AP Top 25: College Football Rankings

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The Associated Press (AP) Poll is a highly influential ranking of the top 25 college football teams in the United States. Conducted weekly throughout the college football season, the poll is voted on by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. Let's dive into what makes the AP Poll so important, how it impacts the season, and some historical context.

What is the AP Poll?

The AP Poll, short for the Associated Press Poll, is a ranking system where a panel of sports journalists and broadcasters vote on the top 25 college football teams. These rankings are released weekly during the regular season, starting before the first game and continuing until the final selections for the College Football Playoff (CFP). The AP Poll doesn't directly determine CFP selection, but it significantly influences public perception and the overall narrative surrounding teams.

How Does the Voting Process Work?

Each voter submits a ranking of their top 25 teams. Teams receive points based on their ranking: 25 points for a first-place vote, 24 for a second-place vote, and so on, down to 1 point for a 25th-place vote. The total points are tallied, and the teams are ranked accordingly. This system provides a comprehensive view of the best teams based on the opinions of multiple experts.

Why the AP Poll Matters

  • Prestige and Recognition: Being ranked in the AP Poll brings prestige and recognition to a university's football program. A high ranking can boost team morale and attract top recruits.
  • Influence on CFP: Although the CFP selection committee makes the final decisions, the AP Poll is closely watched. Teams highly ranked in the AP Poll often receive more favorable consideration from the committee.
  • Fan Engagement: The weekly release of the AP Poll is a major event for college football fans. It sparks debates, fuels rivalries, and adds excitement to the season.

Historical Context

The AP Poll began in 1936 and has been a staple of college football ever since. Over the decades, it has evolved, but its fundamental purpose remains the same: to provide a snapshot of the best teams in the nation based on expert opinion. Legendary coaches and programs have defined eras based on their consistent presence at the top of the AP Poll.

Notable Moments

  • Upsets and Surprises: Each year, the AP Poll sees significant shifts due to unexpected upsets. These moments often become defining narratives of the season.
  • Controversies: The subjective nature of the poll sometimes leads to controversies, especially when teams with similar records are ranked differently. These debates are part of what makes college football so engaging.

How to Stay Updated

To stay informed about the latest AP Poll rankings:

  • Visit the official AP website: The Associated Press releases the poll weekly on its official website.
  • Follow sports news outlets: ESPN, CBS Sports, and other major sports networks provide comprehensive coverage and analysis of the AP Poll.

By staying updated, fans, players, and coaches can keep track of the ever-changing landscape of college football and understand where their favorite teams stand in the national conversation.