NCAAF Week 2 Power Rankings: Key Takeaways, Surprises, and Areas for Improvement

As Week 2 of the NCAAF season concluded, several teams showcased their strengths while others revealed areas needing improvement. Here’s a breakdown of the key performances, surprises, and concerns for the Top 25 teams.

Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State remains at the top of the rankings after a dominant 70-0 victory over Grambling. However, questions linger about their running game against elite defenses.

LSU Tigers

LSU's offense struggled against Louisiana Tech, but their defense shined, allowing only 17 points in two games. The Tigers need to sharpen their offensive execution.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Penn State’s 34-0 win over Florida International was marred by poor third-down efficiency. Improvement in this area is crucial for their championship aspirations.

Oregon Ducks

Oregon’s 69-3 thrashing of Oklahoma State highlighted their dominance. Coach Dan Lanning emphasized reducing penalties, showing their commitment to perfection.

Miami Hurricanes

Miami’s 45-3 win over Bethune-Cookman was a bounce-back from their tough opener against Notre Dame. Consistency in the run game will be key moving forward.

Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia’s 28-6 win over Austin Peay was underwhelming. Injuries on the offensive line and a new quarterback’s growing pains are areas to watch.

Texas Longhorns

Texas’s 12 penalties against San José State were concerning, but Arch Manning’s four touchdown passes in five minutes showcased their potential.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Notre Dame used their Week 2 bye to regroup after a loss to Miami. A Week 3 showdown with Texas A&M will be pivotal for their playoff hopes.

Florida State Seminoles

Florida State’s 77-3 win over East Texas A&M was impressive, but their reliance on the run game could be tested against tougher opponents.

Iowa State Cyclones

Iowa State’s 16-13 win over Iowa was a defensive battle. Kicker Kyle Konrardy’s accuracy from long range was the difference-maker.

Oklahoma Sooners

Oklahoma’s 24-13 win over Michigan was a statement victory. However, self-inflicted mistakes nearly cost them, and cleaner play will be essential in SEC matchups.

Texas A&M Aggies

Texas A&M’s defense improved against Utah State, but their big-play passing offense will be tested against Notre Dame.

Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois’s 26-point win over Duke was impressive, but their run game needs to be more consistent, especially in Big Ten play.

South Carolina Gamecocks

South Carolina’s 38-10 win over South Carolina State was sluggish. Better execution on offense is needed for tougher opponents.

Tennessee Volunteers

Tennessee’s 72-17 blowout of East Tennessee State was dominant. The health of their defensive line will be crucial against Georgia.

Clemson Tigers

Clemson’s offense struggled against Troy, needing a second-half comeback. A road trip to Georgia Tech will be a true test.

Utah Utes

Utah’s 63-9 win over Cal Poly was a statement. Quarterback Devon Dampier’s workload will be key to their success.

Ole Miss Rebels

Ole Miss’s 30-23 win over Kentucky was a hard-fought victory. Their ability to make big plays in crucial moments was the difference.

South Florida Bulls

South Florida’s 18-16 upset of Florida in The Swamp was a testament to their resilience. They are a team to watch in the Group of 5.

Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama’s 73-0 rout of UL Monroe was a confidence booster. Their dominant performance will be needed in upcoming SEC matchups.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

Texas Tech’s 48-0 halftime lead against Kent State showcased their dominance. A tougher test awaits against Oregon State.

Indiana Hoosiers

Indiana’s 45-10 win over Kennesaw State was a response to their sloppy Week 1 performance. Consistency will be key in Big Ten play.

TCU Horned Frogs

TCU’s 48-14 win over North Carolina was a statement. Their improved running game and quarterback play are positive signs.

Michigan Wolverines

Michigan’s 24-13 loss to Oklahoma highlighted their offensive struggles. Explosive plays are needed for their offense to improve.

Missouri Tigers

Missouri’s 42-31 win over Kansas was a hard-fought victory. Their balanced offense and strong defense were the difference.