The kickoff of the 2024 college football season is just a few months away, and the early schedule is brimming with high-profile non-conference clashes, sparking significant interest. With the expanded Big Ten and SEC dominating much of the top 25 rankings, these eagerly anticipated matchups feature powerhouse programs anticipated to be contenders for the 2024 College Football Playoff.
The opening weekend boasts five matchups projected to feature ranked teams, including traditional rivalry games. These games serve as potential catalysts for teams aiming for greater success later in the season, while the losing sides must regroup as conference play looms on the horizon.
10. MASON GILLIS, SF, DUKE
Duke sought seasoned players to complement its highly regarded high school recruits by exploring the transfer portal. This need was fulfilled with Gillis, who brings five years of college experience, including a recent run to the national championship with Purdue. While not known for his scoring, Gillis brings defensive versatility and decent shooting abilities, evidenced by his 6.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game averages last season, along with a solid 46.8% three-point shooting percentage.
9. LYNN KIDD, C, MIAMI
Kidd, having begun his collegiate career at Clemson and then spending three seasons at Virginia Tech, brings a wealth of experience to Miami. His breakout performance at Virginia Tech saw him leading the ACC in field goal percentage with an impressive 66.8%. Standing at 6-foot-10 and 235 pounds, Kidd addresses Miami’s need for size in the frontcourt after significant departures, including star player Norchad Omier.
8. OMAHA BILIEW, PF, WAKE FOREST
Once a highly touted prospect, Biliew now finds himself at Wake Forest after a challenging freshman year at Iowa State. Despite limited playing time, he showcased his defensive prowess during the 2023 McDonald’s All-American week, a skill expected to shine in the ACC under the guidance of coach Steve Forbes.
7. TERRENCE EDWARDS JR., CG, LOUISVILLE
Edwards’ accolades speak volumes, having earned Sun Belt Sixth Man of the Year and subsequently Sun Belt Player of the Year honors. His all-around game, including scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, along with solid shooting percentages, propelled James Madison to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in over a decade.
6. TJ POWER, PF, VIRGINIA
Power’s transfer to Virginia signifies a fresh start after struggling for minutes at Duke. His potential, particularly in shooting, makes him an exciting addition to Virginia’s roster, with expectations for significant improvement under coach Tony Bennett.
5. MALIQ BROWN, PF, DUKE
Brown emerges as a key figure in Duke’s lineup, offering efficiency on offense, tenacity on defense, and valuable experience with over 60 career games played. His impressive statistics from last season, including high shooting percentages and defensive accolades, make him a standout player for Duke.
4. SION JAMES, SG, DUKE
James fills a crucial role in Duke’s roster as a veteran guard, contributing both offensively and defensively. While there may be uncertainties regarding his offensive adaptation to the ACC, his defensive abilities are unquestionable, making him an essential asset for the upcoming season.
3. BRANDON HUNTLEY-HATFIELD, C, NC STATE
With significant departures from NC State’s Final Four team, Huntley-Hatfield becomes a linchpin in the team’s plans for the future. His consistent improvement, particularly in shooting, coupled with his size and rebounding prowess, make him integral to NC State’s continued success.
2. JAVIAN MCCOLLUM, CG, GEORGIA TECH
McCollum’s decision to join Georgia Tech reflects his commitment to the program, bypassing offers from more traditional basketball powerhouses. His all-around contributions make him a vital part of Georgia Tech’s backcourt, promising a significant impact in the upcoming season.
1. CADE TYSON, SF, NORTH CAROLINA
Tyson’s transfer to North Carolina underscores Coach Hubert Davis’s knack for identifying transfer talent. With impressive statistics from his previous season, particularly in shooting, Tyson brings a rare combination of height and scoring ability to North Carolina’s lineup, poised to make a substantial impact alongside a talented backcourt.
Could this be the moment when Michigan’s record-breaking winning streak in 2024 comes to an end? It’s possible. This colossal non-conference clash in the 2024 season features two top contenders for the expanded College Football Playoff. The victor of this matchup will significantly bolster their resume when the selection committee convenes in December, despite the game taking place early in September. Notably, the loser of this game will face little margin for error for the remainder of the season, even with the playoff expanded.
