Image Source: AP News
The AP poll delivered a dramatic shakeup entering Week 7 of the 2026 college football season after three highly ranked SEC teams suffered losses on October 10. Georgia moved into the No. 1 position, while Texas, Alabama and LSU all saw their rankings affected by a chaotic weekend.
According to the latest rankings, Georgia received 66 of 70 possible first-place votes. Notre Dame collected one first-place vote, while Miami received two. The Bulldogs’ rise follows Texas’ defeat to unranked Oklahoma, which ended the Longhorns’ stay at the top of the national rankings.
Explosive AP Poll Shakeup Puts Georgia at No. 1
Georgia now leads a crowded group of national championship contenders. Notre Dame moved into second place, followed by Miami at No. 3. Ohio State and Indiana complete the top five, giving the latest poll a notable blend of traditional power and emerging Big Ten strength.
Texas suffered one of the largest declines near the top of the rankings. The Longhorns dropped from No. 1 to No. 7 after Oklahoma pulled off a major upset in the Red River rivalry. Quarterback Arch Manning and Texas were unable to overcome the Sooners’ defensive pressure during the second half.
Alabama also remained highly ranked despite its loss, holding the No. 6 position. The Crimson Tide now sits directly ahead of Texas, adding extra importance to the upcoming SEC schedule.
Full 2026 College Football Top 25 Rankings
- 1. Georgia — 66 first-place votes
- 2. Notre Dame — 1 first-place vote
- 3. Miami — 2 first-place votes
- 4. Ohio State
- 5. Indiana
- 6. Alabama
- 7. Texas
- 8. BYU
- 9. Ole Miss
- 10. Texas Tech
- 11. Utah
- 12. UCLA
- 13. Missouri
- 14. Tennessee
- 15. Kentucky
- 16. Mississippi State
- 17. Iowa
- 18. Oklahoma State
- 19. USC
- 20. Houston
- 21. Wake Forest
- 22. LSU
- 23. Boise State
- 24. SMU
- 25. Northwestern
Kentucky Makes the Biggest Move After LSU Upset
Kentucky was the biggest winner in this week’s rankings. The Wildcats climbed to No. 15 after upsetting LSU, which fell 12 spots to No. 22. The result gives Kentucky a significant boost in the SEC race while creating more pressure for LSU during the second half of the season.
Several teams also moved out of the top 25. Wisconsin, Oregon, Arizona, Nebraska and Oklahoma received votes but did not appear in the official rankings. Florida, Duke, New Mexico and Oregon State also collected support from AP voters.
Oregon’s absence is particularly notable after the Ducks entered the season with strong expectations. Meanwhile, Oklahoma’s victory over Texas was enough to earn the Sooners 44 votes, although they remained outside the ranked field.
What the Rankings Mean for the Playoff Race
The AP poll is not used directly by the College Football Playoff selection committee, but it remains one of the most influential indicators of national perception. Strong positioning can shape the playoff conversation, affect future matchups and increase pressure on teams competing for conference titles.
Georgia’s move to No. 1 gives the Bulldogs control of the spotlight, but the margin at the top could change quickly. Notre Dame and Miami are close behind, while Ohio State and Indiana remain unbeaten-looking threats in the upper tier of the rankings. Texas, Alabama and LSU now face urgent opportunities to recover.
The Associated Press has conducted its college football poll since 1936, making it the longest-running ranking system of its kind. With conference play intensifying, the next edition could bring another major change at the top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is No. 1 in the latest AP poll?
Georgia is the No. 1 team entering Week 7 of the 2026 college football season, receiving 66 of 70 first-place votes.
How far did Texas fall in the AP poll?
Texas dropped from No. 1 to No. 7 after losing to unranked Oklahoma in the Red River rivalry.
Which team made the biggest jump?
Kentucky made the biggest move, rising to No. 15 after defeating LSU.
How far did LSU fall?
LSU dropped 12 spots to No. 22 following its loss to Kentucky.
Does the AP poll determine the College Football Playoff?
No. The AP poll influences public opinion but is not part of the official College Football Playoff selection committee’s formula.
