As the 2024 college football season unfolds into October, the excitement is palpable, especially for fans of the nine remaining undefeated teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). With only a few weeks left in the regular season, the quest for a perfect record intensifies, 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 glory 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 Oregon Ducks have been on a roll, showcasing their dominance with a decisive victory over Purdue. After a slow start to the season, head coach Dan Lanning’s squad appears 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 displayed remarkable resilience in their recent overtime victory against Southern California, overcoming a 20-6 halftime deficit. With a bye week ahead, James Franklin’s team is gearing up for a pivotal matchup against Wisconsin, followed by a showdown with Ohio State. The upcoming weeks will be critical as they aim to maintain their perfect record.
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)
The Miami Hurricanes are thriving in the ACC, having survived a thrilling shootout against Louisville. Quarterback Cam Ward’s impressive performance, throwing for 319 yards and four touchdowns, has propelled the Canes to a perfect 7-0 record. With an in-state rivalry game against Florida State on the horizon, Miami is poised to make a statement in the conference.
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 emerged as a surprise contender this season, achieving its first 6-0 start 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. With a matchup against Texas Tech on the horizon, Iowa State is looking to continue its impressive run.
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, surpassing last season’s conference win total. With two ranked victories already under their belt, the Cougars are riding high after a thrilling win against Oklahoma State. Their upcoming game against UCF will be crucial as they aim to keep their perfect season intact.
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 a pleasant surprise this season, dominating Nebraska in their latest outing. Under head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers are proving they are a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. With a home game against Washington next, Indiana is eager to extend its unbeaten streak.
No. 19 Pittsburgh
- Record: 7-0 (3-0 ACC)
- Last Game: Defeated Syracuse, 41-13
- Last Undefeated Season: 1976 (12-0, won national championship)
Pittsburgh has bounced back from a disappointing previous season, thanks in part to the stellar play of transfer redshirt freshman Eli Holstein. With a strong performance against Syracuse, the Panthers are looking to build on their momentum as they prepare for a matchup against SMU.
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 revelation this season, averaging over 38 points per game and boasting the longest win streak in FBS football at 11 games. With a favorable schedule leading up to their clash with Notre Dame on November 23, the Black Knights are in a prime position to make a run at the playoffs.
No. 24 Navy
- Record: 6-0 (4-0 American)
- Last Game: Defeated Charlotte, 51-17
- Last Undefeated Season: 1926 (9-0-1)
Navy has matched its win total from last season and is looking to continue its unbeaten run. With a neutral-site game against Notre Dame next, the Midshipmen have a golden opportunity to solidify their status as a contender for a perfect season.
The Road Ahead
As the season progresses, the pressure mounts for these undefeated teams. Each week presents new challenges, and the potential for upsets looms large. With the College Football Playoff expansion on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever. Fans will be eagerly watching to see which teams can maintain their perfect records and make a run for the national championship. The excitement of college football is at its peak, and the journey to the playoffs is just beginning.
