The College Football Landscape Shifts: Unpredictable Week 7 Leaves Rankings in Flux
We've reached the halfway mark of the 2025 college football season, and Week 7 delivered a slate of games that truly reflected the intensity of this pivotal point. With numerous matchups pitting ranked teams against each other, the weekend provided a clearer, yet still evolving, picture of the Top 25. But here's where it gets controversial: were the upsets as shocking as they seemed, or were they simply a reflection of the increasing parity in college football?
Let's delve into the projected AP Top 25 after a weekend that left us with plenty to dissect. On3 breaks down the anticipated changes and highlights the storylines that will dominate the conversation in the coming days.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-0)
RESULT: 34-16 win at Illinois
Ohio State asserted its dominance early, jumping to a 20-0 lead before Illinois mounted a comeback. While the Fighting Illini halved the deficit, the Buckeyes responded decisively in the second half, showcasing their ability to weather adversity. Ryan Day's team has passed every test so far, though the strength of their schedule has been questioned. And this is the part most people miss: their upcoming showdown with a desperate Penn State team could be the real litmus test for their championship aspirations.
2. Miami Hurricanes (5-0)
RESULT: BYE
Miami enjoyed a well-deserved bye week after a hard-fought victory at Florida State. While Florida State's recent struggles have diminished the luster of that win, the Hurricanes remain undefeated and are arguably the most well-rounded team in the nation. Their strength lies in the trenches, where they consistently dominate the line of scrimmage. Can anyone stop Miami's ground game?
3. Texas A&M Aggies (6-0)
RESULT: 34-17 win vs. Florida
Texas A&M took control early against Florida and, despite a slow start to the second half, ultimately secured a convincing victory. Mike Elko's Aggies are a model of consistency, improving week after week. Are they the team to beat in the SEC? Their lack of glaring weaknesses and impressive conference wins make them a legitimate contender.
4. Ole Miss Rebels (6-0)
RESULT: 24-21 win vs. Washington State
Ole Miss, heavily favored against Washington State, found themselves in a tighter contest than expected. The Cougars led at various points, but the Rebels rallied behind Trinidad Chambliss' clutch performance. Was this a wake-up call for Ole Miss, or simply a testament to Washington State's resilience?
5. Indiana Hoosiers (6-0)
RESULT: 30-20 win at Oregon
Indiana secured a signature win on the road against Oregon, proving they are a force to be reckoned with. Their victory wasn't flawless, but their ability to dominate despite imperfections is a testament to their depth and talent. Have the Hoosiers emerged as a dark horse contender?
6. Alabama Crimson Tide (5-1)
RESULT: 27-24 win at Missouri
Alabama faced a tough test at Missouri, clinging to a lead throughout a closely contested game. A late interception sealed the deal, giving the Crimson Tide their third consecutive win over a ranked opponent. Is Alabama back to their dominant form, or are they still vulnerable after their early-season loss to Florida State?
7. Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-0)
RESULT: 42-17 win vs. Kansas
Texas Tech dominated Kansas from the outset, showcasing their offensive firepower with over 300 rushing yards. Cameron Dickey's breakout performance, including a 71-yard touchdown run, was a highlight. Can the Red Raiders maintain their momentum against a tougher schedule?
8. Oregon Ducks (5-1)
RESULT: 30-20 loss vs. Indiana
Oregon suffered their first loss of the season, unable to match Indiana's physicality in the trenches. Held to just 267 total yards, the Ducks struggled to establish their offense. Does this loss expose weaknesses in Oregon's game, or was it simply a case of facing a superior opponent?
9. Georgia Bulldogs (5-1)
RESULT: 20-10 win at Auburn
Georgia overcame a sluggish start, aided by a controversial fumble call, to secure a crucial road win. Kirby Smart's team pitched a second-half shutout, setting up a highly anticipated matchup with undefeated Ole Miss. Can Georgia reclaim their spot at the top of the SEC?
10. LSU Tigers (5-1)
RESULT: 20-10 win vs. South Carolina
LSU secured another conference win, but their performance lacked the dominance expected from a Top 10 team. Garrett Nussmeier's two interceptions were offset by his two touchdowns and 254 passing yards. Can LSU elevate their game against a daunting upcoming schedule?
The Rest of the AP Top 25 Projections
- Tennessee Volunteers (5-1)
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-0)
- Oklahoma Sooners (5-1)
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-2)
- BYU Cougars (6-0)
- Missouri Tigers (5-1)
- Virginia Cavaliers (5-1)
- Vanderbilt Commodores (5-1)
- Memphis Tigers (6-0)
- USF Bulls (5-1)
- Texas Longhorns (4-2)
- USC Trojans (5-1)
- Michigan Wolverines (4-2)
- Utah Utes (5-1)
- Cincinnati Bearcats (5-1)
Food for Thought:
Week 7 has shaken up the college football landscape, leaving us with more questions than answers. Who are the true contenders, and who are the pretenders? As the season enters its crucial stretch, every game becomes a referendum on a team's championship aspirations. Who do you think will rise to the top? Let the debates begin in the comments!
