Group of Five Power Rankings, Week 10: Houston, Fresno State on the rise

There was once again a lot of turnover this week among teams in the Group of Five football conferences, especially with top-ranked SMU falling

After the latest college football rankings came out, teams in the Group of Five (and independents) have eight teams ranked in the Top 25 and an additional five teams who are receiving votes in either the AP or Coaches Polls.

Let’s dive right in and see which teams land in this week’s Group of Five college football power rankings.

Week 9 result: Won 28-25 vs UTEP
Week 10 game: Nov. 6  vs Marshall (5-3)

Florida Atlantic joins the power rankings after being previously unranked. The Owls earned a quality win last week against a very good Texas-El Paso football team. Head Coach Willie Taggart has this Group of Five team playing great football, going 3-1 in the month of October.

Week 9 result: Bye Week
Week 10 game: Nov. 2 at Toledo (4-4)

Eastern Michigan went 2-2 in the month of October, but never got blown out. The Eagles have quietly been making a case as one of the best teams in the MAC this season. The team has used a running back-by-committee approach and it’s worked well this season. So far three players have recorded a total of 16 rushing touchdowns and nearly 800 yards.

Week 9 result: Bye Week
Week 10 game: Nov. 6 vs Louisiana Tech

UAB didn’t play a game this week, using their time off to prepare for their next game against Louisiana Tech. The Blazers continue to use a balanced attack to keep opponents on their feet. QB Dylan Hopkins has 11 touchdowns and recorded more than 1,200 passing yards. Running backs Dewayne McBride and Jermaine Brown, Jr. have combined for more than 1,000 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns this season.

Week 9 result: Won 28-19 at Colorado State
Week 10 game: Nov. 6 at No. 25 Fresno State (7-2)

Boise State allowed the Rams to get off to a 13-0 start to the game, forcing the Broncos to fight their way back into the game. Boise State went on a 21-3 run in the second half to escape with a road win. QB Hank Bachmeier does a great job passing the ball— 2,204 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, but he’s been sacked 18 times. Look for Fresno State to exploit the offensive line and make Bachmeier’s day as difficult as possible.

Week 9 result: Won 49-7 vs Temple
Week 10 game: Nov. 6 vs Tulane (1-7)

Don’t look now, but UCF is starting to hit its stride after getting thumped by No. 2 ranked Cincinnati a few weeks ago. Since that game, the Knights have outscored their opponents (Memphis and Temple) 73-14. The Knights are looking forward to starting quarterback Dillon Gabriel returning from injury soon.