Big Ten Conference Preview: Michigan Emerges as Ohio State and Oregon's Main Rival
- FOX Sports' Joel Klatt analyzes the major questions confronting the Power 4 conferences in 2024.
- The discussion focuses on the challenges and uncertainties each conference faces leading up to the 2024 college football season.
- Insights provided by Joel Klatt offer an in-depth look at the upcoming season for these conferences.
As the Big Ten season approaches, Michigan is being touted as the primary threat to Ohio State and Oregon's aspirations for the conference title. Analysts highlight Michigan's unique style of play, which may become even more pronounced this year due to the absence of a standout quarterback like J.J. McCarthy. This shift in strategy could make the Wolverines a formidable opponent for other teams in the conference. While teams like Penn State and USC are also in the mix, they are not viewed as immediate threats to Michigan's dominance. Despite a favorable schedule for Penn State, experts believe that several factors must align for them to challenge effectively. Michigan's offensive capabilities are expected to pose significant challenges for their Big Ten rivals, solidifying their position as a leading contender. In the SEC, Georgia continues to reign supreme, having secured two championships in three years under the leadership of coach Kirby Smart. The question remains: which team can disrupt Georgia's stronghold? Ole Miss, under Lane Kiffin, has made significant roster improvements, positioning itself as a potential challenger in the elite SEC landscape. Turning to the ACC, Florida State and Miami are emerging as the top contenders. With a strong roster and a manageable schedule, Florida State is projected to achieve an impressive 11-1 record if they perform to expectations, further intensifying the competition within the conference.