As the 2024 college football season continues into October, the excitement is palpable as fans and analysts alike track the teams still in contention for a perfect season. Midway through Week 9, only nine FBS teams remain undefeated, showcasing a mix of traditional powerhouses and surprising contenders. The Big Ten leads the way with three unbeaten teams, while the Big 12, ACC, and American conferences each boast two. Notably, the SEC lost its last undefeated team when Georgia triumphed over Texas in Week 8, shaking up the landscape of college football.
Current Undefeated Teams
The following teams are listed by their ranking in the latest AP Top 25 poll, followed by their records and recent performances.
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 seems to have hit its stride, especially following 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 in 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)
Penn State’s resilience was on full display in their thrilling overtime victory against Southern California. Trailing at halftime, the Nittany Lions rallied to secure a hard-fought win, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. With a bye week ahead, they will have ample time to prepare for their upcoming matchups against Wisconsin and Ohio State, both of which could be pivotal in their quest for an undefeated season.
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 have been lighting up the scoreboard, surviving a high-scoring affair against Louisville. Quarterback Cam Ward’s impressive performance, throwing for 319 yards and four touchdowns, has been a key factor in their success. With an in-state rivalry game against Florida State on the horizon, Miami is looking to maintain its perfect record 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 surprising contender this season, achieving their 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. As they prepare to face Texas Tech on November 2, Iowa State is eager to prove that they belong among the elite teams 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)
After a challenging transition to the Big 12, BYU has found its footing, already surpassing last year’s conference win total. With notable victories over ranked opponents like Kansas State and SMU, the Cougars are riding high after a thrilling win against Oklahoma State. Their upcoming matchup against UCF will be crucial as they aim to keep their perfect season alive.
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. Head coach Curt Cignetti has his team firing on all cylinders, and they will look to continue their impressive run against Washington in Week 9. The Hoosiers are determined to make a statement in the Big Ten and prove that they can compete with the best.
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. With a series of close wins, including a nail-biter against California, the Panthers are gaining momentum. After a bye week, they will face Syracuse, looking to extend their undefeated streak.
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 showdown with Notre Dame on November 23, the Black Knights are aiming for a perfect season and 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 also on the hunt for an undefeated season. With a dominant performance against Charlotte, the Midshipmen are gearing up for a significant matchup against Notre Dame at MetLife Stadium. A victory could solidify their status as a contender for the College Football Playoff.
As the season progresses, the race for a perfect record intensifies, with each of these teams facing unique challenges and opportunities. The next few weeks will be critical in determining which of these squads can maintain their unbeaten status and potentially vie for a spot in the College Football Playoff.