The landscape of college football is set to change dramatically in 2025, with numerous key players moving on to the NFL and through the transfer portal. Ohio State, despite losing up to 16 starters from their national championship-winning team, remains a formidable contender. Meanwhile, teams like Texas, Georgia, and Miami are emerging as potential top-ranked squads. The turnover creates unprecedented opportunities for new champions, with six different teams winning national titles over the past seven years. This early preview highlights the contenders, mainstays, and dark horses that could vie for the coveted preseason No. 1 ranking.
The Buckeyes' Resilience and Reloading
Ohio State faces significant personnel changes after their 2024 championship victory, but they retain some elite talent. Key players such as wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs will anchor the team. Despite losing several offensive line players to injuries, the experience gained means more depth than anticipated. The defense, however, must rebuild after potentially losing 10 starters. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has consistently produced top-tier units, giving hope for another strong season.
The Buckeyes have a history of resilience. Injuries and player departures haven't stopped them from fielding competitive teams. Smith and Downs represent not just leadership but also exceptional skill on both sides of the ball. The challenge lies in reloading the defense, where coordinator Jim Knowles has a proven track record. His ability to develop young talent quickly will be crucial. While the offense adjusts to new faces, the defense will need to maintain its strength to keep Ohio State in contention for the top spot.
New Faces and Fresh Opportunities
Several programs are poised to capitalize on the shifting landscape. Texas welcomes quarterback Arch Manning, whose early performances hint at immense potential. The Longhorns lost several key players but have shown an ability to reload effectively. Notre Dame, despite injury issues during their championship run, benefits from a roster filled with experienced underclassmen. The Irish have promising young talent ready to step up, though the quarterback position remains uncertain. Other teams like Penn State, Georgia, and Oregon also face challenges but possess enough talent to remain competitive.
Penn State retains quarterback Drew Allar and star running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen, providing a solid foundation. However, the lack of experienced wide receivers poses a challenge. Georgia, despite losing several defensive stalwarts, has bolstered its pass-catching corps through transfers. The Bulldogs’ success hinges on first-year quarterback Gunner Stockton’s development. Oregon, still recovering from their playoff loss, has added significant talent via transfers and recruiting. LSU, with key players opting to stay, and Clemson, with a revitalized receiving corps, round out the list of dark horses. Each team brings unique strengths and uncertainties, making the race for the top spot more unpredictable than ever.