College football winners, losers in Week 1: Is this the year of the WR?
Key Points:
- Week 1 of college football saw significant shifts in team impressions, highlighted by UMass's historic upset over Rutgers, marking its first win against a Power Four opponent and snapping a 16-game losing streak.
- Heisman hopeful wide receivers shined, with standout performances from Miami’s Malachi Toney, Jeremiah Smith, and others signaling a potential breakout year for receivers in 2026.
- Oklahoma State struggled despite high offseason expectations and major roster changes, losing 24-10 to Tulsa and facing growing pains under first-year coach Eric Morris.
- Pittsburgh’s sophomore QB Mason Heintschel set an ACC record with seven touchdown passes in a dominant 59-14 win over Miami (Ohio), showcasing the Panthers' evolving passing game.
- Oregon’s defensive line underperformed against Boise State despite high preseason expectations, while USC’s defense, led by Gary Patterson, dominated Fresno State in a 39-0 victory, boosting playoff hopes.