Every college football season brings a few surprise stories—programs that weren’t supposed to contend but end up changing the national picture.
In 2024, it was Indiana. In 2025, a new group of underdogs could rise.
These five teams aren’t favorites in their conference, and they may not appear in every preseason top 25.
Still, they’ve got the talent, quarterback play, and upside to shake things up when the games begin.
South Carolina Gamecocks
The Gamecocks have one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the country in LaNorris Sellers—a physically gifted passer with real upside.
He’s surrounded by young talent, including five-star edge Dylan Stewart, and a roster that’s more balanced than it looks on paper.
South Carolina hasn’t always turned promise into wins, but if things click, they could surprise a lot of people in the SEC.
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska has been rebuilding for years, but with former five-star quarterback Dylan Raiola still running the offense, there’s energy in Lincoln.
The Huskers snapped a seven-year bowl drought last season, and while they’re still filling gaps across the roster, the overall talent level has taken a clear step forward.
If Raiola settles in quickly, Nebraska could be the team nobody sees coming in the Big Ten.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Quietly, Texas Tech might be one of the most complete teams in the new-look Big 12.
Behren Morton is back at quarterback, the offensive line returns three starters, and the Red Raiders added major pieces in the portal—especially on defense.
New defensive coordinator Shiel Wood brings toughness, and the schedule sets up well.
Tech could go from under the radar to Big 12 champion if the pieces come together.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Brent Key has done a better job than he gets credit for.
Georgia Tech has a legit quarterback room in Haynes King and Aaron Philo, and the program has steadily improved in every area.
The Yellow Jackets tied for fourth in the ACC last year, and with more depth and experience returning, they’re well positioned to take another step forward in 2025.
Florida Gators
All eyes are on DJ Lagway. The five-star sophomore has game-breaking talent and will be surrounded by young weapons like Vernell Brown III and Dallas Wilson.
Florida ’s roster still needs time, but Lagway’s ceiling is sky-high.
If he hits the ground running, the Gators could win double-digit games and put Billy Napier right back in the spotlight. This time for the right reasons.
