As the 2024 college football season wraps up, while the playoff contenders are basking in glory, it’s impossible to ignore the catastrophic failures of some teams that were supposed to be contenders but ended up as colossal disappointments. Let’s break down the five teams that shattered expectations and left fans reeling:
1. Florida State Seminoles (2-10)
Talk about a crash and burn. Florida State entered the season with high hopes—an undefeated regular season, a top-10 ranking, and a projected win total of 9.5. But after an embarrassing Week 0 upset in Ireland, things spiraled out of control. With a quarterback transfer disaster in DJ Uiagalelei and a slew of crushing losses, the Noles plummeted from playoff hopes to a pitiful 2-10 record. Their lone win against an FBS opponent and a 185-point deficit over the course of the season make this one of the most disappointing campaigns in recent college football history.
2. Oklahoma State Cowboys (3-9)
With over 20 returning starters, including star running back Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State was expected to build on their Big 12 Championship appearance last year. Instead, Mike Gundy faced his first losing season since taking the reins in 2005. Despite their competitive spirit, the Cowboys were undone by crushing, last-second losses like the gut-wrenching defeat at BYU. Gordon’s production dropped drastically, QB Alan Bowman proved to be a massive letdown, and the defense couldn’t stop a nosebleed, allowing an appalling 35.6 points per game. A disaster all around.
3. Ole Miss Rebels (9-3)
Ole Miss came into 2024 with championship aspirations. After spending big on talent and with a favorable SEC schedule, they were primed for a playoff run. But the Rebels couldn’t seal the deal, dropping three games, including humiliating losses at home to Kentucky and on the road at Florida. They barely scraped into a bowl game they never wanted to be in, while coach Lane Kiffin tweeted out his frustration. Once again, the Rebels were left to watch the playoffs from the sidelines. What a letdown.
4. Miami Hurricanes (10-2)
Miami’s 2024 season should’ve been a slam dunk for a College Football Playoff berth, but once again, the Hurricanes fell victim to the “letdown game.” With transfer QB Cam Ward playing out of his mind and an easy schedule, they seemed destined for greatness. But inexplicable losses to Georgia Tech and Syracuse, both games where they were heavy favorites, shattered their playoff dreams. Sure, 10 wins is solid, but when it only gets you a Pop-Tarts Bowl appearance, it stings. A truly missed opportunity for both the Canes and the entire college football world.
5. Pittsburgh Panthers (7-5)
Pitt’s 2024 campaign was the ultimate tale of how not to finish a season. The Panthers were flying high at 7-0, with real playoff and ACC Championship aspirations. Then, they completely crumbled, losing five straight games to finish the season. Their slide from playoff contender to a trip to the GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit is about as disappointing as it gets. They had all the momentum and then completely lost it—leaving fans shaking their heads at how it all unraveled so quickly.
These teams were poised for greatness, but instead, they fell flat, leaving a trail of broken dreams and shattered expectations. The 2024 season will be remembered not just for its champions but also for these massive letdowns.
