Hope is the driving force behind the thrilling world of college football, bringing fans together each week as they experience the highs of victory and the lows of defeat. As some teams celebrate their successes, others face unwelcome heartbreak. This week, we delve into three fan bases that are bruised after disappointing performances in Week 13.
Beginning with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, who entered the season with a promising 9-2 record and hopes of a Heisman-contending quarterback in Haynes King. However, a significant blow came in a 48-36 loss to NC State, which marked the start of a downward spiral. After a narrow win over Boston College, anticipation built for a critical game against No. 24 Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, the matchup turned disastrous, as they trailed 28-0 early and ultimately lost 42-28, extinguishing their ACC Championship hopes and any chance of making the College Football Playoff. With a rivalry game against No. 4 Georgia next, the road ahead looks daunting.
Next, the Kansas State Wildcats have experienced a similar decline. Starting the season with high expectations, they quickly faltered, losing to Iowa State in Dublin. A glimmer of hope appeared following a competitive performance against No. 14 Utah, as they led 31-21 at halftime. Yet, a heartbreaking collapse allowed Utah to snatch the game away 51-47, despite running back Joe Jackson breaking school records with a staggering 293 rushing yards. Not only did the loss cost Kansas State a chance at bowl eligibility, but it further darkened a season that started with promise.
The East Carolina Pirates also had hopes dashed in Week 13. After overcoming early-season struggles with four consecutive wins, their aspirations for a conference championship faced a significant test against UTSA. The Roadrunners, boasting an unbeaten home record under coach Jeff Traylor, swiftly took control with a shocking 31-0 lead. The Wildcats were ultimately overwhelmed, finishing with a 58-24 defeat that significantly harmed their standing in the conference.
Honorable mentions for fan misery include the USC Trojans, Illinois Fighting Illini, Syracuse Orange, UMass Minutemen, and Western Kentucky Hilltoppers—all experiencing their share of heartache as well.
Looking ahead to Week 14, known for its rivalry matchups, the potential for further meltdowns is high. With matchups such as Mississippi State aiming to upset a distracted Ole Miss, Michigan fighting to maintain dominance over Ohio State, and Texas Longhorns facing off against Texas A&M, there’s no shortage of intrigue. The landscape of college football promises both heartbreak and hope, keeping fans on their toes as the season nears its climax.