College Football Playoff Rankings: Ohio State, Indiana Top Initial List
The first College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings of the 2025 season just dropped, and, honestly, there’s a mix of the usual suspects and some eyebrow-raising newcomers. Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Alabama hold the top four spots, which really isn’t shocking if you’ve been following the Big Ten and SEC this year.
There’s this new “record strength” metric now, putting more weight on who teams actually beat. Naturally, that’s set off a lot of debate about what’s fair and who’s really earned their spot. And, well, it’s anyone’s guess how this shakes up the playoff picture.
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Top Four Teams: Big Ten and SEC Dominate
So, the first CFP rankings? They’ve got Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Alabama right up top. The Big Ten and SEC are flexing, again. It’s the second year running with the Big Ten snagging those first two spots at the start.
Ohio State and Indiana Lead the Pack
Ohio State’s sitting at No. 1, which speaks to their steady play and tough schedule. Indiana sliding in at No. 2 is a bit of a surprise, but they’ve earned it—they’ve looked sharp all season.
Both squads have really set themselves up for a wild finish. It’s going to be interesting to see how they handle the pressure down the stretch.
SEC Powerhouses: Texas A&M and Alabama
Texas A&M and Alabama at No. 3 and 4? That’s classic SEC. These teams have been through the wringer with their schedules, but they’ve come out on top more often than not.
This new “record strength” thing really seems to have helped them, too. Facing tough opponents week after week isn’t for the faint of heart.
Notable Rankings and Conference Representation
The rest of the CFP rankings mix it up with teams from all over. Notre Dame, Georgia, Ole Miss, BYU, Texas Tech, and Oregon fill out the top ten. Each of them has a different story, and, honestly, some of those paths to the playoffs seem a bit wild.
Notre Dame and Miami: Contrasting Fortunes
Notre Dame’s at No. 10 after starting 0-2—talk about a turnaround. Their defense has really stepped up lately, and they’re definitely on the radar again.
Miami, sitting at No. 18, has been a bit of a rollercoaster. They started strong but have stumbled lately, and now people are wondering if they can pull it together in time.
Big Ten and Big 12 Contenders
Oregon’s at No. 9, giving the Big Ten another top-ten team. The Ducks have had their ups and downs, and that “record strength” metric has made their ranking a hot topic.
BYU and Texas Tech, at No. 7 and No. 8, are keeping the Big 12 in the conversation. Both have had some gritty wins, and they could shake things up if they keep it going.
Scenarios and Paths to the CFP
There are five weeks left before Selection Sunday. That’s a lot of football, and, let’s be honest, anything can happen. Each conference has its own drama brewing.
Big Ten Scenarios
Oregon’s November will be huge for the Big Ten. Here’s what could go down:
- Duck Destroyer: Oregon steamrolls the rest of their games, maybe making the Big Ten a three-team CFP league.
- Duck Hunting: Oregon drops some key matchups, which could let another Big Ten team sneak in.
- Best for the Big Ten: Oregon loses one big one, opening the door for a fourth Big Ten squad in the 12-team field.
- Ohio State Angst: Michigan knocks off Ohio State, and suddenly the Wolverines are in the at-large mix.
Big 12 Scenarios
The Big 12’s fate is riding on BYU and Texas Tech. Some possible twists:
- Red Raiders Roll: Texas Tech wins the conference, locking up the Big 12’s CFP spot.
- Red Raiders and Cougars Split: BYU and Texas Tech split their games, and maybe one of them grabs an at-large bid.
ACC Scenarios
The ACC’s got a few wild cards in play:
- Ramble On: Georgia Tech finishes strong and maybe nabs an at-large with a win over Georgia. That’d be something.
- Hurricane Warning: Miami bounces back, goes 10-2, and suddenly they’re back in the conversation.
- Pitt Is It: Pittsburgh closes out hot, making themselves an intriguing at-large pick.
- Duke-Virginia Squared: The Duke-Virginia game might end up deciding who makes the ACC title game.
SEC Scenarios: Depth and Dominance
The SEC could send more than a couple teams to the CFP if things break their way. Here’s what to watch for:
- Fantastic Four: Texas A&M, Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss all win out and punch their tickets. Wouldn’t that be wild?
- Greg Sankey’s Dream: Seven SEC teams finish 10-2 or better, and now the committee has a real headache.
- Horns Up: Texas ends up 9-3 and makes a late push for a CFP spot. Stranger things have happened.
American Conference and Other Contenders
The American Conference has a handful of teams chasing a CFP spot. There are a few scenarios that could shake things up for their chances:
- All-American: If the American champ finishes with a strong record, they’ll lock in a CFP spot.
- Un-American: But if the American falls apart, you might see teams like James Madison or San Diego State sneak into contention.
As the season rolls on, the CFP rankings are bound to shift. Performances and wild game outcomes will keep everyone guessing. For a closer look at the first CFP rankings and what might happen next, check out the New York Times.
