Underrated College Football Teams To Watch In 2024

Hey guys! Are you ready for some football? College football in 2024 is shaping up to be an absolute rollercoaster, and while everyone's eyes are glued to the usual suspects, there are some seriously underrated teams out there ready to make a splash. We're talking about the underdogs, the dark horses, the teams that might just surprise everyone and crash the College Football Playoff party. So, let’s dive into some of these hidden gems and talk about why they could be the teams to watch this season.

Why Focus on Underrated Teams?

Before we jump into specific teams, let’s quickly chat about why it’s so much fun to keep an eye on the underrated squads. I mean, sure, the Alabamas and Georgias of the world are always exciting, but there’s something special about seeing a team come out of nowhere and exceed all expectations. Isn't there? When you focus on underrated college football teams, you're not just watching football; you're witnessing potential Cinderella stories unfold. You get to see players who might not have been five-star recruits stepping up and becoming stars. You experience the thrill of a team defying the odds and shaking up the established order. Plus, let’s be real, it’s just way more interesting to have a few unexpected teams in the mix, right? It keeps things exciting and makes the season unpredictable. So, this year, let’s not just focus on the big names. Let’s dig a little deeper and appreciate the teams that are working hard in the shadows, ready to shock the world.

Criteria for Underrated Teams

Okay, so how do we actually define an "underrated" team? It’s not just about looking at teams that didn’t have great records last year. We need a more nuanced approach. Several factors come into play when identifying these hidden gems. First off, returning talent is huge. Are there key players coming back who can make a significant impact? A quarterback with another year of experience under his belt? A star running back ready to explode? A seasoned defense that's been through the battles? These are the kinds of things that can turn a good team into a great one. Next up, we gotta look at coaching. Is there a new coaching staff bringing fresh energy and innovative strategies? Or maybe a coach who's been building something special for a few years and is finally ready to see it pay off. Coaching can make a world of difference in college football. After that, let’s consider the strength of schedule. A team might have had a disappointing record last year, but maybe they played a brutal schedule. If their schedule is a bit easier this year, they could be poised for a big turnaround. Finally, we'll look at the "intangibles" – the things you can't necessarily measure with stats. Team chemistry, leadership, the hunger to prove doubters wrong – these can be powerful forces. So, with these criteria in mind, let’s get into some teams that fit the bill for 2024.

Top Underrated Teams to Watch in 2024

Alright, guys, let’s get to the good stuff! We’ve talked about why underrated teams are worth watching and what makes a team underrated. Now, let’s dive into some specific teams that I think have the potential to surprise a lot of people in 2024. These are teams that, for one reason or another, aren’t getting the hype they deserve, but they have the pieces in place to make some serious noise. So, without further ado, here are my top picks for underrated college football teams to keep your eye on this season:

1. Kansas State Wildcats

The Kansas State Wildcats are a team that consistently flies under the radar, but they’re always tough. Last year, they had a solid season, but they’re poised for even bigger things in 2024. What makes them so intriguing? Well, for starters, they have a fantastic quarterback in Will Howard, who’s a legitimate star in the making. He’s got a strong arm, he’s mobile, and he makes smart decisions. But it’s not just Howard. The Wildcats have a strong running game and a defense that’s always well-coached and disciplined. Plus, head coach Chris Klieman has built a program that’s known for its toughness and resilience. They don’t beat themselves, and they’re always ready to fight. Their schedule sets up nicely for them to compete for the Big 12 title and maybe even sneak into the College Football Playoff conversation. Keep an eye on the Wildcats; they’re going to be a problem for a lot of teams this year.

2. Iowa Hawkeyes

Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “Iowa? Underrated?” I get it. The Iowa Hawkeyes aren’t exactly known for their high-flying offense. But hear me out. This is a team that consistently wins games thanks to its rock-solid defense and disciplined play. And this year, they have the potential to be even better. Their defense is going to be absolutely nasty, led by some serious playmakers at all three levels. They’re tough, physical, and they don’t give up easy yards. The big question mark, as always, is the offense. But there are signs that it could be improved this year, with some exciting young players emerging. And let’s not forget about special teams, where Iowa is always among the best in the country. Head coach Kirk Ferentz is a master of maximizing his team’s strengths and minimizing weaknesses. They play in a tough Big Ten West division, but they always seem to find a way to be in the mix. Don’t sleep on the Hawkeyes; they’re a team that can grind out wins against anyone.

3. UCF Knights

The UCF Knights are making the jump to the Big 12 this year, and I think they’re going to surprise some people. They’ve been a high-scoring team for years now, and they have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone. Quarterback John Rhys Plumlee is an electric playmaker, and the Knights have a stable of talented running backs and receivers. But it’s not just about the offense. Head coach Gus Malzahn has brought a new energy to the program, and the Knights are playing with a chip on their shoulder. They’re hungry to prove that they belong in the Big 12, and they’re not going to back down from anyone. The transition to a Power Five conference is never easy, but UCF has the talent and the coaching to make some noise right away. They might not win the conference in their first year, but they’re going to be a tough out for every team they play. Keep an eye on the Knights; they’re going to be one of the most exciting teams to watch in 2024.

4. Tulane Green Wave

The Tulane Green Wave were one of the biggest surprises in college football last year, winning the AAC championship and beating USC in the Cotton Bowl. And while they lost some key players, I think they have the potential to be just as good in 2024. Head coach Willie Fritz has built a fantastic program in New Orleans, and the Green Wave play with a toughness and resilience that’s hard to match. They have a strong running game, a physical defense, and a quarterback in Michael Pratt who’s a proven winner. They play in a conference that’s getting better and better, but Tulane is the team to beat in the AAC. They have a favorable schedule, and if they can stay healthy, they could be in the mix for a New Year’s Six bowl game once again. The Green Wave are no longer a secret, but they’re still being underrated by some. Don’t make that mistake; this is a team that’s going to compete for championships.

5. Boise State Broncos

The Boise State Broncos are a program that’s always in the conversation for the top Group of Five teams, and I think they’re poised for a big year in 2024. They have a talented quarterback in Taylen Green, who’s got all the tools to be a star. And they have a defense that’s always among the best in the Mountain West. Head coach Andy Avalos has instilled a tough, physical culture in Boise, and the Broncos are always a tough out at home. They play in a conference that’s wide open this year, and if they can stay healthy, they have a great chance to win the Mountain West title and earn a New Year’s Six bowl bid. Boise State is a program that knows how to win, and they’re going to be a force to be reckoned with in 2024. Don’t count them out.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, guys! My top five underrated college football teams to watch in 2024. These are the teams that I think have the potential to surprise a lot of people and make some serious noise this season. Of course, there are plenty of other teams out there that could also be in the mix, and that’s what makes college football so exciting. The beauty of college football lies in its unpredictability. Every year, teams rise and fall, and there are always surprises along the way. That’s why it’s so important to look beyond the usual suspects and pay attention to the underrated teams. You never know when you might witness the birth of a new powerhouse or the resurgence of a program that’s been down for a while. So, this season, let’s all make an effort to watch these teams and appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into building a successful college football program. Who knows, maybe one of these teams will be hoisting a trophy at the end of the year. And hey, even if they don’t, it’s going to be a fun ride watching them try. So, get ready for another thrilling season of college football, and don’t forget to cheer on the underdogs!