After an exciting Week 1 filled with college football action, teams are already looking to improve as they head into the second week. Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava stole the spotlight with a record-setting debut, proving the preseason expectations were justified. As the Volunteers prepare to face ranked opponent NC State in Week 2, questions remain about whether Iamaleava can sustain his performance. Meanwhile, LSU is reflecting on its last-minute loss to USC and considering necessary improvements.
Our experts provided insights into the top 25 teams, analyzing their performances from Week 1.
No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs dominated Clemson with a 34-3 victory, showcasing their formidable defense by limiting the Tigers to just 188 yards and 13 first downs. The Bulldogs’ pressure on quarterback Cade Klubnik and key contributions from their linebackers highlighted their continued excellence on that side of the ball. However, concerns regarding depth on the defensive line linger, particularly with potential injuries.
No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes welcomed rising star Jeremiah Smith, who impressed in his debut with two touchdown receptions. The offense, led by senior transfer quarterback Will Howard, is expected to grow stronger as it adjusts.
The No. 3 Texas Longhorns delivered a comprehensive win, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, who threw three touchdown passes. However, the true test will come when they face Michigan next weekend.
At No. 4, Alabama Crimson Tide’s Kalen DeBoer successfully debuted, leading the team to a 42-0 lead by halftime against Western Kentucky. Quarterback Jalen Milroe’s efficiency was on display, and the defense stifled WKU’s offense.
No. 5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish secured a gritty win against Texas A&M, largely thanks to a powerful defensive effort and an emerging rushing game.
Penn State Nittany Lions, ranked No. 6, produced a strong offensive performance under new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, generating 457 yards against West Virginia.
Ole Miss, at No. 7, showcased a high-powered offense in a 76-0 rout, while Oregon (No. 8) won in a less convincing 24-14 fashion despite dominating statistics.
The No. 9 Miami Hurricanes bounced back with a stellar performance from quarterback Cam Ward, who helped establish a resilient offensive presence.
No. 10 Michigan Wolverines faced early struggles but managed to win against Fresno State. There is significant room for improvement as they gear up for a challenging matchup against Texas.
Missouri Tigers opened their season with a decisive 48-3 victory, comfortably handling Murray State. Meanwhile, Tennessee Volunteers dazzled with Iamaleava’s historic debut, setting the stage for their upcoming game.
USC Trojans notched an impressive win against LSU, showing promise under new leadership, while Utah (No. 14) celebrated a successful return for quarterback Cam Rising.
Oklahoma Sooners (No. 15) dominated Temple, with Jackson Arnold throwing four touchdowns, while Oklahoma State (No. 16) started strong against a formidable South Dakota State team.
Kansas State’s rookie quarterback led them to victory in their opener, as LSU (No. 18) reevaluates after a tough loss, questioning discipline and focus.
Kansas Jayhawks asserted dominance early in their game, while Arizona (No. 20) showcased a stunning performance from receiver Tetairoa McMillan, only to allow a high point total to their opponent.
Iowa Hawkeyes, ranked No. 21, improved in the second half despite a slow start, while NC State (No. 22) seeks consistency from its revamped offense heading into a critical matchup against Tennessee.
The Texas A&M Aggies’ game against Notre Dame highlighted growing pains in a new offensive setup, while Clemson (No. 24) looks to rebound after facing an elite defense. Finally, Georgia Tech (No. 25) continues to build on its physicality as they strive for success.