2024 college football rankings: Joel Klatt’s top 10 teams after Week 5 showcase an electrifying weekend that left fans buzzing.
Exciting finishes characterized both Friday and Saturday’s games, with Colorado making headlines in its significant victory over UCF, potentially complicating the Big 12 race. Meanwhile, the Big Ten landscape is beginning to clarify, particularly with Michigan revealing its vulnerabilities, and USC achieving a notable win against Wisconsin. For deeper insights, listeners can tune into the latest episode of “The Joel Klatt Show.”
However, the highlight was undoubtedly the Georgia-Alabama matchup. The intensity of that game, coupled with the thrilling schedule, prompted Klatt to don his Rose Bowl hat while recording his podcast for the first time this season.
Before diving into the rankings, Klatt emphasized the emotional weight and narratives surrounding the Georgia-Alabama game, set against the electric atmosphere at Bryant-Denny Stadium. This matchup was a testament to how games are often won rather than lost, showcasing the resilience and capabilities of both teams.
The standout players rose to the occasion, providing a thrilling spectacle. Both teams displayed national championship potential, yet their performances also highlighted the unpredictable nature of college football.
The rollercoaster of emotions in college football was evident as teams experienced both triumphs and setbacks within the same game. This unpredictability is what makes the sport so engaging for fans.
Now, let’s explore Klatt’s top 10 teams.
1. Alabama (Last week: 6)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Defeated Georgia, 41-34
Alabama’s stars shone brightly during the game. Quarterback Jalen Milroe amassed nearly 500 total yards and four touchdowns, while wide receiver Ryan Williams dazzled with six receptions for 177 yards, including the game-winning score.
This victory stands as Alabama’s most significant win of the season, justifying their position at the top of Klatt’s rankings.
However, Klatt noted that Alabama is not without flaws. He expressed a controversial opinion, suggesting that Georgia may have a stronger long-term outlook despite the loss, a sentiment that could ruffle some feathers among Crimson Tide fans.
While Alabama secured the win, it became evident that Georgia’s defense began to decipher Alabama’s offensive strategies as the game progressed.
If he were an Alabama supporter, Klatt suggested that they might feel fortunate to have escaped with a win, given Georgia’s resurgence in the second half.
2. Texas (Last week: 1)
Record: 5-0
Week 5 result: Defeated Mississippi State, 35-13
Texas held the No. 1 spot for three consecutive weeks after a commanding win against Michigan. Although they dropped to second place due to Alabama’s recent performance, the Longhorns impressed again, even without starting quarterback Quinn Ewers. Arch Manning stepped up, throwing for 324 yards and two touchdowns.
3. Ohio State (Last week: 2)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Defeated Michigan State, 38-7
Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith showcased his exceptional talent with standout catches, further solidifying his status as one of the most gifted players on the field. He has already accumulated six touchdowns in just four games.
If tasked with building a college football roster, Klatt would prioritize Smith as his first wide receiver pick.
4. Tennessee (Last week: 4)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Idle
Tennessee had a bye week but remains a formidable competitor this season. Klatt praised their recent victory against Oklahoma, asserting that the Volunteers have the potential to challenge Georgia.
5. Georgia (Last week: 5)
Record: 3-1
Week 5 result: Lost to Alabama, 41-34
Georgia’s quarterback Carson Beck expressed a desire for redemption against Alabama after a tough first half. His second-half performance showcased his ability to take risks and push the ball downfield.
Despite the loss, Beck’s efforts indicate that he has the potential to lead Georgia effectively moving forward.
6. Penn State (Last week: 8)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Defeated Illinois, 21-7
Penn State is starting to emerge as a serious contender in the Big Ten, displaying impressive performances, particularly in their recent victory over Illinois. Their offense and defense are working cohesively, and they are set to face Ohio State on November 2, which will be a significant test of their capabilities.
7. Oregon (Last week: 9)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Defeated UCLA, 34-13
Oregon’s recent performance against UCLA showcased their resilience. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel threw for 278 yards and three touchdowns, easing concerns from earlier in the season.
8. Miami (Fla.) (Last week: 3)
Record: 5-0
Week 5 result: Defeated Virginia Tech, 38-34
Miami’s recent game against Virginia Tech highlighted the potential pitfalls of the season. Despite a win, the team demonstrated vulnerabilities, particularly on defense, which could be concerning moving forward.
The controversial Hail Mary decision at the end of the game raised questions about officiating, further adding to the drama of the matchup.
9. Missouri (Last week: Unranked)
Record: 4-0
Week 5 result: Idle
Missouri has quietly built a strong season, with quarterback Brady Cook and wide receiver Luther Burden III forming a formidable duo. Their upcoming game against Texas A&M will be a key test for the Tigers.
10. Clemson (Last week: Unranked)
Record: 3-1
Week 5 result: Defeated Stanford, 40-14
Clemson is steadily improving, with their offense averaging 55 points per game since their loss to Georgia. This resurgence indicates that they could be a formidable contender in the ACC.
As the season progresses, the competition in college football intensifies, and these rankings will continue to evolve based on the teams’ performances on the field.
