Desmond Ridder, No. 8 Cincinnati beat Miami of Ohio 49-14

CINCINNATI -- , Desmond Ridder was 20 of 25 for 295 yards and four touchdowns and No. 8 Cincinnati beat Miami of Ohio 49-14 on Saturday in the opener for both teams. The Bearcats tied the series that began in 1888 at 59-59-7. Ridder threw an 81-yard touchdown pass to Tyler Scott on the second play from scrimmage. It was the longest TD toss of his career. “I saw them go into a two high like they did on film,” Ridder said. “There was a smile on my face when they did. I just threw the ball up for Todd to go get. I was able to see things a lot better. I think a lot of guys saw things a lot better.” Ridder also ran six times for 31 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown carry. The fifth-year senior had one interception. “Desmond was really poised,” Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell said. “He was ready. It isn’t only he has improved as a player but he’s improved as a leader.