Deep Dive: Evaluating the Way Too Early Top 25

Paul Wadlington and Ian Boyd go through the current top 25 to discover who is a big threat to the Texas Longhorns in 2025.
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Spring Practices & Player Evaluations: Spring practices and portal activity will significantly impact rosters, determining the trajectory for many teams. Ohio State, Texas, and others are in transition phases with roster questions.
Ohio State’s Uncertainty: Despite being ranked number one, Ohio State’s roster is tenuous with significant losses in defense and staff changes. Their success hinges on spring practices and portal acquisitions.
Clemson’s Resurgence: Clemson has returned to their winning formula with blue-chip receivers and a strong quarterback. Their defense has been stabilized under Tom Allen, and their schedule favors a strong season.
Notre Dame’s Ascendancy: Legalized NIL payments and alumni support have transformed Notre Dame into a serious contender. Their schedule is manageable, making them a likely top-tier team.
Texas’ Autofill into the Top 5: Texas’ NFL-level draft classes and Steve Sarkeesian’s influence keep them near the top. However, sustaining success depends on roster development.
Alabama’s Rebuild with DeBoer: With key defensive pieces returning and offensive potential, Alabama is primed to exceed its current #12 ranking, potentially regaining dominance.
Top 10
- 1New
Tre Holloman
Michigan State standout to transfer
- 2
Hailey Van Lith
Calls out media
- 3
Mel Kiper
Shakes up player rankings
- 4Hot
Olivia Miles to transfer
ND star forgoes WNBA draft
- 5Trending
Fran Brown
Syracuse HC blasts NCAA
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Florida’s Rise with DJ Lagway: Lagway’s impressive deep-ball capability, paired with enhanced recruiting, makes Florida a team to watch despite a challenging schedule.
Miami’s Untapped Potential: A top-10 roster with #23 ranking hints at underperformance, largely due to quarterback uncertainty. However, with Carson Beck stepping in, expectations could shift.
Big 12 Developmental Cycles Misunderstood: BYU, Kansas State, and other Big 12 teams face cyclical challenges, often peaking and declining based on development stages. National media often misread these cycles.
NFL Dynamics Enter College Football: OU’s administrative struggles showcase the growing influence of GMs and administrators over coaches, reflecting an NFL-style management system.
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