It’s that time of year, ladies and gentlemen; we are less than twenty days away from college football kickoff. With the new season upon us, many have questions about who the top dogs will be this time around. Well, your prayers have been answered, because I’m here to predict my top 5 college football teams for the 2023-2024 CFB season.
#5 – Clemson
After a slightly disappointing 2022-2023 season, Dabo Swinney will surely bring the best out of his players in 23’. That’s why Clemson is coming in at number 5 on my list. With the development of sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnick and his all-American running back Will Shipley, the Tigers’ offense will surely improve next season. Along with offense, continued defensive dominance led by Jeremiah Trotter, Barrett Carter, and Tyler Davis under coach Wes Goodwin will push Clemson back into playoff contention.
#4 – OSU
Ohio State University is undoubtedly one of my top 4 teams in the upcoming CFB season. What more can I say than Marvin Harrison, Emeka, Egbuka, and Julian Fleming. The Buckeyes seem to have a never-ending supply of NFL-caliber receivers, and Harrison could prove to be one of, if not the best, in school history. Although OSU has slight inexperience at the quarterback position, I believe their high-powered offense will carry them to the #4 position and a playoff berth in the New Year.
#3 – USC
With reigning Heisman Caleb Williams and offensive mastermind Lincoln Riley, the Trojans will be hard to beat in any stadium. Although the California-based team had questions about their defense, Riley responded by landing one of the best defensive transfer classes this offseason. This class included Bear Alexander, Mason Cobb, and Kyon Barrs. All 3 have either made an all-American team, won a national championship, or been on the trophy watch list with their previous teams. Improved defense and continued Heisman play from Williams will have USC fighting for the trophy in 2024.
#2 – Alabama
Nick Saban. It’s really that simple: the Alabama Crimson Tide have the best coach in college football, so they’re going to be in contention. When has Nick Saban ever not responded to a down year? After missing the playoffs the previous season, everyone in their right mind will be expecting Bama to bounce back. I could sit here all day and name the talent on their roster, but there is simply too much to list. The 18-time national champions will be back in the playoffs next year as they start their route to the championship with vengeance.
#1 – Georgia
Will the Georgia Bulldogs complete the three-peat? It sure wouldn’t surprise me after the dominance they’ve shown in their last two seasons. Under Kirby Smart, Georgia has been reignited as one of the main powerhouses in CFB. With Stetson Bennett leaving, there may be some quarterback issues; however, I believe the Bulldogs’ defense will allow their quarterback to settle in. Led by Brock Bowers, Sedrick Van Pran, Jamon Dumas-Johnson, and a large variety of other dawgs, Georgia is my pick to reign #1 and complete their long-destined 3-peat.
