The Unstoppable Force: College Football’s Longest Active Regular Season Win Streaks
In the exhilarating world of college football, achieving an undefeated regular season is akin to climbing Mount Everest—an extraordinary feat that only a select few can conquer. Each year, across various NCAA divisions, teams rise to the occasion, showcasing their prowess and determination. As we dive into the current landscape of college football, we uncover the teams that have managed to string together impressive win streaks, highlighting their remarkable journeys through the season.
Understanding the Streaks
Before we delve into the specifics, it’s essential to clarify what constitutes a regular-season win streak. For our purposes, a regular-season win streak includes all games played from "Week 0" through the final regular-season game, excluding conference championships, playoffs, and bowl games. This definition allows us to focus solely on the teams’ performance during the regular season, providing a clear picture of their dominance.
The Leaders of the Pack
As of October 19, 2024, several teams have distinguished themselves with remarkable win streaks. Here’s a look at the longest active regular-season win streaks across NCAA divisions, with a minimum of 13 consecutive wins:
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Mount Union (DIII) – 70 Wins
- The Purple Raiders have established themselves as a powerhouse in Division III football. Their remarkable 70-game win streak is a testament to their consistent excellence and ability to perform under pressure.
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North Central (DIII) – 42 Wins
- Following closely behind, North Central College has carved out a reputation for itself with a 42-game win streak. Their impressive performances have made them a formidable opponent in the DIII landscape.
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DePauw (DIII) – 20 Wins
- DePauw University has also made its mark with a solid 20-game win streak, showcasing their talent and determination to compete at a high level.
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Whitworth (DIII) – 16 Wins
- Whitworth University has emerged as a strong contender with a 16-game win streak, demonstrating their ability to consistently secure victories.
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Grand Valley State (DII) – 16 Wins
- In Division II, Grand Valley State has matched the 16-game win streak, proving their mettle in a competitive environment.
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Kutztown (DII) – 15 Wins
- Kutztown University has also made headlines with a 15-game win streak, further solidifying their place in the DII football hierarchy.
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Springfield (DIII) – 13 Wins
- Springfield College has joined the ranks with a 13-game win streak, showcasing their growth and potential in the DIII arena.
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Cortland (DIII) – 13 Wins
- Cortland State University has also achieved a 13-game win streak, highlighting their competitive spirit and skill.
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Oregon (FBS) – 13 Wins
- In the FBS division, the University of Oregon stands out with a 13-game win streak, representing the highest level of college football competition.
- Hardin-Simmons (DIII) – 13 Wins
- Rounding out the list, Hardin-Simmons University has also secured a 13-game win streak, showcasing their resilience and talent.
Noteworthy Mentions
It’s important to note that Kutztown’s win over Slippery Rock in the 2023 PSAC conference championship game counts towards their DII regular-season wins. However, for equity among other divisions that play conference championship games, this particular game is not included in the win streak count. This consideration ensures a fair comparison across all divisions.
The Journey Ahead
As the season progresses, these teams will continue to battle it out on the field, striving to extend their win streaks and solidify their legacies. The pursuit of an undefeated season is not just about the numbers; it’s about the stories, the rivalries, and the unforgettable moments that define college football.
A Community of Passion
The excitement surrounding these win streaks extends beyond the teams themselves. Fans, alumni, and communities rally behind their programs, creating an electric atmosphere that fuels the players’ ambitions. Each game is not just a contest of skill; it’s a celebration of tradition, pride, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
As we follow these teams on their journeys, we are reminded of the beauty of college football—the unpredictability, the passion, and the sheer joy of the game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the stories of these teams and their remarkable win streaks are sure to captivate and inspire.