As we approach the crescendo of the 2024 college football season, the race to the Playoff is heating up, and with it, the debate over which teams truly deserve their spots. The College Football Playoff committee has spoken, and the final 8 teams have been selected, but do they represent the best in the country? Here’s a controversial power ranking of these teams, exploring why some of them might not belong in the final hunt for the national title.
1. Georgia Bulldogs (12-1)
Why They’re Here: Georgia’s defense is arguably the best in the nation. While they may not have the explosive offense of some other teams, their suffocating defense and impressive consistency make them the team to beat. After an early stumble against Alabama, they’ve been nearly flawless.
The Controversy: Some argue that Georgia’s schedule this year wasn’t as challenging as in years past, and their offensive struggles raise questions about their overall depth. Can they outscore elite offenses like Michigan or Washington? Their slow start in the SEC Championship against Alabama doesn’t inspire confidence.
2. Michigan Wolverines (13-0)
Why They’re Here: Michigan has been an absolute juggernaut in 2024, featuring a balanced offense and a defense that can shut down just about anyone. They took care of business in the Big Ten, and their win over Ohio State was a statement of dominance. With Heisman finalist JJ McCarthy leading the way, they seem poised to make a deep run.
The Controversy: While their 13-0 record is impeccable, the strength of Michigan’s schedule can be questioned. Their win over Ohio State was significant, but the Buckeyes were reeling and had significant injuries. There’s also the matter of their shaky performances in some early-season matchups against lesser opponents. Can they handle the pressure of a top-tier playoff team?
3. Washington Huskies (12-1)
Why They’re Here: Washington has one of the most potent offenses in the nation, with the dynamic duo of Michael Penix Jr. and Rome Odunze tearing up opposing defenses. Their victory over Oregon in the Pac-12 Championship solidified their place as a true contender. The Huskies’ high-powered attack makes them a serious threat.
The Controversy: The biggest question surrounding Washington is their defense. They’ve been prone to giving up big plays, and while their offense can often bail them out, against elite teams like Georgia or Michigan, it’s unclear if their defense can hold up. Critics argue they’ve benefitted from a weak Pac-12 conference, especially after the departures of USC and UCLA, raising doubts about their true playoff worthiness.
4. Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1)
Why They’re Here: Under Nick Saban, Alabama has found its stride after an early-season loss to Texas. Their defense, led by a number of future NFL stars, is back to championship-caliber, and quarterback Jalen Milroe has developed into one of the most dynamic players in the nation. Their win over Georgia in the SEC Championship was a testament to their resilience and capability.
The Controversy: Alabama’s path to the playoff wasn’t exactly flawless. The loss to Texas still hangs over them, and their offense has looked erratic at times. There are serious questions about whether Milroe can consistently perform in big-game situations. Some argue Alabama’s reputation has inflated their spot over teams with more complete seasons, like Texas or Oregon.
5. Texas Longhorns (12-1)
Why They’re Here: Texas has made a massive leap under Steve Sarkisian, with quarterback Quinn Ewers leading an offense that has been explosive at times. Their lone loss to Oklahoma State was a blip on the radar, and their victory over Alabama in Week 2 was a statement. The Longhorns have one of the best overall rosters in the country.
The Controversy: Texas has been inconsistent at times, with narrow wins against teams like TCU and Kansas State. Their loss to Oklahoma State, a team not considered elite, is concerning. Some believe the committee overvalued their win over Alabama, ignoring the fact that Alabama had an early-season identity crisis. Texas is good, but are they really elite?
6. Oregon Ducks (11-2)
Why They’re Here: Oregon’s offense, led by Bo Nix, has been electrifying all season. Their high-scoring games against elite competition prove they can hang with the big dogs. Their only two losses were to Washington and Oregon State, both of which were close, and their overall play this season suggests they can compete at the highest level.
The Controversy: Oregon’s biggest knock is their lack of signature wins outside the Pac-12, and their defense has shown vulnerability in key moments. Critics argue that they simply don’t have the depth and consistency to make it through the playoff gauntlet, especially after getting throttled by Washington in the conference championship. Some feel that Oregon has been slightly overrated based on their high-scoring offense.
7. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2)
Why They’re Here: Ohio State is never far from the playoff conversation, and despite their loss to Michigan, their roster is loaded with talent, especially on the defensive side of the ball. With a dynamic passing attack and a solid run game, they remain a formidable playoff contender.
The Controversy: Ohio State’s failure to win the Big Ten Championship and their inability to beat Michigan for the third consecutive year is troubling. Furthermore, their performances against lesser teams this season raised red flags. Quarterback Kyle McCord’s inconsistency and their lack of a true playmaker in crunch time make them one of the more overrated teams in this year’s race.
8. Florida State Seminoles (13-0)
Why They’re Here: Florida State has an undefeated record, and their team is as balanced as any in the nation. Led by quarterback Jordan Travis, they’ve been able to beat teams from the ACC with impressive depth and resilience. They deserve to be here based on their record alone.
The Controversy: The biggest knock on Florida State is the loss of Travis, who was the heart and soul of their offense. With backup quarterback Tate Rodemaker taking the reins, the Seminoles’ offense looked far less dangerous in their ACC Championship game against Louisville. Their win over LSU in the opening week feels more like a fluke given LSU’s subsequent struggles. Florida State’s place in the playoff is seen by many as a result of a weak ACC and a questionable performance without their star quarterback. They may be the most underwhelming of the final eight.
Conclusion
This year’s College Football Playoff is more controversial than ever. While each of the 8 teams has a legitimate claim to being here, questions linger about the strength of their schedules, the consistency of their performances, and whether they’re truly elite. The debate will continue until the final whistle blows, but one thing is certain: these rankings will be hotly contested, and the upcoming playoff will provide all the drama and intrigue that college football fans crave.