College football’s Week 13 showcased a blend of bizarre and heartwarming moments that captivated fans, headlined by NC State’s improbable punt recovery and a salute to a surgeon in Oklahoma. These events, among others, underscored the sport’s unpredictable nature and community spirit as the season approaches its climax.
During NC State’s Friday night clash with Florida State, punter Caden Noonkester executed a play that defied odds. With the Wolfpack clinging to a three-point lead in the fourth quarter, his punt ricocheted off a Seminole player’s helmet and bounced back into his arms for a fumble recovery, granting NC State a fresh set of downs. Although Florida State’s defense held firm to force another punt, the Wolfpack eventually secured a 21-11 victory, with Noonkester’s awareness turning a routine special teams play into a game-changing moment.
In Norman, Oklahoma, fans at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium roared for Dr. Steven Shin, the orthopedic surgeon who performed hand surgery on quarterback John Mateer earlier in the season. Mateer’s return has been pivotal in Oklahoma’s playoff push, and Shin’s appearance, complete with a “horns down” gesture, symbolized the deep connection between medical care and athletic success, drawing cheers from the crowd.
USC added flair to the weekend with a creative double-pass trick play against Oregon. Wide receiver Makai Lemon, not a quarterback, launched a 30-yard pass to Tanook Hines for a touchdown, demonstrating the Trojans’ offensive ingenuity. Despite the effort, Oregon prevailed 42-27, keeping its College Football Playoff hosting hopes alive with a balanced offensive display.
Division II witnessed drama as Benedict College engineered a miraculous 86-yard lateral play for a walk-off touchdown against Wingate. With three seconds left, the Tigers used a pass and cross-field lateral to spring Malik Mullins for the score, capping an unbelievable comeback in the playoffs and highlighting the never-give-up attitude prevalent in college football.
Coaches provided insightful commentary, with Oklahoma’s Brent Venables remarking, ‘This is not a beauty contest,’ after a gritty 17-6 win over Missouri, emphasizing substance over style. NC State’s Dave Doeren humorously noted that punter Noonkester was ‘the one guy on our team that wants no contact whatsoever,’ yet made a key physical play, adding a human element to the on-field action.
As Rivalry Week looms, these superlatives set the stage for critical matchups that will determine playoff fates. Teams like Oklahoma and Oregon are solidifying their positions, while unexpected plays serve as reminders of the sport’s capacity for surprise, ensuring fans remain engaged through the final whistle of the season.
