Joel Klatt Names Two Programs Facing National Championship Expectations

There will be more opportunities than ever for college football programs to earn their way to the national championship game with an expanded College Football Playoff field in 2024. 12 teams will be able to play their way to the title game, and several programs could consider their season a success by just making it on the bracket.

Fox college football analyst Joel Klatt laid out his definition of ‘success’ for ten of the game’s most interesting programs during Monday’s episode of “ The Joel Klatt Show ”. He set the bar high for the programs that claimed the top two spots in his preseason rankings, the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Georgia Bulldogs.

“My definition [of success] this year for Ohio State starts with beating Michigan, and then giving themselves a chance and going to the national championship game,” Klatt said.

He holds the same 'national championship' standard for the Bulldogs minus having to prove themselves against their biggest rival like he defined for the Buckeyes. He says a successful season for Kirby Smart and Georgia means a trip to the CFP Title game.

“They expect to go out and win every game even if their schedule is very difficult, so, national championship game,” he said.

Klatt named Ohio State his No. 1 team and Georgia his No. 2 team in his preseason rankings. The AP felt they were both the top two teams heading into the 2024 season, but ranked Georgia No. 1 and Ohio State No. 2.

Both are considered two of the most talented rosters in the country, and these expectations reflect that.

Related: ESPN Releases Preseason College Football Rankings