Ranking College Football Teams for the 2024 Season
1. Ohio State: Despite a low output in the NFL Draft, Ohio State won the offseason with key additions through the transfer portal. The Buckeyes’ success will be measured by their ability to beat Michigan and make a deep run in the College Football Playoff.
2. Georgia: Dominating high school recruiting and signing the No. 1 recruiting class, Georgia has the depth and talent to be a dominant force in the upcoming season.
3. Oregon: Embarking on a new conference journey, Oregon has bolstered its roster with the addition of talented quarterbacks and a potential Heisman contender in Evan Stewart. The Ducks will be fast, physical, and led by one of the top coaches in the sport.
4. Texas: Texas aims to prove that they are truly back by maintaining sustainable success. With a talented roster and additions through the transfer portal, the Longhorns have the potential to make a strong impact in the SEC.
5. Notre Dame: Despite initial reluctance, Notre Dame’s roster additions and coaching changes position them as a team poised for a breakthrough season. Their schedule sets them up for success, and they have one of the best defenses in the country.
6. Ole Miss: Embracing the transfer portal, Ole Miss has built a roster that could make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. Quarterback Jaxson Dart leads a talented team that includes playmakers at various positions.
7. Alabama: With Nick Saban’s retirement, Alabama faces questions about whether they can maintain their dominance. The team still boasts top-tier talent, but returning quarterback Jalen Milroe will play a crucial role in their success.
8. Missouri: Coming off an impressive 11-win season, Missouri looks ready to compete in the new-look SEC. Quarterback Brady Cook and receiver Luther Burden III lead a talented roster that includes five-star defensive lineman Williams Nwaneri.
9. Michigan: Despite losing key contributors, Michigan returns important pieces on both offense and defense. Under first-year head coach Sherrone Moore, the Wolverines aim to prove they can still make noise in the College Football Playoff.
10. Miami: Miami’s success hinges on the performance of quarterback Cam Ward and their ability to translate talent into wins. The program’s future is uncertain, but a strong season could bring the U back to prominence.
11. Penn State: Penn State aims to revitalize its offense under new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki and hopes for continued defensive success under coordinator Tom Allen. The question remains whether James Franklin can turn a good team into a great one.
12. Florida State: Florida State has excelled at building its roster through the transfer portal, but sustaining success remains a challenge. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei adds excitement, but the Seminoles need to avoid mind-blowing mistakes to regain prominence.
13. Oklahoma: While attention is on Texas, Oklahoma shouldn’t be overlooked. With a talented roster and key additions through the transfer portal, the Sooners could surprise this year.
14. LSU: LSU aims to bounce back from a disappointing season with a revamped defense and new quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. The team’s success will depend on its ability to improve defensively.
15. Tennessee: Despite off-field controversies, Tennessee returns a significant portion of its defense and hopes that five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava can lead them to success.
16. Iowa State: Quarterback Avery Johnson is set to entertain fans with his exceptional playmaking abilities. The Cyclones could be one of the most exciting teams to watch this season.
17. Texas A&M: With a wealth of talent amassed over the years, Texas A&M could surprise under new head coach Mike Elko. Quarterback Conner Weigman and a strong defensive line give the Aggies a chance to compete.
18. Clemson: Clemson’s offensive struggles last season left questions about their ability to contend for a national championship. Quarterback Cade Klubnik will need to perform exceptionally well for the Tigers to be in the title discussion.
19. Arizona: Despite losing head coach Jedd Fisch, Arizona retains key offensive players like quarterback Noah Fifita and receiver Tetairoa McMillan. First-year head coach Brent Brennan could lead the Wildcats to a conference title in the Big 12.
20. Iowa: Known for their strong defense, Iowa looks to improve their offense under new coordinator Tim Lester. The Hawkeyes’ success will likely come from their defense’s ability to dominate.
21. NC State: With Coastal Carolina transfer Grayson McCall at quarterback, NC State hopes to overcome personnel losses and compete in the ACC.
22. Louisville: Louisville had a strong start under head coach Jeff Brohm last year and hopes to continue their success. Quarterback Tyler Shough and running back Peny Boone lead a talented roster.
23. Kansas: Kansas has shown improvement under head coach Lance Leipold and looks to continue that trend. Quarterback Jalon Daniels and a solid defense give the Jayhawks a chance to be competitive in the Big 12.
24. Oklahoma State: Consistently winning under head coach Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State boasts explosive talent on offense. Running back Ollie Gordon II and quarterback Alan Bowman lead a team that could surprise in the new-look Big 12.
25. Utah: Utah’s experienced quarterback Cam Rising and key playmakers give them an opportunity to win 10-plus games in their first season in the Big 12. Coach Kyle Whittingham has built a consistent program ready to compete.
The upcoming college football season promises excitement and competition as teams vie for a spot in the College Football Playoff. With talented rosters and promising additions, these teams have the potential to make a significant impact in the 2024 season.