College Football Parity Reigns Supreme: 2024 Season’s Biggest Story
Parity. It’s the defining characteristic of the 2024 college football season, with eight teams separated by a mere 3.1 points atop ESPN’s SP+ rankings.
This unprecedented closeness suggests the expanded College Football Playoff couldn’t have arrived at a better time. Six of these eight elite teams secured spots in the inaugural 12-team CFP, setting the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling postseason.
While the 2024 champion has a chance to emerge as a dominant force, early indicators suggest this year’s title contender might not surpass the legendary teams of the CFP era.
Ranking the Best: A CFP Era Tradition
Despite the expanded playoff, ESPN continues its tradition of ranking every College Football Playoff team, encompassing the entire history of this exciting era.
From undefeated national champions to surprise contenders, the CFP has produced unforgettable moments. Where does 2023 Michigan, fresh off its dominant national title run, stand among the greats? Can the 2024 champion etch their name among the all-time best?
Arizona State: A Cinderella Story in the Making
The 2024 Arizona State Sun Devils are a prime example of this season’s unpredictable nature.
As late as Week 12, their playoff odds hovered around a meager 2.9%. But under the guidance of Coach Kenny Dillingham, the Sun Devils embarked on a remarkable six-game winning streak, culminating in a Big 12 championship.
Fueled by the dynamic running back Cam Skattebo, Arizona State enters the Peach Bowl as confident underdogs, ready to prove their worth against the likes of Texas or Clemson.
Want to see how Arizona State stacks up against the rest of the CFP contenders? Check out ESPN’s comprehensive ranking of every College Football Playoff team throughout history!
