Image Source: CBS Sports
New CFB rankings are expected to feature major movement after a chaotic Week 9, highlighted by USC’s upset victory over Ohio State in Los Angeles. The Trojans, previously unranked, are projected to return to the AP Top 25, while the Buckeyes could tumble from No. 2 to No. 11.
Although the official AP Poll will be released Sunday, CBS Sports projected how voters may respond to a weekend filled with surprising results. Miami is expected to hold the No. 1 position, while Georgia, Notre Dame, Utah and UCLA all move closer to the top of the rankings.
Shocking New CFB Rankings Shake Up the Top 10
Miami remains the projected No. 1 team after surviving a 38-35 challenge. Malachi Toney delivered another standout performance for the Hurricanes, catching seven passes for 75 yards and two touchdowns. His production helped Miami remain unbeaten despite facing pressure in the second half.
Georgia is projected to rise from No. 3 to No. 2 after defeating Florida in the Cocktail Party rivalry. The Bulldogs capitalized on early mistakes and leaned on another strong defensive performance to secure their sixth consecutive win in the series.
Notre Dame is expected to climb from No. 5 to No. 3 following a 35-13 victory over Navy. The Fighting Irish were not dominant immediately, but their decisive finish should keep them firmly among the nation’s leading contenders ahead of next week’s showdown with Miami.
- No. 1: Miami
- No. 2: Georgia
- No. 3: Notre Dame
- No. 4: Utah
- No. 5: UCLA
- No. 6: Indiana
- No. 7: BYU
Ohio State Plunges After USC Delivers Explosive Upset
The biggest story in the projected new CFB rankings is Ohio State’s expected slide. The Buckeyes entered the weekend ranked No. 2 but lost to USC, which had fallen out of the poll after a 17-7 defeat against Wisconsin.
USC answered its recent offensive concerns immediately, racing to an early lead before holding on in rainy conditions. The win marked Lincoln Riley’s first victory over a top-five opponent as USC’s head coach and placed the Trojans back in the Big Ten title conversation.
Ohio State’s ranking decline is expected to be significant for two reasons. The loss gives the Buckeyes two defeats, and the game was their first full contest without injured quarterback Julian Sayin. Their offensive output without Sayin may influence voters as they compare Ohio State with other playoff hopefuls.
USC is projected to enter at No. 17. The ranking could also help the Trojans when the College Football Playoff Selection Committee releases its first rankings Tuesday.
Powerful Newcomers Crowd the AP Top 25
Several teams are expected to benefit from the open spots created by losses from SMU, Northwestern, Arizona, Oklahoma State and Wisconsin.
- Iowa: The Hawkeyes are projected to enter after dismantling Wisconsin.
- South Carolina: The Gamecocks surged after beating Oklahoma 42-25 in Norman.
- New Mexico: The 7-1 Lobos are gaining support from voters.
- Oregon: The Ducks could return after defeating Northwestern.
Missouri is also projected to rise from No. 23 to No. 20 after a 34-10 rivalry win over Arkansas. Boise State could move to No. 19 despite injury concerns surrounding quarterback Maddux Madsen, who was seen on crutches after the Broncos’ narrow win over Texas State.
Florida, meanwhile, is in danger of dropping out despite holding victories over Ole Miss and Texas. The Gators have lost three of their last four games and struggled offensively in their defeat against Georgia.
What the New CFB Rankings Mean for the Playoff Race
The projected new CFB rankings underline how quickly the national title picture can change. Ohio State now faces little margin for error, while USC has revived its season with one of the most important wins of Week 9.
Utah and UCLA remain unbeaten, BYU continues to build momentum, and Georgia has strengthened its position near the top. With conference races tightening and the first CFP rankings approaching, every remaining game will carry added weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the official AP Poll be released?
The official AP Top 25 is expected to be released Sunday after the Week 9 results are reviewed by voters.
Why is Ohio State falling in the rankings?
Ohio State lost to previously unranked USC and is now a two-loss team. Concerns about the offense without Julian Sayin may also affect the Buckeyes’ position.
Why is USC returning to the rankings?
USC defeated No. 2 Ohio State in Los Angeles, giving the Trojans a signature win and renewed momentum in the Big Ten race.
Who is projected to be No. 1?
Miami is projected to remain No. 1 after a 38-35 win and another impressive performance from Malachi Toney.
