<
>

Drawing Conclusions: Week 1's playoff impact

Welcome back to our weekly illustrated guide during the college football season to the four games that had an impact on the playoff race.

BYU 33, Nebraska 28

Despite losing starting quarterback Taysom Hill for the season, BYU backup Tanner Mangum heaved a 42-yard touchdown pass with no time remaining to Mitch Mathews against a sea of red at Nebraska. The win is important for the Cougars, who likely need an undefeated season to garner playoff consideration.


No. 3 Alabama 35, No. 20 Wisconsin 17

Already Alabama's leading rusher as backup last season, supersized running back Derrick Henry stepped into the starting lineup with 147 yards and three touchdowns as the Crimson Tide reload at running back.


No. 13 UCLA 34, Virginia 16

UCLA true freshman Josh Rosen, who was the top quarterback recruit in the nation, lived up to his nickname of Chosen Rosen. He seamlessly replaced three-year starter Brett Hundley, throwing for 351 yards and three touchdowns.


Northwestern 16, No. 21 Stanford 6

Despite Stanford being a trendy pick to win the Pac-12 and perhaps contend for a playoff spot, Northwestern's defense chewed up the Cardinal offense, holding it to just 240 yards and Stanford's fewest points since 2007.