2024 college football rankings: Alabama moves to No. 1 following win over Georgia. This sport has a deep-rooted fascination with champions. It celebrates the powerful, the rulers of the game, and those who rise to the occasion.
In the context of college football, the recent clash between Alabama and Georgia was a defining moment. While both Ohio State and Texas deserve recognition, this matchup centered on who would emerge as the standard-bearer. The spotlight now shines brightly on Kirby Smart, who faces a pivotal challenge.
Had Smart claimed victory, discussions might have centered around his rivalry with Nick Saban. Instead, Georgia now grapples with its own challenges, reminiscent of the mythological struggles between Zeus and Prometheus. The fire of competition ignited by Jalen Milroe’s performance served as a catalyst for Alabama’s resurgence.
Following this thrilling encounter, here’s a look at the latest top 25 rankings after Week 5 of the college football season:
1. Alabama (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Georgia, 41-34
In a game that could be described as an instant classic, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe showcased his skills by passing for 374 yards and rushing for 117 yards, contributing to four touchdowns. Notably, 17-year-old Ryan Williams caught six passes for 177 yards, including a pivotal 75-yard touchdown that sealed the victory.
Alabama remains the only team to defeat Georgia since November 2020, and Kalen DeBoer has now claimed a 1-0 record against Kirby Smart.
2. Texas (5-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Mississippi State, 35-13
Texas, much like McDonald’s with its Golden Arches, has established its own iconic presence in college football. Arch Manning completed 26 of 31 passes for 324 yards, throwing two touchdowns without any interceptions in the victory against Mississippi State. DeAndre Moore Jr. also made an impact with four catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns.
3. Ohio State (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Michigan State, 38-7
The Buckeyes displayed their dominance in the Big Ten opener, with Jeremiah Smith emerging as a standout true freshman. He caught five passes for 83 yards, including a remarkable one-handed 17-yard touchdown catch.
4. Tennessee (4-0)
Week 5 result: Idle
5. Georgia (3-1)
Week 5 result: Lost to Alabama, 41-34
Georgia has faced Alabama three times since November 2020, each time ending in defeat. Kirby Smart’s challenges now extend beyond just Saban; he must find a way to overcome the Tide. Despite a strong second-half effort from Carson Beck, Alabama proved too formidable for the Bulldogs.
6. Penn State (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Illinois, 21-7
The Nittany Lions showcased their strength with a powerful rushing attack, combining for 196 rushing yards and two touchdowns against Illinois.
7. Oregon (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated UCLA, 34-13
The Ducks entered their matchup as heavy favorites and secured a comfortable victory, with Dillon Gabriel throwing for three touchdowns.
8. Miami (Fla.) (5-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Virginia Tech, 38-34
In a thrilling finish, Miami narrowly escaped an upset against Virginia Tech, thanks to a strong performance from Cam Ward, who threw for 343 yards and four touchdowns.
9. Missouri (4-0)
Week 5 result: Idle
10. Clemson (3-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Stanford, 40-14
Clemson is regaining its form, scoring at least 40 points in each of its last three games.
11. Michigan (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Minnesota, 27-24
Michigan extended its winning streak against Big Ten opponents, although they faced a late scare from Minnesota.
12. Iowa State (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Houston, 20-0
Iowa State is off to a strong start, leading the Big 12 standings with a formidable defense that limits opponents to an average of 7.3 points per game.
13. USC (3-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Wisconsin, 38-21
Despite a rocky first half, USC rallied to score 28 unanswered points, showcasing resilience and skill.
14. Oklahoma (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Auburn, 27-21
Oklahoma secured its first SEC win, highlighted by a crucial pick-six from linebacker Kip Lewis.
15. BYU (5-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Baylor, 34-28
BYU maintained its perfect record, overcoming a potential slip-up against Baylor.
16. LSU (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated South Alabama, 42-10
Garrett Nussmeier delivered a standout performance, throwing for a career-high 409 yards.
17. Ole Miss (4-1)
Week 5 result: Lost to Kentucky, 20-17
Despite a strong start, Ole Miss struggled on third down against Kentucky, leading to their defeat.
18. Notre Dame (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Louisville, 31-24
Riley Leonard made significant strides, throwing for two touchdowns and contributing to Notre Dame’s victory.
19. Boise State (3-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Washington State, 45-24
Ashton Jeanty showcased his talent, rushing for 259 yards and four touchdowns, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top running backs.
20. UNLV (4-0)
Week 5 result: Defeated Fresno State, 59-14
UNLV’s Hajj-Malik Williams stepped up in the absence of the starting QB, leading the Rebels to a decisive victory.
21. Kansas State (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Oklahoma State, 42-20
Kansas State demonstrated its offensive prowess, with multiple players contributing to a dominating performance.
22. Illinois (4-1)
Week 5 result: Lost to Penn State, 21-7
Illinois was unable to capitalize on their previous successes, falling short against a strong Penn State team.
23. Texas A&M (4-1)
Week 5 result: Defeated Arkansas, 21-17
Texas A&M secured a hard-fought victory, with Marcel Reed throwing two touchdowns to clinch the win.
24. Utah (4-1)
Week 5 result: Lost to Arizona, 23-10
Utah struggled offensively against Arizona, unable to find the rhythm necessary to secure a win.
25. Indiana (5-0)
Indiana has made headlines with its first 5-0 start since 1967, showcasing the impact of first-year head coach Curt Cignetti.
