Image Source: CBS Sports
The AP Poll Top 25 rankings have undergone significant changes following a busy rivalry week in college football. The most notable shift came from the Texas A&M Aggies, who dropped from their previous top-three position to No. 7 after suffering a 27-17 defeat to their long-standing rivals, the Texas Longhorns. This loss was a pivotal moment for Texas A&M, as it marked their first loss of the season, dropping their record to 11-1 overall.
Before this setback, Texas A&M had maintained a perfect record, largely against some of the SEC’s lesser teams. However, the Aggies’ inability to secure a win against a ranked conference opponent has cost them dearly, not only in the rankings but also in conference implications. With this defeat, Texas A&M will not compete in the SEC Championship Game, which will instead feature No. 3 Georgia and No. 10 Alabama.
On the other hand, Ohio State has solidified its place at the top of the rankings, retaining the No. 1 position for multiple weeks. Following a decisive victory over Michigan, the Buckeyes are gearing up for an exhilarating matchup against No. 2 Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game. Ohio State’s strong performances throughout the season, particularly their early-season win against a previously top-ranked Texas team, have kept them firmly in pole position in the AP Top 25.
Key Insights from the Latest AP Poll Top 25
While Ohio State holds the top spot, the rankings reveal increasing competition among several teams:
- Georgia moves up to No. 3 after Texas A&M’s loss, showcasing their consistency in the SEC.
- Oregon ranks fourth, maintaining a strong presence in the conversation for potential playoff spots.
- Texas Tech and Ole Miss round out the top six, both making impressive cases for their rankings as playoffs near.
As the regular season winds down, the pressure intensifies for teams vying for a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff. The Group of Five race remains tight, with James Madison at No. 19, closely followed by North Texas and Tulane, showing that competition isn’t just limited to the Power Five conferences.
AP Poll Top 25 Rankings – Week 15 Summary
Here’s how the rankings look following the latest results:
- 1. Ohio State (61 votes)
- 2. Indiana (5 votes)
- 3. Georgia
- 4. Oregon
- 5. Texas Tech
- 6. Ole Miss
- 7. Texas A&M
- 8. Oklahoma
- 9. Notre Dame
- 10. Alabama
- 11. BYU
- 12. Miami
- 13. Vanderbilt
- 14. Texas
- 15. Utah
- 16. Virginia
- 17. USC
- 18. Michigan
- 19. James Madison
- 20. North Texas
- 21. Tulane
- 22. Arizona
- 23. Navy
- 24. Georgia Tech
- 25. Missouri
The Road Ahead
With the College Football Playoff looming, every game is crucial. Teams like Texas A&M will need to regroup quickly, while Ohio State aims to maintain its dominance and secure the top seed for the playoffs. The competition is fierce, and as teams cross into championship territories, fans can expect exhilarating action leading up to the playoff selections.
FAQs about AP Poll Top 25 Rankings
What criteria does the AP Poll use to rank teams?
The AP Poll rankings are determined by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters who vote based on a team’s performance, schedule, and overall strength throughout the season.
Why did Texas A&M drop in the rankings?
Texas A&M dropped in the rankings due to their loss against Texas, which was their first defeat of the season, significantly impacting their playoff aspirations.
How often are the AP Poll rankings updated?
The AP Poll rankings are updated weekly during the college football season, reflecting the latest results and performance of the teams.
Which teams are favorites to make the College Football Playoff?
As of now, teams like Ohio State, Georgia, and Indiana are top contenders for the College Football Playoff based on their strong overall performance and rankings.
What is the significance of the AP Poll in college football?
The AP Poll is highly regarded in college football, influencing public perception and playoff selections, although the College Football Playoff Committee releases its own rankings as well.
