Overview
- Tulane beat North Texas 34-21 at Yulman Stadium to claim the American crown and effectively lock a CFP spot, with a likely No. 11 or No. 12 seed to be announced Sunday.
- Quarterback Jake Retzlaff scored two short rushing touchdowns, and Jamauri McClure added 121 yards and a score on the ground.
- The defense generated five takeaways — three interceptions and two fumble recoveries — including Chris Rodgers’ 35-yard pick-six and Jack Tchienchou’s forced fumble, punt recovery and end-zone interception.
- Several calls drew scrutiny, including a no-call on potential kick-catch interference before halftime and an upheld touchdown after Rodgers appeared to fumble near the goal line.
- Coach Jon Sumrall has accepted Florida’s job but says he will guide Tulane through the CFP, North Texas coach Eric Morris is heading to Oklahoma State, and UNT star Caleb Hawkins left early with a shoulder injury.