Domination and Disappointment for Local College Football in Week 4

Photo by Kate Luffman/Tennessee Athletics

By David Oglesby

NASHVILLE - This past weekend showcased a flurry of action by local college teams, with thrilling performances and significant milestones.

The Tennessee Volunteers emerged victorious against UAB, securing a commanding 56-24 win at a sold-out Neyland Stadium. This matchup marked the sixth meeting between the two teams, and the Vols remain undefeated against the Blazers.

Head coach Josh Heupel celebrated a personal milestone, earning his 40th victory and becoming the seventh coach in UT history to reach this mark. The game featured notable performances, with three different running backs—DeSean Bishop, Peyton Lewis, and Star Thomas—each scoring rushing touchdowns in the first half. Tennessee's offense accumulated over 500 yards, and the Vols have now scored at least 42 points in the first half in two of the last three weeks, showcasing their impressive offensive firepower.

In Nashville, the Vanderbilt Commodores delivered a historic performance by defeating Georgia State 70-21. This victory marked their highest point total in 107 years, a feat last achieved in a 76-0 win over Tennessee in 1918. Quarterback Diego Pavia threw for 245 yards and a touchdown, also rushing for another score, as Vanderbilt improved to 4-0 for the season. Coach Clark Lea praised his team's effort, emphasizing their commitment to toughness and the importance of avenging last year's loss to Georgia State.

Meanwhile, Middle Tennessee State faced a challenging game against Marshall, ultimately falling 42-28. Following a two-hour weather delay, the Blue Raiders got off to a strong start, trading touchdowns with an explosive Marshall team. However, they could not maintain their offensive output. Marshall's Carlos Del Rio-Wilson threw for four touchdowns and rushed for another, leading his team to a decisive fourth-quarter surge that secured the win.

Austin Peay also faced a tough battle against Abilene Christian, losing 45-31. Despite a commendable effort from quarterback Chris Parson, who threw for 330 yards and two touchdowns, the Governors struggled with turnovers, losing three fumbles that contributed to their defeat. Parson's performance, alongside standout receiver Jackson Head—who caught seven passes for 132 yards and a touchdown—kept Austin Peay competitive, particularly as they mounted a fourth-quarter surge.

NCAA Division Standings

• Tennessee Volunteers:

  • Record: 4-0

  • SEC: Tied for 1st in the Eastern Division

• Vanderbilt Commodores:

  • Record: 4-0

  • SEC: Tied for 1st in the Eastern Division

• Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders:

  • Record: 2-2

  • C-USA: 3rd in the East Division

• Austin Peay Governors:

  • Record: 1-3

  • OVC: 6th in the standings

    
    

The Volunteers and Commodores are both poised to make a significant impact in the SEC, while MTSU and Austin Peay seek to improve their standings as they continue their campaigns.