As college football summer heats up, the landscape of the 2025-2026 season is taking shape. Programs are solidifying their rosters after spring practices and the transfer portal shuffle, leading us to an intriguing lineup of the top 25 teams poised to make an impact. This list considers everything from talent and coaching continuity to how well teams are meshing their new additions. Let’s delve into this exciting early preview of the upcoming season, starting with #25 and building our way to the top.
25. Louisville Cardinals
The Cardinals are aiming to improve on a respectable 8-4 record, with quarterback Miller Moss transferring in to spearhead the offense. A revamped secondary featuring three incoming transfers—Rodney Johnson and Justin Agu at cornerback, alongside JoJo Evans at safety—could set the tone for how Louisville performs against early challenges from teams like Pittsburgh, Virginia, and Miami. Their resilience will be key in navigating these opening tests.
24. TCU Horned Frogs
Under Sonny Dykes’ guidance, TCU is looking to accelerate its ascent in college football, hinging much on the performance of redshirt junior quarterback Josh Hoover. With fresh talent in the receiver corps, including Jordan Dwyer and Joseph Manjack IV, TCU’s early-season clashes against North Carolina, SMU, and Arizona State will be vital in determining their potential for a breakout season.
23. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Texas Tech is a dark horse to watch in the Big 12, with burgeoning confidence after their Big 12 Title prediction. Coach Joey McGuire’s squad is navigating the integration of around ten transfers on both sides of the ball. Key early matchups against Utah and Houston will test how swiftly this revamped roster can find cohesion, while quarterback Behren Morton will need to step up consistently to secure close victories.
22. Syracuse Orange
Syracuse kicks off the season with the pressing challenge of finding a successor to Kyle McCord. Whether it’s Rickie Collins or Jakhari Williams stepping into the starting role, they’ll need to hit the ground running, especially with a critical opener against Tennessee. The ability of the new signal-caller to gel with the existing talent will be crucial for the Orange’s early success.
21. SMU Mustangs
With head coach Rhett Lashlee at the helm, SMU returns with intentions to replicate their playoff aspirations. The offensive line is seeing some new faces, notably Joshua Bates at center and Addison Nichols at right guard, which may heighten the stakes for quarterback Kevin Jennings. Their opener against the Red Raiders will be pivotal in assessing SMU’s readiness for another significant season ahead.
20. Baylor Bears
Dave Aranda’s Baylor Bears have something to prove in the Big 12. Much hinges on the performance of quarterback Sawyer Robertson, especially considering crucial early bouts against Auburn and SMU. Their trajectory could be significantly affected by how well they handle these challenges right out of the gate.
19. Texas A&M Aggies
The Aggies enter the season with Marcel Reed firmly at the quarterback position, and it will be intriguing to see how coach Mike Elko leverages Reed’s skills in an increasingly competitive SEC. A showdown against Notre Dame will offer insight into whether A&M is gearing up for a season of potential contention or if they’ll find themselves on shaky ground early in the campaign.
18. Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are wagering their season on Carson Beck as he inherits the daunting expectations left by Cam Ward. With top talents like offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa and edge rusher Reuben Bain Jr., Miami boasts significant skill. Their encounters against Notre Dame and Florida will serve as litmus tests for the team’s aspirations this season.
17. Ole Miss Rebels
For Lane Kiffin, reshaping the Ole Miss offense is the top priority. New quarterback Austin Simmons, along with a cadre of transfer receivers, will need time to sync up. Their performance leading up to a pivotal matchup with LSU will prove to be a critical moment in understanding the Rebels’ potential this season.
16. Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee is turning to Joey Aguilar, a UCLA transfer, to lead a high-octane offense after the departure of Nico Iamaleava. As the Vols gear up for early encounters against Syracuse and Georgia, this season will gauge heupel’s ability to keep pace in a conference known for its power football.
15. Iowa State Cyclones
Don’t underestimate Iowa State, as they have the potential to either make a major leap or tumble out of the rankings entirely. Quarterback Rocco Becht’s performance, especially with new offensive weapons, will be vital. Their late-season clash with Arizona State will likely determine if they can hold their ground in a competitive Big 12.
14. Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama is back with something to prove. With Ty Simpson lined up as the starting quarterback, head coach Kalen Daboer has high expectations. The squad features standout talent, including left tackle Kadyn Proctor, positioning them to contend in every game. Key matchups against Florida State, Wisconsin, and Georgia could pave the way for Alabama’s season narrative.
13. Oklahoma Sooners
After a slightly tumultuous last season, the Sooners are looking to rebound with Brent Venables leading the charge. The addition of quarterback John Mateer and running back Jaydn Ott creates an exciting storyline. An early season facing Michigan will be critical to determine whether Oklahoma can shake off last year’s rust.
12. South Carolina Gamecocks
The Gamecocks are armed with potential number one overall pick LaNorris Sellers at quarterback and explosive wide receiver Nyck Harbor. With several transfers poised to influence the defensive front, South Carolina must gel early to avoid shootouts in the SEC. Key showdowns against LSU and Oklahoma in mid-October could be dramatic turning points in their season.
11. LSU Tigers
With Garrett Nussmeier slated to lead LSU’s offense, how effectively he uplifts the supporting cast will be essential. Stiff competition in their opening game against Clemson will provide insight into their readiness. A later contest with Florida will act as another benchmark for Coach Brian Kelly and his ambitions this season.
10. Illinois Fighting Illini
Under Bret Bielema, Illinois boasts a formidable roster, propelled by Heisman dark horse Luke Altmeyer. A significant addition in receiver Hudson Clement from West Virginia enhances their offense. As they face early tests against Indiana and Ohio State, Illinois will aim to solidify their status among the elite.
9. Clemson Tigers
A top-tier defense is in the mix for Clemson this year, featuring NFL prospects like T.J. Parker and Peter Woods. The pivotal factor rests on quarterback Cade Klubnik’s consistency. Season-opening matchups versus LSU and a later duel with North Carolina will establish the foundation for Clemson’s aspirations.
8. Indiana Hoosiers
After an encouraging debut season under Curt Cignetti, Indiana is set on advancing even further. The synergy between quarterback Fernando Mendoza and receiver Elijah Sarratt will be pivotal. A matchup against Oregon midseason will be crucial for determining whether Indiana can remain competitive in the Big Ten.
7. Georgia Bulldogs
With Gunner Stockton stepping in as Georgia’s quarterback, the Bulldogs’ chances heavily rest on his development. Defensively, Kirby Smart’s team remains impressive, with considerable talent throughout. Key matchups against Tennessee and Alabama will be revealing about whether Georgia can reclaim their position atop the hierarchy.
6. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State is a team that could shake things up in the rankings if everything aligns in their favor. The offense will look to Drew Allar amidst a receiving corps filled with transfers. A showdown against Oregon and a later clash with Ohio State could serve as significant milestones in their quest for glory.
5. Arizona State Sun Devils
Some critics may raise eyebrows at Arizona State’s ranking, but with explosive talents like receiver Jordyn Tyson and quarterback Sam Leavitt, they possess considerable firepower. As they navigate a challenging four-week stretch, including matches against Baylor, TCU, Utah, and Texas Tech, the season will define their journey toward a title.
4. Ohio State Buckeyes
Ryan Day is counting on redshirt freshman Julian Sayin to guide the Buckeyes after the departure of Will Howard. Surrounded by elite receivers such as Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith, Sayin has the tools for success. Early tests against Texas and a late-season tilt with Penn State will make for thrilling narratives in the Big Ten race.
3. Oregon Ducks
Oregon finds itself in the top tier, though they too are looking to navigate a quarterback change with Dante Moore now in the NFL. The offensive line, highlighted by the enormous Isaiah World, will play a crucial role in protecting their new quarterback. Tap into early matchups against Penn State and Indiana to assess their readiness for a title chase.
2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
As another program dealing with a quarterback switch, Notre Dame welcomes CJ Carr, following Riley Leonard’s exit. The Irish will look to lean on running back Jeremiyah Love as a cornerstone. Critical early tests against Miami and Texas A&M will put Carr through the challenging rigors of college football and can shape their season narrative.
1. Texas Longhorns
Finally, the Texas Longhorns are eyeing a meteoric rise, with Arch Manning ready to lead a star-studded cast. This team is not just filled with talent; they possess defensive heavyweights like Anthony Hill Jr. and Colin Simmons. An early clash against Ohio State will be a significant indicator of their championship ambitions.
Final Thoughts
As anticipation builds for the 2025 college football season kicking off August 23rd, these top 25 rankings lay a foundation for fans to measure their teams’ trajectories. While the final landscape may shift dramatically by season’s end, this preview gives a snapshot of which teams could be lingering in playoff conversations or fighting to stay relevant. With powerhouse programs and surprising contenders, this season promises plenty of drama and excitement.
