LOST TO GEORGIA TECH 45-35

What worked

The running game. A week after running for minus-26 yards against Cincinnati, the Wolfpack (2-3, 0-2 ACC) gained 195 as a team, with James Washington going for a career-best 131 yards and a touchdown. Freshman Tony Creecy added 77 yards on 12 carries.

What needs work

The defense. That's 89 points allowed in two weeks. There were bright spots, with the return of senior captain J.R. Sweezy on the defensive line, but still too many big plays. Georgia Tech's offense had six plays of 25 yards or more.

What's next

After being pasted in consecutive games by Western Michigan and Michigan State, Central Michigan (2-3) picked up a Mid-American Conference win over league favorite Northern Illinois, 48-41 in Mount Pleasant. The Chippewas are 0-3 away from home this season, after going 1-6 on the road last year.