Penn State Nittany Lions

X-factor: QB Drew Allar's big-game performances Penn State's season hinges on Drew Allar's ability to deliver in crucial moments. Despite his talent, Allar has struggled against top-tier teams like Ohio State and Michigan. With a strong supporting cast, including a top running back tandem, Allar must step up to lead Penn State to its first national title since 1986.

Clemson Tigers

X-factor: Run defense Clemson's run defense has been a glaring weakness, especially last season. New defensive coordinator Tom Allen, known for his success at Penn State, is expected to revitalize this unit. A stronger run defense could be the key to Clemson's playoff success.

Texas Longhorns

X-factor: Middle of the defensive line Texas has bolstered its defensive line with key transfers and freshmen. The performance of these new additions will be critical as Texas faces a tough SEC schedule. A dominant defensive line could propel the Longhorns deep into the playoffs.

Georgia Bulldogs

X-factor: WR Colbie Young Colbie Young's return adds a significant threat to Georgia's receiving corps. His ability to make contested catches and stretch the field will be vital for the Bulldogs' offensive success. Young's presence could be the difference in tight games.

Ohio State Buckeyes

X-factor: TE Max Klare Max Klare, a transfer from Purdue, brings a dynamic playmaking ability to Ohio State's offense. His presence over the middle should provide a reliable target for the Buckeyes' new quarterback and complement their star receivers.

LSU Tigers

X-factor: QB Garrett Nussmeier Garrett Nussmeier's performance will be pivotal for LSU's success. With a strong supporting cast, Nussmeier has the potential to elevate LSU's offense and lead the team to a successful season.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

X-factor: QB CJ Carr CJ Carr faces high expectations as he competes for the starting quarterback role. His ability to manage the offense and avoid turnovers will be crucial for Notre Dame's playoff aspirations.

Oregon Ducks

X-factor: QB Dante Moore Dante Moore steps into a high-pressure role following a line of successful Oregon quarterbacks. His development and performance will be key to the Ducks' offensive success.

Alabama Crimson Tide

X-factor: QB Ty Simpson Ty Simpson has the opportunity to lead Alabama's offense under new coordinator Ryan Grubb. His ability to adapt and perform will be critical for the Crimson Tide's championship hopes.

BYU Cougars

X-factor: LB Siale Esera Siale Esera's health and performance will be crucial for BYU's defense. His athleticism and size make him a potential difference-maker in the Big 12.

Illinois Fighting Illini

X-factor: OLB Gabe Jacas Gabe Jacas' ability to pressure quarterbacks and make plays will be vital for Illinois' defense. His performance could propel the Illini to their first CFP appearance.

Arizona State Sun Devils

X-factor: Wide receivers beyond Jordyn Tyson Arizona State's receiving corps must step up to support quarterback Sam Leavitt. The performance of these receivers will be critical for the Sun Devils' offensive success.

South Carolina Gamecocks

X-factor: WR Nyck Harbor Nyck Harbor's development and performance will be key for South Carolina's offense. His size and speed make him a potential game-changer for the Gamecocks.

Iowa State Cyclones

X-factor: WR Chase Sowell Chase Sowell's ability to provide a big-play threat will be crucial for Iowa State's offense. His performance could help fill the production gap left by departing receivers.

SMU Mustangs

X-factor: TE RJ Maryland RJ Maryland's return from injury adds a significant threat to SMU's passing game. His ability to create mismatches will be vital for the Mustangs' offensive success.

Texas Tech Red Raiders

X-factor: Defensive coordinator Shiel Wood Shiel Wood's impact on Texas Tech's defense will be critical. A stronger defensive performance could elevate the Red Raiders' season.

Indiana Hoosiers

X-factor: QB Fernando Mendoza Fernando Mendoza's development and performance will be pivotal for Indiana's offense. His ability to lead the Hoosiers could determine their playoff chances.

Kansas State Wildcats

X-factor: QB Avery Johnson Avery Johnson's potential to elevate Kansas State's offense makes him a key X-factor. His performance could lead the Wildcats to greater heights.

Florida Gators

X-factor: Health of QB DJ Lagway DJ Lagway's health and performance will be crucial for Florida's offense. His ability to stay healthy and lead the Gators could determine their season's success.

Michigan Wolverines

X-factor: QB Bryce Underwood Bryce Underwood's talent and potential make him a key X-factor for Michigan. His ability to perform as a true freshman could elevate the Wolverines' offense.

Miami Hurricanes

X-factor: Defensive secondary Miami's secondary must improve to support the team's defensive efforts. A stronger performance from this unit could be the difference in key games.

Louisville Cardinals

X-factor: Running game Louisville's running game, led by Isaac Brown and Duke Watson, will be crucial for the Cardinals' offensive success. Their ability to dominate on the ground could propel Louisville to a strong season.

Texas A&M Aggies

X-factor: Running game Texas A&M's running game, featuring Le'Veon Moss and Rueben Owens, will be pivotal for the Aggies' offense. Their ability to produce on the ground could determine the team's success.

Ole Miss Rebels

X-factor: WR Cayden Lee Cayden Lee's performance will be key for Ole Miss' offense. His ability to make plays and support the new quarterback will be crucial for the Rebels' success.

Oklahoma Sooners

X-factor: QB John Mateer John Mateer's dual-threat ability makes him a key X-factor for Oklahoma. His performance could elevate the Sooners' offense and lead to a successful season.