The latest AP Poll rankings have shaken up the college football landscape, with Georgia climbing to No. 2 behind Oregon, the unanimous No. 1. Released Sunday, the AP Top 25 followed a dramatic weekend of conference championship games that set the stage for the College Football Playoff (CFP).
Oregon Dominates the AP Poll
Unbeaten Oregon continues to hold the top spot in the AP College Football Rankings, securing their position for the eighth consecutive week and earning a unanimous selection for the sixth straight time. The Ducks clinched their No. 1 ranking with a decisive win over Penn State in the Big Ten title game. As the top-ranked team in the AP Poll Football, Oregon heads into the College Football Playoff with confidence and momentum.
Georgia’s Rise After SEC Championship Victory
Georgia surged to No. 2 in the AP Top 25 Football after a thrilling overtime win over Texas in the SEC championship game. The Bulldogs’ victory not only locked them into the CFP but also secured a first-round bye alongside Oregon. Georgia’s ascent in the AP Football Rankings solidifies their position as a top contender for the national title.
Notre Dame Hits No. 3
Idle during championship weekend, Notre Dame moved up to No. 3 in the AP Poll College Football. This marks the Fighting Irish’s highest ranking since 2020 and positions them well for an at-large playoff berth. Their consistent performance throughout the season has kept them near the top of the CFB AP Poll.
Texas and Penn State Slip but Stay in the Top Five
Despite conference championship losses, both Texas and Penn State remained in the top five. Each team fell two spots but is still in contention for at-large CFP bids. Texas, previously ranked No. 2 in the AP College Football Rankings, now stands at No. 4, followed closely by Penn State at No. 5.
Arizona State Breaks Into the Top 10
Arizona State delivered one of the most significant moments of the weekend, defeating Iowa State in the Big 12 title game. The Sun Devils, now ranked No. 10 in the New AP Poll, achieved their first top-10 ranking in nearly a decade. This accomplishment caps off their first 11-win season since 1996 and solidifies their place among the season’s top teams.
Rounding Out the Top 10
The rest of the top 10 includes Ohio State, Tennessee, Boise State, Indiana, and Arizona State. Each of these teams has earned a spot in the CFP, ensuring an exciting and competitive playoff season. The updated College Football AP Poll reflects the strength and depth of these programs across various college football conferences.
Alabama and SMU Outside the Top 10
Alabama and SMU narrowly missed the top 10, ranking No. 11 and No. 12, respectively, in the AP Poll Rankings. Alabama’s position keeps their hopes alive for the final at-large playoff spot, while SMU dropped three places after a narrow loss to Clemson in the ACC title game. Clemson, now ranked No. 13, secured the ACC’s automatic playoff bid.
Conference Championship Highlights
The weekend was packed with high-stakes matchups, reshaping the NCAAF Rankings and highlighting the competitive nature of college football conferences. Key results, such as Georgia’s overtime win and Arizona State’s historic victory, have created a dynamic playoff picture that fans are eager to see unfold.
Looking Ahead
As the College Football Playoff looms, the updated AP Poll Top 25 provides a glimpse of what’s to come. Teams like Oregon and Georgia lead the pack, while others like Arizona State bring excitement as rising contenders. The rankings underscore the drama and unpredictability that define ESPN College Football and keep fans glued to the action.
Stay tuned for the latest college football rankings, football scores, and updates on the road to the national championship. The AP Poll Football rankings set the stage for an unforgettable playoff season.
Georgia jumps to No. 2 behind No. 1 Oregon in AP Top 25 – ESPN
