Exploring the Excitement of the 12-Team College Football Playoff
Dec 18, 2024, 07:00 AM ET
There’s a lot to love about the 12-team playoff format, especially if you’re not Alabama. At the top of the list is the sheer increase in star power this year. With three times as many teams, we get to witness the brilliance of players like Ashton Jeanty, Cam Skattebo, and Tyler Warren on a grander stage. The expanded format allows these stars to shine even brighter.
With this in mind, ESPN’s Bill Connelly, David Hale, Chris Low, Adam Rittenberg, and Paolo Uggetti have meticulously analyzed the rosters of all 12 playoff teams to rank the top 50 players of the College Football Playoff. This isn’t just a ranking of those who accomplished the most during the regular season, nor is it a prediction of who will post the biggest numbers in the coming weeks. Instead, consider it a viewer’s guide: when you tune in for the College Football Playoff, these are the 50 players you won’t want to miss. — David Hale
Top 50 Players to Watch
- 50. Antonio Williams – WR, Clemson, sophomore
- 49. Leif Fautanu – OL, Arizona State, senior
- 48. Dan Jackson – DB, Georgia, senior
- 47. Ahmed Hassanein – DE, Boise State, senior
- 46. D’Angelo Ponds – DB, Indiana, sophomore
2024 stats: 838 yards, 10 TDs
After a breakout freshman season in 2022, Williams missed most of last year but returned in 2024 with a vengeance. He was Clemson’s most consistent receiver, catching 10 touchdown passes and making a crucial 18-yard grab in the ACC championship game that set up the game-winning field goal. — Hale
2024 stats: No sacks allowed
Fautanu was ASU’s offensive MVP in 2023 and continued to be a rock for the team in 2024. He started all 13 games and was credited with only eight blown blocks all season. — Bill Connelly
2024 stats: 46 solo tackles, 1 FF, 3 PDs, 2 INTs
Jackson, a former walk-on, has been a key player on Georgia’s defense, making significant plays like forcing a fumble against Georgia Tech that led to a win. — Mark Schlabach
2024 stats: 23 solo tackles, 8.5 sacks
Hassanein, who spent much of his childhood in Egypt, has become one of the best defensive players in college football, earning first-team All-Mountain West honors. — Kyle Bonagura
2024 stats: 35 solo tackles, 2 INTs, 9 PDs
Ponds made a memorable 65-yard pick-six against Washington and was a first-team All-Big Ten selection. — Adam Rittenberg
As we delve deeper into the list, the talent and stories behind these players become even more compelling. From the explosive plays of Jaylen Reed of Penn State to the leadership of Sam Leavitt at Arizona State, each player brings something unique to the table.
For instance, Riley Leonard of Notre Dame has transformed his season after a rocky start, becoming one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Meanwhile, Will Howard of Ohio State has shown remarkable accuracy and resilience, stepping up in crucial moments.
On the defensive side, players like Jack Kiser of Notre Dame and Isaiah Nwokobia of SMU have been instrumental in their teams’ success, showcasing their ability to make game-changing plays.
As we move up the rankings, the anticipation builds for the top players who have not only excelled individually but have also been pivotal in their teams’ journeys to the playoffs. The likes of Jeremiyah Love of Notre Dame and Jeremiah Smith of Ohio State are just a few examples of the extraordinary talent on display.
In conclusion, the expanded playoff format not only increases the excitement but also provides a platform for more players to showcase their skills on a national stage. As we gear up for the College Football Playoff, these top 50 players are sure to deliver unforgettable performances that will captivate fans and leave a lasting impact on the sport.
Originally Written by: ESPN
