Big East - The Week That Was - Week Four

By CHRISTOPHER MOGOLLON - BIG EAST INSIDER

On Friday night, the Connecticut Huskies rolled past visiting Big 12 opponent Baylor 31-28. Connecticut tailback Ronald Brown rushed for 150 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner in the fourth quarter. It was Brown’s fourth consecutive 100-yard rushing game and his 716 yards lead the nation, with his 10 rushing touchdowns second only to Javon Ringer's 11. Brown and the Connecticut offensive line made up for the lack of a pass threat, as Huskies’ quarterback Tyler Lorenzen was ineffective, throwing two interceptions. Highly touted Baylor freshman quarterback Robert Griffin didn't disappoint, as he threw for three touchdowns and 208 yards, including a late fourth quarter scoring strike to wide out Kendall Wright. The freshman wide receiver caught six passes for 114 yards. Despite allowing four touchdowns, the Connecticut defense stepped up late, stopping Baylor in their final two possessions. The Huskies remained undefeated and look to continue their success on the road, as they visit Louisville for another Friday night under the lights.

Cincinnati, South Florida and Pittsburgh all prevailed on Saturday.

Pittsburgh tailback LeSean McCoy rushed for 78 yards on 18 carries, including the game-winning touchdown early in the fourth quarter against the previously undefeated Iowa Hawkeyes. The Panthers continue to struggle through the air, as quarterback Bill Stull completed only eleven passes and no receiver had more than two receptions. The Pitt rush defense was not strong either, giving up 158 yards on the ground.

Meanwhile, in the Sunshine State, the USF Bulls survived their third straight scare with a 17-9 win over Florida International. South Florida's defense allowed a total of 189 yards and didn't allow FIU to reach the end zone until the final minute of the game. Quarterback Matt Grothe was held without a rushing or passing touchdown for the first time in his career. Bulls’ tailback Jamar Taylor led all rushers with 56 yards on twelve carries. South Florida looks to cap off a perfect non-conference this week at NC State.

Cincinnati bounced back versus Miami (OH) with a 45-20 win against their rival. The story of the game was quarterback Tony Pike, who made his first start. The junior was 20-of-24 for 241 yards and three touchdowns. He hooked up with wide receiver Dominick Goodman for a couple of big plays to set up scores. Goodman finished the game with six receptions for 94 yards. Senior Mike Mickens picked off his first pass of the year, returning it 72 yards for a touchdown.

Photo Credit: USF Athletics Communications