The 2024 college football season witnessed unprecedented performances, culminating in an expanded 12-team playoff format. This year’s ESPN All-America team showcases exceptional talent across various positions, with standout players making significant impacts both on and off the field. Key highlights include Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter's versatility, repeat selections from last season, and impressive freshmen debuts. Ohio State and Texas lead with multiple first-team picks, while several players have earned national accolades for their outstanding contributions.
Offensive Powerhouses: Breaking Records and Dominating Play
The offensive side of the ball was dominated by record-breaking performances and stellar individual achievements. Players like Miami's quarterback Tyler Ward and Boise State's running back Ashton Jeanty set new benchmarks, leading their teams to remarkable successes. Freshmen also made a splash, with Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith showcasing incredible potential. These athletes not only excelled in regular-season play but also shone brightly during the intense postseason games.
Miami's Tyler Ward had a phenomenal one-season stint after transferring from Washington State. As a Heisman Trophy finalist, he led the ACC’s top offense with 44 touchdowns and minimal interceptions. His 4,313 passing yards broke Miami records. Meanwhile, Boise State's Ashton Jeanty nearly matched Barry Sanders' NCAA rushing record, accumulating 2,601 yards and 30 touchdowns. Arizona State's Cam Skattebo also impressed with his postseason performances, racking up 450 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns. Ohio State's true freshman Jeremiah Smith added another dimension to the Buckeyes' offense, leading the nation with 14 touchdown receptions and averaging 17.3 yards per catch. San José State's Nash became the program's first consensus All-American, achieving the receiving triple crown with 104 catches, 1,382 yards, and 16 touchdowns. Penn State's tight end Warren showcased versatility, catching 104 passes and winning the John Mackey Award.
Defensive Dominance: Unstoppable Forces and Ironclad Defenders
The defensive lineup featured players who were instrumental in shaping their teams' success through relentless pressure and strategic plays. Standouts like Penn State's Abdul Carter and Michigan's Mason Graham exemplified defensive prowess, while transfers and returning stars brought fresh energy to the field. Several defenders also received national recognition, solidifying their status as future NFL prospects.
Penn State's Abdul Carter led all FBS players with 23.5 tackles for loss, including 12 sacks, despite playing through a shoulder injury. Michigan's Mason Graham anchored the Wolverines' defensive front, contributing 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. Ole Miss' Jaquarius Nolen, a transfer from Texas A&M, excelled in the SEC with 12 tackles for loss and ranked second among interior defensive linemen. Boston College's Isaiah Ezeiruaku emerged as a pass-rushing dynamo, recording 16.5 sacks and earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors. Georgia's Jalon Walker won the Butkus Award, leading the Bulldogs with 10.5 tackles for loss. Buffalo's DeAngelo Dolac returned from injury to lead the nation with 168 total tackles and 18.5 tackles for loss. Texas' DeMarvion Hill, a sophomore linebacker, led the Longhorns with 113 total tackles and tied for fourth among FBS linebackers with 16.5 tackles for loss. Cornerback Derek Barron, a redshirt senior at Texas, limited Ohio State's star receiver Jeremiah Smith to just one catch, winning the Thorpe Award. California's Elijah Williams led FBS players with seven interceptions and scored two touchdowns on special teams. Notre Dame's Xavier Watts, a safety, led all FBS safeties with six interceptions and will be remembered as one of the best in Notre Dame history. Ohio State's Denzel Downs, a transfer from Alabama, was a force against both the run and pass, ranking third on his team with 76 total tackles.