As the thrilling 2024 college football season swings into October, fans are on the edge of their seats, watching as teams vie not just for conference titles but for the coveted perfect season. Midway through Week 9, only eight teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) remain undefeated, showcasing their grit and determination amidst fierce competition. The standings reflect a robust representation from the Big Ten, which boasts three unbeaten squads, while the Big 12 and ACC contribute two each, and the American Athletic Conference (AAC) has one. Meanwhile, the SEC has seen its last undefeated contender fall, with Georgia knocking off Texas in Week 8, shifting the landscape dramatically.
No. 1 Oregon
Record: 8-0 (5-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Illinois 38-9
Last undefeated season: 1916 (7-0-1, won Rose Bowl)
The Oregon Ducks have established themselves as powerhouse contenders this season. Following a spectacular performance against Illinois, where they dominated from the first whistle, head coach Dan Lanning and his squad appear to have hit their stride after an early-season challenge. Their pivotal victory over Ohio State in Week 7 seemed to unlock their potential. With a road trip to Michigan scheduled for Nov. 2, the Ducks face a crucial couple of weeks that will define their season and potentially set them up for the Big Ten Championship in December.
No. 3 Penn State
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Wisconsin 28-13
Last undefeated season: 1994 (12-0, won Rose Bowl)
The resilient Nittany Lions of Penn State have showcased their tenacity this season, bouncing back spectacularly after adversity. In their latest victory over Wisconsin, James Franklin’s team once again demonstrated their ability to rally, much like their thrilling win against Southern California two weeks earlier. The stakes will rise significantly as they prepare for a key matchup against Ohio State, a team they haven’t defeated since 2016. With the home crowd behind them, this game could be a defining moment for Penn State’s playoff aspirations.
No. 6 Miami (Fla.)
Record: 8-0 (4-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated Florida State 36-14
Last undefeated season: 2001 (12-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
The Miami Hurricanes are making waves this season, especially after a convincing win against their traditional rivals, Florida State. With a strong performance led by their quarterback Cam Ward, who threw for an impressive 319 yards and four touchdowns, Miami is riding high. This victory was not just significant because of the rivalry; it also sets them up nicely for what should be an exciting home game against Duke on Nov. 2. The Canes are looking hungry and poised for a run reminiscent of their past glory days.
No. 10 Iowa State
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated UCF 38-35
Last undefeated season: N/A
In a surprise twist, Iowa State has emerged as a contender, quietly building momentum with a series of impressive performances. Following a close victory over UCF, the Cyclones are enjoying their first top-25 ranking since 2021 and are off to their best start since 1938. Under coach Matt Campbell, they have shown the ability to win under pressure, and their upcoming clash against Texas Tech promises to be another test of their mettle.
No. 11 BYU
Record: 8-0 (5-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated UCF 37-24
Last undefeated season: 1984 (13-0, won national championship)
The BYU Cougars are proving their worth in the Big 12 after a challenging transition season last year. Their recent win over UCF keeps them unbeaten, with standout performances against ranked opponents like Kansas State and SMU adding to their credibility. With their next game against Utah on Nov. 9, the Cougars have a prime opportunity to solidify their place in the conversation for a playoff spot.
No. 13 Indiana
Record: 8-0 (5-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Washington 31-17
Last undefeated season: 1945 (9-0-1)
Indiana Football is turning heads this season, and their latest victory over Washington cements their place among the unbeaten elite. Coach Curt Cignetti has skillfully kept the Hoosiers focused despite the heightened attention from ESPN’s College Gameday. As they prepare to travel to Michigan State, Indiana is setting its sights on a potential Big Ten Championship appearance.
No. 19 Pittsburgh
Record: 7-0 (3-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated Syracuse 41-13
Last undefeated season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh is making a comeback this season, spurred by the impressive play of transfer quarterback Eli Holstein. His ability to lead the team to close wins has energized a squad looking to bounce back from last year’s struggles. After a dominant performance against Syracuse, the Panthers are looking to keep their winning streak alive as they head to SMU, eyeing their first undefeated season since 1976.
No. 23 Army
Record: 7-0 (6-0 American)
Last game: Defeated East Carolina 45-28
Last undefeated season: 1958 (8-0-1)
Army is marching through the 2024 season with an impressive performance on both sides of the ball, averaging over 38 points per game. Their current winning streak of 11 games is the longest in FBS, putting them in a favorable position as they look forward to their next match. If they can maintain their momentum leading up to a date with Notre Dame on Nov. 23, they might just find themselves in the discussion for a playoff position.
As the weeks unfold and the competition intensifies, these undefeated programs will continue to battle, not only for the glory of a perfect season but also for a spot in the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff. Each game from here on out will be critical, and fans nationwide are sure to witness thrilling matchups that will shape the fate of college football this season. Keep those helmets on tight; it’s going to be a wild ride!
