**Week Summary**
Several Group of Five and mid-major programs faced mixed results in their non-conference matchups this week. Louisville handled James Madison 28-14 in a solid ACC victory, while Maryland took care of business against Northern Illinois 20-9. Northwestern and Boise State both dominated their FCS opponents, with the Wildcats winning 42-7 and the Broncos rolling to a 51-14 victory.
With the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format, teams ranked in the top 12 will secure automatic playoff berths. These early-season results will factor into the selection committee's evaluations as conference play intensifies. Louisville's win over a respectable JMU squad could provide valuable resume building, while the dominant performances by Northwestern and Boise State, though against lower-division opponents, help establish momentum heading into conference competition.