The 2024 College Football Season: What to Expect
Ah, college football season! It’s that magical time of year when Saturdays become an all-you-can-eat buffet of touchdowns, tailgates, and the occasional heartbreak. With the 2024 season just around the corner—officially kicking off in less than three weeks—fans everywhere are buzzing with excitement. And if you’re scratching your head wondering what’s newly brewing, let’s take a closer look at some of the changes, teams to watch, and the must-see matchups that will have you circling dates on your calendar.
New Playoff Format: A Game Changer
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the playoff format has officially expanded from four teams to twelve. Yes, twelve! This change aims to give more teams the opportunity to vie for that coveted championship title, increasing the intensity of the season right from the start. With this new format, teams that previously would have been longshots now have a real shot at glory, making each week feel like a mini-playoff game.
Preseason Rankings: The Teams Making Waves
Joel Klatt, that sharp-eyed college football analyst, has dropped his preseason top 25, and let me tell you, there are some surprises in there. Take Texas A&M, for instance—once the butt of plenty of jokes, they are now ranked in the top 25 under new head coach Mike Elko. It’s a big shake-up after years of inconsistency. You’ve got to love how college football keeps us on our toes.
Next up, let’s shine a light on Iowa, who’s as solid as grandma’s apple pie. With 17 starters returning and an improved offense to pair with their already stout defense, this could be the year the Hawkeyes make their move. Kirk Ferentz always has a knack for turning things around, and with a favorable schedule, don’t be shocked if Iowa makes noise come November.
Rise of Under-the-Radar Programs
Now, let’s shift gears and talk about the teams that don’t always get the spotlight but are on the cusp of greatness. Nebraska, under Matt Rhule, is a fascinating case. They may have ended 5-7 last year, but if you dissect their losses (four of which were by just three points), you’ll see a team that was seconds away from being a contender. With new talent, including a potential fresh-faced quarterback in Dylan Raiola, the Cornhuskers could be ready for a breakout season.
Over in Lawrence, Kansas, the Jayhawks are poised for a shocker. If quarterback Jalon Daniels stays healthy, this team might not just flirt with the idea of bowl eligibility but could very well be a contender for the Big 12 championship. Imagine that—Kansas football having a reason for celebrations beyond the basketball court!
Big Names with Big Expectations
Of course, you can’t ignore the heavyweights. Alabama and Georgia are set to dominate again, fresh off tough seasons that left fans wanting more. Alabama, now under Kalen DeBoer, is loaded with talent, but their schedule is a bear. Meanwhile, Georgia boasts a roster packed with former five-star recruits and a defense that’s sure to strike fear into their opponents.
And let’s not forget Ohio State. With their recruiting prowess and returning veterans, they are in the mix to be crowned champions again. Ryan Day has assembled a squad that could outshine even last year’s squad, paving the way for another exhilarating season.
The Wild Card: USC and Florida State
Both the Trojans and Seminoles are shaping up to be enjoyable to watch. Lincoln Riley has a strong squad at USC, and fans are hoping that improved defensive schemes will finally allow them to compete for more than just bragging rights. Meanwhile, Florida State is also on the up-and-up, despite losing some talent. Their effort in the transfer portal shows they are not backing down from the challenge.
As the 2024 season approaches, it’s impossible not to get wrapped up in the pageantry, the rivalries, and the unpredictability that makes college football so special. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just someone looking for a good time on the weekends, there’s something for everyone. So grab your favorite jersey, settle into your most comfortable chair, and get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions—because college football season is nearly here!
