"After that, however, things get a little tougher. Ohio State's defense was dominant, and certainly Arvell Reese and Caleb Downs warranted lots of love. Miami's playoff run boosted the hype around players such as Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor. And even if Texas Tech couldn't score in the playoff, no one could question the impact of that defense led by David Bailey and Jacob Rodriguez."
"Knight stepped into a starring role for the Sun Belt champs in 2025. He topped 100 rushing yards in five games -- including three of the final four of the season -- and on the rare occasion when JMU struggled, Knight always came through. His 58-yard touchdown gave the Dukes the lead over Washington State midway through the fourth quarter, and his 73-yard score against Troy in the Sun Belt championship game got JMU going after a sluggish start."
Fernando Mendoza propelled the Hoosiers to unprecedented heights, sealing the national championship with a fourth-and-5, end-zone dive. Ohio State's defense dominated the season, with Arvell Reese and Caleb Downs among standout defenders. Miami's playoff run elevated Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor. Texas Tech's playoff offense struggled, while its defense, led by David Bailey and Jacob Rodriguez, made a major impact. Offensive standouts included Jeremiyah Love, Jeremiah Smith, Diego Pavia and Francis Mauigoa. JMU's Knight produced multiple 100-yard games and decisive long touchdowns in key wins. The Utah offense improved markedly with Dampier and coordinator Jason Beck.
Read at ESPN.com
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