Grambling State Hands Jackson State Its First Loss

In a thrilling matchup, Grambling State pulled off a stunning victory over previously undefeated Jackson State, winning 45-38. This game marked the first loss for Jackson State in the 2026 season, along with knocking them from their No. 1 ranking in HBCU football.

Jackson State started strong, racing to a 14-0 lead. However, Grambling State rallied, and by halftime, the teams were deadlocked at 21-21. A key turning point occurred during the halftime break when Jackson State lost starting quarterback Jared Lockhart, the reigning Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Freshman of the Year, due to injury. His absence was felt in the second half as backup Caron Tyler struggled, throwing two interceptions, one of which came during a critical moment in the fourth quarter when JSU was poised for a potential game-winning drive.

This victory elevates Grambling State, ranked No. 7 in the Black College Football Poll, against a top-ranked opponent who also holds a position in the FCS Coaches Poll at No. 22.

Ty Pennington’s All-Around Dominance Leads NAU

In another exciting fixture, Northern Arizona University (NAU), ranked 14th, took a significant step by defeating No. 2 Montana. Quarterback Ty Pennington was pivotal, completing 68% of his passes for 322 yards and a touchdown, alongside rushing for four more touchdowns and catching another. His versatile performance was instrumental in achieving a decisive 400-plus yards of total offense for the Lumberjacks.

Despite Montana’s All-American running back Eli Gilman managing two rushing touchdowns, Pennington’s sharp play overwhelmed the Grizzlies, giving NAU a valuable victory in Big Sky Conference play.

“TY PENNINGTON CAN DO IT ALL!!! 🤯 @JosephAStout13 to @TyPennington14!!! #RaiseTheFlag | #7KBuilt”

— NAU Football (@NAU_Football) October 10, 2026

Northern Iowa Upsets No. 7 North Dakota

Northern Iowa continued their impressive run by defeating No. 7 North Dakota with a score of 24-7. After securing a 24-7 lead in the second quarter, the Panthers never relinquished control, forcing five turnovers and even managing to block a punt. The defeat was so severe for North Dakota that they opted to bench starting quarterback Jerry Kaminski.

“Meatball sub to Kolben Miller!!! #EverLoyal | #LegacyEra | #UNIFootball”

— UNI Football (@UNIFootball) October 10, 2026

Cal Poly’s Remarkable Finish Against Idaho State

In a nail-biting finish, Cal Poly achieved an upset victory over Idaho State with a final score of 25-24, thanks in part to a spectacular one-handed interception that sealed the game. Cal Poly’s defense was aggressive, forcing Idaho State’s quarterback Jordan Cooke into multiple turnovers, which proved critical in securing the victory.

“Upset in Pocatello 👀 The INT that sealed the win for @calpolyfootball at Idaho State.”

— Big Sky Conference (@BigSkyConf) October 11, 2026