As we inch closer to the 2025 college football season, the anticipation among fans is palpable. There’s a rich tapestry of storylines emerging as teams get ready to take the field, shaping what promises to be an electrifying year of college football.
Phil Steele recently released his comprehensive college football preview, ranking every team from No. 1 to No. 136. His insights offer a glimpse into the season ahead and might just surprise you. Kicking off with his top team, Steele believes that Penn State holds the crown heading into the season. However, as we all know, in college football, it’s all about how you finish the season rather than where you start. Still, Steele’s confidence in the Nittany Lions, among others, sets an intriguing tone for the upcoming competition.
1. Penn State
Last season marked a major milestone for Penn State as they made their inaugural journey into the College Football Playoff, reaching the semifinal round. Though they didn’t advance further, the potential for sustained success is clear. Steele is banking on a strong performance this year, citing the returning talent that includes quarterback Drew Allar and a dynamic backfield featuring Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. With a solid defense under coach James Franklin, the Nittany Lions are poised for another impressive run.
2. Notre Dame
Marcus Freeman has set the stage for another formidable squad at Notre Dame, and Steele ranks the Irish highly as a top contender this fall, following their appearance in the national championship game. Look out for running back Jeremiyah Love, who is expected to be in the Heisman conversation. The college football world has high expectations for Notre Dame, anticipating another playoff run.
3. Texas
Texas is bolstered by an array of game-changers, including quarterback Arch Manning, running back Tre Wisner, and wide receiver Ryan Wingo. Coach Steve Sarkisian’s squad is chasing a third consecutive trip to the College Football Playoff, aiming for the program’s first National Championship since 2005. The Longhorns are certainly on the rise.
4. Alabama
Kalen DeBoer’s first season in Alabama might not have met the program’s lofty standards, but the Crimson Tide finished with a respectable 9-4 record. Now, with Ty Simpson stepping in as quarterback, fans can expect a resurgence. He’ll be complemented by talent like running back Jam Miller and wide receiver Ryan Williams, alongside a defense featuring returning stars Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson. Alabama looks ready to reclaim its place among the top contenders.
5. Ohio State
Ohio State ended the last regular season amidst questions after a tough loss to Michigan but turned the tide with a stellar playoff performance and ultimately clinched the national championship. The Buckeyes are accustomed to handling turnover, and despite roster changes, their annual influx of talent suggests they will be formidable once again.
6. Clemson
Clemson appears to be the team to beat in the ACC this season. With quarterback Cade Klubnik, who threw for career-highs of 3,639 passing yards and 36 touchdowns last year, the Tigers are returning a wealth of production. Steele emphasizes that head coach Dabo Swinney has bolstered the squad further with strategic additions through the transfer portal.
7. Georgia
While Georgia has experienced some key departures, they remain a competitive force in the SEC. The acquisition of star receiver Zachariah Branch from USC adds an exciting dynamic to the offense. With leading rusher Nate Frazier returning, the Bulldogs aim to stay at the forefront of the conference despite potential growing pains.
8. Oklahoma
The Sooners faced a rocky inaugural season in the SEC, finishing with a 6-7 record. Yet their significant victory over Alabama provided a shot of confidence as they look to rebound. The addition of quarterback John Mateer, a Heisman candidate after a productive season at Washington State, positions Oklahoma as a team to watch in 2025.
9. Texas A&M
Entering the second year of Mike Elko’s regime, Texas A&M aims to build on last season’s 8-5 record. With quarterback Marcel Reed and key returning players, the Aggies are focused on harnessing their talent to break the decade-long streak of not hitting the 10-win mark.
10. Florida
Florida fans have high hopes for DJ Lagway as he embarks on his sophomore season. After totaling 1,915 passing yards and 12 touchdowns in relief duty last year, Lagway is joined by leading rusher Jadan Baugh and promising receiver J. Michael Sturdivant from UCLA. The Gators are eager for a playoff push, which would be monumental for the program.
Phil Steele’s Preseason Poll — Nos. 11-25:
This year’s rankings also highlight other strong contenders, including LSU, Michigan, Oregon, and Miami, among others.
Nos. 26-75:
Teams like TCU, South Carolina, and Iowa State are shaping up as dark horses in this impressive list of programs.
Nos. 76-136:
The breadth of talent in college football is further showcased in the rankings of teams from Oregon State to Miami (OH), indicating a vibrant landscape of competition as the season approaches.
With the stage set and anticipation building, college football fans are in for a treat as the 2025 season promises thrilling narratives, unexpected twists, and a showcase of athletic prowess from coast to coast. Keep your eyes peeled as teams begin their journeys, each hoping to carve their names into this year’s sports history.
