Group of 5 Power Rankings, Week 3: Boise State, UCF vie for top spot

Group of 5 Power Rankings, Week 3: Boise State, UCF vie for top honors

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 16: Boise State safety Jordan Happle (32) reacts to an interception against Oregon during the first half of the Las Vegas Bowl Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, in Las Vegas. The Boise State Broncos would defeat the Oregon Ducks 38-28. (Photo by: Marc Sanchez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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ANN ARBOR, MI – AUGUST 30: The Appalachian State Mountaineers team mascot Yosef waves the schools flag prior to the start of the game against the Michigan Wolverines on August 30, 2014 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Wolverines defeated the Mountaineers 52-14. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

6. Cincinnati Bearcats (American Athletic Conference) 2 – 0

The Bearcats are also making their debut in the power rankings this week. Despite lukewarm preseason expectations, they have started with two quality wins.

After upsetting UCLA in Week 1, they followed that up with an impressive shutout victory over in-state rival Miami (OH) in Week 2.

The running game has been the key to success for Luke Fickell’s group. Sophomore running back Michael Warren has 233 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Quarterback Desmond Ridder, a redshirt freshman, has more rushing yards than passing yards, 163 to 145.

The Bearcats have only 13 yards that haven’t been accounted for by Warren or Ridder this season.

Up next: Saturday versus Alabama A&M.

5. Appalachian State Mountaineers (SB) 1 – 1

After a near upset over Penn State in Week 1, Appalachian State rolled over Conference-USA foe Charlotte in Week 2.

Quarterback Zac Thomas was a perfect 14-14 passing with 295 yards and three touchdowns in the win. Wide receiver Corey Sutton was Thomas’ favorite target, with 155 yards and two touchdowns, including one that went for 90 yards.

Up next: Saturday versus Southern Miss.

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