The 2025 college football season is set to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, and the Sporting News Preseason Top 25 reflects just how loaded the field has become. Taking a look at the revised 12-team College Football Playoff format, with conference realignment and superstar talent at key positions will all be key factors heading into the season. The excitement along with the release of College Football 26 has fans even more hyped and ready for the season to kick off.
Some huge programs enter the year with big expectations and targets on their backs.
1. Texas: Arch Era Begins in Austin
The Longhorns top the rankings for the first time in over a decade, and it all starts with Arch Manning, who is stepping into the spotlight as the full-time starter after the departure of Quinn Ewers to the NFL. With elite skill-position talent around him and a favorable early schedule, Texas has the tools and the talent to be able to run the table in the SEC.
2. Ohio State: National Champs Return Loaded
Jeremiah Smith headlines one of the deepest rosters in the country. After a national title run last year, Ryan Day's Buckeyes are back for more, with blue-chip quarterback Julian Sayin taking over the offense. The Big Ten is stacked, but the Buckeyes are up for the challenge.
3. Georgia: Business as Usual
Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs sit comfortably near the top, with another group of future NFL stars anchoring the defense. Georgia’s playoff hopes will hinge on navigating a brutal SEC gauntlet but if any team can do it, it’s this one.
Top 10 Rounding Out:
- Penn State
- Notre Dame
- Oregon
- Clemson
- Alabama
- LSU
- Illinois
The Fighting Illini could be the Big Ten’s biggest sleeper pick after earning respect in the post-spring schedule rankings.
Who's Just Outside?
Programs like Florida, Miami, and South Carolina are on the fringe, but need breakout quarterback play to reenter the top 10 conversation. As always a sleeper could come out of nowhere and get national attention like Arizona State.
Key Takeaway: Depth Rules the 2025 Season
With conference expansion, quarterback storylines, and blue-chip programs reloading, this season's title chase feels wide open. But for now, Texas leads the charge with the long awaited Arch Manning campaign set to begin.