Fraud Alert: Notre Dame, Texas Tech, a few surprises face judgment after Week 5
Fraud Court is back. Notre Dame, Florida, Baylor and other surprise teams face judgment as we separate contenders from pretenders.
Week 5 in college football was filled with surprises, as several teams exceeded expectations and shocked others. In USA TODAY Sports Fraud Court, USA TODAY Sports examined the performances of a few teams that have caught everyone off guard.
Notre Dame, ranked No. 3, played its closest game of the season against North Carolina. Despite hanging on to win 37-26, the Fighting Irish were found not guilty. The game was unusual, with weather conditions contributing to some unexpected moments. North Carolina benefited from some key breaks, including a kickoff return touchdown to open the second half.
Texas Tech, ranked No. 9, was involved in an upset after an ugly first half. They fell behind Colorado 7-3 at halftime, but recovered to score 26 unanswered points and win comfortably. Texas Tech was deemed guilty, as they have not consistently resembled the strong team expected since the Brendan Sorsby saga. Their schedule looks favorable, but they are vulnerable against tougher opponents.
Florida, ranked No. 15, had a beatdown in a 45-17 loss to Missouri. The team was deemed not guilty, as this was one lopsided loss after a statement win against Ole Miss. The Gators still possess firepower and optimism, but will be tested in upcoming matchups against Texas and Georgia.
Mississippi State, ranked No. 20, stumbled against Alabama in a 33-point loss. The Bulldogs were found not guilty, as their early miscues put them in a difficult position against the Crimson Tide. Quarterback Kamario Taylor remains dynamic, but their defense needs improvement against quality opponents.
Pittsburgh, ranked No. 24, lost to ACC rival Virginia in a controversial finish. Quarterback Mason Heintschel's injury was a major blow, and the team was ruled guilty. He was a significant reason for the Panthers' 5-0 start, and their success without him is uncertain with a tougher schedule ahead.
Virginia, ranked No. 24, experienced a disaster in their ACC road trip. They were found guilty, as they were exposed by Florida State's mobile quarterback. The Cavaliers' defense proved to be vulnerable against teams with dynamic playmakers.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
