The Fraud Five by Mike Kern – Week 9 Edition

November 1, 2026

Little bit of a tuff week but we’ll try. As always. 

Wisconsin — After beating Southern Cal 24-7 at home last week, the Badgers lost at Iowa 30-0. Which of course shouldn’t happen but does. Good thing Iowa didn’t score in the final 17 minutes. 

Central Florida — One week after beating unbeaten BYU at home in overtime UCF lost to visiting Baylor and its new interim coach 41-9. Again, like Wisky, it was almost predictable. Doesn’t make it right. 

SMU — I know Syracuse had won at North Carolina the week before in OT. But 19th-ranked Mustangs were still favored by 9 on road. They lost 30-27. After leading by 7 with 9 minutes left. Orange scored game-winning touchdown with 17 seconds to go. 

Oklahoma — What’s happened to this team? Lost at home to South Carolina as slight favorite, 42-25. It was 42-16 early in fourth.

Nebraska — Was 7-point fave at home to Washington. Lost 17-10. Gave up two TDs in final 1:30, including an interception return. At this point Matt Rhule has to win this game. And you know how I feel about him. 

Dishonorable Mention:

Ohio State — I know Bucks were without their QB. I Also know USC had lost 24-7 the week before at Wisconsin. So won’t kill OSU for losing 30-18. But …

Cincinnati — One week after beating unbeaten Texas Tech the Bearcats lost to unbeaten Utah, again at home. That’s no sin. But it was 42-6 at halftime. Final was 49-25. Nobody scored in closing 12 minutes. Probably lost interest.

Hope you had a happy Trick or Treat. Turkey Day ain’t that far away.