Running All The Way

Nick Sheridan and Steven Threet fulfilled the concern that they were ill-suited to run Rodriguez's spread attack, completing 19 of 38 passes combined in generating only 203 yards of offense. The weekend wasn't a total loss for RichRod: On Sunday he got a verbal commitment from Tate Forcier, a four-star, dual-threat QB from San Diego.

MISSISSIPPI Houston Nutt

Defeated Memphis 41--24

QB Jevan Snead, a Texas transfer, struggled at times, and RB Dexter McCluster stole the show. Playing out of the Wildhog direct-snap formation that Nutt installed at Arkansas for Darren McFadden—and redubbed the Wild Rebel on Saturday—McCluster ran for 65 yards on six carries, including a 32-yard touchdown dash.

NEBRASKA Bo Pelini

Defeated Western Michigan 47--24

Though the Huskers gave up three 80-yard touchdown drives, their defense, with the likes of LB Cody Glenn, should be better than last year's. The converted RB had 12 tackles (2 1/2 for losses), three pass breakups and a forced fumble.

SMU June Jones

Lost to Rice 56--27

The Mustangs had their moments in their new run-and-shoot offense, just not enough of them. Freshman QB Bo Levi Mitchell threw three touchdown passes—and three interceptions.