5.) Marshall

SOS: 125; Biggest challenges: Purdue, at W. Kentucky

Marshall, out of Conference USA, may not be a team you’re familiar with, but that doesn’t mean the Thundering Herd don’t have a solid chance at an undefeated season. And it doesn’t mean we’re going to forget about them.

Believe it or not, Marshall also looks to replace a long-time starter at quarterback after Rakeem Cato departed for the undrafted free agent market in the NFL. Without Cato under center, the Thundering Herd will look towards redshirt junior Michael Birdsong to step in. The return of senior running back Devon Johnson will ease that transition, though, after rushing for 1,767 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2014.

Look out for the Herd as they battle through the weakest schedule on the list.

Next: No. 4 – TCU >>>