What We Learned About College Football in Week One

Key Points:

• Clemson suffered a humiliating 51-10 defeat to LSU in week one, signaling a continued decline from their previous status as national champions and perennial contenders under Dabo Swinney.
• Michigan struggled offensively for most of their game against Western Michigan, with quarterback Bryce Underwood showing little progress, and their defense unable to force stops, raising concerns ahead of a key matchup with Oklahoma.
• Pitt’s quarterback Mason Heintschel had an impressive season opener, throwing for 453 yards and seven touchdowns without interceptions, suggesting the Panthers could be a strong passing threat in the ACC this year.
• USC’s defense delivered a surprising shutout against Fresno State, reflecting significant improvement under defensive coordinator Gary Patterson and positioning the Trojans as potential Big Ten contenders.
• Rutgers experienced a disappointing start to the season, losing to winless UMASS and highlighting challenges ahead after losing key players from last year’s team, despite it being coach Greg Schiano’s milestone 100th victory celebration.