Week 9 of the college football season delivered massive chaos across the country, with seven AP Top 25 teams dropping games during the early windows, including five losses to unranked opponents. While powerhouses like No. 3 Georgia dominated their matchups, other top programs stumbled hard, shaking up the national championship and conference title races.
Ohio State and Wisconsin Among Big Week 9 Losers
No. 2 Ohio State suffered a stunning defeat against USC, marking coach Ryan Day's second career loss against an unranked opponent. The Buckeyes were bullied in the secondary, surrendering a 69-yard touchdown on the second play of the game. Having not lost two games before November since 2011, Ohio State proved they are mortal after barely surviving earlier contests.
Meanwhile, No. 25 Wisconsin saw its momentum come to a screeching halt in a 30-0 blowout loss against Iowa under coach Luke Fickell. The Badgers managed only 52 rushing yards while allowing Iowa quarterback Hank Brown to throw for 222 yards and two touchdowns.
Other notable struggles included Oklahoma, which fell 42-25 at home to South Carolina under coach Brent Venables, and Nebraska, which suffered a brutal 3-point loss to Washington after a late pick-six by safety Alex McLaughlin off quarterback Anthony Colandrea.
Oregon and Indiana Secure Dramatic Victories
Despite the carnage, several teams and players found redemption during Week 9:
- Dylan Raiola: The Oregon quarterback bounced back from an early 10-0 deficit against No. 20 Northwestern, completing 22-of-31 passes for 336 yards and three touchdowns.
- Curt Cignetti: No. 4 Indiana's coach found a way to win 23-16 in overtime against Minnesota after both teams traded dramatic 60-yard field goals in the waning seconds of regulation.
- Ahmad Hardy: The Missouri running back returned to the field against Arkansas after suffering a gunshot wound during the summer, breaking off a 37-year run in the fourth quarter.
- Texas Tech: Backup quarterback Thomas Castellanos led the Red Raiders to consecutive home wins over No. 22 Houston and No. 22 Arizona to ignite Big 12 title talks.
Iowa State and Sacramento State Make History
Iowa State pulled off a thrilling 51-49 victory over No. 24 Oklahoma State, propelled by running back Aiden Flora's 221 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a 75-yard breakaway score. The Cyclones now face four straight unranked opponents to close out the year.
In historic fashion, Sacramento State earned its very first FBS victory by defeating Kent State 31-10, led by running back Isaiah Ene's 107 yards and two touchdowns following a tough 0-7 start to their FBS transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did No. 2 Ohio State lose to in Week 9?
Ohio State lost to USC in a stunning performance where the Buckeyes gave up a 69-yard touchdown on the second play of the game.
How did Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy return to the field?
Hardy returned to play against Arkansas after suffering a summer gunshot wound where doctors left the bullet lodged in his leg due to removal risks.
What milestone did Sacramento State achieve in Week 9?
Sacramento State secured its first-ever FBS victory by defeating Kent State 31-10 behind running back Isaiah Ene.