CINCINNATI — In a decisive American Athletic Conference (AAC) championship clash, No. 3 Cincinnati showcased their dominance as they defeated No. 16 Houston 35-20 on Saturday, clinching their second consecutive AAC crown. The victory, marked by Jerome Ford's spectacular 187 rushing yards and two touchdowns, solidified the Bearcats' undefeated season at 13-0 and heightened their aspirations for a historic College Football Playoff (CFP) berth.
The Bearcats, currently ranked No. 4 in the CFP rankings, are on the cusp of making history as the first non-Power 5 team to qualify for the playoffs. The final rankings, to be revealed on Sunday, will determine whether Cincinnati's resounding on-field statement will be enough to secure their spot.
Head coach Luke Fickell expressed confidence in his team's accomplishments, stating,
“The resounding statement is what we did on that football field. Nobody is going to call and ask us what we think. I don't think these guys can be denied that opportunity. It would be a shame.”
Cincinnati's remarkable performance unfolded with a third-quarter surge that saw them score three touchdowns in under eight minutes, breaking the game open. The Bearcats' fans rushed the field in celebration, emphasizing the significance of the moment.
Quarterback Desmond Ridder, instrumental in the victory with three touchdown passes, reflected on the electrifying atmosphere at Nippert Stadium, saying,
“It's a blessing to have never lost a game I've played at Nippert. We have such a great atmosphere here.”
The Cougars, led by junior quarterback Clayton Tune, fought valiantly, but Cincinnati's explosive plays and defensive prowess proved too much to handle. Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen acknowledged the Bearcats' excellence, stating,
“They are first-class and deserving of top four. I don't know how you keep Cincinnati out.”
A crucial turning point in the game came with a pass interference call on Houston's Marcus Jones in the third quarter, negating a fourth-down stop. This call shifted momentum decisively in favor of Cincinnati, leading to a cascade of points and leaving the Cougars unable to mount a comeback.
Reflecting on the season, Fickell highlighted the resilience of his team, particularly in halftime situations. Senior leaders, including Ridder and cornerback Coby Bryant, have consistently rallied the team, resulting in strong third-quarter performances.
As the Bearcats await the CFP committee's decision, Fickell remains focused on the team's journey, stating,
“We just want to be us.”
Cincinnati's impressive wins, including triumphs over Notre Dame and now Houston, provide a compelling case for inclusion in the playoffs.
For Houston, despite the defeat, a bowl game awaits, offering an opportunity to cap off a successful season. Cincinnati, on the other hand, eagerly anticipates the possibility of a historic College Football Playoff appearance, a testament to their remarkable journey and on-field excellence. The football world now awaits the CFP committee's decision on whether the Bearcats will make history and break through the Power 5 barrier.
