Biggest Surprises of the 2024 Season

As we head towards the playoffs, I wanted to give some credit to some of the teams that have exceeded expectations this season. Here are some of 2024’s biggest surprises in College Football. (All win total data via Vegas Insider)

First, here are some honorable mentions:

Arizona State, South Carolina, Minnesota.

Indiana Hoosiers

Preseason win projection: 5.5

Current Record: 10-0

The Hoosiers are obviously the best and biggest story in College Football so far. This team, under head coach Curt Cignetti, has far exceeded preseason expectations. The Hoosiers are not only undefeated in the Big 10, but are undefeated overall. They have a big test coming up in about a week and a half against Ohio State, but even with a loss there, I don’t think anyone can deny just how impressive and unexpected this team has been thus far

Byu Cougars

Preseason win projection: 4.5

Current Record: 9-0

Aside from the Hoosiers, The Cougars are the team that has surprised me the most this season. I don’t think a single expert, fan, or analyst had the Cougars even contending for the Big 12. But that is exactly what BYU is doing. They have remained perfect this season, notching some impressive wins over teams like SMU and Kansas State. Not only is this team competing for the Big 12, but they’re competing for a first-round playoff bye. It’s been a stellar season for the Cougars thus far.

SMU Mustangs

Preseason win projection: 7.5

Current Record: 8-1

The Mustangs were not necessarily projected to be a bad team, but did anyone see them being undefeated in the ACC 11 weeks into the season? I don’t think so. They have been impressive on both sides of the ball and continue to handle business against every ACC team they’ve played so far. They have a clear path laid out to the playoffs, and I think they make it.


Army Black Knights

Preseason win projection: 6.5

Current Record: 9-0

How about America’s team man? Army is neck and neck with Boise State for a playoff spot right now as the best GO5 team. Was that on a single person’s bingo card for the 2024 season? The Black Knights have been unbelievable in their first season in the AAC, being perfect thus far. With four more wins, they’ll not only have won the American but also completed an undefeated regular season. Regardless of what happens from here on out I would say Army has far exceeded their expectations.

Colorado Buffaloes

Preseason win projection: 6.5

Current Record: 7-2

I am a former D1 Colorado hater who has turned into an impressed fan. I don’t think there is a team that has been more under the microscope this season than Colorado, but after the Nebraska loss, Deion has completely flipped the season around. The Buffs are winners of 6 of their last 7, only losing to Kansas State in that time period. Even if they don’t win out, I think its fair to say that they have exceeded their preseason expectations.

Vanderbilt CommOdores

Preseason win projection: 2.5

Current Record: 6-4

Now, unlike the rest of the teams on this list, Vandy doesn’t have a shot at the CFB, but it is still very fair to say they have been extremely surprising this season their win total over/under was at 2.5, and they’ve got six wins including an upset over Alabama. This could be the season that catapults Vandy to future SEC success and, one day, even a contender. They have been competitive in most of their SEC contest this season, giving teams like Texas and Missouri a run for their money. Vandy deserves their flowers for the season they’ve put together so far.

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Biggest Disappointments of the 2024 Season

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College Football Bucket List: Whiteout Addition