Santi Melendez Shines: Heisman Hype Grows After Another Dominant Performance

By Champ Jackson, Saturday Night Chronicles

As the college football season barrels toward its conclusion, Week 12 delivered a rollercoaster of action, with unexpected upsets, blowout wins, and heart-stopping comebacks that had fans on the edge of their seats. Coastal Carolina asserted their dominance with a record-breaking offensive performance, while Arkansas State proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the Sun Belt. Meanwhile, Wyoming and UNLV continued their impressive campaigns, pushing closer to conference supremacy. With pivotal games on the horizon, the race for conference championships and postseason glory has never been more intense.

UNLV Surges Past Air Force, 62-34, Behind Santi Melendez’s 8 Touchdowns

UNLV improved to 9-1 (6-0 MWC) with a dominant second-half performance, surging past Air Force 62-34. In what was a back-and-forth affair in the first half—Air Force held a 26-21 lead at the break—the Rebels pulled away in the final two quarters, flexing their offensive muscles yet again.

Second-Half Takeover

Down at halftime, UNLV showed their championship mettle with a stunning second-half performance. Santi Melendez continued his stellar season, torching the Air Force defense for 645 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. Completing 70% of his passes, Melendez also added 63 rushing yards in a game where the Rebels’ aerial assault proved too much for the Falcons to handle.

Melendez’s favorite target of the day was running back Michael Allen, who recorded 8 catches for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wide receivers Jai'Den Thomas and Jeremiah Noga each had big days, with Thomas racking up 144 yards on just 5 catches, while Noga added 113 yards and 3 touchdowns on 6 receptions. The offensive fireworks lit up the scoreboard, and the Rebels never looked back once they took the lead.

Defensive Standouts

While UNLV’s offense stole the show, the defense made key plays when it mattered. Sophomore free safety Kendrick Stark had a standout performance, recording 10 tackles and a critical 25-yard interception that shifted momentum in the second half.

Special teams also provided a spark for the Rebels, with Deangelo Irvin Jr. taking a kickoff 95 yards to the house for a touchdown that further solidified UNLV’s dominance down the stretch.

Betting Recap & Analysis

UNLV entered this game as 10.5-point favorites, and while they faced a scare in the first half, they more than covered the spread with their second-half explosion. The over/under was set at 65.5 points, and the final score easily exceeded that total, offering a nice payout for those who backed the over.

Post-Game Remarks

UNLV Coach Hayden praised his team’s resilience in the second half: “We knew we were better than what we showed in the first half. The way our guys came out in the second half and executed on both sides of the ball was tremendous. That’s the kind of championship football we need to be playing.”

The Road Ahead

UNLV will travel to Utah State in Week 13, looking to stay undefeated in conference play and continue their march toward the Mountain West title. The Rebels are set as heavy 17.5-point favorites going into the matchup, with the over/under set at 60.5 points.

UNLV’s momentum continues to build as they eye a possible New Year’s Six Bowl berth, but they can’t afford to slip up in the remaining weeks.

Wyoming Thrashes Utah State, 63-9, Behind Explosive Offense and Dominant Defense

Wyoming moved to 7-3 (5-1 MWC) with an emphatic 63-9 victory over Utah State, improving their Mountain West standing while sending the Aggies reeling to 5-5 (3-3 MWC). Wyoming’s dominance was on full display as they forced Utah State into five interceptions and shredded the Aggies’ defense with their high-powered offense.

Dominant Display on Both Sides of the Ball

Wyoming quarterback Evan Svoboda had a remarkable performance, throwing for 444 yards and 7 touchdowns despite also tossing 4 interceptions. His favorite target, Tyler King, was simply unstoppable. King hauled in 9 catches for an eye-popping 392 yards and 5 touchdowns, solidifying his place as one of the most dangerous receivers in the conference.

Sam Scott chipped in with 143 rushing yards, giving Wyoming balance on the ground. The Cowboys' offensive juggernaut overwhelmed Utah State from the opening whistle, leaving the Aggies with no answer.

On defense, Wyoming’s ball-hawking secondary was relentless, forcing Utah State’s quarterbacks into 5 interceptions. Junior cornerback Keany Parks capped off the defensive effort with a 44-yard pick-six, adding insult to injury for the Aggies.

Betting Recap and Analysis

Wyoming entered the game as heavy favorites, and they more than covered the 21.5-point spread with their blowout victory. The over/under was set at 52.5 points, and Wyoming nearly hit that mark themselves with their 63-point outburst, ensuring that the over cashed easily.

Post-Game Remarks

Coach Joey praised his team’s comprehensive performance: “We dominated in every phase of the game today. Our guys came out hungry and executed perfectly. I couldn’t be prouder of their effort.”

The Road Ahead

Wyoming will host San Diego State in Week 13 in a crucial MWC matchup as they push toward a possible conference title game appearance.

Nevada Downs Colorado State 38-27, Moves to 5-6 and 4-3 in MWC Play

Nevada earned a hard-fought 38-27 victory over Colorado State, improving to 5-6 (4-3 MWC) and keeping their bowl game hopes alive. Behind a balanced and efficient offensive performance, the Wolf Pack took control of the game and never looked back.

Offensive Efficiency and Balance

Quarterback Brendon Lewis continued his solid play, throwing for 203 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception. He also contributed on the ground with 25 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, showing off his dual-threat ability. Running back Ashton Hayes led the charge on the ground with 173 rushing yards on 22 carries, keeping the Rams’ defense on their heels all game long.

Tyrone Howell had another standout performance, hauling in 10 receptions for 143 yards and 2 touchdowns, proving to be Lewis' go-to target in crucial moments.

Betting Recap and Analysis

Nevada entered the game as slight 2.5-point underdogs, but they proved the oddsmakers wrong with their efficient play on both sides of the ball. The total for the game was set at 55.5 points, and the teams comfortably hit the over with a combined 65 points.

Post-Game Remarks

Coach Joey expressed his satisfaction with the team’s discipline and execution: “We stuck to our game plan, executed well, and stayed balanced throughout. This is the kind of effort that can keep us fighting for a bowl game, and I’m proud of the guys for stepping up.”

The Road Ahead

Nevada will host Boise State next week in a pivotal matchup that will determine whether the Wolf Pack become bowl-eligible. The betting lines favor Boise State by 6.5 points, with the over/under set at 54.5 points.

Arkansas State Rolls Past Troy 42-25 to Stay Perfect, Now 10-0 and 6-0 in SBC Play

Arkansas State remains unbeaten after an impressive 42-25 victory over Troy, improving to 10-0 (6-0 SBC). The Red Wolves dominated on both sides of the ball, holding Troy to a meager 4 rushing yards and just 263 yards of total offense, sending a strong message as they continue their march toward the Sun Belt Championship.

Raynor's Perfect Performance and Cross' Rare Rushing Touchdown

Arkansas State quarterback Jaylen Raynor had a flawless outing, throwing for 293 yards and 5 touchdowns without a single interception. But the real headline? Ja'Quez Cross, who FINALLY found the end zone on the ground! After what feels like an eternity of waiting, Cross powered his way to 156 rushing yards and—yes, you read that correctly—a rushing touchdown! Arkansas State fans everywhere rejoiced, as the elusive rushing score had become something of a myth this season.

Wide receiver Jayvion Showers also had a standout performance with 109 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, contributing to the Red Wolves’ high-powered offense.

Defensive Domination by Arkansas State

Senior safety James Reed III led the defensive charge with 10 tackles and a crucial interception. The Arkansas State defense put the clamps on Troy’s rushing attack, holding Heisman hopeful Damien Taylor to just 14 rushing yards—a stat that could have serious implications for his trophy chances. Despite Taylor managing to sneak in a touchdown, his lackluster performance on the ground may cost him the coveted award.

Troy quarterback Tucker Kilcrease struggled against Arkansas State’s defense, throwing for 219 yards, 2 touchdowns, and a crippling 4 interceptions. Senior tight end Brody Dalton provided a lone bright spot for Troy, hauling in 7 catches for 95 yards.

Betting Recap and Analysis

Arkansas State entered the game as 10-point favorites, easily covering the spread with their commanding performance. The total for the game was set at 58.5 points, and while the final combined score hit 67, those who took the over cashed in. The Red Wolves’ ability to stifle Troy’s run game and force turnovers gave them the edge in this pivotal matchup.

Post-Game Remarks

Arkansas State’s Coach Bryan praised his team’s all-around effort: “We executed on both sides of the ball. Jaylen played an outstanding game, and our defense was lights out. This is the kind of performance that shows what we’re capable of.”

Troy’s Coach Khail acknowledged the uphill battle: “We knew Arkansas State was tough, but we didn’t execute well enough to keep up. We’ll regroup and get ready for the next challenge.”

The Road Ahead

Arkansas State will travel to face South Alabama in Week 13 for the highly anticipated Game of the Week, where the two top teams in the Sun Belt will clash. The Red Wolves open as slight 3.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 61.5 points. This could very well decide the fate of the conference championship.

Troy will be on bye in Week 13 before looking to bounce back in their season finale.

South Alabama Grinds Out a 32-18 Win Over Texas State, Moves to 9-1

South Alabama continues their impressive season with a gritty 32-18 road victory over Texas State, improving to 9-1 (5-1 SBC) while Texas State falls to 2-7 (1-4 SBC). Although this game was anything but a high-flying affair, it was a defensive battle where South Alabama's persistence ultimately allowed them to pull away.

USA's Balanced but Methodical Attack

South Alabama's Bishop Davenport put together a steady performance, throwing for 237 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. Kentrel Bullock was the workhorse on the ground, racking up 107 rushing yards and finding the end zone. While the Jaguars didn't explode on offense, they made the key plays necessary to secure the win.

Keyshawn Woodyard contributed with 73 receiving yards on 6 catches, including some crucial third-down conversions to keep drives alive. The Jaguars' defense played a major role, holding Texas State in check and forcing PJ Hatter into an interception that kept momentum on USA's side.

A Glimmer of Hope for Texas State?

For Texas State, this wasn’t just another loss—it felt different. While there are no moral victories in football, this game showed a Texas State offense that seemed to have finally found some rhythm. PJ Hatter, who has struggled throughout the season, put together one of his better performances, throwing for 187 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Junior receiver Beau Sparks provided a spark (pun intended) with 78 yards and a touchdown on 4 catches.

However, it was Torrance Burgess Jr. who had an uncharacteristic off day, rushing for only 22 yards on 10 carries. But the fact that Texas State was able to compete against a 9-1 team, especially on offense, suggests that Coach Uncle Matt may have found a way to move the ball and provide a blueprint for finishing the season on a positive note. If Texas State can build on this offensive performance, there's a chance they could salvage the season and help cool Coach Matt’s seat heading into 2026.

Betting Recap and Analysis

South Alabama entered the game as 10.5-point favorites and ultimately covered the spread with their 32-18 win. The game fell short of the total of 49.5 points, making it a win for bettors who took the under. USA’s defense and timely offense allowed them to control the game without needing to push the pace too much, resulting in a relatively low-scoring affair.

Post-Game Remarks

South Alabama Coach Mason acknowledged the hard-fought nature of the game: “It wasn’t pretty, but sometimes you’ve got to win the gritty ones. Texas State played tough, but our guys hung in there and made the plays when it counted.”

Texas State Coach Uncle Matt remained optimistic despite the loss: “I’m proud of how our guys fought. We’ve been looking for answers on offense, and I think we’re starting to figure it out. If we can keep improving, we’ve got a chance to finish strong.”

The Road Ahead

South Alabama will prepare for a high-stakes showdown with undefeated Arkansas State in Week 13, where the Sun Belt West could be decided. The Jaguars open as 3.5-point underdogs, with the total set at 61.5 points. This clash will have major conference title implications.

Texas State, now searching for a positive finish to their season, will host Southern Miss in Week 13. The Bobcats enter as 6.5-point underdogs, with the over/under set at 51.5 points.

Coastal Carolina Annihilates Georgia Southern, 72-24, to Move to 9-1

In a jaw-dropping display of offensive firepower, Coastal Carolina dominated Georgia Southern from start to finish, winning 72-24 and improving to 9-1 (6-1 SBC) on the season. Coastal held Georgia Southern to just 197 yards of total offense while racking up an astounding 917 yards themselves, reminding everyone why they remain a force to be reckoned with in the Sun Belt.

Coastal's Offensive Explosion

Quarterback Ethan Vasko had an up-and-down day despite his astronomical numbers. Vasko threw for an incredible 726 yards and 7 touchdowns but also tossed 4 interceptions that provided brief moments of hope for Georgia Southern. Vasko’s dual-threat abilities were on full display as he also rushed for 44 yards and added 2 touchdowns on the ground.

Christian Washington was a menace in the backfield, rushing for 147 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Coastal’s receiving corps put on a clinic. Cane Berrong was unstoppable, hauling in 9 catches for 267 yards and 2 touchdowns. Matt Sauer also shined with 10 catches for 167 yards and 2 touchdowns, and Malik Rutherford showed his explosiveness with 4 catches for 129 yards and 2 touchdowns.

The Coastal offense was in rhythm all game long, seemingly scoring at will and leaving Georgia Southern's defense scrambling to keep up. This complete offensive performance once again solidified Coastal Carolina’s position as one of the top teams in the conference, and possibly in the country.

Betting Recap and Analysis

Coastal Carolina entered the game as heavy 21.5-point favorites and blew past that mark with their 48-point margin of victory. The total for the game was set at 61.5 points, but Coastal's dominant offensive performance helped the game soar past that total. Bettors who backed Coastal and the over were more than satisfied by the Chanticleers' overwhelming success.

Post-Game Remarks

After the game, Coastal’s Coach Jacob praised his team's offensive execution: “We were firing on all cylinders today. Ethan [Vasko] and the entire offense did a fantastic job, and it was great to see everything come together like that.”

Georgia Southern’s Coach Helton could only shake his head at the post-game press conference: “We got outclassed today, plain and simple. We’ll go back to the drawing board and regroup.”

The Road Ahead

Coastal Carolina will face a significant challenge in Week 13 as they travel to take on the South Carolina Gamecocks in an out-of-conference matchup that could have major postseason implications. Coastal opens as 9.5-point underdogs, with the total set at 67.5 points. Expect fireworks in this potential upset bid.

Tulane Edges Out UNT in a 45-42 Thriller, Improves to 8-2 and Remains Undefeated in AAC Play

In a game that lived up to its billing, Tulane came out on top in a 45-42 showdown against UNT, improving to 8-2 (6-0 AAC) and staying undefeated in conference play. UNT falls to 8-2 (5-1 AAC) but still remains a contender for the conference title.

A Battle of Offenses

This high-scoring affair showcased the offensive firepower both teams brought to the table. Tulane's quarterback Ty Thompson threw for 388 yards and 4 touchdowns, while their dynamic ground game, led by Shaadie Clayton-Johnson’s 137 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, kept UNT's defense off balance all game long.

UNT’s General Booty tried his best to keep his team in the game, throwing for 421 yards and 4 touchdowns, but 2 costly interceptions and a few missed opportunities ultimately cost UNT a chance to win. Zach Evans rushed for 104 yards and added 2 receiving touchdowns, while Nick Coffey had a monster day with 189 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. However, Tulane’s defense came up with critical stops when it mattered most.

Betting Recap and Analysis

Tulane entered the game as 7-point favorites, and while the game was a back-and-forth affair, they managed to cover the spread with their last-second victory. The total for the game was set at 65.5 points, and both teams easily eclipsed that number in this offensive showcase. Bettors who took Tulane and the over were rewarded handsomely for their faith in the Green Wave.

Post-Game Remarks

UNT Coach Jake was reflective in his post-game comments: “We didn’t execute when we needed to. There are things we need to clean up, especially on defense, but we’ll bounce back.”

The Road Ahead

Tulane will look to continue their undefeated conference run as they host Navy in Week 13. Tulane opens as 10.5-point favorites with the total set at 54.5 points.

UNT will look to rebound in Week 13 as they travel to Memphis for a crucial conference matchup. UNT opens as slight 3.5-point favorites, with the total set at 63.5 points. This game will have significant implications for their conference championship hopes.

USF Rolls Over FAU 42-20, Improves to 7-3 in AAC Play

USF continued its winning ways with a commanding 42-20 victory over FAU, improving to 7-3 (4-2 AAC). The Bulls dominated early, but a late fourth-quarter surge by FAU closed the gap and made the scoreline appear closer than it truly was.

Offensive Fireworks and Defensive Playmaking

Byrum Brown led the charge for USF, throwing for 303 yards and 5 touchdowns, along with 1 interception. Brown also contributed on the ground with 45 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. Despite his stellar performance, Brown had some ball security issues, losing 2 fumbles during the game. Wide receiver Jeyquan Smith torched the FAU secondary, hauling in 4 catches for 134 yards and 3 touchdowns, making him the go-to guy all game long.

On defense, Senior Safety Shyheim Brown put on a show, forcing 2 fumbles, grabbing an interception, and racking up 12 tackles. His all-around performance helped stifle FAU’s offense for most of the game, keeping the Owls at bay until their late-game scoring spree.

Betting Recap and Analysis

USF came into the game as 10.5-point favorites, comfortably covering the spread by dominating FAU throughout most of the contest. The total for the game was set at 60.5 points, and while FAU’s late surge pushed the game over the total, bettors who backed USF were pleased with the outcome.

Post-Game Remarks

USF Coach Doctor Bryans credited his team’s effort and playmaking ability: “We played a complete game on both sides of the ball today. Byrum stepped up big, and Shyheim was all over the field making plays.”

The Road Ahead

USF will travel to face Rice in Week 13, looking to extend their winning streak and continue their push toward a strong bowl placement. USF opens as 8.5-point favorites with a total set at 57.5 points.

ECU Falls to Charlotte 48-7, Endures Another Tough Day

ECU's struggles continued with a rough 48-7 loss to Charlotte, dropping the Pirates to 3-7 (0-6 AAC) on the season. It was a difficult day for the Pirates from start to finish, as they couldn’t find their rhythm on either side of the ball.

Lone Bright Spot for the Pirates

The lone bright spot for ECU was Javious Bond, who managed to rush for 73 yards amidst a challenging day for the offense. Despite Bond's efforts, the Pirates couldn’t generate much momentum, and Charlotte's dominant performance kept them at bay throughout the game.

Post-Game Remarks

Coach Mike Peach acknowledged the tough loss: “We’ve had a rough stretch, no doubt about it. We’re going to keep fighting and look for ways to improve. Our guys are giving it their all, and we’ll keep working.”

The Road Ahead

ECU will travel to face FAU in Week 13, looking to end their season on a positive note.

Week 13 Power Rankings

1. Arkansas State (10-0, 6-0 SBC)

The Red Wolves continue to dominate, rolling over Troy and setting up a crucial showdown against South Alabama.

2. South Alabama (9-1, 5-1 SBC)

Despite the loss to Coastal, the Jaguars bounced back against Texas State. The game against Arkansas State will be a major test.

3. Coastal Carolina (9-1, 6-1 SBC)

Coastal Carolina's offensive explosion against Georgia Southern solidifies their place in the top three as they prepare for a big in-state battle with South Carolina.

4. UNLV (9-1, 6-0 MWC)

UNLV’s high-powered offense continues to impress, and their second-half dominance is becoming a signature. A tough Utah State matchup looms.

5. Tulane (8-2, 6-0 AAC)

Tulane edges past UNT in a nail-biter and remains perfect in AAC play. The Green Wave are poised for a conference title push.

6. UNT (8-2, 5-1 AAC)

After a tough loss to Tulane, UNT will need to regroup for a showdown against Memphis as they remain a top contender in the AAC.

7. Wyoming (7-3, 5-1 MWC)

The Cowboys bounced back in a big way with a dominant win over Utah State. They're still in the hunt for the Mountain West title.

8. USF (7-3, 4-2 AAC)

After a convincing win over FAU, USF has some momentum and remains a solid competitor in the AAC race.

9. Troy (7-4, 5-2 SBC)

Troy’s loss to Arkansas State dents their conference title hopes, but they remain one of the stronger teams in the Sun Belt.

10. Nevada (5-6, 4-3 MWC)

Nevada’s win over Colorado State keeps their bowl hopes alive as they show steady improvement late in the season.

11. Texas State (2-7, 1-4 SBC)

Texas State showed some signs of life against South Alabama, but they remain near the bottom of the rankings as they struggle to find consistency.

12. ECU (3-7, 0-6 AAC)

ECU’s struggles continue after a brutal loss to Charlotte. The Pirates are in freefall and hoping to avoid a winless conference season.

13. Utah State (5-5, 3-3 MWC)

Another tough loss drops Utah State to the bottom of the rankings, with their inconsistency keeping them from rising higher.

CFP Top 25 Week 13

#7 Arkansas State

#9 UNLV

#10 Tulane

#19 Coastal Carolina

#22 UNT