As the 2024 college football season rolls into October, the excitement is palpable. Fans across the nation are glued to their screens, tracking the teams that are still in contention for a perfect season. With only 11 FBS teams remaining undefeated as we head into Week 8, the stakes are higher than ever. The Big Ten stands out with three unbeaten teams, while the SEC saw a dramatic shake-up, losing three of its four undefeated squads during the chaos of Week 6.
No. 1 Texas
Record: 6-0 (2-0 SEC)
Last game: Defeated Oklahoma, 34-3
Last undefeated season: 2005 (13-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
The Texas Longhorns have emerged as the sole undefeated team in the SEC after a commanding victory over then-No. 18 Oklahoma. Coach Steve Sarkisian’s squad is riding high, but they face a significant challenge next week as No. 5 Georgia visits Austin. This matchup could be pivotal in determining whether Texas can maintain its perfect record.
No. 2 Oregon
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Ohio State, 32-31
Last undefeated season: 1916 (7-0-1, won Rose Bowl)
Oregon is making waves in the Big Ten after a thrilling win against Ohio State, marking the Ducks’ first victory over a top-2 ranked opponent. With their confidence soaring, they will look to keep the momentum going against a struggling Purdue team next week. The Ducks have only two ranked opponents left on their schedule, making their path to a perfect season seem more attainable.
No. 3 Penn State
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Southern Cal, 33-30 (OT)
Last undefeated season: 1994 (12-0, won Rose Bowl)
Penn State showcased its resilience by overcoming a 20-6 halftime deficit to defeat Southern California in a nail-biting overtime finish. With a bye week ahead, Coach James Franklin’s team will have time to prepare for upcoming challenges against Wisconsin and Ohio State, both of which could be crucial for their perfect season aspirations.
No. 6 Miami (Fla.)
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated California, 39-38
Last undefeated season: 2001 (12-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
The Miami Hurricanes are enjoying a well-deserved bye week after two narrow victories, including a thrilling win over California. Quarterback Cam Ward has been instrumental in Miami’s success, and as one of only two undefeated teams in the ACC, the Canes are looking to build on their momentum as they head deeper into the season.
No. 9 Iowa State
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated West Virginia, 28-16
Last undefeated season: N/A
Iowa State has emerged as a surprise contender this season, achieving its first 6-0 start since 1938. Under the guidance of Coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones are playing solid football and will aim to maintain their perfect record against UCF in their next matchup. Their unexpected success has fans buzzing and could signal a new era for the program.
No. 13 BYU
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated Arizona, 41-19
Last undefeated season: 1984 (13-0, won national championship)
After a challenging first season in the Big 12, BYU has turned things around, already surpassing its conference win total from last year. With impressive victories against ranked opponents like Kansas State and SMU, the Cougars are riding high after a decisive win over Arizona. They’ll look to keep the momentum going against Oklahoma State next week.
No. 16 Indiana
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Northwestern, 41-24
Last undefeated season: 1945 (9-0-1)
Indiana is enjoying its best start since 1967, and first-year head coach Curt Cignetti has the Hoosiers buzzing. With a bye week ahead, they will prepare for a crucial matchup against Nebraska, which could be a defining moment for the program. The Hoosiers have already secured bowl eligibility, a significant achievement for a team that has struggled in recent years.
No. 20 Pittsburgh
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated California, 17-15
Last undefeated season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh is bouncing back from a disappointing 2023 season, and transfer quarterback Eli Holstein has been a revelation. With over 1,500 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, he has led the Panthers to several close victories, including a nail-biter against California. With a bye week ahead, Pitt will look to regroup before facing Syracuse.
No. 23 Army
Record: 6-0 (5-0 American)
Last game: Defeated UAB, 44-10
Last undefeated season: 1958 (8-0-1)
Army is making headlines with its impressive offensive performance, averaging over 38 points per game while allowing less than 10. The Black Knights hold the longest win streak in FBS football at ten games and are poised for a significant matchup against Notre Dame later in the season. If they can maintain their form, Army could be a dark horse in the playoff conversation.
No. 25 Navy
Record: 5-0 (3-0 American)
Last game: Defeated Air Force, 34-7
Last undefeated season: 1926 (9-0-1)
Navy has already matched its win total from last season and is looking to prove itself against tougher competition. With a strong showing against Air Force, the Midshipmen are set to face Notre Dame in a highly anticipated matchup that will test their mettle and could define their season.
Liberty
Record: 5-0 (3-0 CUSA)
Last game: Defeated Florida International, 31-24 (OT)
Last undefeated season: N/A
Liberty is quietly making a name for itself, sitting at 5-0 for the second consecutive season. Despite a challenging overtime win against FIU, the Flames have a favorable schedule ahead, which could lead to another undefeated regular season. With no ranked opponents on the horizon, Liberty’s path to perfection looks promising.
As the season progresses, the excitement surrounding these undefeated teams will only intensify. Each week brings new challenges and opportunities, and fans will be eagerly watching to see which teams can maintain their perfect records as they strive for glory in the 2024 college football season.