The 2024 college football season kicked off with significant matchups and surprising outcomes, leaving teams like Florida and Clemson with much to consider as they move forward. This article recaps key games and performances from the first full weekend of the season, focusing on how these results impact the rankings and future prospects for several programs.
Florida’s Struggles Against Miami
Florida’s 2024 season began on a sour note with a lopsided 41-17 loss to Miami at home. The Hurricanes dominated the Gators in every aspect, setting a record for the most points scored against Florida in a Week 1 game in Gainesville. A brief moment of hope for the Gators came with Montrell Johnson Jr.’s 71-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, but overall, Florida’s offense was ineffective. Quarterback Graham Mertz struggled, completing only 11 of 20 passes for 91 yards before exiting the game in the second half following an interception.
Florida’s ground game was stifled, managing only 139 rushing yards, with most of that total coming from Johnson’s big run. The Gators face a daunting schedule ahead, including matchups against Texas A&M, Georgia, LSU, and Florida State. The loss to Miami complicates their path to bowl eligibility and adds pressure on head coach Billy Napier, who is already facing scrutiny after consecutive losing seasons.
Clemson’s Decline Continues with Loss to Georgia
Clemson, once a powerhouse in college football, suffered a 34-3 defeat to No. 1 Georgia, marking a continuation of the program’s recent struggles. The loss highlighted the Tigers’ inability to compete with elite teams, raising concerns about head coach Dabo Swinney’s reluctance to embrace the transfer portal. Clemson’s offense was ineffective, and the team’s overall performance suggested a significant decline from their previous dominance in the ACC.
Georgia, on the other hand, solidified its position as the top team in the nation, with quarterback Carson Beck leading the Bulldogs to a convincing victory. This result will likely bolster Georgia’s standing in the AP Top 25, while Clemson is expected to drop several spots.
Impressive Performances and Key Wins
While Florida and Clemson faced setbacks, other teams delivered standout performances in Week 1:
- Iowa dominated Illinois State with a 40-0 victory, accumulating 492 total yards, the most for the Hawkeyes since 2019. Iowa’s offense showed potential, and if their defense remains strong, the Hawkeyes could be a formidable team in 2024.
- Ohio State showcased true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who caught six passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns in the Buckeyes’ 52-6 win over Akron. Smith’s immediate impact indicates he could be a key player for Ohio State this season.
- Nebraska saw a promising debut from freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola, who threw for 238 yards and two touchdowns in the Huskers’ 40-7 win over UTEP. Raiola’s performance sets the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against Colorado in Week 2.
- Utah quarterback Cameron Rising made a strong return from injury, throwing for five touchdowns in the Utes’ 45-14 win over Southern Utah.
- Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan set a school record with 304 receiving yards in the Wildcats’ 61-39 victory over New Mexico, further establishing himself as one of the nation’s top receivers.
- Alabama began the post-Nick Saban era with a 63-0 win over Western Kentucky, with freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams making a notable debut.
- Arkansas offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino led the Razorbacks to a 70-0 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, showcasing an efficient and explosive offense.
- Vanderbilt secured a 34-27 overtime victory against Virginia Tech, marking a strong start to the season for head coach Clark Lea’s revamped staff.
AP Top 25 Projections
With most Week 1 games in the books, several teams are expected to move in the AP Top 25 rankings. Georgia’s commanding win over Clemson should secure their position as the top-ranked team, while Miami’s dominant performance against Florida could see them rise significantly in the rankings. Penn State’s convincing victory over West Virginia, coupled with a more balanced offensive attack, positions the Nittany Lions as a legitimate contender in the Big Ten and a potential College Football Playoff threat.
1. Georgia
Georgia’s defense was impenetrable in their 34-3 dismantling of Clemson, holding the Tigers to just 90 yards of total offense. Quarterback Carson Beck looked composed, throwing for 285 yards and two touchdowns. The Bulldogs’ ability to dominate a top-tier opponent solidifies their standing as the nation’s top team, with their blend of elite defense and efficient offense making them a favorite for a three-peat.
2. Michigan
Michigan ground out a 30-10 win over Fresno State, with the Wolverines’ rushing attack once again leading the way. Blake Corum, back from injury, ran for 150 yards and two touchdowns, proving he’s still one of the top running backs in the nation. Though the offense showed some rust, particularly in the passing game, Michigan’s defense remains one of the stingiest in the country, keeping them firmly in the No. 2 spot.
3. Oregon
Oregon’s 24-14 victory over Idaho was less convincing than anticipated, but the Ducks showcased resilience, especially on defense. QB Bo Nix had a modest performance with 210 passing yards and one touchdown, but the Ducks’ defensive front, led by Brandon Dorlus, stifled Idaho’s offense, limiting them to under 200 yards. Oregon’s potential to challenge for the Pac-12 title keeps them in the top three.
4. Ohio State
Ohio State made a statement with their 52-6 blowout of Akron, particularly through the air. WR Jeremiah Smith, a freshman phenom, exploded onto the scene with 135 yards and two touchdowns, making him the standout player of the game. With QB Kyle McCord delivering a solid performance, the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense looks ready to challenge any defense, ensuring their spot in the top five.
5. Alabama
The post-Nick Saban era started with a bang as Alabama rolled over Western Kentucky 63-0. QB Jalen Milroe threw for four touchdowns and ran for another, while WR Ryan Williams, another promising freshman, had 120 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The Crimson Tide’s offensive dominance, combined with a stifling defense that allowed just 95 yards, keeps them as one of the most dangerous teams in the nation.
6. Penn State
Penn State’s 34-12 victory over West Virginia showcased a balanced attack under new OC Andy Kotelnicki. QB Drew Allar threw for 250 yards and three touchdowns, while RB Nick Singleton added 120 yards on the ground. The Nittany Lions’ ability to control both sides of the ball, particularly their strong secondary, could propel them higher in the rankings as the season progresses.
7. Notre Dame
Notre Dame’s gritty 23-13 win at Texas A&M was a defensive masterclass. The Irish defense forced three turnovers and held the Aggies to just 250 yards of offense. QB Sam Hartman, while not flashy, was efficient, leading a crucial fourth-quarter drive to seal the game. Notre Dame’s ability to win tough road games will be key as they push for a playoff spot.
8. Texas
Despite not playing, Texas slides slightly due to other teams’ impressive performances. The Longhorns remain a top contender in the Big 12, with their upcoming showdown against Michigan being a potential season-defining game. Texas has all the pieces, particularly on offense, to challenge for a playoff berth.
9. LSU
LSU didn’t play this week, but their strong finish to last season and a roster loaded with talent keep them in the top 10. QB Jayden Daniels is expected to lead one of the SEC’s most explosive offenses, and with a tough schedule ahead, the Tigers will have ample opportunities to prove themselves.
10. USC
USC’s high-octane offense remains one of the most feared in the nation, even after an idle week. Caleb Williams, the reigning Heisman winner, and a loaded receiving corps, led by Dorian Singer, are expected to light up scoreboards all season. The Trojans’ defense, however, remains a concern, and they’ll need to show improvement to maintain their top-10 status.
11. Utah
Utah’s 35-10 win over Southern Utah was highlighted by QB Cameron Rising’s return to form, throwing for 275 yards and three touchdowns. The Utes’ physical style of play and stout defense, which held Southern Utah to just 180 yards, make them serious contenders in the Pac-12. Their rise in the rankings reflects growing confidence in their ability to compete at a national level.
12. Tennessee
Tennessee’s 48-7 win over an unranked opponent was a showcase of their explosive offense. QB Joe Milton III threw for four touchdowns, and the Volunteers’ defense forced three turnovers. Tennessee’s ability to dominate inferior opponents is a good sign, but they’ll need to sustain this level of play against tougher competition to continue climbing the rankings.
13. Miami
Miami’s 41-17 rout of Florida in Gainesville was one of the most impressive performances of Week 1. QB Tyler Van Dyke was electric, throwing for 320 yards and four touchdowns, while the defense harassed Florida’s QB Graham Mertz all night, forcing three turnovers. This dominant win over a Power Five opponent should propel the Hurricanes into the top 15, positioning them as a serious ACC contender.
14. Washington
Washington drops a few spots after an idle week, primarily due to the strong performances of other teams. The Huskies, led by QB Michael Penix Jr., still boast one of the most potent offenses in the country, but they’ll need to prove it against higher competition soon to maintain their ranking.
15. Ole Miss
Ole Miss remains a top-15 team despite a slight drop, owing to the standout performances of other programs. QB Jaxson Dart and RB Quinshon Judkins form a dynamic duo that will challenge any defense. The Rebels’ ability to maintain offensive firepower against SEC defenses will determine how high they can climb.
16. Clemson
Clemson’s 34-3 loss to Georgia was a wake-up call, exposing issues on both sides of the ball. QB Cade Klubnik struggled under pressure, and the offensive line couldn’t protect him against Georgia’s relentless pass rush. The Tigers’ drop in the rankings reflects a loss of confidence in their ability to compete at an elite level, though they still have time to recover.
17. Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s 55-14 win over Arkansas State was a reminder of the Sooners’ offensive potential. QB Dillon Gabriel threw for 300 yards and four touchdowns, and the defense looked improved from last season. Oklahoma’s ability to win convincingly will keep them in the top 20, but tougher tests await in the Big 12.
18. Oregon State
Oregon State moves up slightly after a 42-17 win over San Jose State. QB DJ Uiagalelei looked comfortable in his new surroundings, throwing for 250 yards and two touchdowns. The Beavers’ strong running game and physical defense make them a dark horse in the Pac-12, deserving of their top-20 ranking.
19. Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s 45-7 win over Buffalo highlighted a new-look offense under OC Phil Longo. QB Tanner Mordecai and RB Braelon Allen led the way, combining for five touchdowns. The Badgers’ revamped passing attack, paired with their traditional ground-and-pound style, makes them a formidable opponent in the Big Ten.
20. Texas A&M
Texas A&M remains in the top 20 despite a 23-13 loss to Notre Dame. The Aggies showed promise, especially on defense, but their offense struggled to move the ball consistently. QB Conner Weigman needs to find more rhythm with his receivers to get back on track before SEC play heats up.
21. Iowa
Iowa’s 34-3 win over Illinois State was a promising start, particularly for an offense that has struggled in recent years. QB Cade McNamara brought stability to the position, and the Hawkeyes’ defense, led by LB Nick Jackson, was dominant as usual. Iowa’s formula of strong defense and efficient offense keeps them in the top 25.
22. Arkansas
Arkansas’s 70-0 annihilation of Arkansas-Pine Bluff was a statement win, albeit against an inferior opponent. QB KJ Jefferson was nearly flawless, and the return of OC Bobby Petrino has reignited the Razorbacks’ offense. Arkansas’s performance suggests they could be a dark horse in the SEC West.
23. Nebraska
Nebraska enters the rankings after a 40-7 win over UTEP, led by freshman QB Dylan Raiola. Raiola showed poise beyond his years, throwing for three touchdowns in his debut. The Cornhuskers’ defense also looked stout, giving fans hope for a return to prominence under new head coach Matt Rhule.
24. North Carolina
North Carolina drops a few spots after a narrow 19-17 win over Minnesota. QB Drake Maye struggled against a tough Gophers defense, but the Tar Heels managed to escape with a win. Consistency will be key for UNC if they want to remain in the top 25.
25. Kansas State
Kansas State holds on to the final spot after a solid 31-10 win over SEMO. The Wildcats’ balanced attack, led by QB Will Howard and RB Treshaun Ward, will keep them competitive in the Big 12. If they can string together some big wins, Kansas State has the potential to rise in the rankings.
Be sure to follow @hiphopuntapped for Hip Hop News, Entertainment , Fashion , & Sports.
