Sporting News is back with its first Way-Too-Early Top 25 for the 2024-25 college football season, and the excitement is palpable! Last year’s rankings stirred quite the conversation, especially with Florida State landing at No. 7 and our bold prediction of them winning the ACC. While we acknowledge that not every prediction hits the mark, the landscape of college football is ever-evolving, thanks to the transfer portal, NIL deals, and the introduction of a 12-team College Football Playoff. So, what does this year’s lineup look like? Let’s dive in!
2025 College Football Way Too Early Top 25
1. Texas (13-3 in 2024)
Let the Arch Manning era commence! With a wave of preseason hype, Manning is set to team up with sophomore receiver Ryan Wingo. The Longhorns will face challenges, particularly in rebuilding their interior lines, but Coach Steve Sarkisian has depth from strong recruiting classes. The road ahead is daunting, with trips to Ohio State on August 30 and Georgia on November 15. Can Manning lead Texas to victory against teams they struggled against last season?
2. Ohio State (13-2 in 2024)
The Buckeyes are primed for another strong season, despite a bitter loss to Michigan last year. With five-star quarterback Julian Sayin potentially stepping in, Ohio State looks to build on a solid foundation. Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate will bolster the receiving corps, while West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson adds depth to the running game. A rebuilt defense, led by Caleb Downs, could be the key to finally overcoming that Michigan hurdle.
3. Georgia (11-3 in 2024)
Can the Bulldogs bounce back after losing quarterback Carson Beck? With Gunner Stockton now at the helm, Georgia has bolstered its roster through the transfer portal, adding talents like Noah Thomas from Texas A&M. The defensive anchor, linebacker CJ Allen, will be essential as they tackle a challenging schedule. With key games against Tennessee and Alabama early on, can Georgia navigate these hurdles to repeat as SEC champions?
4. Penn State (13-3 in 2024)
The Nittany Lions are ready to make a statement! After reaching the CFP semifinals, Coach James Franklin returns a wealth of talent, including quarterback Drew Allar and standout rushers Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. While they need to address the receiver position, the defense, led by Dani Dennis-Sutton, is set to be among the best. With crucial matchups against Oregon and Ohio State, can Penn State finally claim a national title for the Big Ten?
5. Oregon (13-1 in 2024)
Despite a disappointing finish at the Rose Bowl, the Ducks are reloaded and ready for action. Dante Moore will take the reins at quarterback, supported by Tulane transfer Makhi Hughes, who rushed for over 1,400 yards last season. With returning stars like Evan Stewart and Ipani Laloulu, Oregon aims for another run at the Big Ten championship. Road games against Penn State and Iowa will test their mettle, but the absence of Ohio State and Michigan on the schedule could be a blessing.
6. Notre Dame (14-1 in 2024)
Under Marcus Freeman, the Fighting Irish are looking to establish themselves as playoff regulars. With a quarterback battle brewing between Steve Angeli and four-star recruit CJ Carr, the competition is fierce. The running back room is stacked with talent, and a young defense that saw significant playing time last season is ready to shine. Early tests against Miami and Texas A&M will set the tone for their season.
7. Clemson (10-4 in 2024)
Dabo Swinney is shaking things up at Clemson, bringing in key transfers like Alabama linebacker Jeremiah Alexander. With quarterback Cade Klubnik returning and a solid receiving corps, the Tigers are poised to reclaim their spot at the top of the ACC. The addition of Tom Allen as defensive coordinator could be the spark they need to get back into playoff contention.
8. Alabama (9-4 in 2024)
After a rocky first season, Coach Kalen DeBoer is under pressure to get Alabama back into the playoff conversation. With significant roster turnover, including 24 players transferring out, the Crimson Tide will rely on newcomers like Miami receiver Isaiah Horton. The schedule is tough, with non-conference games against Florida State and Wisconsin, but can Alabama rise to the challenge?
9. LSU (9-4 in 2024)
This is a pivotal year for Coach Brian Kelly. With quarterback Garrett Nussmeier returning and a solid defense anchored by leading tackler Whit Weeks, the Tigers are looking to improve on last season. Early tests against Clemson and Florida will be crucial. Can LSU prove they belong among the elite?
10. Miami (10-3 in 2024)
How will the Hurricanes build on their successful season? With Carson Beck transferring in from Georgia, Miami’s offense looks promising. The running back duo of Mark Fletcher Jr. and Jordan Lyle combined for over 1,000 yards last season, and the defense will need to step up to improve on last year’s performance. Non-conference games against Notre Dame and Florida will be key to their success.
As we look ahead to the 2024-25 college football season, the excitement is building. Each team has its strengths and challenges, and with the transfer portal shaking things up, anything can happen. Will Texas finally reclaim its glory? Can Georgia maintain its dominance? The answers will unfold as the season progresses, and fans are in for a thrilling ride!
