2014 ncaa conferences

2 min read 13-02-2025

The 2014 NCAA season saw significant shifts in collegiate sports. Conference realignment continued to reshape the landscape, leading to exciting new matchups and rivalries. This article dives into the key conferences and their prominent teams from that year.

Power Five Conferences: Dominating the Landscape

The Power Five conferences (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC) once again dominated the national conversation in 2014. Their teams consistently ranked highly, securing most of the spots in the prestigious College Football Playoff (CFP).

Southeastern Conference (SEC): Reigning Supreme

The SEC continued its reign of dominance in 2014. Alabama, under Nick Saban, secured another national championship. Auburn, Mississippi State, and Georgia also fielded strong teams, showcasing the conference’s depth. The SEC's success extended beyond football, with strong showings in other sports.

Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC): A Strong Contender

The ACC featured several competitive teams in 2014. Florida State had a remarkable season, though they ultimately fell short of the national title. Other notable ACC teams included Clemson, Louisville, and Boston College, each contributing to a fiercely competitive conference.

Big Ten Conference: A Resurgent Force

The Big Ten experienced a resurgence in 2014. Ohio State ultimately won the CFP national championship, a testament to the conference's strength. Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Nebraska also provided stiff competition, demonstrating the Big Ten's growing national presence.

Big 12 Conference: Competitive Balance

The Big 12 was known for its competitive balance in 2014. While no team completely dominated, several teams contended for national recognition. Baylor, Oklahoma, and TCU were among the top contenders in the conference, creating an exciting and unpredictable season.

Pac-12 Conference: West Coast Powerhouse

The Pac-12 continued to be a strong conference in 2014. Oregon and UCLA were consistent contenders. The conference also boasted other teams that played spoiler roles throughout the season, making every game significant.

Beyond the Power Five: Notable Performances

While the Power Five conferences garnered most of the attention, other conferences also produced memorable moments and strong teams.

American Athletic Conference (AAC): Rising Stars

The AAC continued its rise in 2014, with several teams proving their competitiveness on a national scale. UCF, Cincinnati, and Temple all showcased their talent and potential.

Mountain West Conference (MW): Underdog Upsets

The Mountain West Conference demonstrated their ability to pull off some major upsets against higher-ranked opponents in 2014. This showcased the competitiveness within the conference and the unpredictability of college football.

Other Conferences: Building for the Future

Numerous other conferences contributed to the rich tapestry of college sports in 2014. While they may not have reached the same level of national prominence as the Power Five, these conferences provided crucial stepping stones for future stars and exciting moments for their fans.

A Year of Change and Competition

2014 marked a significant year in NCAA conferences. The continued realignment and the rise of several teams outside the traditional powerhouses showcased the dynamic nature of collegiate athletics. The intense competition and memorable moments made 2014 a truly exciting year for college sports fans. The College Football Playoff era had just begun, adding another layer to the already captivating season.