This year’s expanded College Football Playoff has greatly influenced the regular season, changing how losses are perceived and allowing more teams to vie for the national title.

This is the most significant observation from the first month of the 2024 season, which has primarily unfolded as expected.

This is especially true for the leading teams. Alabama continues to dominate as they transition from Nick Saban to new head coach Kalen DeBoer. Texas has built upon last year’s success to reach the top of the US LBM Coaches Poll. Ohio State has smoothly integrated new quarterback Will Howard, solidifying its status as the top contender in the Big Ten.

However, several surprising developments are worth noting. Under Deion Sanders, Colorado is on track for a minimum of six wins, which would secure them a bowl game. Indiana has started the season strong, marking one of the best beginnings in its history. Conversely, Florida State is making a case for being one of the biggest disappointments in Power Four history.

As we still have a long way to go before a national champion is crowned, YSL News Sports reflects on the first month of the regular season:

Top Team: Alabama

Alabama narrowly edges out Texas following their recent win against Georgia. Texas has made a strong case with a road victory against Michigan to kick off the season and a solid start to SEC games against Mississippi State. However, the Crimson Tide’s remarkable victory sets them apart from the rest.

Most Improved Team: Miami

Miami has surged to the forefront of the ACC after a lackluster start under coach Mario Cristobal. Key factors include enhanced depth and a significantly stronger pass defense, but the main catalyst has been the signing of quarterback Cam Ward.

Heisman Trophy Favorite: Travis Hunter, Colorado

In Saturday’s dominant win over Central Florida, Hunter contributed a touchdown catch and an interception, further solidifying his position. As the Buffaloes push for bowl eligibility, Hunter’s reputation and performance place him among the top contenders for the Heisman Trophy and one of the best individual performers in college football history.

Heisman Trophy Dark Horse: Ashton Jeanty, Boise State

Jeanty’s statistics can’t be overlooked. Over four games, he has accumulated 845 yards with an impressive 10.3 yards per carry and scored 13 touchdowns, including a standout performance with 192 yards and three touchdowns in the Broncos’ narrow 37-34 loss against Oregon. He recorded 259 yards and four touchdowns facing Washington State, but his best game was actually in the season opener against Georgia Southern, where he achieved 267 yards and six scores.

Best Coach: Kalen DeBoer, Alabama

Stepping in for Nick Saban is arguably one of the toughest challenges for a new coach in decades. DeBoer has embraced this role with enthusiasm. Alabama’s offense has been remarkable, and as the team becomes more accustomed to his strategies, that win against Georgia could just be the beginning of an extraordinary season for the Crimson Tide.

Best First-Year Coach: Curt Cignetti, Indiana

While DeBoer’s achievement is noteworthy as well, Cignetti deserves commendation for guiding Indiana to its first 5-0 start since 1967, a year which also marked the program’s last Big Ten championship and Rose Bowl appearance. Although replicating that success seems unlikely, the Hoosiers could be poised as a potential playoff contender entering November.

Surprise Teams: Army and Navy

For the first time since 1945, both Army and Navy are undefeated at 4-0, revitalizing their programs and moving up in the Group of Five rankings. The Midshipmen achieved an impressive victory against Memphis and boast one of the top offenses nationally, ranking in the top nine for yards per game, yards per carry, and scoring. Army has won all of its games by a margin of at least 17 points. They may face each other in the American Athletic Conference Championship and again in their traditional rivalry just one week later.

Biggest Letdown: Florida State

The Seminoles have stumbled badly following last year’s ACC title and near playoff berth. They sandwich a poor win against California with losses to Georgia Tech, Boston College, Memphis, and SMU, the last being a 42-16 blowout that puts them at serious risk of missing bowl eligibility. Despite the success Florida State had in the transfer portal, they were unable to compensate for the numerous critical player losses from last season.

Most Shocking Upset: Northern Illinois 16, Notre Dame 14

Northern Illinois entered South Bend as a significant underdog, getting four touchdowns from Notre Dame, yet stunned them with a result that might leave the Fighting Irish out of the playoffs. Even worse, the Huskies have since lost games against Buffalo and North Carolina State. On a positive note for Notre Dame, they have bounced back with three straight victories and still hold playoff aspirations, provided they avoid any further slip-ups.

Top Game: Alabama 41, Georgia 34

Alabama jumped to a 28-0 lead early in the second quarter, but had to fend off a significant comeback from Georgia, who briefly took the lead before Alabama reclaimed it in the last two minutes. This close road loss isn’t detrimental to Georgia’s chances for the playoffs, yet concerns about their defense and quarterback Carson Beck’s performance linger as they prepare to face teams like Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi.

Coach on the Hot Seat: Billy Napier, Florida

Napier’s position seems precarious, and discussions are already revolving around potential successors for his role. With a record of 2-2 so far this season, the Gators are now about to encounter the toughest part of their schedule. Upcoming opponents include Central Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, Texas, LSU, Mississippi, and Florida State. Achieving bowl eligibility appears to be quite a challenge.

Best Freshman: Ryan Williams, Alabama

It’s hard to believe that Williams is just 17 years old, as he doesn’t play like a typical teenager. He has recorded 16 receptions for an impressive 462 yards, leading the FBS with an average of 28.9 yards per catch, along with six touchdowns. One standout play was his remarkable catch and run which helped propel Alabama past Georgia. Another notable freshman is Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, who has performed well with 19 catches for 364 yards and five touchdowns.

Best Transfer: Cam Ward, Miami

Ward has proved to be a crucial addition for the Hurricanes and stands out as one of the most influential transfers during the NIL era. The former Washington State player tops the FBS with 18 touchdown passes and ranks fourth with an average of 11.1 yards per attempt, plus he has contributed 146 rushing yards. Under his dynamic leadership, Miami is currently favored in the ACC.