2024 college football rankings: Joel Klatt’s top 10 teams after Week 6 reveal an unexpected twist. During the preview episode for Week 6 on the “Joel Klatt Show,” listeners were reminded that even when the schedule appears lackluster, surprises and upsets are often just around the corner.
This week, the unexpected became reality as five teams from the top 11 rankings fell to unranked or lesser-ranked opponents. It was a Saturday filled with excitement and unpredictability.
As many teams embarked on their conference play, Saturday marked a pivotal moment for three of the top 11 teams that suffered losses, highlighting the challenges of road games against equally matched opponents.
With that context in mind, here are the top 10 teams after Week 6.
1. Texas (Last week: 2)
Record: 5-0
Week 6 result: Idle
Texas returns to the No. 1 spot after enjoying a bye week while chaos unfolded around them. The Longhorns are set to face Oklahoma in the highly anticipated Red River Rivalry, seeking redemption for their only regular-season loss last year. Quarterback Quinn Ewers is expected to make his return for this critical matchup.
Quinn Ewers (No. 3) has watched Arch Manning (No. 16) shine in his absence, but his return is highly anticipated in Week 7.
2. Ohio State (Last week: 2)
Record: 5-0
Week 6 result: Defeated Iowa, 35-7
Despite being only 7-0 at halftime against Iowa, Ohio State showcased their dominance by controlling the line of scrimmage. Rushing for over 5 yards per carry against a typically stout Iowa defense demonstrates their offensive prowess.
Defensively, the Buckeyes recorded four sacks and nine tackles for loss, while Iowa struggled to make an impact. With standout skill players like Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State continues to prove they are a formidable contender.
The key question remains about quarterback Will Howard, who will need to step up as Ohio State faces tough opponents in the coming weeks.
3. Georgia (Last week: 5)
Record: 4-1
Week 6 result: Defeated Auburn, 31-13
4. Oregon (Last week: 7)
Record: 5-0
Week 6 result: Defeated Michigan State, 31-10
Oregon has shown remarkable improvement since a slow start to the season. Running back Jordan James stood out with a season-high 166 rushing yards, while the offensive line has kept quarterback Dillon Gabriel protected for three straight games.
5. Penn State (Last week: 6)
Record: 5-0
Week 6 result: Defeated UCLA, 27-11
Penn State’s running game remains a highlight, with Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen leading the charge. Even without Singleton in the recent victory over UCLA, Allen stepped up, rushing for 78 yards and a touchdown. Singleton is expected to return for their upcoming clash against USC.
6. Alabama (Last week: 1)
Record: 4-1
Week 6 result: Lost to Vanderbilt, 40-35
Alabama’s recent performance raises concerns about their defensive capabilities. The team has been compared to Lincoln Riley’s squads at Oklahoma, showcasing an elite offense but struggling defensively. Over the last two games, Alabama has allowed a staggering 67 points and 784 yards.
As the season progresses, Alabama must address these defensive issues to remain competitive.
7. Clemson (Last week: 10)
Record: 4-1
Week 6 result: Defeated Florida State, 29-13
Clemson has emerged as the top team in the ACC, showcasing improvement since their loss to Georgia in Week 1. Quarterback Cade Klubnik and offensive coordinator Garrett Riley are finding their rhythm, contributing to Clemson’s resurgence.
8. Miami (Fla.) (Last week: 8)
Record: 6-0
Week 6 result: Defeated Cal, 39-38
Miami’s victory over Cal showcased the talent of quarterback Cam Ward, who is making a strong case for the Heisman Trophy with impressive stats. However, concerns about the team’s defensive performance linger, as they have relied on late-game officiating in recent games.
Miami (Fla.) quarterback Cam Ward leads the nation in passing yards and touchdowns, proving to be a key player in the ACC.
9. Tennessee (Last week: 4)
Record: 4-1
Week 6 result: Lost to Arkansas, 19-14
Tennessee’s recent loss to Arkansas raises questions about quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s performance. Despite two subpar outings, the Volunteers remain a strong team with a solid supporting cast. They have the potential to bounce back as the season progresses.
Iamaleava’s struggles can be addressed through experience, and the team’s running game will help him grow as a quarterback.
10. Iowa State
Record: 5-0
Week 6 result: Defeated Baylor, 43-21
Iowa State deserves attention for their strong defensive performance, ranking sixth nationally in scoring defense. Coach Matt Campbell has built a competitive team that is making waves this season.
