College football winners, losers in Week 3: Georgia weathers the Tennessee storm

Week 3 of the college football season delivered a whirlwind of excitement, providing fans with critical matchups that shaped the landscape as teams rallied for position in the rankings. Notably, No. 6 Georgia faced off against No. 15 Tennessee in a thrilling overtime contest, while Georgia Tech shocked No. 12 Clemson, amplifying the drama of the week. The emergence of standout quarterbacks added to the electrifying atmosphere across several games.

### Big Winners

#### Georgia

In what was arguably the biggest game of the week, Georgia managed to prevail despite some defensive shortcomings. The Bulldogs’ 44-41 overtime victory over Tennessee showcased their resilience and championship mentality. Quarterback Gunner Stockton, after a shaky start, delivered a performance that justified head coach Kirby Smart’s faith in him, throwing for 304 yards and rushing for a touchdown. Although Georgia’s defense allowed 496 total yards, including 371 through the air, they managed to deliver a critical stop in overtime, holding Tennessee to a mere 42-yard field goal attempt.

The experience of navigating such a tough environment at Neyland Stadium will serve Georgia well as they aim for a championship this season. The victory also underscores the delicate balance in college football—finding ways to win even when not at your best.

#### Alabama QB Ty Simpson

Ty Simpson has emerged as a key player for No. 19 Alabama. After facing criticism for his performance in the season opener against Florida State, Simpson bounced back in style, leading his team to a commanding 38-14 win over Wisconsin. He threw for 382 yards and four touchdowns with remarkable precision, completing 24 of 29 passes. His development into a reliable leader is pivotal for Alabama’s chances of making a strong push for the College Football Playoff (CFP).

The evolution of Simpson’s playstyle, particularly his ability to release the ball quickly and involve multiple receivers, may be just what Alabama needs to regain its competitive edge.

#### Rich Rodriguez and West Virginia

Another notable winner is Rich Rodriguez, who took West Virginia back to the spotlight with a thrilling comeback against their rivals. Trailing 24-14 entering the fourth quarter, Rodriguez’s squad found a way to score late and ultimately win in overtime. This dramatic win represents a redemption arc for Rodriguez, who famously left West Virginia for Michigan nearly 20 years ago after a devastating loss.

The community is rallying around Rodriguez again, reminding fans of the program’s storied past and what it means to come from behind. This victory could signify a turning point for West Virginia as they aim for a competitive season.

### Major Losers

#### Clemson

Clemson continued to unravel with a surprising 24-21 defeat to Georgia Tech, marking their first loss to the Yellow Jackets since 2014. Once considered a powerhouse, this defeat underscores the challenges facing head coach Dabo Swinney and his team, who are experiencing their worst start since 2014 at 1-2. The struggles have been multifaceted: inconsistency from the quarterback position, lack of a strong ground game, and defensive lapses have compounded their problems. Analysts like ESPN’s David Hale pointed out that Clemson is dangerously close to a dismal record against Power Four opponents.

The mounting pressure on the program raises questions about its direction and whether Swinney can pull the team back from the brink.

#### Kansas State

Kansas State’s performance has also raised eyebrows, particularly their starting quarterback’s struggles. With a dismal showing against Arizona, where the offense failed to produce even 200 total yards, the Wildcats have now begun the season at 1-3— their worst start since 1989. The quarterback’s stats were alarming; he completed just 13 of 29 passes for 88 yards, failing to inspire confidence when it mattered most. Coach Chris Klieman’s staff faces an uphill battle as they reassess their strategies moving forward amidst growing frustrations from both fans and players.

### Rising Stars

#### Quarterbacks Shining Bright

Aside from the winners and losers, Week 3 showcased a slew of rising quarterbacks who made headlines with notable performances. Joey Aguilar, in his first SEC start for Tennessee, demonstrated poise and skill, contributing significantly to the Vols’ offensive strategy. Additionally, Michigan’s Bryce Underwood showed a dual-threat capability that will keep defenses honest in upcoming weeks.

Houston’s Conner Weigman also stood out, delivering a career-defining game against Colorado. These young quarterbacks help to refresh rosters and promise an exciting future for college football.

### Final Thoughts

Week 3 brought an unexpected mix of drama and revelation, shaping the contours of the current college football season. While teams like Georgia and Alabama are pathing their way toward lofty aspirations, others like Clemson and Kansas State are grappling with daunting challenges. The emergence of emerging talents at the quarterback position, combined with riveting game narratives, keeps fans engaged and hopeful for future weeks.

As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how these narratives will unfold, but one thing is clear: college football is far from predictable. Each week brings fresh opportunities for teams to assert their dominance or struggle to redefine their seasons. The dynamic nature of the league, alongside thrilling matchups, makes for an exhilarating ride for players, coaches, and fans alike.

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