5 Things Learned From College Football Week 4

5 Things Learned From College Football Week 4

Time Stamp: September 24, 2023 8:18 AM

College football week 2 is in the books. After every week fans can take away things from what happened on the field. Here are 5 things learned from college football week 4.

Related: 5 Things to watch in college football week 4

1. Ohio State’s Defense is Good

Over the last few seasons, Ohio State’s offense has been one of the best in the country. Their defense has lagged behind and it has cost them in big games. In a big road game against Notre Dame, a team that appears to have a talented offense, Ohio State’s defense really stepped up and only allowed 14 points.

While their offense still has some improving to do throughout the rest of the season, the defense could give them time to develop. If they do, the Buckeyes could be hitting on all cylinders at the end of the season. While Ohio State had their stock boosted with their win, even Notre Dame showed they can be a contender this year by playing tough.

2. Florida State Got Over Clemson

Heading into week 4 of the college football season, Florida State hadn’t defeated Clemson since 2014. There were plenty of expectations surrounding this Seminoles team though and to improve after a 10-win season, they had to get through the Tigers. The Seminoles took Clemson to overtime, then won the game 31-24.

The win means Florida State has already won the two toughest games on their schedule. They are College Football Playoff contenders. There will still be tests, as they have a ranked Duke team on their schedule, but the Seminoles are in a really good position. As for Clemson, there might be more conversations about using the transfer portal, as that is exactly what Florida State did to even the playing field in this game.

3. Utah Might be the Grittiest Team in the Country

Utah was 3-0 coming into week 4. All three wins came without starting quarterback Cam Rising. The impressive thing about their wins were that they were able to get those wins against some power five conference teams. Cam Rising was unable to go in their week 4 game against a ranked UCLA team, but the Utes won a defensive struggle 14-7.

It may not always look pretty, but getting the win is important. The Utes’ defense showed UCLA freshman quarterback Dante Moore’s inexperience, as he was 15/35 on the day and threw an interception. That interception was returned for a touchdown. With the big wins they have secured already this season, if Rising can return, Utah can shake up the CFP picture.

4. Oregon and Washington State Outperformed Expectations

Colorado has been receiving a lot of buzz this college football season. This didn’t sit well with Oregon head coach Dan Lanning, who made it known during his pregame speech and halftime interview. The Ducks won easily over Colorado, 42-6. In the process, Oregon showed how good of a team they were this season.

In another anticipated Pac-12 game, Washington State defeated Oregon State. A late comeback attempt made the game look closer than it actually was. The Cougars had an outstanding performance from quarterback Cam Ward, which propelled them to a win. Through both of their wins, Oregon and Washington State showed they could be in play for a Pac-12 Championship in a loaded conference.

5. Alabama’s not Dead Yet

After a loss to Texas and an uninspiring performance against USF, Alabama was 3-1 heading into week 4. They were matching up with Ole Miss, a ranked team that could cause issues. Alabama didn’t play flawlessly, but they were able to get the win 24-10.

The Crimson Tide’s offensive line looked a little improved and turning the offense back to Jalen Milroe helped. He is able to create big plays on deep throws and his ability to run the football. While the early season loss to Texas isn’t ideal, if Alabama keeps improving they could compete at the top of the SEC West.

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