Week 2 of the college football season delivered significant upsets and shifts in team perception, prompting FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt to assess which programs are in trouble, which are stable, and which are exceeding expectations.
Time to Panic
Oregon and Oklahoma, both highly ranked teams, experienced unexpected losses. Klatt expressed alarm over Oregon's performance, citing issues on both offense and defense, including concerning run-pass tells. "If not for those two defensive scores, that is a route," Klatt stated, noting that the film was "alarming" for the Ducks. Injuries are also becoming a concern for the team.
Oklahoma's struggles were attributed to a weak offensive line and an inability to run the ball effectively. Klatt noted that quarterback John Mateer would need to perform exceptionally or the team would have to rely on explosive plays, a strategy that proved unsustainable the previous year.
Washington also drew Klatt's concern after a narrow 16-14 victory over Utah State. Despite being 2-0, Klatt pointed to offensive struggles and significant injury concerns, including the loss of top running backs and key wide receivers.
Florida State, while not categorized as needing to "panic" in a game sense, faces institutional and financial pressures. Klatt highlighted the recent firing of their athletic director, the team's substantial debt, and the potential cost of dismissing coach Mike Norvell. The Seminoles also face a daunting schedule against strong opponents.
Georgia Tech was placed in the "panic" category due to a recent downturn after an early strong start. The Yellow Jackets have lost six of their last seven games, with their only recent win coming in the fourth quarter against Boston College.
Stay Calm
Teams like Colorado, Ohio State, BYU, Alabama, and USC were advised to "stay calm" despite varied performances. Colorado is showing fundamental improvements under a new philosophy focused on production over potential, with a tougher line of scrimmage and a commitment to the run game.
Ohio State, despite a loss, is not seen as fundamentally flawed. Klatt suggested the team needs to address red zone execution and defensive volume. "Let's all relax about Ohio State," he advised.
BYU is viewed as a solid team, but Klatt remains cautious about their ability to compete against top-tier opponents until they face teams like Notre Dame and Texas Tech.
Alabama is seeing positive developments with quarterback Keelon Russell, and a renewed commitment to the run game offers a potential blueprint for success. However, Klatt expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for continued development of the young quarterback.
USC's talented freshmen class is drawing praise, but Klatt is reserving judgment until the defense proves itself against stronger competition, particularly in stopping the run.
Get Excited
UCLA and Miami (Fla.) are among the teams generating excitement. UCLA, under new head coach Bob Chesney, has started the season 2-0, exceeding offseason hype. Klatt believes the Bruins are a "real team" capable of surprising opponents in the Big Ten.
Miami's improved performance, particularly at quarterback with Darian Mensah, and continued dominance on the offensive and defensive lines, has Klatt "absolutely thrilled." The emergence of Malachi Toney as a dynamic playmaker is a significant factor.
Texas has "lifted the ceiling off" their program with their belief following a significant win, according to Klatt. The team's talent combined with newfound confidence makes them a dangerous opponent.
Michigan's victory was characterized by a strong, physical style reminiscent of coach Kyle Whittingham, indicating a positive shift in team culture. Mississippi State is also drawing excitement, having secured an impressive road win against Minnesota. Klatt praised quarterback Kamario Taylor and believes the team is capable of upsetting SEC opponents.