Shocking College Football Top 25: Texas Takes No. 1

Image Source: CBS Sports

College football top 25 projections are set for a dramatic shake-up after a wild Week 2 produced major upsets and a thrilling comeback. Texas is projected to move into the No. 1 position after rallying past No. 1 Ohio State, while Oregon and Oklahoma suffered damaging defeats.

According to CBS Sports projections, the Longhorns’ victory could be enough to convince voters that Steve Sarkisian’s team deserves the top spot. Texas scored 21 fourth-quarter points to overcome Ohio State in a dramatic finish, giving Arch Manning and the program a signature early-season win.

Texas Surges to the Top of the College Football Top 25

Texas entered Week 2 ranked No. 4, but its comeback against the defending top-ranked Buckeyes changed the national picture. The victory also carried extra significance because Ohio State had previously defeated Texas in the College Football Playoff semifinals and won again in Columbus last season.

Georgia is projected to remain No. 2 after another dominant showing. The Bulldogs defeated Western Kentucky 70-23, following a 63-point performance in the season opener. Georgia’s combined 133-23 scoring margin gives it one of the strongest statistical profiles in the country, although voters may wait for a major conference test before moving the Bulldogs to No. 1.

Notre Dame is projected to hold No. 3 after overwhelming Rice. The Fighting Irish scored six touchdowns on their first seven drives, continuing an impressive start that could fuel a growing argument for Marcus Freeman’s team at the top of the rankings.

Major Movers After a Chaotic Week 2

Indiana is projected to rise to No. 4 after scoring touchdowns on five of six first-half possessions in a 55-point victory. Miami also moves upward to No. 5 after producing one of the most explosive offensive performances in school history.

The Hurricanes recorded 42 first downs, an ACC record, and gained 856 total yards, a school record. Quarterback Darian Mensah strengthened his Heisman Trophy credentials by completing 14 of 15 passes for 252 yards and three touchdowns.

Ohio State is projected to fall from No. 1 to No. 7. The Buckeyes are expected to avoid a dramatic collapse because their only loss came against a highly ranked Texas team in a top-five matchup. Ole Miss, Texas A&M and Alabama round out the projected top 10.

• 1. Texas
• 2. Georgia
• 3. Notre Dame
• 4. Indiana
• 5. Miami
• 6. LSU
• 7. Ohio State
• 8. Ole Miss
• 9. Texas A&M
• 10. Alabama
• 11. USC
• 12. Texas Tech
• 13. BYU
• 14. Penn State
• 15. SMU
• 16. Tennessee
• 17. Michigan
• 18. Utah
• 19. Missouri
• 20. Iowa
• 21. Oregon
• 22. Houston
• 23. Louisville
• 24. Virginia
• 25. Boise State

Oregon and Oklahoma Face a Ranking Crisis

Oregon is projected to tumble from No. 6 to No. 21 after losing at Oklahoma State. The Ducks entered the season as a popular national championship pick, with more than a dozen voters placing them first in preseason consideration. Their defeat leaves them at 1-1, with their only win coming against an unranked opponent.

Oklahoma is projected to fall out of the top 25 after Michigan secured a 17-10 victory. The Wolverines were removed from the rankings following a poor opening performance but responded with a statement win against the No. 11 Sooners. Michigan is projected to return at No. 17.

Boise State is another major beneficiary of the weekend. The Broncos defeated Memphis 38-20 and are projected to enter the rankings at No. 25. Missouri also climbs after beating Kansas 38-21, while BYU earns credit for holding off Arizona in a competitive Big 12 opener.

What the Rankings Mean for the Playoff Race

The projected college football top 25 highlights how quickly the College Football Playoff picture can change. Texas now has the strongest résumé-building win of the weekend, while Ohio State must recover quickly to protect its playoff position.

Oregon faces a tougher path. The Ducks remain one of the most talented teams in the country, but another poor result could push them completely out of the rankings. Meanwhile, Michigan’s victory gives the Wolverines renewed momentum and places Oklahoma under immediate pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is projected to be No. 1 in the college football top 25?

Texas is projected to take the No. 1 spot after its thrilling comeback win over Ohio State.

How far is Oregon expected to fall?

Oregon is projected to drop from No. 6 to No. 21 after losing to Oklahoma State.

Did Michigan return to the rankings?

Yes. Michigan is projected to re-enter the top 25 at No. 17 after defeating No. 11 Oklahoma 17-10.

Which teams are projected to leave the top 25?

Oklahoma and Washington are projected to drop out of the rankings following Week 2 results.