It’s the most wonderful time of the year: college football season! It’s time to rush to a friend’s house, carrying last minute chips and dip, ready to crash on their couch and settle into the game. But with so many teams, who has the statistical advantage of winning, and who are the fan favorites?
It’s no secret there are fan favorite teams: Ohio State, Notre Dame, Florida, Georgia, to name a few. But which school has players that can bring home victories and coaches that can make stellar game-winning calls? To start, Ohio State is off to a strong lead with two victories, with a 14-7 win against Texas and a 70-0 win against Grambling State, putting them at the top of the ranks. It’s clear Ohio State has a roster loaded with extremely talented players, which could potentially win them a title. Penn State and LSU are second and third following Ohio State, both with two wins, but much closer scores.
Although it is early in the season, the Buckeyes have Julian Sayin, a quarterback transfer from Alabama, bringing high-level passing ability and a strong command over the offense. These factors are crucial for victories, especially against higher ranked teams like LSU, Penn State, Oregon and Miami. Sayin has led his team to victory, showing great promise for the rest of the season. The Buckeyes also have wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who had a record-breaking freshman season in 2024, setting new marks for receiving yards and touchdowns. He is a game changer on the field. His footwork, speed and athleticism make impressive impacts on the team. These are only a couple of Ohio State’s top players, showing they have the statistical advantage on their side for a chance at bringing home the title.
Statistics aside, Georgia, Notre Dame, Michigan and Ohio State have the most watched games to date. Based on viewership and social media presence, though, Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State, Michigan, Notre Dame, LSU, Florida and Texas are the most popular. Ohio State is almost always in the top three for popularity, due to social media and viewership. Through the 2021-24 seasons, they have had over 4 million views with just 34 games played. Alabama played 37 games and Georgia played 36 within those seasons, all having over 4 million views.
Supporters are also based on who they grew up watching. Kids, especially, are influenced by what team or teams their parents support. For example, Madi Harting, an IB junior at St. Petersburg High School says, “my mom is a huge Georgia fan, and the games are always on TV, so I end up watching and growing to support and follow them.” Lily Crocket, a junior at Hollins High School supports Michigan and Florida State because she says, “my dad, grandpa and my great grandfather went there.” Additionally, her brother Jackson attends FSU, so she supports that school, as well. College football is watched all over the world by people of many ages. Parents have strong impacts on the teams their kids follow, but that can also bring families closer together.
Only time will tell who takes the title and makes history. Anything can happen in a game, so while statistics may be on Ohio State’s side, game pressure can lead to one wrong play or mistake, which can bring them down in the ranks. Regardless, college football brings families, friends and kids from different schools together to root, cheer, and holler for their favorite teams.
