The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff in 2024 opens up new opportunities for Group of 5 teams to compete on the national stage. With at least one spot guaranteed for the highest-ranked Group of 5 conference champion, several teams are poised to make a run at the playoffs. Here are the top five Group of 5 contenders for the 2024 College Football Playoff.
The Five Best Group of 5 Teams for the 2024-25 College Football Playoff
1. Liberty Flames
Liberty emerges as the frontrunner among Group of 5 teams for the 2024 College Football Playoff. The Flames’ potent offense is led by dynamic quarterback Kaidon Salter, who accounted for 43 all-purpose touchdowns and rushed for over 1,000 yards in the previous season. Liberty’s high-powered attack, combined with their recent success and a manageable schedule, puts them in prime position to make a strong case for a playoff berth.
2. Memphis Tigers
The Memphis Tigers are well-positioned to contend for a playoff spot in 2024. Quarterback Seth Henigan, who ranked fourth in passing production last season, returns to lead a loaded offense. With talented receivers like Roc Taylor and Demeer Blankumsee at his disposal, Memphis has the firepower to compete with top teams. However, the Tigers’ success may hinge on improving their defense, particularly against the pass.
3. Tulane Green Wave
Despite losing their head coach and starting quarterback, Tulane remains a strong contender in the Group of 5 landscape. New head coach Jon Sumrall, who comes from Troy, brings a fresh perspective to the program. The addition of Oregon transfer quarterback Ty Thompson should help stabilize the offense. As the reigning AAC champions, Tulane has the pedigree and talent to stay in the conference title race and potentially secure a playoff spot.
4. Boise State Broncos
Boise State has long been a powerhouse in the Group of 5, and 2024 could be their year to break through to the playoff. The Broncos have an early opportunity to make a statement when they face Oregon on September 7th. A strong showing or upset against the Ducks could set Boise State on a path towards playoff contention. With their history of success and consistent performance, the Broncos are always a threat to claim the Group of 5’s automatic bid.
5. Miami (OH) RedHawks
Miami (OH) rounds out the top five with a 3.0% chance of making the playoff, according to ESPN’s projections. The RedHawks are coming off an impressive 11-win season and a MAC championship in 2023. Despite losing key players like wide receiver Greg Larvadain and running back Rashad Amos, Miami (OH) retains enough talent to make another run at the conference title. The team’s strength lies in its receiving corps and a solid offensive line that should provide stability for the offense. Defensively, the linebacker unit is a position of strength, though there are some gaps to fill in the secondary.
G5 to the CFP
These five teams represent the best chances for the Group of 5 to make noise in the 2024 College Football Playoff. However, other contenders like Appalachian State, Fresno State, and Troy could also emerge as the season progresses.
The expanded playoff format injects new excitement into the Group of 5 conferences, elevating the importance of both non-conference matchups and conference play. Early-season games against Power Four opponents will be crucial for these teams to build their resumes and catch the eye of the selection committee.
As the season unfolds, keep an eye on key matchups involving these top Group of 5 teams. Games like Boise State vs. Oregon, Memphis vs. Tulane, and the conference championship games will play a significant role in determining which team secures the coveted playoff spot.
With the guarantee of at least one Group of 5 team in the playoff, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for “mid-major” programs. These five teams have the talent, coaching, and potential to not only make the College Football Playoff but also to compete with the nation’s elite once they get there.
