Tulane Athletics has made a mark this fall, reaching its second-best ranking ever in the Learfield Directors’ Cup. This ranking reflects the performance of Tulane’s teams in NCAA Championships, with data released by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USA Today.
Currently, the Green Wave sits at 48th in the national standings, tied with other institutions. With 137 points, they lead the American Conference and rank second among Group of 6 schools. Notably, New Mexico from the Mountain West is the only Group of 6 school ranked higher at 23rd with 195 points.
Tulane’s outstanding performance this fall is reminiscent of their glory days in 1998. Back then, they achieved a 12-0 football record, won the Conference USA title, and even triumphed over BYU in the Liberty Bowl. They finished 43rd overall that season, making this ranking a significant achievement for the department.
Athletics Director David Harris celebrated the fall sports teams, emphasizing their hard work and dedication. “Their success is a true reflection of what Tulane Athletics stands for—excellence and teamwork,” he remarked.
The football team, which recently finished its 2025 season with an impressive 11-3 record, contributed significantly to this ranking, bringing in 56 points. They also celebrated winning their second American Conference title and making their first appearance in the College Football Playoff. The team ended the season ranked 18th in both the Associated Press Top 25 and the USA Today Coaches Poll.
On the Cross Country front, both men’s and women’s teams had stellar seasons. The men’s team secured 53 points by clinching the South Central Region Championship and finishing 21st at the NCAA Championship. Bernard Cheruiyot notably became the first male All-American in program history. The women’s team added 28 points, winning their second American title in three years.
These successes not only highlight individual talent but also underscore Tulane Athletics’ commitment to fostering competitive excellence. Recognitions for coaches and individual athletes showcase the rising profile of the programs.
For a deeper understanding of the Directors’ Cup scoring system and its impact on collegiate athletics, feel free to check out the detailed breakdown here.
Tulane’s fall rankings through the years reveal a story of growth and determination— a narrative that continues to evolve as the teams push forward and strive for success in the seasons to come.
