In a whirlwind of college football games on Saturday, teams made significant strides and others faced unexpected challenges. James Madison's dominant play against North Carolina resulted in a commanding lead, while Kansas and West Virginia engaged in a tight battle for the lead. The Buckeyes showcased their offensive prowess with a stellar performance from TreVeyon Henderson, and Clemson continued its dominance with a high-scoring game against NC State.

Michigan's decision to start Alex Orji at quarterback against the Trojans highlighted the team's strategy shift towards a run-heavy attack. Meanwhile, Cameron Rising's return for Utah against the Cowboys strengthened the team's chances in determining Big 12 standings. Former Oklahoma QB Josh Heupel's debut as head coach for Tennessee added another layer of intrigue to the matchups, with high expectations set for QB Nico Iamaleava's performance.

James Madison's relentless drive against North Carolina saw them extend their lead with a series of impressive touchdowns, underscoring their determination for victory. Kansas's takeover against West Virginia showcased their competitive spirit, with Daniel Hishaw Jr.'s critical run giving them the edge. In contrast, the Buckeyes' dynamic duo, TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, excelled with a remarkable performance, while Clemson's Cole Turner and Jay Haynes added to their team's commanding lead.

As halftime approached, Marshall's Elijah Metcalf rallied his team with a crucial touchdown, narrowing the gap against Ohio State. Clemson's astonishing performance before the break solidified their hold over NC State, with Dabo Swinney's team showcasing their offensive prowess once again. Notable plays, including touchdowns by Will Howard for Ohio State and a resilient drive by Graham Mertz for Florida, highlighted the intense competition and determination shown by each team.