The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape is set to be thrilling with several teams poised to challenge the favorites and potentially disrupt projections. Among the key potential spoilers, two programs stand out due to their recent performances and potential for disruption: Oregon State and Kansas State.
Oregon State, a team that has steadily improved under head coach Jonathan Smith, is well-positioned to shake up the CFP race. The Beavers have made significant strides in recent seasons, showcasing a potent offense and a resilient defense. With quarterback DJ Uiagalelei transferring in from Clemson, they possess the offensive firepower to challenge the traditional powerhouses. Their strong recruiting and a favorable schedule could enable them to run the table or at least create a buzz with key wins against top-ranked teams, altering playoff predictions.
Similarly, Kansas State has shown it can compete at the highest level, especially under the guidance of head coach Chris Klieman. The Wildcats have demonstrated a knack for upsetting higher-ranked teams and possess a robust defense coupled with a dynamic offense. If they can navigate their tough Big 12 schedule and secure a spot in the conference championship game, they could emerge as a surprise contender. A strong season could see them disrupt the playoff field, especially if they manage to secure a significant win over a top-ranked team.
Another team to watch is Tulane, which has been making waves as a Group of Five powerhouse. The Green Wave’s ability to pull off upsets and their potential to run the table in their conference could push them into the playoff conversation, especially if they can secure a win against a high-profile opponent in a non-conference game.
These teams, with their ability to perform at a high level and potentially secure crucial victories, have the capacity to spoil the expectations of more traditional CFP contenders and make a significant impact on the 2024 playoff race.
