In Week 11 of the 2024 college football season, there were significant upsets and statement wins that reshaped the landscape of the playoff race. Kirk Herbstreit, a long-time analyst and voice of college football, took to ranking the top-performing teams from that weekend, focusing on squads that made the most impressive statements in the midst of chaos. Here are Herbstreit’s top seven teams from the week, each deserving praise for their performances.
### 1. **Georgia Bulldogs**
Despite some close calls this season, Georgia proved once again why they remain a powerhouse in the SEC. The Bulldogs made a resounding statement in their 45-17 victory over Missouri. Carson Beck continued his strong play at quarterback, and Georgia’s defense, while missing a few pieces, stifled Missouri’s offense when it counted. Georgia’s ability to control both sides of the ball was on full display, and they remain firmly in the College Football Playoff hunt.
### 2. **Michigan Wolverines**
Coming off a dominant win over Purdue, Michigan has continued to look like one of the most complete teams in the country. Their defense shut down the Boilermakers’ offense in a 37-10 victory, with Blake Corum running wild once again. J.J. McCarthy’s efficiency at quarterback also stood out, as the Wolverines showed why they’re among the most balanced teams in the country. Michigan remains undefeated, and their physical style of play has kept them at the top of Herbstreit’s rankings.
### 3. **Ohio State Buckeyes**
In a high-profile matchup with rival Michigan State, Ohio State looked sharp, especially on offense. They cruised to a 42-10 victory, with Marvin Harrison Jr. continuing to cement his status as one of the best wide receivers in college football. The defense, led by a stout defensive line, continued to be one of the most feared units in the nation, suffocating Michigan State’s offense. The Buckeyes look poised to challenge for a spot in the College Football Playoff, with their eyes on an undefeated regular season.
### 4. **Florida State Seminoles**
Florida State solidified their status as a legitimate playoff contender with a convincing 34-10 win over a tough NC State squad. Jordan Travis played a near-perfect game, spreading the ball around to multiple receivers and making crucial plays when needed. The Seminoles’ defense also stood strong, limiting NC State’s offensive attack. With their high-powered offense and stout defense, Florida State looks like a well-rounded team heading into the final stretch of the season.
### 5. **Texas Longhorns**
Texas bounced back in a big way after suffering a tough loss the previous week. The Longhorns dismantled Baylor 38-13 in a game where their offense showed all the flashes of what makes them one of the most potent units in the country. Quinn Ewers threw for over 300 yards, and Bijan Robinson’s versatility helped lead Texas to victory. The Longhorns remain in contention for a Big 12 title and a potential playoff berth, with a few tough tests still ahead.
### 6. **Washington Huskies**
Washington continued their unbeaten streak with a thrilling 41-38 win over USC. Michael Penix Jr. displayed his Heisman-worthy talent, throwing for over 400 yards and multiple touchdowns. Washington’s offense is one of the most explosive in the nation, and they showed resilience in a shootout with the Trojans. Their high-powered passing game, along with a defense that made key stops when needed, kept them undefeated and firmly in the playoff conversation.
### 7. **Oregon Ducks**
The Ducks capped off an incredible weekend with a 49-14 thrashing of Stanford. Bo Nix continued his stellar season at quarterback, and Oregon’s offense was firing on all cylinders. The Ducks’ defense also made key plays, showcasing their all-around dominance. With only a couple of challenging games left on their schedule, Oregon has positioned themselves as a strong contender in the Pac-12 and for the College Football Playoff.
These seven teams emerged as the top performers of Week 11, each displaying impressive and dominant play that has them firmly entrenched in the hunt for playoff berths. With the regular season winding down, these programs are setting the stage for a dramatic finish to the 2024 campaign.
