As the 2024 college football season progresses into October, the excitement is palpable as fans and analysts alike keep a close eye on the teams still vying for a perfect season. Heading into Week 8, only 11 teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) remain undefeated, showcasing a mix of traditional powerhouses and surprising contenders. The Big Ten stands out with three unbeaten teams, while the SEC experienced a tumultuous Week 6, losing three of its four undefeated squads.
No. 1 Texas
Record: 6-0 (2-0 SEC)
Last game: Defeated Oklahoma, 34-3
Last undefeated season: 2005 (13-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
The Texas Longhorns have solidified their position as the only undefeated team in the SEC following a dominant victory over then-No. 18 Oklahoma. Under the leadership of head coach Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns are poised for a significant test next week when they host No. 5 Georgia. This matchup could be pivotal in determining Texas’s path to an undefeated season, as they aim to replicate their last perfect run in 2005.
No. 2 Oregon
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Ohio State, 32-31
Last undefeated season: 1916 (7-0-1, won Rose Bowl)
Oregon’s thrilling victory over Ohio State marked a historic moment for the program, as it was their first win against a top-2 ranked opponent. The Ducks, led by head coach Dan Lanning, are now the team to beat in the Big Ten. With only two ranked opponents remaining on their schedule, including a home game against Illinois and a road trip to Michigan, Oregon is in a strong position to maintain their perfect record.
No. 3 Penn State
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Southern Cal, 33-30 (OT)
Last undefeated season: 1994 (12-0, won Rose Bowl)
Penn State showcased remarkable resilience in their recent overtime victory against Southern California, overcoming a 20-6 halftime deficit. With a bye week ahead, head coach James Franklin’s squad will have ample time to prepare for their upcoming challenges against Wisconsin and Ohio State, both of which could be crucial in their quest for an undefeated season.
No. 6 Miami (Fla.)
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated California, 39-38
Last undefeated season: 2001 (12-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
The Miami Hurricanes are riding high after a much-needed bye week, following two nail-biting victories over Virginia Tech and California. Quarterback Cam Ward has been instrumental in Miami’s success this season, and as one of only two undefeated teams in the ACC, they are looking to maintain their momentum as they head deeper into the season.
No. 9 Iowa State
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated West Virginia, 28-16
Last undefeated season: N/A
Iowa State has emerged as a surprise contender this season, achieving their first 6-0 start since 1938. Under head coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones have been playing solid football and will look to extend their unbeaten streak at home against UCF. Their unexpected success has captured the attention of college football fans, making them a team to watch.
No. 13 BYU
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big 12)
Last game: Defeated Arizona, 41-19
Last undefeated season: 1984 (13-0, won national championship)
After a challenging first season in the Big 12, BYU has bounced back impressively, already surpassing their conference win total from the previous year. With two ranked victories under their belt, the Cougars are looking to build on their success as they prepare for a matchup against Oklahoma State, aiming to keep their perfect record intact.
No. 16 Indiana
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last game: Defeated Northwestern, 41-24
Last undefeated season: 1945 (9-0-1)
Indiana’s resurgence this season has been remarkable, as they find themselves 6-0 for the first time since 1967. Under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers are making waves in the Big Ten. With a bye week to prepare for their upcoming clash against Nebraska, Indiana is eager to prove that their undefeated run is no fluke.
No. 20 Pittsburgh
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last game: Defeated California, 17-15
Last undefeated season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh has turned around from a disappointing season last year, with transfer quarterback Eli Holstein leading the charge. The Panthers have secured several close victories, showcasing their resilience. With a bye week ahead, they will look to continue their winning ways against Syracuse, aiming to keep their undefeated streak alive.
No. 23 Army
Record: 6-0 (5-0 American)
Last game: Defeated UAB, 44-10
Last undefeated season: 1958 (8-0-1)
Army has been a force to reckon with this season, averaging over 38 points per game while allowing less than 10. With the longest win streak in FBS football at 10 games, the Black Knights are on a roll. Their upcoming matchup against Notre Dame could be a defining moment for their season and playoff aspirations.
No. 25 Navy
Record: 5-0 (3-0 American)
Last game: Defeated Air Force, 34-7
Last undefeated season: 1926 (9-0-1)
Navy has matched its win total from last season and is looking to build on that success. With a solid performance against Air Force, the Midshipmen are gearing up for a crucial test against Notre Dame later this month. Their undefeated status is a testament to their growth and determination this season.
Liberty
Record: 5-0 (3-0 CUSA)
Last game: Defeated Florida International, 31-24 (OT)
Last undefeated season: N/A
Liberty has found itself at 5-0 for the second consecutive season, although their path has not been without challenges. Coming off an overtime victory against FIU, the Flames are looking to maintain their momentum as they navigate a schedule that lacks ranked opponents, potentially leading to another undefeated regular season.
As the season unfolds, the race for a perfect record intensifies, with each of these teams facing unique challenges and opportunities. The excitement of college football is at its peak, and fans are eager to see which teams will continue their undefeated journeys as they head toward the postseason.