Florida State has become one of the most disappointing teams in recent Bowl Subdivision history. After a 20-12 loss at home to No. 25 Memphis, the Seminoles have started the season 0-3, despite entering the year ranked No. 10 in the US LBM Coaches Poll. This marks the second time in the last 35 years that a team starting in the top 10 has lost its first three games, the last being Penn State in 2020.
Memphis, currently the best team in the Group of Five, is likely a contender for a spot in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff. In contrast, Florida State will have to watch from the sidelines as their strong expectations from last year’s ACC title run slip away.
As seen in their game against Boston College, Florida State’s offensive performance was poor. The team converted only two of their 12 third-down attempts and managed just 37 yards on 24 carries, averaging a meager 1.5 yards per rush. Additionally, they turned the ball over three times and did not score a touchdown until midway through the third quarter.
The decline of Florida State can largely be attributed to struggles in the transfer portal. While head coach Mike Norvell previously had success with transfers, this year’s newcomers have not adequately filled the team’s needs. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei’s performance has been particularly disappointing, resembling his earlier struggles at Clemson rather than his successful stint at Oregon State. Against Memphis, he completed 16 of 30 passes for 201 yards, with more interceptions (2) than touchdowns (1) this season.
In contrast, Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan showcased his abilities by completing 65.7% of his passes for 272 yards and two touchdowns. As college football evolves in 2024, the performance of each team’s quarterback will heavily influence their success; while Henigan propels Memphis toward playoff contention, the Seminoles face challenges that may land them among the greatest disappointments in college football history.
Both winners and losers emerged from Week 3 of college football, with Memphis, Alabama, Missouri, Notre Dame, Oregon, Arch Manning, and Indiana being highlighted as winners.
Memphis has firmly established itself as the front-runner for the Group of Five’s playoff spot this season, following a successful campaign last year. Although the American Athletic Conference will be tough, Memphis can afford a loss or two and still contend for a playoff spot if they win the conference.
No. 4 Alabama dominated Wisconsin with a 42-10 victory, showcasing an efficient offense. Quarterback Jalen Milroe stood out with an impressive performance, while the Crimson Tide defense held Wisconsin to a mere 3.4 yards per play.
Missouri’s non-conference win over Boston College could bolster their playoff aspirations as they face tough opponents, including Alabama and Oklahoma. Star wide receiver Luther Burden III contributed significantly with 117 yards and a touchdown.
Notre Dame’s impressive victory against Purdue, where they won 66-7, marked a strong rebound from last week’s upset. The team’s powerful running game was evident with 362 yards and six rushing touchdowns.
Oregon, coming off unremarkable wins, displayed their capabilities in a commanding 49-14 victory over rival Oregon State. Their balanced offense will be crucial as they head into upcoming Big Ten matchups.
Arch Manning had a standout performance for Texas, stepping up in place of the injured Quinn Ewers. Manning’s impressive rushing and passing skills helped lead Texas to a 56-7 victory over Texas-San Antonio, solidifying his role as a future star.
Indiana has shown promise under coach Curt Cignetti, posting strong offensive numbers in their games. Their recent win against UCLA indicates a potential path to bowl eligibility this season.
On the other hand, teams like Florida, Michigan, Washington, West Virginia, and Mississippi State found themselves on the losing side this week. Florida’s inability to compete resulted in a glaring loss to Texas A&M, casting doubt on Coach Billy Napier’s future. Michigan’s offense struggled again, leading to quarterback changes after a win, while Washington’s late-game errors against Washington State raised concerns about their rebuilding phase.
West Virginia suffered a disheartening loss to rival Pittsburgh, and after a promising start, Mississippi State’s back-to-back defeats amplified their struggles, leaving their new coach under scrutiny.