“college football” · 7
United StatesVanderbilt Pulls Off Miracle Comeback vs. NC State You Have to See to Believe
In a thrilling college football matchup at FirstBank Stadium, the Vanderbilt Commodores staged an impressive comeback against the North Carolina State Wolfpack. NC State took an early 17-0 lead with two touchdowns in the first quarter, but Vanderbilt responded with a 12-yard touchdown reception by Junior Sherrill. The teams exchanged scores throughout the game, with NC State leading by a field goal in the final minutes. However, Vanderbilt pulled off a dramatic late-game reversal when quarterback CJ Bailey fumbled the ball in the end zone, allowing sophomore cornerback Cayden Daniels to recover it for a touchdown. This pivotal play gave Vanderbilt a 35-31 victory, improving their record to 3-0. The win showcased strong performances from Vanderbilt's players, including wide receiver Sherrill and quarterback Jared Curtis, while NC State fell to 1-2.
College Football Player MicahJo Barnett Dies at 20 Moments After Scoring Touchdown
MicahJo Barnett, a 20-year-old running back for William Jewell College in Missouri, died shortly after scoring a touchdown during a football game on August 29, 2026. The incident occurred at Greene Stadium in Liberty, Missouri, when Barnett collapsed on the sideline and was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The game was paused during the emergency and ultimately canceled. The college held a vigil in his honor, and university leaders expressed gratitude for the swift response from local authorities and medical teams. Both William Jewell College and Fort Lewis College extended condolences, with the latter offering support to its athletes. Barnett was recognized for his academic achievements and leading performance in rushing during the previous season.
QB Who Beat Out Diego Pavia in Camp Makes Ravens' 53-Man Roster
The Baltimore Ravens signed undrafted quarterback Diego Pavia in April but later cut him in July to make room for center Ethan Pocic. During training camp and the preseason, the Ravens also evaluated undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano, who earned a spot on the team's 53-man roster. Fagnano, who played college football at UConn, performed well in the preseason, completing 19 of 27 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown in the final exhibition game against the Washington Commanders. Earlier in the preseason, he completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in a 24-7 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Fagnano expressed determination to seize any opportunities during the preseason, emphasizing his focus on helping the team succeed. He will now compete alongside established quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
Bills tackle Ed Oliver’s son has died, team announces
The Buffalo Bills have expressed their condolences after the death of defensive tackle Ed Oliver's 2-year-old son. The team released a statement offering support to Oliver and his family during this difficult time. Authorities in Harris County, Texas, responded to a report of a toddler drowning in June at an address matching Oliver's listed location. Deputies found the child unresponsive in a swimming pool on Lago Trace Drive, and the toddler was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The cause of death has not been disclosed by either the Bills or the sheriff's office. Ed Oliver, who is entering his eighth season with the Bills, previously played college football for the Houston Cougars.
How Alabama is Falling Behind in NIL Race
The article discusses how the University of Alabama's football program is falling behind other top-tier college football teams in terms of spending on athlete recruitment and retention, particularly under the name-and-image-likeness (NIL) era. According to reports by CBS Sports journalists John Talty and Chris Hummer, leading programs are spending around $40 million annually on their rosters, while Alabama spends significantly less, estimated at around $30 million. This shift is attributed partly to the retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban, whose leadership previously allowed Alabama to compete effectively despite lower spending. The departure of key players such as Caleb Downs, who transferred after Saban's retirement, highlights the impact of this change. Additionally, Alabama missed opportunities to secure talent during the transfer portal process, such as losing running back Hollywood Smothers to a wealthier program. While Alabama still has strong prospects like five-star quarterback Keelon Russell, the team relies heavily on high school recruits rather than established transfers, raising questions about whether this strategy remains effective.
Jaxson Dart Making Significant Change to Play Style
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, who was selected 25th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, has made changes to his playing style during training camp. Previously known for taking unnecessary risks by fighting for extra yards and not protecting his body, Dart recently demonstrated a more cautious approach by sliding near the sideline instead of engaging defenders. This shift has pleased the team, as they prioritize his availability throughout the 2026 season. Edge rusher Brian Burns noted the change, stating the team had been encouraging this behavior. While Dart's aggressive style contributed to strong statistical performance in his rookie season, including 15 touchdowns and nine rushing touchdowns, coaches believe reducing such risks will improve his longevity. Dart, who played college football at USC and Ole Miss, is seen as being on track to adopt a more balanced approach in his second season.
Big Ten Coordinator Exposes the 1 Big Hole in Ohio State QB Julian Sayin’s Game
Julian Sayin, the starting quarterback for Ohio State, had a strong debut season in 2025, throwing for 3,610 yards, 32 touchdowns, and eight interceptions while leading the team to a 12-2 record, a Big Ten Championship Game appearance, and a College Football Playoff berth. Despite this success, an anonymous Big Ten defensive coordinator criticized Sayin's reluctance to run, noting his minimal rushing yards (-44) and lack of comfort in using his legs. The coordinator suggested that Sayin's aversion to running makes him vulnerable to pressure and limits his ability to extend plays. While some praise his decision-making and arm strength, concerns remain about his ability to handle adversity under duress.