Teams that are “Win Now” in 2024

We often see NFL teams that are described as “Win Now” by the Media. Whether this be for an aging QB, contracts that will soon be up for negotiation, or a coach that needs to prove his worth to the League. Here are the programs we believe are “Win Now” in CFB:

*Note: Win Now Score rates how pivotal winning to maintain relevance is for each program.

Ohio State

Creator: Joe Robbins | Credit: Getty Images

It’s been a long decade for Buckeyes fans.

Not only have they failed to get a single win over their biggest rival, they’ve suffered three straight defeats and seen Michigan win a National Title. Talk about a big ouch.

Luckily, for OSU fans anyways, this is the most stacked roster seen in Columbus, possibly ever. Two top-10 RBs, the best WR core in the nation, first round picks in JTT and Caleb Downs on defense. If there was ever a time for the Buckeyes to win a national title after their rival, this would be it.

If they don’t?

If Ohio State fails to beat Michigan, win the B1G, and win the Natty, there will never be a better moment. Ryan Day will be gone, virtually every formidable starter will be in the NFL, and recruiting will see its biggest slump ever.

Win Now Score: 10/10

Notre Dame

Creator: Michael Reaves | Credit: Getty Images

The Irish haven’t won a NY6 Bowl Game since 1994. Since that year, Notre Dame has had more wins vacated (21) than All-Americans (16).

The sad reality is that unless something changes, this is going to be a program that was “once” a blue blood. Marcus Freeman made the list for Blitz Sports CFB Coaches on the Hot Seat [Insert Link], noting that despite being one of the best recruiters in the country, the on-field success has been underwhelming at best. 

Facing a different situation than the Buckeyes, Notre Dame must win to someday become a formidable opponent, but the chances will only dilute.

Win Now Score: 8.5/10

Clemson

Creator: Icon Sportswire | Credit: Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

In the modern era of CFB, utilizing NIL and the Transfer Portal is pivotal for sustained success. 

Clemson took 0 portal players in 2023.

Dabo Swinney has the Tigers set back a generation with his refusal to play modernized CFB. The game has changed in ways unfathomable to us just a short decade ago, but it has also opened the door for programs such as Colorado and Ohio State to revamp or reload their programs. 

The point of the matter is, the future HOF Coach needs to prove that his style of running a program still works. If not, Clemson will continue to fall behind other programs seizing the opportunity, even their conference foes.

Win Now Score: 9/10