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The best teams in the College Football Playoff era are a topic of heated debate.
With the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) set to commence this week, the team at FOX Sports aims to answer this intriguing question.
Consider the Joe Burrow-led LSU squad, which dazzled fans by averaging nearly 50 points per game on their way to a flawless 15-0 record. Then there’s the 2014 Ohio State team, the first national champions of the CFP era, who triumphed under backup quarterback Cardale Jones. And let’s not overlook the 2024 Michigan Wolverines, a powerhouse on both offense and defense, who clinched victory in the last game of the four-team CFP.
This article will explore the 12 most dominant teams in the CFP era to date, based on extensive research and a hypothetical playoff bracket.
Let the spirited discussion commence.
1. 2019 LSU Tigers
Record: 15-0
CFP results: Defeated Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl, 63-28; defeated Clemson in the national championship, 42-25
The 2019 LSU Tigers showcased one of the most formidable offensive units in college football history. With Joe Burrow at quarterback, Clyde Edwards-Helaire at running back, and standout receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, this team averaged 48.4 points per game, outscoring opponents by an average of 26.5 points. They achieved a perfect regular-season record of 13-0, including five victories over top-10 teams. The Tigers dominated Oklahoma in the Peach Bowl and defeated Clemson in the national championship, solidifying their place in history. Notably, 30 players from this roster went on to play in the NFL, with five being first-round draft picks in 2020.
2. 2020 Alabama Crimson Tide
Record: 13-0
CFP results: Defeated Notre Dame in the Rose Bowl, 31-14; defeated Ohio State in the national championship, 52-24
Facing the 2020 Alabama team was a nightmare for opposing defenses, especially when trying to contain both DeVonta Smith and Jaylen Waddle. This potent offense, led by quarterback Mac Jones, running backs Najee Harris and Brian Robinson Jr., and wide receiver John Metchie III, averaged nearly 50 points per game. Remarkably, Alabama played just one game decided by fewer than 14 points. Under coach Nick Saban, the team finished undefeated and clinched a national title amid the challenges of a global pandemic. Smith earned the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first wide receiver to do so since Desmond Howard in 1991.
3. 2018 Clemson Tigers
Record: 15-0
CFP results: Defeated Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl, 30-3; defeated Alabama in the national championship, 44-16
Under the guidance of Dabo Swinney, the 2018 Clemson Tigers emerged as the best team of his tenure. They finished the season undefeated at 15-0, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 31.1 points per game. The Tigers faced four ranked teams, including Notre Dame and Alabama in the CFP, and dominated them, outscoring those teams 142-33. This remarkable squad saw 24 players transition to the NFL.
4. 2022 Georgia Bulldogs
Record: 15-0
CFP results: Defeated Ohio State in the Peach Bowl, 42-41; defeated TCU in the national championship, 65-7
The 2022 Georgia Bulldogs excelled on both offense and defense, scoring over 41 points per game while limiting opponents to under 15 points. Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs recorded five wins against ranked teams, with two victories against SEC rivals. Stetson Bennett’s leadership culminated in a thrilling semifinal win over Ohio State, followed by a commanding 65-7 victory over TCU in the title game, marking Georgia’s second consecutive national championship.
5. 2021 Georgia Bulldogs
Record: 14-1
CFP results: Defeated Michigan in the Orange Bowl, 34-11; defeated Alabama in the national championship, 33-18
6. 2023 Michigan Wolverines
Record: 15-0
CFP results: Defeated Alabama in the Rose Bowl, 27-20; defeated Washington in the national championship, 34-13
The 2023 Michigan Wolverines delivered a season to remember, culminating in a significant 34-13 victory over Washington in the final game of the four-team CFP era. This team was notable for its balance, excelling on both offense and defense. Senior running back Blake Corum spearheaded a powerful rushing attack, while Will Johnson, Mike Sainristil, and Kris Jenkins anchored a defense that allowed only 9.5 points per game, the best in the FBS. The Wolverines held every opponent to under 25 points, earning their first national championship since 1997.
7. 2017 Alabama Crimson Tide
Record: 13-1
CFP results: Defeated Clemson in the Sugar Bowl, 24-6; defeated Georgia in the national championship, 26-23
Fans often remember the 2017 Alabama team for Tua Tagovailoa’s remarkable performance in the national championship game, where he led a comeback against Georgia after replacing Jalen Hurts. However, this team’s legacy extends beyond that moment. Under Nick Saban’s leadership, Alabama began the season with a commanding 24-7 victory over then-No. 3 Florida State. After suffering a loss to Auburn, they rebounded with victories over Clemson and Georgia, showcasing the depth of talent, with 44 players eventually making it to the NFL.
8. 2014 Ohio State Buckeyes
Record: 14-1
CFP results: Defeated Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, 42-35; defeated Oregon in the national championship, 42-20
The 2014 Ohio State Buckeyes made history as the first national champions of the CFP era, overcoming significant challenges along the way. After a thrilling 42-28 win against rival Michigan, the team faced adversity with injuries to both starting quarterbacks, J.T. Barrett and Braxton Miller. Backup Cardale Jones stepped in and led the Buckeyes to three impressive victories, culminating in a 42-20 win over Oregon in the national title game.
9. 2015 Alabama Crimson Tide
Record: 14-1
CFP results: Defeated Michigan State in the Cotton Bowl, 38-0; defeated Clemson in the national championship, 45-40
The 2015 Alabama team, while not Saban’s best, was filled with exceptional NFL talent. A staggering 44 players from this roster transitioned to the professional level, featuring stars like Derrick Henry, Calvin Ridley, and Minkah Fitzpatrick. The Tide secured eight victories against AP Top 25 teams, including a notable 30-16 win over No. 2 LSU and a thrilling 45-40 triumph over Clemson in the national championship.
10. 2016 Clemson Tigers
Record: 14-1
CFP result: Defeated Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl, 31-0; defeated Alabama in the national championship, 35-31
11. 2018 Alabama Crimson Tide
Record: 14-1
CFP results: Defeated Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl, 45-34; lost to Clemson in the national championship, 44-16
This Alabama team, boasting a star-studded roster, featured Tua Tagovailoa at quarterback along with a deep pool of running backs and wide receivers. Despite outscoring their first 14 opponents by an average of 32 points, they fell short in the national championship against Clemson, losing 44-16.
12. 2024 Oregon Ducks
Record: 13-0
CFP results: N/A
The 2024 Oregon Ducks have established themselves as a dominant force this season. Under coach Dan Lanning, they are the only FBS team to finish the regular season unbeaten, earning the top seed in the inaugural 12-team playoff. With three ranked victories, including two against top-five teams, the Ducks’ offense, led by Heisman finalist Dillon Gabriel, has been impressive. They are set to face the winner of Ohio State and Tennessee in the Rose Bowl on January 1.
