As the 2024 college football season rolls into October, the excitement is palpable, especially for fans of the teams still vying for a perfect season. With only 11 FBS teams remaining undefeated as we approach Week 8, the landscape of college football is as thrilling as ever. The Big Ten is currently leading the charge with three unbeaten teams, while the SEC saw a shake-up, losing three of its four undefeated teams during the chaotic Week 6. Let’s take a closer look at these teams, their journeys so far, and what lies ahead.
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 established themselves as the lone undefeated team in the SEC following a dominant victory over then-No. 18 Oklahoma. Coach Steve Sarkisian’s squad is riding high, but the upcoming matchup against No. 5 Georgia will be a true test of their mettle. With a perfect season on the line, the Longhorns will need to maintain their focus and intensity against a formidable opponent.
No. 3 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 has been making waves in the Big Ten, especially after their nail-biting victory over Ohio State. This win marked a historic moment for the Ducks, as it was their first-ever triumph against a top-2 ranked opponent. With only two ranked matchups remaining on their schedule, including a showdown with Michigan, Oregon is in a prime position to continue their pursuit of an undefeated season.
No. 4 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)
The Nittany Lions showcased their resilience in a thrilling overtime victory against Southern California. After trailing at halftime, James Franklin’s team rallied to secure the win, demonstrating their determination and skill. With a bye week ahead, Penn State is gearing up for crucial matchups against Wisconsin and Ohio State, both of which could significantly impact their perfect season aspirations.
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 have been riding a wave of close victories, including a nail-biter against California. With quarterback Cam Ward leading the charge, Miami has shown they can compete with the best. After a much-needed bye week, they will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their quest for an undefeated season in the ACC.
No. 11 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 the guidance of Matt Campbell, the Cyclones have been playing solid football and are now ranked for the first time since 2021. With a home game against UCF on the horizon, Iowa State aims to keep their perfect record intact.
No. 14 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 turned things around dramatically. With two ranked wins already this season, the Cougars are looking to build on their success as they prepare for a matchup against Oklahoma State. The momentum is on their side, and they are eager to prove they belong among the elite.
T-No. 18 Indiana
Record: 6-0 (3-0 Big Ten)
Last Game: Defeated Northwestern, 41-24
Last Undefeated Season: 1945 (9-0-1)
Indiana has been a pleasant surprise this season, achieving a 6-0 record for the first time since 1967. Under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers have found their rhythm, and with a bye week to prepare for Nebraska, they are looking to solidify their place among the undefeated teams.
No. 22 Pittsburgh
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last Game: Defeated California, 17-15
Last Undefeated Season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh has bounced back from a disappointing previous season, thanks in part to the impressive play of transfer redshirt freshman Eli Holstein. With a series of close wins under their belt, the Panthers are poised to continue their undefeated run as they prepare for a matchup against Syracuse.
Army
Record: 6-0 (5-0 American)
Last Game: Defeated UAB, 44-10
Last Undefeated Season: 1958 (8-0-1)
The Black Knights have been a force to be reckoned with this season, averaging over 38 points per game while allowing less than 10. With the longest win streak in FBS football at ten games, Army is on a roll and has its sights set on a potential playoff berth if they can maintain their momentum.
Liberty
Record: 5-0 (3-0 CUSA)
Last Game: Defeated Florida International, 31-24 (OT)
Last Undefeated Season: N/A
Liberty has managed to stay undefeated, albeit with some close calls, including an overtime victory against FIU. With no ranked opponents on their schedule, the Flames have a solid chance to finish the regular season without a loss, which would be a significant achievement for the program.
Navy
Record: 5-0 (3-0 American)
Last Game: Defeated Air Force, 34-7
Last Undefeated Season: 1926 (9-0-1)
Navy has also reached its win total from last season, and like Army, they have yet to face a significant challenge. With a matchup against Notre Dame on the horizon, the Midshipmen will have the opportunity to prove their worth against a storied program.
As the season progresses, the stakes will only get higher for these teams. Each game is a step closer to the ultimate goal of a perfect season, and the excitement of college football continues to build as we head deeper into October.