The 2024 college football season has already revealed ten major surprises, both positive and negative.
As September transitioned into October, a closer examination of the season’s early expectations highlighted some unexpected developments. This analysis ranks the top five positive surprises alongside the top five negative surprises from the first month of play.
Let’s explore the teams and players that have made headlines this season!
Five Good Surprises
5. The Unexpected Undefeateds
Indiana, Rutgers, Duke, and BYU remain undefeated after five weeks of competition. Each team has a compelling narrative behind their success. Coaches Curt Cignetti and Manny Diaz are enjoying fruitful beginnings in their first seasons at Indiana and Duke, respectively. Meanwhile, veterans Greg Schiano (Rutgers) and Kalani Sitake (BYU) are steering their longstanding programs to impressive starts. Few anticipated that Indiana or BYU would perform this well in 2024.
Among these teams, Indiana stands out as the most surprising. The Hoosiers rank third in scoring, with quarterback Kurtis Rourke leading the charge. Analyzing Indiana’s victory over Maryland reveals a commitment to a versatile run game, including zone and counter runs, plus the use of an H-back. Rourke has been aggressive, averaging 274 passing yards per game, with 11 touchdown passes and only two interceptions. Indiana’s wide receivers excel in contested catches, thanks to Rourke’s accurate throws.
4. Clemson’s Offensive Resurgence
Clemson’s performance against Georgia in Week 1 raised eyebrows, but the Tigers have bounced back impressively since then. Following a disappointing previous season, Clemson’s initial struggles prompted concern. However, they have demonstrated significant improvement in their offensive execution.
Looking ahead, Clemson’s schedule offers a favorable opportunity for continued success, with only one ranked opponent remaining (No. 22 Louisville on November 2). Many expect Clemson to secure a spot in the ACC Championship Game, with strong potential to defeat Miami (Fla.) if current trends continue.
Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik has thrown for 842 yards, 13 touchdowns, and one interception over his last three games.
3. Colorado’s Complete Game
Under Deion Sanders, Colorado has showcased a complete performance in their recent victory against UCF, demonstrating a strong defensive effort.
The Buffaloes have improved defensively, with a robust front led by defensive coordinator Robert Livingston. Offensively, Colorado has shown versatility. Initially, they relied heavily on a 10 personnel set (four wide receivers and one running back), which limited their running game. However, in the UCF matchup, they shifted to an 11 personnel alignment, significantly enhancing their offensive complexity and effectiveness.
If Colorado maintains this strategic approach and their defense remains strong, they could significantly impact the Big 12 race.
2. Tennessee’s Championship Aspirations
Tennessee boasts the top scoring offense and the second-best scoring defense in the nation, demonstrating prowess on both sides of the ball. Their performance has drawn comparisons to last year’s Michigan team, which also had a strong defense and a standout quarterback.
Currently ranked 17th in talent composite, Tennessee’s defense is formidable, featuring a powerful defensive line that compensates for any roster gaps.
Nico Iamaleava has accounted for eight total touchdowns, contributing to Tennessee’s impressive offensive statistics this season.
Iamaleava, Tennessee’s standout player, has elevated the team’s performance this year.
1. True Freshmen Surpassing Expectations
Several true freshmen have emerged as standout players, capturing attention both on the field and in film reviews. Notable talents include wide receiver Ryan Williams at Alabama, quarterback Dylan Raiola at Nebraska, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith at Ohio State.
These five-star recruits are already making significant contributions despite the high expectations from their fan bases. Smith has made jaw-dropping catches, potentially positioning himself as Ohio State’s best wide receiver in recent memory, following a lineage of first-round picks.
Williams, known as the Gatorade Player of the Year since childhood, has impressed at just 17 years old. His game-winning touchdown catch against Georgia showcases his elite talent, reminiscent of Alabama’s past stars like Julio Jones.
Raiola, touted as Nebraska’s future star, has already shown he can lead the Cornhuskers, despite their recent loss to Illinois. His presence is crucial for Nebraska’s competitiveness in the Big Ten.
These freshmen have revitalized the sport, earning recognition for their early achievements.
Five Bad Surprises
5. Oklahoma State’s Struggles in the Run Game
Oklahoma State’s inability to establish a strong running game has raised concerns. Ollie Gordon II, last year’s Doak Walker Award winner, is averaging only 67 rushing yards per game this season, a stark contrast to his previous average of 124 yards. The Cowboys currently rank 114th in rushing, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry.
With all five starting offensive linemen returning and quarterback Alan Bowman still in the mix, this performance is unexpected. Many anticipated Oklahoma State to challenge for the Big 12 title, with Gordon receiving Heisman consideration.
Oklahoma State’s Ollie Gordon II is averaging just 3.8 yards per carry this season, down from 6.1 yards last year.
4. Michigan’s Offensive Confusion
Michigan’s performance has not met expectations, particularly on offense. This year’s squad lacks the cohesiveness seen in previous seasons, struggling to define its identity.
While they showcased promise in the first half against Minnesota, their struggles against Texas exposed significant gaps, especially in the passing game. Even as they secured wins against USC and Minnesota, the Wolverines faltered in the second half due to ineffective offensive strategies.
Despite the victories, Michigan’s lack of offensive identity raises concerns for future matchups.
3. Kansas’s Disappointing Start
Kansas’s 1-4 record is a shocking development after a promising previous season. Coach Lance Leipold has demonstrated his coaching prowess, and quarterback Jalon Daniels had been impressive when healthy.
Entering the season with high hopes, Kansas has struggled against FBS opponents, losing to Illinois, UNLV, West Virginia, and TCU. Their early loss to Illinois set off a downward trend that has been difficult to reverse.
Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels has thrown five touchdowns and eight interceptions this season.
The departure of former offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki to Penn State may have impacted Kansas’s performance this season.
2. Oklahoma’s Offensive Woes
Oklahoma’s offense has struggled significantly, particularly in their loss to Tennessee. A detailed review of that game revealed serious schematic issues, particularly in protection and the run game.
Currently, the Sooners rank 121st in total offense, averaging fewer than 300 yards per game. Initially expected to excel under five-star quarterback Jackson Arnold, the offense has faced challenges, leading to his benching. With injuries impacting their receiving corps, Oklahoma’s offensive struggles have persisted.
1. Florida State’s Fall from Grace
Florida State’s decline has been one of the season’s most notable disappointments. After starting the year ranked 10th in the AP Poll, they have struggled to find their footing, currently sitting at 1-4.
Their recent loss to SMU highlighted their struggles, and with tough matchups ahead against Clemson, Duke, and Miami (Fla.), the Seminoles face a challenging path forward.
Florida State’s head coach Mike Norvell has witnessed a drastic shift from a perfect season in 2023 to a troubling start in 2024.
With the potential for eight losses, Florida State risks setting a record for the most defeats for a team that began the season in the top ten of the AP Poll.
