As the college football season advances, 19 teams remain undefeated, showcasing talent and grit. However, the odds of any team completing the season without a blemish are slim. Every year, powerhouse programs and under-the-radar contenders start strong, but most face their first loss before the playoffs. Let’s break down when each of these unbeaten teams could suffer their first defeat.
1. Georgia Bulldogs
The Georgia Bulldogs are the reigning national champions and have looked dominant in every game. But their first real challenge looms on the horizon. On November 4, Georgia faces the Missouri Tigers. While Georgia is expected to handle Missouri, a slip-up in this game could happen, especially if Georgia overlooks the Tigers in anticipation of bigger matchups later in the season.
Prediction: First loss vs. Missouri (Nov. 4)
2. Michigan Wolverines
Michigan has been cruising through the Big Ten, but tougher tests are ahead. Their first major hurdle will come on November 25, when they face Ohio State. The Buckeyes are always a formidable opponent, and playing at the Horseshoe this year could be too much for the Wolverines.
Prediction: First loss vs. Ohio State (Nov. 25)
3. Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes’ offense, led by their potent passing game, has made them a dominant force. However, on November 11, they will face the Penn State Nittany Lions on the road. Penn State’s defense has the ability to slow down Ohio State’s high-octane offense, leading to a possible upset.
Prediction: First loss at Penn State (Nov. 11)
4. Florida State Seminoles
Florida State has rebounded impressively this season, with wins over LSU and Clemson already on their resume. However, a November showdown with the Miami Hurricanes could be the stumbling block. November 18 might see the Seminoles dropping their first game, as Miami’s high-flying offense tests FSU’s secondary.
Prediction: First loss vs. Miami (Nov. 18)
5. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State has looked formidable this season, but a brutal upcoming schedule could change that. The Nittany Lions travel to Columbus on November 11 to face the Ohio State Buckeyes. The Buckeyes will likely hand Penn State their first defeat in what could be a classic Big Ten battle.
Prediction: First loss at Ohio State (Nov. 11)
6. Washington Huskies
Washington has been flying under the radar, but their biggest test will come against Oregon on October 14. The Ducks have a balanced attack and a tough defense, and it may be too much for the Huskies to handle.
Prediction: First loss vs. Oregon (Oct. 14)
7. Oklahoma Sooners
The Sooners have an explosive offense, but they face the Texas Longhorns on October 7 in the Red River Rivalry. Texas has been one of the best teams in the nation this season, and this could be the game where Oklahoma stumbles.
Prediction: First loss vs. Texas (Oct. 7)
8. Texas Longhorns
Texas has looked strong throughout the season, but their toughest challenge will come when they face Kansas State on November 4. The Wildcats are known for pulling off upsets, and they could be the team to derail Texas’ undefeated season.
Prediction: First loss at Kansas State (Nov. 4)
9. USC Trojans
Led by Heisman-winning quarterback Caleb Williams, the Trojans have been lighting up scoreboards. However, USC’s defense remains a concern. Their first real test could be when they face Utah on October 21. Utah’s physical defense and disciplined play may expose USC’s weaknesses.
Prediction: First loss vs. Utah (Oct. 21)
10. Utah Utes
Utah has been playing well, but their first defeat could come on October 28, when they take on Oregon. The Ducks have the offensive firepower to overcome Utah’s solid defense, and Oregon’s home-field advantage makes this a difficult challenge for Utah.
Prediction: First loss at Oregon (Oct. 28)
11. Oregon Ducks
The Ducks have a powerful offense, but their defense has shown some vulnerabilities. On November 11, Oregon will face USC in a game that could determine the Pac-12 title. The Trojans’ high-powered passing attack might prove too much for Oregon’s defense.
Prediction: First loss vs. USC (Nov. 11)
12. North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels have been a surprise contender this season. However, they face the Clemson Tigers on November 18. Clemson’s defense, combined with home-field advantage, could result in UNC’s first loss of the season.
Prediction: First loss at Clemson (Nov. 18)
13. Duke Blue Devils
Duke has had a stellar season so far, but a matchup against Florida State on October 21 could end their unbeaten run. Florida State’s dynamic offense may be too much for Duke’s defense to handle.
Prediction: First loss at Florida State (Oct. 21)
14. Miami Hurricanes
Miami’s season has been impressive, but their undefeated streak may come to an end against Florida State on November 18. The Seminoles have the defensive tools to contain Miami’s potent offense.
Prediction: First loss at Florida State (Nov. 18)
15. Missouri Tigers
Missouri has quietly put together an undefeated season, but they face the juggernaut Georgia Bulldogs on November 4. Despite Missouri’s strong start, Georgia’s depth and talent will likely overwhelm the Tigers.
Prediction: First loss at Georgia (Nov. 4)
16. Louisville Cardinals
Louisville has been impressive, but a road game against Notre Dame on October 7 might be too much for them. Notre Dame’s balanced offense and home advantage make this a tough game for Louisville to win.
Prediction: First loss at Notre Dame (Oct. 7)
17. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Fighting Irish have looked solid so far, but their biggest test comes against USC on October 14. Caleb Williams and the Trojans’ offense could be the team that hands Notre Dame its first loss of the season.
Prediction: First loss vs. USC (Oct. 14)
18. Kansas State Wildcats
Kansas State has been strong, but their first loss could come on October 21, when they face Texas Tech. The Red Raiders’ explosive offense could be the difference maker in this game.
Prediction: First loss at Texas Tech (Oct. 21)
19. Air Force Falcons
Air Force has flown under the radar, but their first defeat may come against Boise State on November 4. Boise State’s offense will likely be too much for Air Force’s defense to contain.
Prediction: First loss at Boise State (Nov. 4)
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