As March approaches, college football teams across the nation are gearing up for their spring practices. ESPN data analyst Bill Connelly has unveiled the initial SP+ analytic-based rankings for the upcoming 2025 season. These projections consider returning player production, recent recruiting metrics, and past performance over the last three seasons. The rankings provide a glimpse into which teams might dominate the field in the coming year.

The Reigning Champions Face New Challenges

The Ohio State Buckeyes, fresh off their 2024 national championship victory, hold the top spot in the preseason rankings. Despite losing key players, including their quarterback and several linemen, the Buckeyes' strong recruitment and the return of standout athletes like receiver Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs bolster their chances of maintaining their position at the top. Ohio State will need to adapt quickly to replace the talent they've lost, but their depth and experience should help them stay competitive.

Ohio State's path to continued success is not without obstacles. The team must find new leadership on both offense and defense after significant departures. However, the Buckeyes have a history of resilience and excellence, thanks to their robust scouting and development programs. Players like Smith and Downs will be crucial in leading the charge, while the incoming recruits will need to step up and fill the void left by departing seniors. The coaching staff's ability to integrate these newcomers seamlessly will determine how well the team performs in the early part of the season.

Emerging Powers and Rebounding Programs

Several programs are poised to make significant strides in 2025. Alabama, despite a challenging end to Kalen DeBoer's first season as head coach, is optimistic about its future. The Crimson Tide has rededicated itself to the principles that once made it a powerhouse under Nick Saban. With the addition of former Washington offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb and experienced defensive players, confidence is high in Tuscaloosa. However, resolving the quarterback situation remains a priority.

Penn State, fresh from its College Football Playoff appearance, looks set to continue its ascent. The Nittany Lions have added former Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to their staff, and with veteran quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton returning, the team is well-positioned for another strong campaign. Georgia, meanwhile, faces challenges following inconsistent performances in 2024. The Bulldogs will rely on new quarterback Gunner Stockton and transfers to rebuild their receiving corps and secondary. Notre Dame, Oregon, Texas, Tennessee, Ole Miss, and LSU also show promise, each with unique strengths and areas needing improvement as they prepare for the new season.