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Adam Rittenberg, ESPN Senior Writer
The Future Power Rankings train has reached its final stop for 2023: the team rankings.
By now, we’ve broken down the outlooks for quarterbacks, defenses and offenses for the next three seasons: 2023, 2024 and 2025. FPR doesn’t get too wrapped up in current rosters, especially if significant turnover is on the horizon. Track records matter, as certain programs and coaches have earned the benefit of the doubt. So does recruiting and the transfer portal, an increasingly significant factor in shaping personnel projections.
The three previous 2023 breakdowns aren’t the only predictors for the team rundown, but they certainly inform the philosophy. Some teams that didn’t rate well in one particular category still made it in the overall rundown because their trendlines are promising. There aren’t many surprises at the top.
At its core, FPR is a personnel-based forecast, and it assesses how current and future players will impact performance for their teams. Recent recruiting or projected success in 2023 carries weight. But some programs consistently outperform their recruiting rankings and deserve to be recognized appropriately in the team list.
Alabama has led off the past two team rankings, but there’s a new No. 1 team this year, which will surprise no one. The 2022 rankings had Texas A&M at No. 4, a prediction that totally fell flat, and left out TCU entirely. But promising forecasts for teams like Michigan, USC and LSU worked out.
Now it’s time to rank college football’s top 25 teams during the next three seasons.
2023 Future QB ranking: 4
2023 Future defense ranking: 1
2023 Future offense ranking: 3
2022 Future team ranking: 2
Scouting the Bulldogs: Coach Kirby Smart has molded Georgia into college football’s preeminent program after ending a 41-year national championship drought with back-to-back titles. Georgia has succeeded in sending its players to the NFL thanks to its recruiting efforts. Georgia had a seven-round record 15 players selected in the 2022 NFL draft and added another 10 in 2023, and they are not slowing down. Last month quarterback Dylan Raiola, ESPN’s No. 1 overall player in the 2024 class, committed to the G. Raiola joins a quarterback group featuring Carson Beck, Brock Vandagriff and plenty of depth. Offensive coordinator Mike Bobo returns to the role he held from 2007 to 2014 and inherits good situations at just about every position. Georgia returns Mackey Award winner Brock Bowers at tight end, emerging star tackle Amarius Mims and a well-stocked offensive line as well as a wide receiver group featuring experience (Ladd McConkey, Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint) and depth. Running back should continue to be solid, as Georgia pairs veterans Daijun Edwards and Kendall Milton with exciting young players Branson Robinson and incoming freshman Roderick Robinson II. Tight end Jaden Reddell, ESPN’s No. 67 overall prospect for 2024, committed shortly after Raiola to further strengthen the offensive outlook. The Bulldogs also have a 2024 commitment from wideout Ny Carr (ESPN No. 43 overall).
Georgia has positioned itself as the nation’s preeminent defense, which should continue through 2025. Although defensive tackle Jalen Carter (drafted No. 9 overall by the Philadelphia Eagles) and others will be missed, Georgia showed in 2022 how well it can reload after losing so many players to the pros. They bring back plenty of standouts in 2023, including linebackers Smael Mondon Jr. and Jamon Dumas-Johnson, safeties Malaki Starks and Javon Bullard, and emerging lineman Mykel Williams. Georgia signed seven defensive players ranked among ESPN’s top 100 recruits in 2023. The team has 2024 commitments from ESPN’s top two safeties (Jaylen Heyward and Peyton Woodyard) and the No. 2 cornerback (Ellis Robinson IV). Since 2018, Georgia leads the FBS in rushing defense and rushing touchdowns allowed, and it continues to improve against the pass. The unit is absolutely surging, and shows no signs of slowing down.
2023 Future QB ranking: 5
2023 Future defense ranking: 4
2023 Future offense ranking: 4
2022 Future team ranking: 1
Scouting the Crimson Tide: Alabama slides off of the top spot but finds itself only one rung behind Georgia. There are some short-term questions after two coordinator changes and a murky quarterback outlook, but Alabama will remain an annual title contender as long as coach Nick Saban patrols the sidelines. The team’s 2023 recruiting class, one of the best since ESPN started ranking them, includes ESPN’s top-rated players at four positions, the No. 2 players at three spots, the top junior college wide receiver and inside linebacker, and two of the top quarterbacks in Eli Holstein and Dylan Lonergan. Alabama’s 2024 class includes commitments from cornerback Jaylen Mbakwe, ESPN’s No. 2 overall recruit, and Julian Sayin, ESPN’s top dual-threat quarterback and No. 8 overall player. The main uncertainty is the 2023 offense and whether Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner or holdovers Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson provide the quarterback play needed to contend nationally. Alabama has experience at both receiver (Jermaine Burton, Ja’Corey Brooks) and running back (Jase McClellan, Roydell Williams). The line projects well, especially with tackle Kadyn Proctor (ESPN’s No. 10 recruit in 2023) entering the mix. Alabama will try to build out its depth at tight end.
The defense returns some star power in playmaking cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry and pass-rushing linebacker Dallas Turner, and there’s good short-term depth along the line with seniors Justin Eboigbe and Tim Smith. But the real excitement stems from the team’s recruiting efforts. If the incoming players perform as advertised, Alabama should have the nation’s best secondary and several dominant front-seven performers. Coordinator Kevin Steele knows Saban and the vision for the defense, which has several key non-seniors such as massive lineman Jaheim Oatis and versatile defensive back Terrion Arnold. Alabama’s 2023 recruiting, headlined by linebacker Jaquavious Russaw (ESPN No. 9), safety Caleb Downs (No. 11) and end Keon Keeley (No. 12), fortifies the long-term outlook.
2023 Future QB ranking: 2
2023 Future defense ranking: 21
2023 Future offense ranking: 2
2022 Future team ranking: 3
Scouting the Buckeyes: The biggest debate in these rankings was whether to rank Ohio State or Michigan at No. 3. Michigan has beaten the Buckeyes in back-to-back seasons and won the Big Ten each time. The Wolverines’ personnel-gathering efforts (traditional recruiting and transfer portal) are improving. But Ohio State still has the better track record at quarterback, overall recruiting and postseason performance. Ohio State has been the only Big Ten team to win College Football Playoff games and largely outplayed Georgia in last year’s CFP semifinal before a challenging fourth quarter. The Buckeyes hold a slight edge for No. 3, but improvement on defense is both overdue and necessary. For all the great things coach Ryan Day has done in Columbus, defense has been a challenge with only the 2019 unit truly excelling under his watch. Last year’s defense showed improvement before the Michigan and Georgia losses, and a second season under coordinator Jim Knowles should yield success. Knowles has talent at his disposal, especially at linebacker (Tommy Eichenberg, Steele Chambers) and defensive end, where two top-five national recruits (J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer) are due to blossom. The secondary needs to regain its swagger but has some depth with Lathan Ransom and others.
Offensive excellence is the expectation under Day, whose teams have thrived with different quarterbacks and wide receiver groups. The Buckeyes lose C.J. Stroud but project well at QB with Kyle McCord and Devin Brown in the short term and possibly through 2025. The team lost Raiola’s commitment to Georgia but added 2024 quarterback Air Noland, ESPN’s No. 47 overall prospect. Ohio State returns the nation’s best wide receiver group, led by Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming. Wideout should be a strength even after they depart for the NFL, as Ohio State brings in Brandon Inniss and several other notable 2023 recruits, and has two ESPN top-50 players (Jeremiah Smith, Mylan Graham) committed for 2024. The offensive line has some reloading to do this fall, but the long-term outlook remains positive with a group of non-seniors such as center Carson Hinzman. Ohio State needs to sort out the running back spot after a difficult 2022 season, but the talent is both there (TreVeyon Henderson, Miyan Williams, Dallan Hayden) and at tight end.
2023 Future QB ranking: 6
2023 Future defense ranking: 3
2023 Future offense ranking: 5
2022 Future team ranking: 8
Scouting the Wolverines: Michigan’s remarkable rise since 2020 has included upgrades at just about every position, and growth from coach Jim Harbaugh and the staff. The team is not just winning but achieving Harbaugh’s vision, overpowering opponents at the line of scrimmage. Michigan’s recruiting is starting to approach the level of other top-five teams, as ESPN currently ranks its 2024 class at No. 2 nationally, helped by the commitment of quarterback Jadyn Davis, the No. 37 overall prospect, and others like top tight end recruit Brady Prieskorn (ESPN No. 92 overall) and running back Jordan Marshall. The Wolverines are also effectively using the portal. This year they’ve added transfers like linebacker Ernest Hausmann (Nebraska), edge rusher Josaiah Stewart (Coastal Carolina), kicker James Turner (Louisville), and offensive linemen LaDarius Henderson (Arizona State), Drake Nugent (Stanford) and Myles Hinton (Stanford). Michigan could have the best offense in Harbaugh’s tenure this fall, especially if quarterback J.J. McCarthy improves on downfield throws. Michigan returns the nation’s best running back tandem in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, veteran wide receivers like Cornelius Johnson and Roman Wilson, and an emerging star in tight end Colston Loveland. The line will need to keep reloading after 2023, but coach Sherrone Moore has the group in a good spot.
Since 2021, Michigan ranks fifth nationally in points allowed. The defense last fall showed its staying power after losing several stars and coordinator Mike Macdonald to the NFL. Playcaller Jesse Minter returns and will oversee a unit set up well at linebacker, safety and — potentially — along the defensive line, especially if Stewart, Jaylen Harrell, Derrick Moore and others can provide a pass-rushing boost. The defense needs to keep producing stars, and cornerback Will Johnson could be one of them for at least the next two seasons. Linebacker projects as a strength with Junior Colson, Michael Barrett and others. A long-term core of Johnson, Moore, Hausmann, lineman Mason Graham and others is very exciting. Michigan’s 2024 recruiting is a bit offense-heavy at the top but also features three ESPN 300 defenders.
2023 Future QB ranking: 12
2023 Future defense ranking: 7
2023 Future offense ranking: 11
2022 Future team ranking: 10
Scouting the Tigers: LSU is never far away from a national title run because of its personnel advantages. In addition to an ideal location for high school recruits, LSU has become a successful portal team, adding key pieces for the 2023 season, such as Oregon State linebacker Omar Speights, Notre Dame running back Logan Diggs, Texas defensive end Ovie Oghoufo, Alabama wide receiver Aaron Anderson and defensive backs Denver Harris (Texas A&M), Zy Alexander (Southeastern Louisiana) and Duce Chestnut (Syracuse). After winning the SEC West in his first season, coach Brian Kelly has positioned LSU to start contending for bigger goals during the next three seasons. The defense should be a strength going forward under coordinator Matt House, as LSU has a national star in linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. and potentially others in tackles Mekhi Wingo and Maason Smith, the latter of whom is returning from a torn ACL suffered in the 2022 season opener against Florida State. The D-line projects well, especially in the short-term with Smith, Wingo and Oghoufo, while Perkins and Speights form one of the nation’s top linebacker tandems. LSU has some short-term questions in the secondary but should be fine if the transfers pan out. The team also has recruited well with Javien Toviano (ESPN’s No. 32 prospect for 2023) and others.
The offense might be in better shape for the short term, as quarterback Jayden Daniels returns for a second year as the starter. Daniels did it all for LSU in 2022, becoming the team’s top rushing threat (885 yards). Ideally, he focuses more on passing (2,913 yards in 2022) and continues to grow there, while LSU finds more answers in a crowded running back room that includes Diggs and John Emery Jr. before adding two of ESPN’s top 10 running back recruits for 2023 (Kaleb Jackson, Trey Holly). LSU’s post-Daniels situation at quarterback looks promising with Garrett Nussmeier ready to step in. Malik Nabers (1,017 receiving yards in 2022) leads the wideout room, which adds Anderson and two ESPN top-75 prospects. Tight end projects well with sophomore Mason Taylor. LSU’s offensive line has stability on the edges with young tackles Will Campbell and Emery Jones, and decorated incoming freshman Zalance Heard.
2023 Future QB ranking: 1
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 1
2022 Future team ranking: 9
Scouting the Trojans: Lincoln Riley needed just one year to get a flawed USC team on the doorstep of the CFP. He added another Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback to his profile, and has the quarterback room set for more national success. After Caleb Williams exits in 2024, USC can turn to Miller Moss or Malachi Nelson, ESPN’s No. 1 overall recruit in the 2023 class. Riley has excelled both in recruiting and in the transfer portal, where he has added notable players such as wide receiver Dorian Singer (Arizona), linebacker Mason Cobb (Oklahoma State), running back MarShawn Lloyd (South Carolina), defensive linemen Anthony Lucas (Texas A&M), Kyon Barrs (Arizona), Bear Alexander (Georgia) and Jack Sullivan (Purdue) and offensive linemen Jarrett Kingston (Washington State), Michael Tarquin (Florida) and Emmanuel Pregnon (Wyoming). The two primary challenges for USC are elevating the defense and transitioning to the Big Ten in 2024. USC will be facing teams with different styles and in different climates. Still, the offense is rolling, not just at quarterback but wide receiver, where Singer joins a group featuring veterans Tahj Washington and Brenden Rice, junior Mario Williams and others. USC is set up well at running back and tight end, where it added Duce Robinson (ESPN’s No. 40 overall recruit). The offensive line is transfer-heavy, and USC’s recruiting will be interesting to monitor.
USC’s defense is ultimately the unit that will determine how high the program can rise in these rankings. Riley never had national championship-caliber defenses at Oklahoma. Last year’s defense lived on takeaways for a while but crumbled when it counted. Coordinator Alex Grinch is back with a deeper and more talented group, but the pressure to perform in 2023. Transfers such as Lucas, Cobb, Barrs, Alexander and Sullivan should help this season. There’s experience at linebacker with Cobb, senior Shane Lee and junior Eric Gentry. The secondary needs a boost, as USC will look to Ceyair Wright, Arizona transfer Christian Roland-Wallace, Calen Bullock, Domani Jackson and others. USC’s defense ultimately wants to rely on its own recruiting, which got a big boost earlier this month with the 2024 commitments of cornerback Dakoda Fields (ESPN’s No. 86 overall) and end Kameryn Fountain (No. 91).
2023 Future QB ranking: 20
2023 Future defense ranking: 2
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: 5
Scouting the Tigers: Clemson has some work to do, especially on offense, a unit that didn’t crack the FPR top 25. But make no mistake: The program overall still holds a place among the nation’s best. Clemson won its sixth ACC title in the past eight years last fall, and extended its string of 10-win seasons to 11. The defense should remain one of the nation’s top units, and coach Dabo Swinney hired Garrett Riley from TCU to restore production and excellence on offense. Riley inherits a promising quarterback in Cade Klubnik, the top-30 recruit in 2022 who gained valuable experience last season and will play at least through 2024. The Tigers also added QB Christopher Vizzina, ESPN’s No. 42 player in the 2023 class. There are other bright spots on offense, such as running back Will Shipley, who had 1,182 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last season, and promising sophomore wide receiver Antonio Williams. But Clemson needs more receivers to emerge around Williams, though they have help on the way in Bryant Wesco, the No. 23 overall recruit in the class of 2024. The offensive line must make the leap that other top programs have in recent years. Since 2021, the Tigers are 51st nationally in scoring.
The defensive personnel outlook hasn’t changed much, although Clemson is still benefiting from Brent Venables’ exceptional tenure as coordinator. Clemson’s goal is to maintain its defensive recruiting effort without Venables, and made a big splash earlier this month when linebacker Sammy Brown, ESPN’s No. 17 overall recruit in 2024, committed to the team. Clemson’s short-term forecast is excellent, especially in the front seven with linemen Tyler Davis, Xavier Thomas and Ruke Orhorhoro, and All-ACC linebackers Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Barrett Carter. Clemson will need to reload at both spots for 2024 and 2025, although tackle Peter Woods, ESPN’s No. 4 overall recruit for 2023, certainly should help, as will tackle Vic Burley (ESPN No. 71). The secondary needs better luck on the health front but has depth and experience at safety (Jalyn Phillips, Andrew Mukuba, R.J. Mickens). Coordinator Wes Goodwin will be judged more the next few seasons but has enough talent to maintain the unit’s high standard.
2023 Future QB ranking: 15
2023 Future defense ranking: 6
2023 Future offense ranking: 12
2022 Future team ranking: 15
Scouting the Lions: Penn State is seven years removed from its last Big Ten title but comes off of an 11-win season and an AP No. 7 finish. Coach James Franklin has achieved the administrative support and alignment to start contending more regularly for the Big Ten and CFP appearances. Improved recruiting should help, too, and Penn State has made some important portal additions, including wide receiver Dante Cephas (Kent State). Cephus joins a receiver room that includes veteran KeAndre Lambert-Smith and several intriguing younger players, such as sophomores Harrison Wallace III and Omari Evans. They likely will receive passes the next few seasons from Drew Allar, ESPN’s No. 51 overall recruit in 2022, although Beau Pribula also is in the mix and Penn State will add to its quarterback room. Running back projects as a major strength as the Lions get at least two more years of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, who combined for 1,928 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in 2022. Penn State also will add Quinton Martin, ESPN’s No. 34 overall recruit for 2024. The tight end outlook is promising with juniors Tyler Warren and Theo Johnson, and PSU finally has the foundation it wants on the offensive line, where tackle Olu Fashanu is back for another year and there’s a nice mix of veterans and talented non-seniors.
The defense has a chance to keep ascending under coordinator Manny Diaz, back for a second season. National awards candidate Abdul Carter and Curtis Jacobs lead a linebacker group full of non-seniors, while Chop Robinson and Adisa Isaac headline a deep group of defensive ends. The long-term line outlook is solid with Coziah Izzard and others. Penn State’s secondary must fill some holes but brings back senior cornerback Johnny Dixon and key non-seniors such as Kalen King and Zakee Wheatley. The Lions add two of ESPN’s top eight safeties for 2023 (Elliot Washington, King Mack), but still need to make a dent with their 2024 defensive recruiting, which includes a commitment from ESPN 300 cornerback Jon Mitchell.
2023 Future QB ranking: 8
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 6
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Vols: The excitement is real on Rocky Top after an 11-2 season in which the Vols finished No. 6 in the polls. Coach Josh Heupel’s challenge is to sustain success in the relentless SEC. Tennessee hasn’t recorded consecutive 10-win seasons since 2003 and 2004, and last had back-to-back AP top-10 finishes in 1998 and 1999. Heupel’s offense will always give the Vols a chance, though, as they rank second nationally in scoring during the past two seasons. The unit must overcome losing four players in the top 75 picks of the NFL draft, including record-setting quarterback Hendon Hooker. Joe Milton III is very talented and looked good in relief of Hooker late last season, but must show he can consistently perform as the starter. The Vols’ post-2023 QB outlook is strong with Nico Iamaleava, ESPN’s No. 4 pocket passer and No. 23 overall player in the 2023 class, and decorated 2024 commit Jake Merklinger. Bru McCoy is back at wide receiver, a position group that returns senior Ramel Keyton and sophomore Squirrel White, and also adds two ESPN top-160 recruits in Cameron Seldon and Nathan Leacock. The running back room is promising with Jaylen Wright, Jabari Small and Dylan Sampson. Offensive line has some short-term questions, but guards Cooper Mays and guard Javontez Spraggins are back, and Tennessee did well in the portal with Andrej Karic (Texas) and John Campbell Jr. (Miami). The Vols also boosted their tight end room with 2024 commit Jonathan Echols, ESPN’s No. 39 overall player in the class.
How high Tennessee rises will depend on whether its defense makes the necessary personnel upgrades. The recent recruiting and portal gains are encouraging, as Tennessee signed six ESPN 300 defenders in the 2023 class, headlined by end Chandavian Bradley (ESPN’s No. 84 overall). The Vols also added transfers such as linebacker Keenan Pili (BYU), cornerback Gabe Jeudy-Lally (BYU) and lineman Omarr Norman-Lott (Arizona State). Tennessee returns plenty of experience in the secondary, including safety Jaylen McCollough (38 career starts), safety/linebacker Tamarion McDonald and cornerbacks Doneiko Slaughter and Kamal Hadden. Leading tackler Aaron Beasley is back to lead the linebackers, which adds Pili but could soon lean on younger players, like ESPN 300 recruit Arion Carter. The Vols should be better up front, especially with Bradley, Caleb Herring (ESPN’s No. 102 recruit) and others entering the mix. Tennessee will need more pass-rushers to emerge after losing Byron Young, although hopes are high for senior Tyler Baron, while veteran Roman Harrison adds depth. The interior is solid with junior Omari Thomas, Kansas transfer Da’Jon Terry and junior Bryson Eason.
2023 Future QB ranking: 9
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 10
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Seminoles: Florida State is undoubtedly on the rise following its first 10-win season since 2016. The Seminoles return star power on both sides of the ball for 2023, continue to thrive in the portal and have upgraded their recruiting. But how high should FSU rise after not winning the ACC since 2014, also its lone CFP appearance? The team must capitalize right away, given Clemson’s vulnerability and the return of several stars, including quarterback Jordan Travis, defensive end Jared Verse and wide receiver Johnny Wilson. FSU’s defense came close to cracking the FPR top 25. Verse and fellow veteran Fabien Lovett both bypassed the NFL for another year in Tallahassee, and lead a line that added Western Michigan‘s Braden Fiske and Miami’s Darrell Jackson Jr. to a stacked interior. FSU picked up one of the portal’s top defenders in Virginia cornerback Fentrell Cypress II, a second-team All-ACC selection with two years of eligibility left, who joins veterans Renardo Green and Greedy Vance. Linebacker has experience with Tatum Bethune and Kalen DeLoach, and younger players like Omar Graham Jr. will help beyond 2023. FSU signed three ESPN 300 defenders this year and ultimately must get less portal-reliant on defense.
Travis leads an offense that is finally achieving coach Mike Norvell’s vision of big plays and production. FSU has depth behind him in veteran backup Tate Rodemaker, a junior, and A.J. Duffy, ESPN’s No. 3 pocket passer and No. 60 overall recruit for 2022. Running back Trey Benson comes off of a very solid season (990 rush yards, 9 touchdowns) and could play through 2024, although Lawrance Toafili and Rodney Hill are capable reserves and the team is set to add Kameron Davis, an ESPN top-50 recruit, in 2024. FSU added key transfers at wide receiver (Michigan State‘s Keon Coleman), tight end (South Carolina‘s Jaheim Bell) and along the offensive line (Auburn‘s Keiondre Jones, UTEP‘s Jeremiah Byers, Colorado‘s Casey Roddick). The line is finally stable under coach Alex Atkins and returns All-ACC tackle Robert Scott Jr. and junior center Maurice Smith. Wilson and Coleman form an excellent receiver tandem, and Bell (56 catches at South Carolina) should help at tight end. FSU added Hykeem Williams, an ESPN top-30 recruit, at wide receiver, and has a 2024 commitment from tight end Landen Thomas (ESPN No. 48 overall).
2023 Future QB ranking: 10
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 13
2022 Future team ranking: 13
Scouting the Ducks: Oregon is another team well-positioned for the expanded CFP. Coach Dan Lanning has sustained the pedal-down recruiting approach that began under predecessor Mario Cristobal. The Ducks signed 11 ESPN 300 players in 2023, headlined by top-100 players in wide receivers Jurrion Dickey and Ashton Cozart, and defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei. The 2024 class is off to a blistering start with quarterback Michael Van Buren, ESPN’s No. 18 prospect in the class, and eight other ESPN 300 players. Oregon should be one of the most talented teams on the West Coast every year under Lanning. The Ducks likely won’t be the Pac-12 favorites this season, but they have enough to contend, especially with Bo Nix back to lead the offense. The overall quarterback outlook is strong with Ty Thompson still there, ESPN 300 recruit Austin Novosad arriving and Van Buren in 2024. Oregon returns top wide receiver Troy Franklin, top rusher Bucky Irving and good running back depth with Noah Whittington and Jordan James. Oregon went to the portal for help along the line and at both wide receiver and tight end. Notable transfer additions include wideouts Traeshon Holden (Alabama) and Tez Johnson (Troy) and linemen Junior Angilau (Texas) and Ajani Cornelius (Rhode Island).
The Ducks defense missed the top 25 but not by much. Lanning’s influence should start showing up more with the unit, and recruiting additions like Uiagalelei and cornerbacks Rodrick Pleasant and Daylen Austin — both ESPN top-140 prospects — should really help. Oregon brings back Brandon Dorlus to anchor the line for one more season, and he has some help inside with Casey Rogers and Keyon Ware-Hudson. If transfer additions Jordan Burch (South Carolina) and Jestin Jacobs (Iowa) pan out, Oregon should be able to hold up, even in a taxing offensive league like the Pac-12. The defense has some short-term challenges in the secondary after losing Christian Gonzalez, but production from Trikweze Bridges, Fresno State safety transfer Evan Williams and others could offset the loss. Lanning and coordinator Tosh Lupoi’s defensive back recruiting bodes well for the future, and the 2024 class is set to include ESPN 300 cornerbacks Aaron Flowers and Ify Obidegwu.
2023 Future QB ranking: 3
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 7
2022 Future team ranking: 7
Scouting the Sooners: Oklahoma has been a top-10 mainstay in these rankings, especially during a run of six consecutive conference titles and four CFP appearances between 2015 and 2020. But the Sooners haven’t won the Big 12 or made the CFP the past two seasons. They come off of their first losing season since 1998. They’re also SEC bound in 2024, a move that will test their efforts in recruiting, coaching and development. Coach Brent Venables is one of the sport’s best defensive strategists and talent evaluators. He must restore OU’s edge on defense, which diminished during Riley’s otherwise spectacular tenure. Venables made a splash in landing five-star safety Peyton Bowen, ESPN’s No. 17 overall recruit and OU’s most decorated defensive prospect since ESPN started the rankings, as well as five-star defensive end Adepoju Adebawore (ESPN No. 20). OU also made gains in the portal with Dasan McCullough, an edge from Indiana who should be an multiyear impact player. They join a unit that includes Big 12 tackles leader Danny Stutsman, productive defensive backs Woodi Washington and Billy Bowman, and others. Senior Jordan Kelley, sophomore Ethan Downs and others return to a line that is gaining the depth Venables needs. The recruiting shift under Venables is the biggest positive, as OU signed eight ESPN 300 defenders in the 2023 class.
The offense has been OU’s signature unit and projects well through 2025, especially with the addition of quarterback Jackson Arnold (ESPN’s No. 3 recruit for 2023) and others, such as wide receiver Jaquaize Pettaway (ESPN’s No. 45 prospect). Returning starter Dillon Gabriel and Arnold should carry the quarterback spot through 2025. OU’s offensive line projects well with a nice mix of returning starters, transfers and decorated recruits such as Cayden Green, ESPN’s No. 2 guard and No. 55 overall recruit for 2022. The Sooners lost their top rusher and receiver to the draft but will return experience at both spots and added recruits like Pettaway, ESPN 300 running back Daylan Smothers and others. Junior Jalil Farooq and senior Drake Stoops both are back at wideout, and the Sooners added Michigan transfer Andrel Anthony. Tight end Austin Stogner, who began his career at OU before transferring to South Carolina, is back for 2023. The interior offensive line projects well through 2025, and Oklahoma got some immediate help with transfers Walter Rouse (Stanford) and Caleb Shaffer (Miami Ohio).
2023 Future QB ranking: 19
2023 Future defense ranking: 12
2023 Future offense ranking: 14
2022 Future team ranking: 14
Scouting the Utes: Utah has evolved from Pac-12 contender to Pac-12 champion, winning consecutive league titles under coach Kyle Whittingham. The next step is all about the national stage, especially with the 12-team CFP coming soon. Utah must start winning major bowl games and collecting key nonleague victories, as it opens the 2023 season with Florida (home) and Baylor (road). The offense is in a good place, as coordinator Andy Ludwig will stay put following a flirtation with Notre Dame. Utah’s immediate concern is quarterback Cam Rising, who tore an ACL in the Rose Bowl and might be limited early in the season. But another year of Rising at the helm is huge, before Utah turns the offense over to Brandon Rose, Bryson Barnes or Nate Johnson, who competed for the No. 2 job this spring (Rose came out ahead). The line projects well as starters Keaton Bills, Michael Mokofisi and Sataoa Laumea all have multiple years of eligibility left. Tight end Brant Kuithe, a three-time All-Pac-12 selection, is back from injury for a final year, although Utah must build for 2024 and 2025. The Utes’ running backs should remain solid with non-seniors Micah Bernard and Ja’Quinden Jackson. Wide receiver is the spot that needs a jolt, although Florida State transfer Mycah Pittman should help complement Devaughn Vele. Utah also added ESPN 300 receiver recruit Mikey Matthews.
The offense’s rise has helped Utah start winning championships, but the program’s foundation remains on defense, a unit that should be better in 2023 and beyond. Utah’s defensive line is loaded with non-senior contributors, like ends Van Fillinger, Connor O’Toole and Jonah Elliss, and tackle Junior Tafuna. Junior Karene Reid, a second-team All-Pac-12 selection, and sophomore Lander Barton will lead the linebackers, while Hunter Clegg (ESPN’s No. 153 overall prospect) headlined the 2023 recruiting class. Playmaking cornerback Clark Phillips III will be missed, but the secondary regains leading tackler Cole Bishop, a junior safety, as well as senior cornerback JaTravis Broughton. Ole Miss cornerback transfer Miles Battle provides depth, and Utah added ESPN four-star cornerbacks C.J. Blocker and Smith Snowden in the 2023 class.
2023 Future QB ranking: 13
2023 Future defense ranking: 12
2023 Future offense ranking: 17
2022 Future team ranking: 6
Scouting the Irish: Notre Dame ultimately must deliver on the field, and the 2023 schedule isn’t easy with matchups against Ohio State and USC, and a tricky ACC slate (Clemson, NC State, Duke, Pitt, Wake Forest, Louisville). But the personnel picture is brightening under Marcus Freeman, especially at positions of need such as wide receiver, where Notre Dame signed an ESPN top-60 recruit in Braylon James and is set to add another in 2024 prospect Cam Williams. If the Irish can build spots like receiver and cornerback, where Benjamin Morrison returns after a breakout freshman season, they should become an annual contender for the 12-team playoff. Despite Buchner’s post-spring exit to Alabama, Notre Dame should have enough at quarterback with record-setting Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman for 2023, and then Steve Angeli, Kenny Minchey and C.J. Carr, ESPN’s No. 29 overall recruit, for 2024. The Irish need their top backfield of Hartman and running back Audric Estime to stay healthy this fall, but recruiting upgrades are coming at both spots. Offensive line should remain a huge asset for Notre Dame, as tackles Joe Alt and Blake Fisher form one of the nation’s top tandems, while veteran center Zeke Correll also returns. There are short-term questions at wide receiver and tight end. Chris Tyree, who came to the team as a decorated running back, should see more time at receiver. Notre Dame’s track record at tight end should ease any concerns.
The defense should be very good in the back seven with Morrison, who will play through 2024 at least; fellow defensive backs DJ Brown, Clarence Lewis and Cam Hart; and a linebacker group filled with experience (JD Bertrand, Jack Kiser, Marist Liufau). If Notre Dame addresses several key personnel losses up front, the defense should remain a strength under coordinator Al Golden. The line has experience with Howard Cross III, Jordan Botelho and Rylie Mills, but needs younger players like Junior Tuihalamaka to emerge. The back seven will see a lot of new faces next fall, and Notre Dame will need production from its 2023 recruiting class, which featured eight ESPN 300 defenders. The star power on defense in the 2024 class hasn’t arrived yet but could soon.
2023 Future QB ranking: 7
2023 Future defense ranking: 17
2023 Future offense ranking: 9
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Longhorns: Texas is a fascinating case study for FPR. The rankings are mainly based on personnel, an area where the Longhorns are really thriving under coach Steve Sarkisian. Texas has the Big 12’s best roster this season and continues to add ESPN top-100 national recruits, signing nine in the 2023 class, headlined by quarterback Arch Manning (No. 5 overall), linebacker Anthony Hill (No. 16), wide receiver Johntay Cook II (No. 26) and running back Cedric Baxter Jr. (No. 30). But the Longhorns also transition to the SEC in 2024, and Sarkisian has won more than eight games just once as a head coach, despite leading three programs that rank in the top 25 in all-time FBS victories. Texas’ defense took a significant step in 2022 and will return several standouts, including All-Big 12 linebacker Jaylan Ford, edge rusher Barryn Sorrell and senior safeties Jahdae Barron and Jerrin Thompson. Although Texas lost a few key players to the portal, it added Arkansas safety Jalen Catalon, a first-team All-SEC selection in 2020. There will be significant turnover in 2024, but the team is adding several notable freshmen, including Hill, defensive backs Malik Muhammad (ESPN’s No. 52 recruit for 2023) and Derek Williams (No. 57), lineman Sydir Mitchell (No. 68) and other notables.
Sarkisian’s offense is set up to reach nationally elite levels in the next few seasons. Texas has a premier quarterback room with starter Quinn Ewers, talented backup Maalik Murphy, Manning and even 2025 commit K.J. Lacey. The wide receiver room also looks loaded with All-Big 12 performer Xavier Worthy, Jordan Whittington, Georgia transfer Adonai Mitchell and Isaiah Neyor, who returns from injury. Ja’Tavion Sanders leads the tight ends for another year. Texas also can feel confident the offensive line has turned a corner under coach Kyle Flood. Left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. could anchor the group through at least 2024, and right tackle right tackle Christian Jones is the only projected 2023 starter with senior eligibility. Texas will need to build 2024 and 2025 depth at several spots, but the 2023 class could go a long way toward addressing needs.
2023 Future QB ranking: 11
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 8
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Huskies: The coach Kalen DeBoer era is off to an excellent start, as Washington finished No. 8 in the AP poll last season and returns a team capable of reaching the CFP. Heisman Trophy candidate Michael Penix Jr. will lead an offense that should be among the nation’s best. The unknown is how DeBoer and his staff sustain success after many of their stars depart in 2024. DeBoer’s track record on offense is encouraging, and Washington has some options at quarterback behind Penix: veteran Dylan Morris, a starter in 2021, and four-star recruit Austin Mack, who reclassified to 2023. The offense also could appeal to top transfers. Penix will throw to 1,000-yard receivers Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan this fall, and the receiver room projects very well with sophomore Ja’Lynn Polk poised to lead the group in 2024, veteran Giles Jackson, Michigan State transfer Germie Bernard and others. The offensive line is anchored by tackles Troy Fautanu and Roger Rosengarten, who both can return in 2024 alongside Julius Buelow, Nate Kalepo, Geirean Hatchett and others. Washington has options at running back, including Mississippi State transfer Dillon Johnson, as well as tight end, where senior Devin Culp returns and redshirt freshman Ryan Otton likely will see a bigger role.
Washington’s defense wasn’t great in 2022 but finished on a strong note and will return notable players at all three levels. Junior Bralen Trice and senior Zion Tupuola-Fetui form one of the nation’s top edge tandems, while senior Tuli Letuligasenoa leads an interior line group that should be better. This spring, defensive coordinator William Inge raved about the play of linebackers Edefuan Ulofoshio, limited to five games by injury in 2022, and Ralen Goforth, the USC transfer. They join junior Alphonzo Tuputala, who finished second on the team with 71 tackles last fall. Washington needs better health in the secondary, especially at cornerback. Senior safety Asa Turner will provide leadership, and the team is bullish about transfer cornerbacks Jabbar Muhammad (Oklahoma State) and Thaddeus Dixon (Long Beach City College). Until DeBoer’s arrival, Washington had been a defense-centric team, and its top 2023 recruits should soon help in the secondary. Future defensive recruiting is worth watching.
2023 Future QB ranking: 23
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 22
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Horned Frogs: Normally, a team that played for the national championship in the previous season would be slotted higher than No. 17 on this list. But little about TCU’s rise, and the aftermath of a never-saw-it-coming season, fits into a standard projection model. TCU certainly belongs on the national radar, but the program needs an encore to show it belongs closer to the national top 10. Coach Sonny Dykes’ team tied a team record with eight NFL draft picks, including players selected in each of the first four rounds. The Horned Frogs lost key contributors on both sides of the ball, creating several short-term questions. The defense’s ability to elevate its play might be the biggest factor in shaping the team outlook. Coordinator Joe Gillespie returns veteran production in linebackers Johnny Hodges and Jamoi Hodge, and safety Mark Perry. TCU’s top three tacklers in 2022 combined for 253 total stops and 13 sacks. Perry, Josh Newton and Millard Bradford all return in the secondary, although all three are seniors. TCU also brings back fourth-year safety Bud Clark, who had a team-high five interceptions last year and could play multiple seasons. In addition to Hodges and Hodge at linebacker, TCU brings back Namdi Obiazor (49 tackles). The line also returns some experience with Caleb Fox and Damonic Williams, both of whom can play multiple seasons. TCU must build depth and more pass-rush help in the coming years.
The offense loses standouts at every position except tight end, including quarterback Max Duggan, the Heisman Trophy runner-up last fall. But TCU has confidence in Chandler Morris, who beat out Duggan for the starting job in 2022 before suffering an injury in the opening game. Morris can play three more seasons and, if healthy, gives TCU a possible All-Big 12-caliber quarterback. TCU hit the transfer portal hard to fill other spots, adding Alabama running back Trey Sanders and wide receivers Jack Bech (LSU), JoJo Earle (Alabama), John Paul Richardson (Oklahoma State), Dylan Wright (Minnesota) and Jaylon Robinson (Ole Miss). The Frogs also need their returnees and recruits to deliver, including wide receiver Savion Williams, running back Emani Bailey and ESPN 300 wideout recruit Cordale Russell. The line returns tackles Brandon Coleman and Andrew Coker, and guard John Lanz, while adding Alabama’s Tommy Brockermeyer (ESPN’s No. 2 overall recruit in 2021) and other transfers. Dykes’ long-term success on offense and more recent portal prowess, both at SMU and now TCU, bodes well for the unit.
2023 Future QB ranking: 17
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Wildcats: These rankings are personnel-based, but coaching and team trajectory also factor in, especially for the overall forecast. Kansas State’s roster doesn’t jump out as much as some, and the team lost four players to the NFL draft. But coach Chris Klieman has the program on a great path after winning the Big 12 in 2022. There’s continuity with offensive coordinator Collin Klein, whom Notre Dame briefly pursued, and veteran defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman. Both the offense and defense nearly made their respective top 25s. Quarterback Will Howard was very good in league play last season, and could play through 2024. But Kansas State has recruited well with Jake Rubley and Avery Johnson, both ESPN top-80 prospects. Senior Phillip Brooks will lead a mostly revamped wide receiver group this fall after a 45-catch season. Iowa transfer Keagan Johnson should help, but others must emerge. Top tight end Ben Sinnott is back after 447 receiving yards in 2022. Florida State transfer Treshaun Ward gives Kansas State an experienced running back to help replace star Deuce Vaughn, while sophomore DJ Giddens will factor in more the next few years. Guard Cooper Beebe, the Big 12’s Offensive Lineman of the Year, leads a line with ample experience in tackles KT Leveston and Christian Duffie, center Hayden Gillum and others.
Kansas State’s defense loses star power, namely NFL first-round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah at end and lengthy cornerback Julius Brents. But there are areas of promise, including linebackers Austin Moore and Daniel Green, who will lead their unit this season. Moore could contend for league player of the year honors. Senior end Brendan Mott should fill Anudike-Uzomah’s production after recording six sacks last fall, and end Khalid Duke (three sacks in 2022) also is back for his final season. Mississippi State transfer Jevon Banks brings experience to the nose guard spot. The secondary is retooling a bit, although veteran safety Kobe Savage (three interceptions in 2022) is back, alongside safety V.J. Payne, who made four starts as a true freshman. Transfers Marques Sigle (North Dakota State) and Tyler Nelome (Southeast Missouri State) add to the mix. Kansas State will remain a development-focused program, but the recent success should open the team up to more high-caliber recruits.
2023 Future QB ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future defense ranking: 9
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: 19
Scouting the Badgers: Wisconsin remaining at No. 19 suggests a nothing-to-see-here type of situation in Madison, but that’s hardly the case. A program steeped in continuity has changed dramatically since the surprising decision to fire coach Paul Chryst on Oct. 2. The school swung big and hit with Luke Fickell, a coveted replacement from outside the Wisconsin family. Fickell has been aggressive in the portal, adding three quarterbacks and others to usher in the Air Raid offense. If the switch works, Wisconsin should be competing for the expanded CFP. But there’s certainly some risk involved. SMU transfer quarterback Tanner Mordecai is set to lead the offense, although there are other options in Mississippi State transfer Braedyn Locke and Oklahoma transfer Nick Evers, ESPN’s No. 166 recruit in the 2022 class. The receiver room also looks different, as transfers CJ Williams (USC), Will Pauling (Cincinnati) and Bryson Green (Oklahoma State) join Chimere Dike, Skyler Bell and Keontez Lewis, who combined for 14 of the team’s 21 touchdown catches last fall. Wisconsin has familiar names at running back in All-Big Ten selection Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi, but how will they be used in the new system? There’s mystery with the tight end group, historically a strength for UW, although the team has a 2024 commit from ESPN 300 selection Grant Stec. The offensive line has experience with tackles Jack Nelson and Riley Mahlman, guards Michael Furtney and Tanor Bortolini, and Cincinnati transfer Jake Renfro, an All-AAC selection back from injury. If all the adjustments are made, Wisconsin will become a more dynamic and productive offense.
The defense has been one of the best and most consistent units in college football, despite multiple coaches and coordinators. Fickell and DC Mike Tressel inherit a group that returns experience at all three levels. Senior linebacker Maema Njongmeta anchors the unit after recording 95 tackles (11.5 for loss, 3 sacks) last season. He will team with junior Jordan Turner on the inside, while veteran C.J. Goetz leads an outside linebacker group featuring non-seniors such as Darryl Peterson and an intriguing transfer in Michigan State’s Jeff Pietrowski, a converted defensive end. Wisconsin has options at both safety (seniors Travian Blaylock and Kamo’i Latu, junior Hunter Wohler) and cornerback (seniors Alexander Smith and Jason Maitre, a Boston College transfer, and sophomore Ricardo Hallman). Cornerback Jace Arnold, an ESPN four-star recruit, headlined Wisconsin’s 2023 class. Lineman Isaiah Mullens and Rodas Johnson bring experience (66 career appearances) to the front, where senior Gio Paez figures to see a bigger role. Junior James Thompson Jr. also has starting experience and should be a factor the next two seasons. Fickell’s work in both recruiting and the portal on defense will be fascinating.
2023 Future QB ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future defense ranking: 5
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: 21
Scouting the Hawkeyes: The most important numbers with Iowa aren’t about its feeble offense or the bizarre contract provision that coordinator Brian Ferentz must meet this season. Since 2014, Iowa is tied for 13th nationally in overall record (78-36). The team has four straight AP top-25 finishes and has placed first or second in its division seven times in the past eight years. Iowa has done so recently with a woeful offense and an elite defense that projects to remain that way. If the offense gets marginally better, Iowa should remain a fringe Big Ten contender. A more active approach in the portal yielded quarterback Cade McNamara (Michigan), tight end Erick All (Michigan), wide receiver Kaleb Brown (Ohio State), offensive linemen Rusty Feth (Miami [Ohio]) and Daijon Parker (Saginaw Valley State). McNamara, who helped Michigan to the 2021 Big Ten title, could be a multiyear answer at quarterback. The team added Wisconsin transfer Deacon Hill for insurance, signed an ESPN three-star recruit for 2023 (Marco Lainez III) and has another (James Resar) committed for 2024. Iowa’s biggest keys are getting its run game and line play on track again. Kaleb Johnson rushed for 779 yards as a true freshman and should lead the rushing attack for several years, while getting help from junior Leshon Williams and others. Iowa will lean on tackles Mason Richman and Nick DeJong, but there are questions inside. Junior Connor Colby has starting experience at guard and tackle. Both Feth and Parker should be important rotation players. Luke Lachey and All form a very strong tandem at tight end, while veteran Nico Ragaini leads a receiver group that needs more production.
Coordinator Phil Parker’s defense has had stars come and go without veering off-course, and should remain strong despite losing two NFL first-round draft picks (end Lukas Van Ness, linebacker Jack Campbell). The unit returns proven standouts like cornerback Cooper DeJean, and others who could soon be in that category, including junior end Deontae Craig, senior tackle Logan Lee and sophomore safety Xavier Nwankpa. Despite losing Van Ness, Iowa’s line should be among the Big Ten’s best. Lee and fellow senior Noah Shannon lead a deep group of tackles, while Craig (6.5 sacks) and Joe Evans (6.5 sacks) are the headliners at end. DeJean and junior Jermari Harris form a solid cornerback tandem, although depth is a mini concern. The safety spot looks strong, especially in the short term, with Nwankpa and seniors Quinn Schulte and Sebastian Castro. Linebacker is the most immediate question mark, although Virginia transfer Nick Jackson should help a group that includes senior Jay Higgins but will put more on younger players. Iowa signed ESPN four-star linebacker Ben Kueter and has a 2024 commitment from ESPN 300 prospect Preston Ries.
2023 Future QB ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future defense ranking: 22
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Beavers: Oregon State is clearly on the rise after its first 10-win season since 2006. Coach Jonathan Smith, who quarterbacked Oregon State to the team’s only 11-win season in 2000, has crafted schematic and roster-building approaches that perfectly suit his alma mater. Oregon State finished No. 17 last season and knocked off rival Oregon, Mountain West champ Fresno State and others, despite a passing game that ranked 104th nationally. Smith needs to get the QB right and has options, including Clemson transfer D.J. Uiagalelei, drawn to the program because of its pro-style offense. Returning starter Ben Gulbranson has three years of eligibility left, and true freshman Aidan Chiles looked like the team’s long-term answer this spring. Oregon State is in good shape at running back, as Damien Martinez will play at least through 2024 after a 982-yard freshman season. Junior Jam Griffin and others add to the mix. Offensive line also projects well with All-Pac-12 selections Joshua Gray and Taliese Fuaga, and veteran center Jake Levengood. Gray and Fuaga both can return in 2024, as could Nevada transfer Grant Starck, a starter last season. The Beavers need health and production from a receiver group that includes juniors Anthony Gould and Silas Bolden. Jack Velling (16 receptions, 3 touchdowns) leads a tight end group filled with non-seniors.
The defense has taken significant steps since coordinator Trent Bray took over. There are some short-term challenges after losing cornerbacks Alex Austin and Rejzohn Wright to the NFL and linebacker Omar Speights to LSU, but also obvious strengths, like the line. Seniors James Rawls and Isaac Hodgins anchor the front, which also has key non-seniors in Sione Lolohea and Wyoming transfer Oluwaseyi Omotosho. The Beavers also signed ESPN four-star defensive end Kelze Howard. Speights leaves a void at linebacker, but there’s a nice mix of veterans (Easton Mascarenas-Arnold, John McCartan) and promising young players like junior Makiya Tongue. The secondary has two clear leaders in safety Kitan Oladapo and cornerback Ryan Cooper Jr. Greater depth is the next challenge for the Beavers, who likely will lean more on junior Skyler Thomas.
2023 Future QB ranking: 18
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Gamecocks: Even those skeptical of Shane Beamer’s hiring at South Carolina knew if he got things going on the field, his recruiting prowess would soon follow. South Carolina is 15-11 under Beamer with an AP top-25 finish last season and signature wins over Tennessee and Clemson. Beamer, who helped mold the South Carolina teams that posted three straight AP top-10 finishes from 2011 and 2013, is making significant upgrades. South Carolina signed ESPN’s No. 14 class for 2023, headlined by top-40 national recruit Nyckoles Harbor and three linemen ranked in ESPN’s top 135 (Desmond Umeozulu, Xzavier McLeod and Markee Anderson). The 2024 class already includes commitments from eight ESPN 300 prospects, including offensive tackles Kam Pringle (ESPN’s top tackle and No. 36 overall) and Josiah Thompson (No. 72). South Carolina always will have challenges in the SEC, but the team’s trajectory is promising. The defense needs an upgrade, and will be retooled after some key departures to graduation, the NFL and the portal. There’s a good young nucleus in the secondary with safeties D.Q. Smith and Nick Emmanwori, who combined for 139 tackles as freshmen, and cornerback Marcellas Dial. Alex Huntley and Tonka Hemingway will anchor the defensive tackle spot. But South Carolina will need linebacker Mohamed Kaba and edge Jordan Strachan to produce after injuries, and returnees like linebacker Debo Williams and tackle T.J. Sanders to take on bigger roles. Tackle Elijah Davis, ESPN’s No. 2 junior-college transfer, also should help up front.
South Carolina’s offense hasn’t blown anyone away, but the growth potential is there for new coordinator Dowell Loggains. Quarterback Spencer Rattler returns for his second season, and South Carolina appears well-stocked behind him with Luke Doty, who started games in 2021 and can play through 2024, and talented young players such as Tanner Bailey and incoming freshman LaNorris Sellers, an ESPN 300 recruit. The team also has a 2024 commitment from ESPN 300 QB Dante Reno. Transfers hit the running back room hard, and South Carolina will lean on a group (junior JuJu McDowell, senior Dakereon Joyner, Newberry College transfer Mario Anderson) for production. Leading receiver Antwane Wells Jr. is back, and seniors Xavier Legette and Ahmarean Brown should see bigger roles, along with Memphis transfer Eddie Lewis. South Carolina hit the portal hard at tight end for Trey Knox (Arkansas), Joshua Simon (Western Kentucky) and Nick Elksnis (Florida). The line could be a strength with Jaylen Nichols, Jakai Moore, Vershon Lee and Trai Jones all returning some starting experience. The group also picks up transfers Nick Gargiulo (Yale) and Sidney Fugar (Western Illinois). If the team can survive some short-term questions, the outlook for 2024 and 2025 is very bright.
2023 Future QB ranking: 16
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 14
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Bruins: Coach Chip Kelly is finding his way in Westwood, going 17-8 the past two seasons and positioning the offense well for future success. UCLA’s unknowns are the defense and the upcoming transition to the Big Ten in 2024. Kelly’s teams rarely pop in recruiting, although the addition of quarterback Dante Moore, ESPN’s No. 2 overall recruit in 2023, could mark a pivot point. UCLA has continued to be an attractive destination for transfers, several of whom have gone on to the NFL. D’Anton Lynn arrives from the NFL as the new defensive coordinator, and will oversee a unit that must tighten up against the pass. Senior safety Kenny Churchwell III and sophomore cornerback Jaylin Davies lead the secondary, which also brings back Devin Kirkwood and Alex Johnson, and adds transfer Jordan Anderson (Bowling Green). The line projects as a potential strength, as first-team All-Pac-12 end Laiatu Latu (10.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles) is back, alongside twins Gabriel Murphy and Grayson Murphy. Juniors Jay Toia and Gary Smith III should be factors through 2024, and UCLA added transfer end Jake Heimlicher, an All-Ivy League selection at Penn. Seniors Darius Muasau and JonJon Vaughns will lead the linebackers, which also return senior Carl Jones Jr. UCLA added two ESPN four-star defenders in the 2023 class (linebacker Tre Edwards, safety R.J. Jones) and has another committed for 2024 (safety Khristian Dunbar-Hawkins).
The offense has fewer question marks, especially at quarterback, with Moore entering a room that includes veteran reserve Ethan Garbers and Kent State transfer Collin Schlee. UCLA will miss productive running back Zach Charbonnet and will lean on sophomore T.J. Harden, who averaged 7.4 yards per carry in limited work last season, senior Keegan Jones and others. UCLA hit the portal for help at wide receiver (Cal‘s J. Michael Sturdivant, USC’s Kyle Ford), tight end (Oregon’s Moliki Matavao) and offensive line (Purdue’s Spencer Holstege, Colorado’s Jake Wiley, Old Dominion‘s Khadere Kounta). The Bruins also will lean on some returnees, including senior wideout Kam Brown, who averaged 15.1 yards per catch in 2022, tight end Hudson Habermehl and returning line starters Duke Clemens and guard Garrett DiGiorgio. ESPN 300 wide receiver Jeremiah McClure should be a factor in 2024 and 2025.
2023 Future QB ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: Not ranked
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Panthers: This might be a FPR first: A team not cracking the unit or QB lists making the overall top 25. Pitt’s components don’t really jump out, although a good case can be made for including the defense, which has produced 10 NFL draft picks in the past three years, including 2023 first-round selection Calijah Kancey. Also, Pitt has won an ACC championship and 20 total games the last two seasons, twice finishing in the AP Top 25. Coach Pat Narduzzi has a proven track record on defense, but also produced spikes in offensive production, like in 2016 and 2021. The defense will miss Kancey, safety Erick Hallett, linebacker SirVocea Dennis and others but returns five starters. Cornerback is packed with experience as seniors M.J. Devonshire, Marquis Williams and A.J. Woods, who combined for six interceptions last season, all return. Pitt isn’t as deep at safety but will lean on junior Phillip O’Brien Jr. and possibly Florida transfer Donovan McMillon. Bangally Kamara and Shayne Simon both return at linebacker, where junior Solomon DeShields is set to take on a bigger role. Senior tackle David Green anchors an experienced front that is seeking more from end Dayon Hayes and others. ESPN 300 linebacker recruit Jordan Bass headlined Pitt’s 2023 class and should make an impact in the coming years.
Pitt’s offense wants to maintain its rushing prowess (30 touchdowns in 2022) while elevating the pass attack, which found the end zone only 13 times last fall. The team again went to the portal for quarterbacks, adding Phil Jurkovec (Boston College) and Christian Veilleux (Penn State). Jurkovec, who played under Pitt coordinator Frank Cignetti Jr. at BC in 2021, is the projected starter for 2023, while Veilleux or fellow sophomore Nate Yarnell could lead the unit in 2024 and beyond. The Panthers return starting receivers Bub Means and Konata Mumpfield, a junior who had 58 receptions last season. They also added Florida transfer Daejon Reynolds, a third-year sophomore, but will look for more options. Third-team All-ACC selections Matt Goncalves and Jake Kradel lead a senior-laden offensive line, which added Cal transfer Jackson Brown. Pitt will miss prolific running back Israel Abanikanda, and now pivots to holdovers Rodney Hammond Jr. and C’Bo Flemister, along with LSU transfer Derrick Davis Jr. Tight end Gavin Bartholomew is back after a 21-catch season and can play through 2024.
2023 Future QB ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future defense ranking: Not ranked
2023 Future offense ranking: 18
2022 Future team ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Rebels: The final spot in the team rankings is always a difficult choice. There were several teams considered, including BYU, Texas Tech, Minnesota, Mississippi State, Fresno State, Louisville, Boise State, NC State and Kentucky. Ultimately, Ole Miss’ personnel clout won the day, as coach Lane Kiffin continues to collect talent through recruiting and the portal. The offense made the FPR top 20, and the quarterback group narrowly missed the rundown. Ole Miss returns starter Jaxson Dart, who can play through 2024, and solidified both the short- and long-term QB depth by adding Oklahoma State transfer Spencer Sanders, who went 46-6 as the Cowboys’ starter, and LSU transfer Walker Howard (ESPN’s No. 42 overall recruit in 2022). The Rebels also boast arguably the nation’s best running back in Quinshon Judkins, who will play at least two more seasons after a 1,567-yard debut. Ulysses Bentley IV is a capable second option when healthy. Wide receiver historically has been a strength for Ole Miss and should remain that way, as the team added two first-team All-Conference USA transfers in Zakhari Franklin (UTSA) and Tre Harris (Louisiana Tech). They join seniors Jordan Watkins and Dayton Wade. Ole Miss projects well at tight end with Michael Trigg and Memphis transfer Caden Prieskorn. The line returns four starters, including key non-seniors like tackle Jayden Williams, and added Washington transfer Victor Curne.
Ole Miss ultimately needs more signature SEC wins under Kiffin, which puts the spotlight on its defense, now under the direction of coordinator Pete Golding. The unit will have plenty of new faces, as Kiffin went to the transfer portal for defensive backs (Georgia Tech‘s Zamari Walton, Miami Ohio’s John Saunders Jr., Tulane‘s Jadon Canady, UCF‘s Justin Hodges), defensive line (James Madison‘s Isaac Ukwu, NC State’s Josh Harris, Nebraska’s Stephon Wynn Jr., Georgia Tech’s Akelo Stone) and linebacker (Louisville’s Monty Montgomery, UCF’s Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste). They join key returnees like linebackers Khari Coleman and Ashanti Cistrunk, and linemen J.J. Pegues, Jared Ivey and Cedric Johnson. Junior safety Ladarius Tennison (10 tackles for loss) is poised to lead the secondary through 2024, alongside seniors Isheem Young and Deantre Prince. Linebacker Suntarine Perkins, ESPN’s No. 18 overall recruit for 2023, tops a class that includes three other ESPN four-star defenders. Ole Miss also has 2024 commitments from ESPN 300 linemen Jeffery Rush and Kamron Beavers.