As the 2024 college football season rolls into October, the excitement is palpable, especially for fans of the nine remaining undefeated teams in the FBS. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, the race for a perfect season is heating up, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Midway through Week 9, the landscape of college football is dominated by teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, ACC, and American conferences, each vying for supremacy and a shot at the coveted College Football Playoff.
The Undefeated Contenders
No. 1 Oregon
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big Ten)
Last Game: Defeated Purdue, 35-0
Last Undefeated Season: 1916 (7-0-1, won Rose Bowl)
The Ducks have been on a roll, showcasing their dominance with a decisive victory over Purdue. After a slow start to the season, Oregon seems to have found its rhythm, particularly after a significant win against Ohio State in Week 7. As they prepare to face No. 20 Illinois in Week 9, the Ducks are eyeing a crucial matchup against Michigan at the Big House on November 2. If they can navigate this challenging stretch, they will be well-positioned for a shot at the Big Ten championship.
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)
The Nittany Lions demonstrated their tenacity in a thrilling overtime victory against Southern California. After trailing at halftime, James Franklin’s squad rallied to secure the win, showcasing their resilience. With a bye week ahead, Penn State is gearing up for a pivotal matchup against Wisconsin, followed by a showdown with Ohio State that could have significant implications for the Big Ten standings.
No. 6 Miami (Fla.)
Record: 7-0 (3-0 ACC)
Last Game: Defeated Louisville, 52-45
Last Undefeated Season: 2001 (12-0, won BCS National Championship Game)
In a high-scoring affair against Louisville, the Hurricanes emerged victorious, thanks in large part to quarterback Cam Ward’s impressive performance. With 319 passing yards and four touchdowns, Ward has been a key player in Miami’s success this season. The Canes are now set to face their in-state rival Florida State on October 26, a game that promises to be a thrilling encounter.
No. 10 Iowa State
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big 12)
Last Game: Defeated UCF, 38-35
Last Undefeated Season: N/A
Iowa State has been a pleasant surprise this season, achieving a 7-0 record for the first time since 1938. Under the guidance of head coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones have shown they can compete with the best, including a narrow victory over UCF. As they prepare to take on Texas Tech on November 2, Iowa State is looking to solidify its place in the Big 12 hierarchy.
No. 11 BYU
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big 12)
Last Game: Defeated Oklahoma State, 38-35
Last Undefeated Season: 1984 (13-0, won national championship)
After a challenging transition to the Big 12, BYU has found its footing, boasting a perfect record and notable wins against ranked opponents. The Cougars’ latest victory over Oklahoma State was a nail-biter, but they managed to pull through. As they head to Orlando to face UCF in Week 9, BYU aims to maintain its unbeaten streak and continue its ascent in the conference.
No. 13 Indiana
Record: 7-0 (4-0 Big Ten)
Last Game: Defeated Nebraska, 56-7
Last Undefeated Season: 1945 (9-0-1)
Indiana has been the surprise package of the season, dominating Nebraska in their latest outing. With a powerful offense and a solid defense, the Hoosiers are proving they belong among the elite. They will host Washington next week, and fans are eager to see if Indiana can keep its perfect record intact.
No. 19 Pittsburgh
Record: 6-0 (2-0 ACC)
Last Game: Defeated California, 17-15
Last Undefeated Season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh has rebounded impressively from a disappointing previous season, thanks in part to the emergence of transfer quarterback Eli Holstein. With several close wins under their belt, the Panthers are building momentum as they prepare for a bye week before facing Syracuse. Their ability to win tight games could be crucial as the season progresses.
No. 23 Army
Record: 7-0 (6-0 American)
Last Game: Defeated East Carolina, 45-28
Last Undefeated Season: 1958 (8-0-1)
Army has been a force to be reckoned with this season, averaging over 38 points per game. With the longest active win streak in FBS football at 11 games, the Black Knights are on a roll. They have a favorable schedule leading up to their November 23 matchup against Notre Dame, a game that could have major playoff implications.
No. 24 Navy
Record: 6-0 (4-0 American)
Last Game: Defeated Charlotte, 51-17
Last Undefeated Season: 1926 (9-0-1)
Navy is also enjoying a resurgence, matching its win total from last season already. The Midshipmen have been dominant in their games, but their upcoming clash with Notre Dame at MetLife Stadium will be a true test of their mettle. If they can secure a win, Navy will be in a strong position to contend for a perfect season.
As the season progresses, the excitement surrounding these undefeated teams continues to build. Each game presents an opportunity for these squads to solidify their legacies and aim for a spot in the College Football Playoff. With rivalries, high-stakes matchups, and the quest for perfection on the line, October promises to be a thrilling month for college football fans.