Top 5 Storylines to Watch in College Football for 2024

As the 2024 college football season approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation. From coaching changes to conference realignments, this season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Here are the top five storylines to keep an eye on:

​1. Deion Sanders’ Year Two at Colorado 
Deion Sanders took over a struggling Colorado program and led them to a 4-8 record last season. Despite the modest win total, the hype around Sanders' tenure remains strong, evidenced by the Buffaloes selling out their season tickets for the second straight year. Key players like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter, both with first-round NFL draft potential, will be pivotal. Sanders' brother, Shilo, also returns as a safety after a standout season. While the team faced significant losses via the transfer portal, the influx of new talent suggests that Colorado could double their win total in a softer Big 12 conference and surprise many.

2. Michigan vs. Ohio State: A New Chapter 
The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, one of the most storied in college football, enters a new era in 2024. Michigan has dominated the rivalry recently, but with Jim Harbaugh gone and Sherrone Moore stepping in as head coach, the Wolverines face uncertainty. Ohio State, on the other hand, is under immense pressure. Head coach Ryan Day has struggled against Michigan, and with a roster stacked with stars like Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, and JT Tuimoloau, and key transfers like quarterback Will Howard, the Buckeyes are in a "now-or-never" situation. This season could redefine the dynamics of this historic rivalry.

3. The New Power 2: SEC and Big Ten Realignments
The 2024 season marks a significant shift in college football's landscape with Texas and Oklahoma joining the SEC, and Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA moving to the Big Ten. These realignments will introduce mouthwatering matchups like Oregon vs. Ohio State, Georgia vs. Texas, USC vs. Michigan, and Oklahoma vs. Alabama. This new era promises more high-stakes games during the regular season, enhancing the sport's overall appeal and excitement.

4. Alabama Post-Nick Saban
Alabama enters the 2024 season under new leadership with Kalen DeBoer at the helm after Nick Saban's legendary tenure. DeBoer, who led Washington to a National Championship appearance last season, is known for his offensive acumen. However, he will need to elevate his recruiting efforts in the highly competitive SEC. The expectations remain sky-high for the Crimson Tide, and DeBoer faces the daunting task of maintaining Alabama's storied legacy of success.

5. The Expanded Playoffs
​This year, college football will debut its expanded 12-team playoff format. The top five conference champions and the next seven highest-ranked teams will compete for the national championship. This expansion aims to address the controversies of previous seasons where many deserving teams were left out. The inclusion of first-round games at home stadiums promises electric atmospheres and a thrilling postseason. With debates over rankings and potential dominance by the SEC and Big Ten, the expanded playoffs are set to be a major talking point throughout the season.

The 2024 college football season is shaping up to be a landmark year with transformative changes and high-stakes drama. Fans should buckle up for an exhilarating ride as these storylines unfold on Saturdays this fall.
-Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football