Yesterday, we talked about the most disappointing teams in college football this season. Now it's time to take a look at the teams that surprised us the most (in a good way). First, go back and check out the most surprising teams at the mid-way point of the season and then come back and see which teams were able to continue that trend for the entire year….
American Athletic Conference: Houston Cougars (8-4, 5-3)
Coming off of a 5-7 season, the Cougars turned it around this season by going 8-4 and had a better record this year in the AAC then they did last year in Conference USA. A great 7-1 start aided the Cougars and helped them secure a BBVA Compass Bowl birth against the Vanderbilt Commodores. The Cougars lost four games but their biggest defeat was by just seven points.
also considered: Cincinnati Bearcats, UCF Knights
ACC: Duke Blue Devils (10-3 overall, 6-2 in ACC)
What can you say about the Blue Devils? What a season they had. After starting 2-2, they ripped off eight straight victories including wins over two Top 25 teams. Duke finished 6-7 last year and lost their starting QB to the NFL Draft. It didn't seem to be a problem as David Cutcliffe had them prepared every week and against all odds took Duke to the ACC Championship Game.
also considered: Boston College Eagles
To read the rest of this article and find out the most surprising teams of 2013 for each conference click here to head to Crystal Ball Run.
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