As the college football season progresses, the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format has sparked excitement, especially for Group of 5 teams. Here's a look at which Group of 5 contenders might break into the playoff scene this season and the players who are leading the Heisman Trophy conversation.
Group of 5 Teams to Watch
1. Liberty Flames
Liberty stands out as a top contender due to their exceptional 2023 season where they boasted a 13-1 record. The team's success is largely attributed to Kaidon Salter, a dynamic quarterback whose dual-threat capability poses a significant challenge for opponents. Salter's return for another season is pivotal, as his performance in 2023 included over 1,000 rushing yards and 43 total touchdowns. Liberty's straightforward schedule could be a double-edged sword; they must remain undefeated to secure a playoff spot, as even a single loss could derail their hopes.
2. Memphis Tigers
Memphis also makes a strong case, backed by quarterback Seth Henigan's prolific passing ability. Henigan, known for his knack for big plays, recorded substantial yardage and touchdowns last season. However, for Memphis to rise in the ranks, improvements on defense are crucial, especially against the pass, where they struggled last year.
3. Tulane Green Wave
Despite significant changes in their coaching staff and roster, Tulane's performance in the American Athletic Conference keeps them in playoff discussions. Their new quarterback, Ty Thompson, an Oregon transfer, brings renewed hope. Tulane's existing team dynamics and recent success might just align for a playoff push.
4. Boise State Broncos
Boise State remains a perpetual threat in the Group of 5 landscape, naturally poised for a shot at the College Football Championship. Their early season matchups, particularly against higher-ranked opponents, could set the tone for their playoff ambitions. Highlighted in their dedicated podcast segment, the Broncos' strategy and game analysis reveal the crucial early September game against Oregon. A strong performance or upset in this game could significantly boost their rankings, propelling them toward playoff contention. This season, Boise State's journey could be a compelling story of overcoming odds and securing a spot in the expanded playoff field.
5. Miami (OH) RedHawks
Rounding out the top five, Miami (OH) has shown consistent improvement and is coming off an 11-win season. With quarterback Brett Gabbert at the helm, their offense looks promising. However, a challenging schedule against several Power Four teams will truly test their mettle this season.
Heisman Watch: The Early Contenders
The Heisman Trophy race is heating up with several standout players across both Power 5 and Group of 5 teams making waves:
Kaidon Salter (Liberty) is already a frontrunner given his spectacular stats from last year and the pivotal role he plays in Liberty's offense.
Seth Henigan (Memphis) is another top candidate from the Group of 5, thanks to his impressive throwing capacity and leadership on the field.
These players not only represent their teams, but also their conferences in the battle for one of college football's highest honors. The expanded playoff format has certainly increased the stakes, giving Group of 5 teams and their star players more visibility and opportunity to shine on the national stage.
Conclusion
This season is set to be one of the most intriguing for the Group of 5 teams, with several teams having a legitimate shot at making the College Football Playoff. As these teams navigate their schedules, the performances of standout players like Kaidon Salter and Seth Henigan will be crucial in their respective campaigns for both playoff spots and the Heisman Trophy. Stay tuned as the season unfolds, bringing thrilling football and compelling storylines to the fore.
For more detailed insights and ongoing coverage of the college football season, keep an eye on platforms that track college football developments closely.