As the 2024 college football season rolls into October, the excitement is palpable. Fans are eagerly tracking the teams that remain in contention for a perfect season, and as we reach the midway point of Week 9, only nine teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) are still undefeated. The landscape of college football is as competitive as ever, with conferences vying for supremacy and teams battling for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff.
Undefeated Teams Overview
The Big Ten is leading the charge with three unbeaten teams, showcasing the depth and talent within the conference. Meanwhile, the Big 12, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), and the American Athletic Conference each boast two undefeated teams. Notably, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) saw its last unbeaten team fall when Georgia defeated Texas in Week 8, marking a significant shift in the competitive dynamics of the league.
The Unbeaten 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)
Oregon has been on a roll, showcasing a dominant performance against Purdue. After a slow start to the season, the Ducks have found their rhythm, particularly after a significant victory over Ohio State. With a crucial matchup against No. 20 Illinois on the horizon, followed by a trip to the Big House to face Michigan, Oregon’s path to a potential Big Ten championship is becoming clearer.
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 demonstrated remarkable resilience in their recent overtime victory against Southern California. With a bye week ahead, the Nittany Lions are gearing up for a pivotal stretch that includes matchups against Wisconsin and Ohio State, both of which could significantly impact their playoff aspirations.
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 Hurricanes survived a thrilling shootout against Louisville, propelled by quarterback Cam Ward’s impressive performance. As they prepare for their in-state rivalry against Florida State, Miami is looking to maintain its undefeated status and continue its resurgence in the ACC.
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. After a nail-biting win against UCF, the Cyclones are poised to face Texas Tech, aiming to solidify their standing in the Big 12.
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)
BYU has turned heads this season, surpassing last year’s conference win total and securing notable victories against ranked opponents. After a thrilling win over Oklahoma State, the Cougars are set to face UCF, looking to keep their perfect record 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 revelation this season, dominating Nebraska in their latest outing. With a strong performance under head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers are preparing to take on Washington, aiming to continue their impressive run through the Big Ten.
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 from a disappointing previous season, thanks in part to the emergence of transfer quarterback Eli Holstein. After a narrow victory against California, the Panthers are looking to build momentum as they head into a bye week before facing Syracuse.
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 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 a critical matchup against Notre Dame, the Black Knights are eyeing a potential playoff berth.
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 preparing for a significant test against Notre Dame at MetLife Stadium. If they can secure a victory, the Midshipmen will be well-positioned to continue their pursuit of an undefeated season.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the stakes continue to rise for these undefeated teams. Each game presents an opportunity to solidify their playoff hopes and etch their names in college football history. With rivalries heating up and the playoff picture becoming clearer, fans can expect thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments as the quest for perfection unfolds.