Countdown to the 2025 College Football Season
The eagerly anticipated 2025 college football season is just weeks away, prompting CBS Sports to release its latest Preseason Top 25 rankings. Establishing these rankings is no easy feat, especially in today’s era of player transfers, which can unexpectedly alter team dynamics.
Texas Longhorns Lead the Pack
After a semifinal exit in the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive year, the Texas Longhorns have secured the top spot in CBS Sports’ rankings. With high hopes of clinching their first national championship, Texas will be spearheaded by quarterback Arch Manning, whose talent has generated significant buzz.
Penn State’s Promising Outlook
Ranked second, the Penn State Nittany Lions are coming off their inaugural trip to the College Football Playoff in 2024, where they too fell in the semifinals. With several key players returning, including a senior-laden backfield, expectations are high for the Nittany Lions as they seek to improve their postseason performance.
Ohio State Eyes Another Playoff Run
The Ohio State Buckeyes, fresh off a national championship season, are preparing to maintain their momentum under head coach Ryan Day. With several transfers and NFL departures, the team will need to address roster uncertainties, particularly at quarterback, to remain competitive in the upcoming season.
Clemson’s Title Aspirations
Ranked as the top team from the ACC, the Clemson Tigers are determined to reclaim their place in the national championship conversation after competing in the College Football Playoff last year. With a veteran squad led by quarterback Cade Klubnik, Clemson is poised to make a significant impact.
Georgia Bulldogs in Transition
Having secured back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, the Georgia Bulldogs are facing challenges as they look to return to championship form. With quarterback Carson Beck’s departure, new starter Gunner Stockton needs to find his footing quickly, supported by a wealth of talent on the roster.
Notre Dame’s Strong Position
After a notable run in the College Football Playoff, ending in a national championship loss to Ohio State, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are ready to build on their success under head coach Marcus Freeman. The quarterback position remains uncertain, but the Irish are confident in their widespread talent.
Oregon Ducks Aim for Redemption
The Oregon Ducks experienced a stellar season in 2024, finishing undefeated in the Big Ten before a brief playoff run. With quarterback Dante Moore stepping in, the Ducks seek to capitalize on last year’s success and advance further in the postseason.
Alabama’s Comeback Season
The Alabama Crimson Tide endured a disappointing 2024, ending their string of double-digit wins for the first time since 2007. With a roster full of talent and a quarterback battle unfolding, Alabama hopes to bounce back and deliver a strong season.
LSU Tigers Under Pressure
The LSU Tigers face mounting pressure under head coach Brian Kelly to qualify for the College Football Playoff, having missed it in recent years. With a roster boasting future NFL prospects like quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, expectations remain high in Baton Rouge.
Miami Hurricanes’ New Direction
After narrowly missing a playoff spot last season, the Miami Hurricanes aim to elevate their performance with a new quarterback. The acquisition of former Georgia quarterback Carson Beck through the Transfer Portal is seen as pivotal in shaping their upcoming season.
Complete CBS Sports Preseason Top 25 Rankings
- 1. Texas Longhorns
- 2. Penn State Nittany Lions
- 3. Ohio State Buckeyes
- 4. Clemson Tigers
- 5. Georgia Bulldogs
- 6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
- 7. Oregon Ducks
- 8. Alabama Crimson Tide
- 9. LSU Tigers
- 10. Miami Hurricanes
- 11. Arizona State Sun Devils
- 12. Florida Gators
- 13. Illinois Fighting Illini
- 14. Kansas State Wildcats
- 15. Michigan Wolverines
- 16. South Carolina Gamecocks
- 17. SMU Mustangs
- 18. Texas A&M Aggies
- 19. Iowa State Cyclones
- 20. Tennessee Volunteers
- 21. Texas Tech Red Raiders
- 22. Ole Miss Rebels
- 23. Indiana Hoosiers
- 24. Oklahoma Sooners
- 25. Utah Utes
