The excitement is building as college football kicks off in just a week! The season officially starts at 12 PM ET on August 23 in Dublin, Ireland. In a thrilling matchup, No. 17 Kansas State faces No. 22 Iowa State, both aiming for a strong start in the Big 12.
This week, the Associated Press unveiled its 2025 Preseason Top 25 Poll, naming Texas as the top team. Following closely, USA Today’s Coaches Poll also has the Longhorns in first place.
Rankings can vary, though. ESPN recently released its SP+ Rankings, a unique perspective that evaluates team efficiency. Instead of merely looking at past performance, it predicts future success based on sustainability. Bill Connelly from ESPN explains that the SP+ focuses on the elements of football that are consistent and reliable.
In these rankings, the reigning national champions, Ohio State, sit at No. 1. They are projected for an average of 10 wins, bolstered by a formidable defense and a powerful offense. Despite losing key players, they still feature standout talents like WR Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs. If they secure a solid quarterback from their current options, the Buckeyes could lead the pack this season.
Alabama follows at No. 2 in the SP+ rankings. Coach Kalen DeBoer faced challenges last season but is expected to improve the team’s performance, with forecasts of nearly 10 wins this year. Their offense is anticipated to score impressively, while the defense remains strong with experienced leaders like Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson.
Georgia holds the No. 3 spot, thanks to their strong special teams and solid defense. They will now rely on junior QB Gunner Stockton after previous starter Carson Beck transferred out. How quickly the new lineup adapts will be crucial in their quest for another SEC title.
Interestingly, Penn State nearly topped the AP Poll, landing at No. 2, just behind Texas. They boast a formidable offense and a strong defense, projecting significant wins this season.
Meanwhile, Texas, despite being the consensus top team in AP and USA Today, ranks fifth in the SP+ rankings. They are transitioning to a new QB, Arch Manning, who was last year’s top recruit. Their performance could shake up expectations as they balance a promising defense with an offense that needs to prove itself.
Another intriguing team is Notre Dame, projected to have a strong defense and a robust running game. Their schedule will test their limits, but success there could lead them back to the playoffs.
In historical terms, this season reflects a shift in college football. Teams are becoming more offensive-minded, with analytics driving game strategies. Statistically speaking, high-scoring games are on the rise. A recent survey found that 70% of fans prefer high-scoring matches, which is influencing how teams shape their rosters and game plans.
As the kickoff approaches, the atmosphere among fans and analysts is electric. The vast variety of rankings provides a thrilling context for competition. Teams will strive to not only win but also rise in the eyes of both analytics and fans.
Here’s how the ESPN SP+ rankings shape up, including the teams ranked from 11 to 25:
- 11. LSU Tigers (20.1)
- 12. Tennessee Volunteers (19.4)
- 13. Texas A&M Aggies (18.3)
- 14. Miami Hurricanes (18.1)
- 15. Oklahoma Sooners (17.5)
- 16. Florida Gators (16.2)
- 17. South Carolina Gamecocks (16.0)
- 18. Kansas State Wildcats (15.3)
- 19. SMU Mustangs (14.6)
- 20. Missouri Tigers (14.0)
- 21. USC Trojans (13.2)
- 22. Auburn Tigers (13.1)
- 23. Indiana Hoosiers (12.5)
- 24. Louisville Cardinals (12.3)
- 25. Iowa Hawkeyes (12.1)
As fans gear up for the season, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. This year promises to deliver surprises, thrilling matches, and incredible performances in the ever-evolving landscape of college football.
