The 2024 college football season was nothing short of exhilarating, filled with unforgettable moments as teams fought for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff. Throughout the season, we witnessed outstanding performances from both established stars and emerging talents, showcasing the depth of skill in college football.
Spotlight on the All-America Team
As the season progressed, the best players began to emerge, and it’s time to recognize their contributions. Here’s the annual Sportskeeda All-America squad, featuring standout first and second-team players, along with honorable mentions.
First Team All-America Highlights
Quarterback
Cam Ward/Miami
Ward’s impact on Miami was undeniable after transferring from Washington State. The ACC Offensive Player of the Year threw for an impressive 4,123 yards and 36 touchdowns, keeping Miami in the playoff race all season long. His performance not only solidified his status as the top quarterback in college football but also significantly boosted his NFL draft stock.
Running Back
Ashton Jeanty/Boise State
Jeanty was a powerhouse for the Broncos, rushing for 2,497 yards and scoring 29 touchdowns. A standout moment came during a thrilling game against top-ranked Oregon, where he rushed for 192 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to shine on the big stage.
Wide Receivers
#1 Travis Hunter/Colorado
Hunter, the dynamic two-way player, had a remarkable season, leading all Power 5 receivers with 92 receptions, 1,152 yards, and 14 touchdowns. His scoring prowess has made him a top prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft.
#2 Nick Nash/San Jose State
Nash dominated the receiving charts with 104 receptions, 1,382 yards, and 16 touchdowns. His standout performances included 16 catches for 152 yards and two touchdowns against Washington State, and six receptions for 161 yards against Oregon State.
Tight End
Harold Fannin Jr./Bowling Green
Fannin put up remarkable numbers for a tight end, recording 100 receptions for 1,342 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance placed him among the elite in college football, with only one receiver surpassing his totals.
Offensive Line
#1 Aireontae Ersery/T/Minnesota
Ersery was named the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year, a first for a Minnesota player. Over his four-year career, he started 50 games and allowed just one sack this season, demonstrating his dominance on the line.
#2 Marcus Mbow/T/Purdue
Mbow made a remarkable comeback after missing the previous season due to injury, starting 12 games and showcasing his resilience on a struggling Purdue team.
#3 Willie Lampkin/G/North Carolina
Despite being under six feet tall and weighing just 290 pounds, Lampkin made a significant impact, allowing only one sack and helping running back Omarion Hampton rush for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns.
#4 Seth McLaughlin/C/Ohio State
McLaughlin was a steady presence on the Buckeyes’ offensive line until an Achilles injury sidelined him. His leadership and play were crucial for Ohio State’s success.
#5 Lucas Scott/T/Army
Scott played a pivotal role in Army’s impressive season, helping the team average a nation-best 312 rushing yards per game while leading them to a 10-1 record.
Defensive Standouts
Defensive Line
#1 Mason Graham/Michigan
Graham was a force on the Michigan defensive line, consistently disrupting opposing offenses and forcing teams to adjust their game plans around him.
#2 Michael Green/Marshall
Green was a nightmare for quarterbacks, recording 16 sacks and 21 tackles for loss, proving to be one of the most disruptive defenders in college football.
#3 Donovan Ezeiruaku/Boston College
Ezeiruaku led the nation with 16.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to penetrate opposing backfields and wreak havoc on offenses.
Linebackers
#1 Anthony Hill Jr./Texas
Hill was a standout for the Longhorns, finishing with 90 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks, making him a key player in Texas’s successful season.
Defensive Backs
#1 Mello Dotson/Kansas
Dotson was a playmaker in the Kansas secondary, intercepting five passes and returning two for touchdowns, while also defending 15 passes.
Specialists Making an Impact
#1 Dominic Zvada/K/Michigan
Zvada had an outstanding season, connecting on 94.4% of his field goals, including a game-winning kick against Ohio State. His reliability was crucial for Michigan’s success.
#2 Alex Mastromanno/P/Florida State
Despite a challenging season for Florida State, Mastromanno stood out, averaging 49.9 yards per punt and consistently flipping the field for his team.
#3 Winston Wright Jr./KR/East Carolina
Wright was a dual threat, averaging 26.8 yards on kick returns and scoring a touchdown while also contributing significantly as a receiver.
Second Team and Honorable Mentions
The second team features notable players like Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU) and Kaleb Johnson (RB, Iowa), while honorable mentions include Kyle McCord (QB, Syracuse) and Omarion Hampton (RB, North Carolina). These players have also made significant impacts this season, showcasing the depth of talent across college football.
As we look back on the 2024 season, the performances of these athletes remind us why we love college football. Their dedication, skill, and passion for the game have left an indelible mark on this season, setting the stage for an exciting future ahead.
