Greg McElroy, the former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback turned ESPN college football analyst, recently unveiled his preseason top 10 rankings for the upcoming 2024 college football season during an episode of the “Always College Football Podcast with Greg McElroy.” Known for his deep insights into the sport, McElroy’s rankings reflect a blend of traditional powerhouses and emerging contenders.
McElroy’s top 10 list is notably dominated by teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten, aligning with his observation that these conferences have shown significant strength and depth in recent years. Unlike some other analysts, McElroy diverges by not placing the Georgia Bulldogs at the pinnacle of his rankings, showcasing a nuanced perspective on the upcoming season.
The landscape of college football in 2024 is marked by the expansion of major conferences like the SEC and Big Ten to 16 teams each. Additionally, the College Football Playoff has expanded to include 12 teams, creating heightened anticipation and competitive dynamics as teams prepare for the season opener on August 24.
Let’s delve into Greg McElroy’s evaluations and rankings of the top 10 college football teams for the 2024 season:
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
McElroy’s top pick, the Ohio State Buckeyes, reflects his confidence in their defensive prowess and returning talent. Highlighting key players like defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau and quarterback Will Howard, McElroy acknowledges the team’s strengths while noting potential areas for improvement, such as the offensive line.
2. Georgia Bulldogs
Despite not placing Georgia at number one, McElroy recognizes their formidable defense led by safety Malaki Starks and linebacker Mykel Williams. He praises quarterback Carson Beck as a standout player who could have entered the NFL draft early had he chosen to do so.
3. Oregon Ducks
The Oregon Ducks, featuring Oklahoma transfer Dillon Gabriel at quarterback, are poised for success with a roster bolstered by key additions from the transfer portal. McElroy emphasizes their potential, indicating they are set up for a strong season.
4. Texas Longhorns
McElroy views Texas favorably, particularly highlighting the offensive line and quarterback Quinn Ewers. However, he expresses concern about the departures on the defensive side and the challenging schedule ahead.
5. Alabama Crimson Tide
Despite significant changes following Nick Saban’s departure, McElroy commends new head coach Kalen DeBoer for stabilizing the team. Quarterback Jalen Milroe is highlighted as a dynamic addition to the Crimson Tide’s roster.
6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
McElroy’s ranking of Notre Dame is seen as bold by some, given concerns about their offensive line. However, he notes the potential impact of Duke transfer quarterback Riley Leonard in strengthening their offensive capabilities.
7. Mississippi Rebels
Led by star quarterback Jaxson Dart, the Mississippi Rebels aim to build on their 11-2 record from the previous season. McElroy believes they have improved across various positions and have a manageable schedule ahead.
8. Penn State Nittany Lions
With the expanded playoff format in mind, McElroy sees Penn State as a potential contender. He emphasizes the importance of quarterback Drew Allar’s performance in elevating the team’s offensive efficiency.
9. Missouri Tigers
McElroy praises Missouri’s quarterback Brady Cook and standout receiver Luther Burden, highlighting their potential in the competitive SEC despite losses in key positions from the previous season.
10. Tennessee Volunteers
Rounding out McElroy’s top 10 is Tennessee, where he sees promise in new quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Acknowledging the team’s potential upside, McElroy positions them higher than many other analysts might.
Greg McElroy’s preseason top 10 rankings provide a comprehensive overview of the college football landscape for the 2024 season. His assessments reflect a keen understanding of team dynamics, player strengths, and potential challenges each team may face. As the season approaches, these rankings serve as a benchmark for fans and analysts alike, shaping expectations and discussions surrounding the upcoming college football campaign.
