out to the 38.  On a second and ten, he connected with Zavion Thomas on a short pass along the left sideline. He ducked; broke tackles wove and raced down along the sideline with Commodore defenders trailing him on a 62-yard sprint into the end zone.  This game wasn’t over with 6:32 left in the third.  LSU converted a two-point pass play from Nussmeier to Green to close the gap, 24-21.

LSU WR Zavion Thomas had four receptions for 75 yards. He impressed with a 62-yard TD as he broke several tackles before racing through and ahead of the Vanderbilt secondary.
LSU WR Zavion Thomas had four receptions for 75 yards. He impressed with a 62-yard TD as he broke several tackles before racing through and ahead of the Vanderbilt secondary.

On the next Vanderbilt possession, Pavia mixed passes and running plays well. Young carried several times and caught a key pass to get the Doré’s to the LSU 21.  Again, rolling right and then circling back to his left, Pavia found a whole and raced the final 21 yards to put Vanderbilt up, 31-21. Only 27 seconds remained in the third.

LSU threatens, VU stands firm

In the fourth, on third and six at the Vanderbilt 47, Caden Durham bolted down to the Commodore two-yard line. Durham tried to crack the end zone. Vanderbilt stopped him at the one.  An offside penalty set the Tigers back five. Ju’Juan Johnson got tackled for a loss of one.  Nussmeier’s pass on third fell incomplete.  In comes Ramos to close the score with his 23-yard field goal with 11:39 to play. Vanderbilt leads, 31-24.

Pavia commands the respect of Vanderbilt's ROTC cadets as he scores for VU's 31-21 lead.
Pavia commands the respect of Vanderbilt’s Army ROTC cadets as he scores for VU’s 31-21 lead.

Defense! Defense!

LSU forced a VU punt after a three-and-out. With the Tigers on their 30, a sack by DL Zaylin Wood dropped Nussmeier to a second and 20.  LSU punted from their 18.  Pavia and his offense took over on their 42.  The results of the next two possessions by both squads ended in punts after three-and-outs. With 3:12 left, Vanderbilt had possession on their 42.

Big play and Heads Up for Vanderbilt

A game-sealing play came next with Young running for 43 yards to the LSU Tiger 15. On third and seven on the 12, Pavia raced toward the open-end zone only to abruptly slide into the end zone to put the ball at the one.  Heads up play by the Heisman candidate. The two-minute time out took place. With LSU using up its time-outs, Vanderbilt went into the “Victory formation” to run out the clock and eventually start the celebration.  The speakers at FirstBank Stadium burst out with the Country hit, “Send my Love down to Baton Rouge” by Garth Brooks.  Very appropriate after 35 years waiting to beat the LSU Tigers – especially in a big, unexpected game like this! So big, Vanderbilt jumped to No. 10; LSU fell to No. 20.

Slide! Pavia about to go down to make a first down at the one to force LSU to use remainging time-outs to apply the "Victory formation" for Vanderbilt.
Slide! Pavia about to go down to make a first down at the one to force LSU to use remaining time-outs to apply the “Victory formation” for Vanderbilt.

As for WEEK Nine!

Vanderbilt hosts another big opponent this Saturday when No. 15 Missouri (6-1, 2-1) comes calling on Nashville. And with this one comes ESPN “Game Day!” LSU heads on back down to Baton Rouge for another big battle as well. No. 3 Texas A&M (7-0, 4-0) calls down on the Bayou. As for Collegefootballfan.com, we already made plans to see another Top Ten team play. Also, not far away but in the FCS, however. We travel about an hour east to Cookeville, Tennessee to see No. 8 Tennessee Tech (7-0, 4-0) play in Tucker Stadium for our first visit (stadium # 201 for us). They will host Southeast Missouri State (3-4, 2-1) in a Big South-OVC game. We hold out some hope to possibly see the Golden Eagles host an FCS play-off game in the post season as well.

For more game action and college football history like this game review for Vanderbilt vs. LSU, check out our book on Amazon.com. Recording such since 1972!

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a “kick” out of our great adventure having now seen all 136 FBS teams play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Bowls and play-off game lie ahead for the rest of this season. Thanks for checking this out!

We plan to be back at FirstBank on November 22 when Vanderbilt hosts Kentucky!
We plan to be back at FirstBank on November 22 when Vanderbilt hosts Kentucky! Games at Arkansas and at Notre Dame before then.

Game 725: Dismal Delaware disappoints in our FBS debut to JSU, 38-25

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Jacksonville, AL – We looked forward to seeing former Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) power team, Delaware, play for the first time as an FBS competitor. Over the years, the Fighting Blue Hens FCS record finish14-7. This evening, Jacksonville State dominated to the tune of 35-6 before the end of the third quarter of our first FBS game they appeared in. 

After hours of driving down to Mobile on Tuesday, attending the Arkansas State at South Alabama game, visiting the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial in the morning and driving five more hours to attend this game, we felt like we wasted our time. Delaware, (3-3, 1-2) showed no energy, effort or guts.  With 3:02 left in the third, JSU brought in their second team QB.  As we left, we heard the PA announce a score for the Blue Hens (note we didn’t say “Fighting”).  We didn’t know what happened after that, but the outcome was evident as we exited AmFirst Stadium.

Jacksonville forces turnovers

Delaware TE Elijah Sessoms took a hard shot and coughed up the football to JSU on the UD 11. RB Cam Cook ran it in from the six for a 7-0 Jacksonville State lead in the first.  In the second, Delaware WR Jake Thaw fumbled after a catch. This time, Caleb Nix picked it off the turf and rambled 45 yards for Jacksonville’s second score.  On a three-play 48-yard drive, QB Caden Creel connected with TE Brock Rechsteiner on a crossing pattern for a 23-yard TD pass. 

Delaware finally put together a scoring drive of 83 yards on four plays.  Viron Vinson took it in from one.  The two-point attempt failed, and Jacksonville held the 21-6 edge into halftime.

Jacksonville State QB Craden Creel (12) could not be stopped for three quarters. H passed for 116 yards and rushed for 57 more. He threw a TD pass to key the Gamecock win.
Jacksonville State QB Craden Creel (12) could not be stopped for three quarters. H passed for 116 yards and rushed for 57 more. He threw a TD pass to key the Gamecock win.

All Jacksonville in third

The two teams exchanged punts to start. On the Gamecock’s second possession, Cam Cook’s 66-yard run keyed the next JSU score. He ran it in from the one two plays later.  After forcing a turnover on downs. JSU took over again at UD’s 43.  Cook scored his third TD of the game from the two.  Building a one-sided score, 35-6, after a long day, we decided to pack it in for our morning trip back up to Tennessee in anticipation of more driving back down to return to Auburn to see the Tigers host No. 14 Missouri (that plan changed later though) on Saturday. 

Before we left AmFirst Stadium, Jacksonville brought in second-string QB Gavin Wimsett. He formerly played at Rutgers and Kentucky.  Based on that, we realized this game was about to become a scrimmage. Jacksonville State HC Charles Kelly decided give his second-stringer some actual game experience. Rightly so. Exiting Burgess-Snow Field at AmFirst Stadium, we heard the PA announce a Delaware TD. Then, they missed two-point conversion. Delaware QB Nick Minicucci connected with Max Patterson for a 21-yard scoring pass.

Despite his three touchdowns on eight carries, Jacksonville State held Viron Ellison to only 15 yards on the ground. Overall, UD rushed for only 34.
Despite his three touchdowns on eight carries, Jacksonville State held Viron Ellison to only 15 yards on the ground. Overall, UD rushed for only 34.

Fourth period played out as expected

JSU PK Garrison Rippa got to try out his leg for a 52-yard FG to increase the Gamecock lead, 38-12.   UD would make the score respectable against what we figured were second-stringers gaining some game experience.  According to reports online the next morning, UD put together two long drives with Viron Ellison scoring for the Blue Hens. The first from two yards and the latter from four. Final score, Jacksonville 38 Delaware 25. 

Not the exciting, competitive game we had hoped for. However, watched our 136th FBS program play for the first time. We achieved our primary goal once again. The FBS adds, and we keep pace. The Delaware football program remains one of our favorites, and we hope to see them do well at the FBS level.  Already, we plan to see them host a game at Delaware Stadium since now it’s officially another FBS venue to add to our record book.

DL Timothy Taylor handles Ellison here close to his own goal line. Despite the ground game, Delaware QB Nick Minicucci threw for 422 yards but only one TD. Turnovers turned into JSU scores as well.
DL Timothy Taylor handles Ellison here close to his own goal line. Despite the ground game, Delaware QB Nick Minicucci threw for 422 yards but only one TD. Turnovers turned into JSU scores as well.

On to CUSA Wednesdays; Collegefootballfan.com – Big game to end WEEK Eight

Delaware (4-3, 1-2) hosts its next FCS foe, Middle Tennessee State (1-5, 0-3) on Wednesday, October 22. In WEEK Ten, JSU (4-3, 3-0) visits MTSU on Wednesday, October 29.  We’ve decided to pack it in regarding weekday nights games for the rest of the 2025 season.  We’re saving our trips, money and energy for the post season games ahead that intrigue us much more.  One impacting such possibilities comes to nearby Nashville on Saturday: No. 10 LSU visits No. 17 Vanderbilt.  If Vandy triumphs, partying on Broadway will be even more fun that afternoon!

Finished up seeing all 136 teams – there’s a lot of history to share now that this was done and more to make. Check out our book on Amazon.com.

Click on the title about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about.

In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a kick out of our great adventure having now seen every FBS team play over the years! Who else can say that? Continue to come back and follow our future adventures. Thanks!

Our South Carolina grad daughter does not like the fact that JSU is also the Gamecocks and that their mascot "Cocky" looks just like USC's! Call's them the Copy-cats among other thins!
Our South Carolina grad daughter does not like the fact that JSU is also the Gamecocks and that their mascot “Cocky” looks just like USC’s! Call’s them the Copy-cats among other things!

Game 724: Arkansas State takes lead and wins as time expires, 15-14; 25 penalties?

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Mobile, Alabama –South Alabama took a 14-3 lead into the final period, but Arkansas State’s persistence and USA’s penalties pushed the Red Wolves on to victory.  In the final period, even Jaguar HC Major Applewhite contributed negatively with a 15-yard unsportsmanlike call against him. The sloppy play spoke volumes in this one.  Arkansas State incurred 11 flags for 91 yards. South Alabama induced 14 for 130 yards. This game was tough to watch.

First of all, we have to admit, collegefootballfan.com committed our biggest penalty ever. We arrived at 11:07 into the first period.  Did not realize that South Alabama no longer played at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Found the traffic basically non-resistant as I got closer to that destination. Now we realize, they don’t even play a bowl game there anymore. The 68 Ventures Bowl will be played here on the South Alabama campus at Hancock Whitney Stadium on Wednesday, December 17.

Our 200th college football stadium attended in our 46th year!
Our 200th college football stadium attended in our 46th year!

Anyway, the score remained 0-0 when finally seated.  At Whitney-Hancock Stadium, Arkansas State punted, and South Alabama started from its 24. Got penalized ten yards more for holding by the kicking team. Numerous yellow flags turned out to be a sign of many more to come. The Jags drove to the Red Wolves nine.  Kentrell Bullock took it over from there to put USA up, 7-0, with 2:50 left in the first quarter. The teams exchanged punts heading on into the second.

South Alabama has a problem here, “hear?”

Arkansas State started to drive at the South Alabama 45 after a 22-yard punt.  With the aid of a roughing the passer penalty after a six-yard catch and defensive pass interference on the next play, the Red Wolves pressed on to Jaguar ten.  After a loss, the Red Wolves settled for a 25-yard FG by Clune Van Andel to close the score, 7-3. At this point, penalties already prevailed for both teams.  With ASU pass-oriented according to pre-game radio analysts and USA run-oriented, both hurt themselves with numerous, mindless penalties.  

Arkansas State stops Jag's leading rusher Kentrel Bullock for a short gain. He rushed for 72 yards a nine-yard TD.
Arkansas State stops Jag’s leading rusher Kentrel Bullock for a short gain. He rushed for 72 yards and a nine-yard TD.

Most mistakes for South Alabama could be attributable to HC Major Applewhite. Procedure penalties galore indicate a lack of discipline. The stadium wasn’t deafening by any means. Inexcusable for a team under a HC of six seasons in FBS football. Four here in Mobile. While penalty yards climbed for both teams, Arkansas State under HC Butch Jones with five of 16 years as HC at ASU and three other FBS programs, offensive yards at the half totaled only 124 for ASU and 128 for USA. The 252 total yards of offense in the first half only exceeded the penalized yards in this game by 31. Applewhite played QB at Texas during his college career.  Strategies and coaching capabilities will weigh heavily on Jaguars’ fan-base now for Applewhite’s future with the Jaguar program.

Unusual observation on this end here

After a long drive down to Mobile to attend this one, we ate on the fly in the car.  Hungry at halftime, as we rarely do, I found a short concession stand line.  All it had were three choices of chicken finger baskets: three, five, or seven chicken fingers.  I selected a honey mustard as my sauce compared to the “saucy”-described “foo” sauce.  Have to admit, the fingers tasted great – meaty, tasty chicken meat, not overwhelmed with breadcrumbs. The five-piece option satisfied the appetite with a big bottle of Smart Water.  They only offered two different waters as drink options. Got to watch the A1C any way per the doctor, but Chicken Fingers at Whitney-Hancock Stadium definitely hit the spot!

Arkansas State challenges to no avail

ASU held USA to punt after a three-and-out to start the third. Starting the next possession from their 21, the converted on a fourth and seven to the 29 on a pass to WR Corey Rucker. On third and goal at the five, Jaylen Raynor’s pass went incomplete, and the Red Wolves settled to kick a 22-yard FG.  Blocked! The Jags started from their 20. Punted from their 47. Arkansas State started from the 11. However, USA DB Nehimiah Chandler thwarted the effort right there with an INT at the ASU 42.  Five plays later, PJ Martin ran around the right side for the Jags. He bumped off a would-be tackler to the outside and ran 27 yards for a 14-3 South Alabama lead going into the final period.

Clune Van Andel's field goal attempt was blocked by USA and veered to the left here in the third. He would hit the game -winer from 34 as time expired.
Clune Van Andel’s field goal attempt was blocked by USA and veered to the left here in the third. He would hit the game-winner from 34 as time expired.

Arkansas State finds some life

To start the fourth, Arkansas converted a fourth and two at the 46 with a seven-yard run to continue to drive. With 10:43 to go, Van Andel made good on a 37-yard FG to close the gap, 14-6. South Alabama started from its 25, but SACK! They punted from the eight to put Arkansas State at their 48 with 8:31 left. On the first play, Raynor raced 42 yards to the Jaguar six. WR Hunter Summers hauled in a six-yard scoring pass from Raynor on the next. A two-point conversion pass to tie the score fell incomplete. The visiting Red Wolves still trailed by two with 7:51 on the clock, 14-12.

Arkansas State QB Jaylen Raynor takes off for a 42-yard run to set up the Red Wolves touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Arkansas State QB Jaylen Raynor (#1) takes off for a 42-yard run to set up the Red Wolves touchdown in the fourth quarter.

South Alabama looked to control the ball to run out the clock. On a fourth and three at the Jag 24, offsides defense. First down? Yes, but an unsportsmanlike call came against HC Major Applewhite. He screamed something at an official close by. So, the Jags backed up 15 yards to their 34. Martin eventually took the ball to the ASU ten but out came a flag. Holding against the Jaguars.  At the two-minute time-out, South Alabama had third and goal at the Arkansas State 20. At 1:50, they set up for a field goal at the ASU 11 on fourth and goal. ASU called its first time out. Hamilton Di Boyan came in to put South Alabama up by five on a 29-yarder – MISSED!  ASU had the ball again on its 20 with 1:50 to play and two timeouts remaining.

Arkansas State rallies

Jaylen Raynor completed four passes and ran for 14 to get his Red Wolves to the South Alabama 34. With one minute to play,  USA called its first time-out.  Two running plays to the 23 gave Arkansas State another first down and South Alabama called another TO.  With a three-yard pick-up to the 20, Raynor called time-out with three seconds remaining.  Van Andel came in to nail the door shut on South Alabama as the Red Wolves celebrated their ride back to Jonesboro with a 15-14 last-second victory.  Both Sun Belt teams, Arkansas State stands 3-4, 2-2.  South Alabama’s record goes to 1-5, 0-3.  They’ve lost five straight since their season opening win over FCS Morgan State.

Van Andel puts up game-winner as time expires for Arkansas State 15-14 win.
Van Andel (34) puts up game-winner as time expires for the Arkansas State 15-14 win.

Looking to WEEK Nine

South Alabama looks to get on a winning track when they play SBC foe Georgia State (1-5, 0-2) in Atlanta. ASU returns to Jonesboro to take on Georgia Southern (2-4, 0-2). Both teams seen this evening play in the Sun Belt’s Western Division.  Winners of the East and West divisions in the SBC play on Friday December 5 for the conference title at a home team site to be determined.  Probably neither of these two teams.

Slight change in Our WEEK Nine plans

After we add our review of Game 725, Delaware at Jacksonville State, we’ve already attended, we have a blockbuster change for Saturday, October 18. Though we had a great one already planned to see No. 14 Missouri for an annual trip to Auburn with our friends Charle and Lynda Murren, the late kick-off added some complications to our trip to Auburn. After a lot of consideration for an option, only one made sense. Instead of traveling somewhere else and seeing some so-so games, we decided to take the best option for collegefootballfan.com. Unbelievably, we’re staying close to home. SEC game between two ranked teams right in downtown Nashville – No. 10 LSU at No. 17 Vanderbilt. Never thought we’d see a game with two highly ranked SEC teams in the Music City, but here it is! We’re going!

Our real reason for seeing this game in Mobile

We traveled north the next morning to attend the game to be played between Jacksonville State and Delaware who we will record as our 136th FBS team. However, we’ve seen the Fighting Blue Hens play as an FCS member 21 times before. Prior to leaving Mobile in the morning though, we looked forward to another stop. We planned to visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park nearby. Our good and late friend, Tom Ables, also known as “Mr. San Diego State” served aboard USS Alabama in WWII.

After discharge from the Navy after the war, Tom went home to San Diego. Starting as a sports reporter for the San Deigo State student paper, he attended 788 Aztec football games up until his final week when he passed at the age of 91 in 2017. Still in touch with his son Ken, we plan to get together for our 788th game in 2027 at an Aztec game in honor of Tom. Looking forward to planning that trip.

Sixteen-inch gun turrets on the deck of Tom Ables' WWII ship the USS Alabama BB-60 at Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama.
Sixteen-inch gun turrets on the deck of Tom Ables’ WWII ship, the USS Alabama BB-60, now retired at Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama.

Finishing up136 teams – there’s a lot of history to share on how this was done

Click on the title of my book about this life-long adventure: Fifty Years of Tailgate Tales: The Good, the Fun, and the Ugly on Amazon.com. Read the reviews on the book page and get your copy today! If you’re trying to follow NILs and transfer portals, read what we predicted in 2023 and more. You’ll see we know what we’re talking about. In addition, we offered solutions to issues occurring that we anticipated when we wrote this book. Based on our game story above, this fun, unique life-long Journey continues. Catch up on the last 45 years, and then please submit a review. We hope you will get a kick out of our great adventure having now seen every FBS team play over the years! Who else can say that?

I had the honor of seeing the engine room where Tom spent most of his time on the USS Alabama. He was one of those sailors who didn't get to see much of the ocean even though he served at sea.
I had the honor of seeing the engine room where Tom spent most of his time on the USS Alabama. He was one of those sailors who didn’t get to see much of the ocean even though he served at sea.