The college football season has wrapped up with Ohio State being crowned national champions after defeating Notre Dame in a title game that seemed like it would be a blowout before getting tense late. Then Buckeyes freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith made the critical play to secure the victory.
In the College Football Playoff, there was redemption for Ryan Day, who endured criticism after a fourth consecutive loss to Michigan before one of the most impressive postseason runs in college football with four victories.
There was also a second consecutive championship for the Big Ten which points to somewhat of a power shift in the sport after the SEC was routinely expected to being at the top of the mountain. One thing that the first expanded College Football Playoff field of 12 illustrated is that depth of talent might be the most critical part of winning three or four games. And that might favor the biggest programs.
So what does this all mean as we look ahead to the 2025 season?
Dan Wolken and Paul Myerberg address these topics and more in the final College Football Fix of the 2024 season.
REPORT CARD: Handing out letter grades for every college football team
LOOKING AHEAD: Our way-too-early college football Top 25 for 2025
RE-RANK: See where every college football team falls in final NCAA 1-134
BEST OF BEST: Ranking every national champ in the College Football Playoff era
STEPPING UP: Jeremiah Smith delivered when Ohio State needed him the most
TOUGH LOSS: Notre Dame angry and motivated after loss in title game