AP Top 25: College Football Rankings

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The Associated Press (AP) college football rankings are a highly anticipated weekly release that reflects the opinions of sports writers and broadcasters across the nation. These rankings not only influence public perception but also play a crucial role in determining postseason bowl game selections and College Football Playoff (CFP) consideration.

Understanding the AP Poll

The AP Poll is a subjective ranking of the top 25 college football teams in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Each week, a panel of 63 sports writers and broadcasters submits their individual rankings. These rankings are then compiled to produce the official AP Top 25. The poll typically begins in the preseason and continues until the conclusion of the regular season.

How the Rankings are Determined

The voters consider various factors when creating their rankings, including:

  • Win-loss record: A team's performance in terms of wins and losses is a fundamental aspect.
  • Strength of schedule: Playing tougher opponents and winning can significantly boost a team's ranking.
  • Performance against ranked teams: Victories over other teams in the Top 25 are highly valued.
  • Eye test: Subjective evaluation of a team's overall performance and potential.

Impact of the AP Rankings

The AP rankings have a wide-ranging impact on college football:

  • Bowl selections: Many bowl games use the AP rankings as a factor in selecting participating teams.
  • College Football Playoff: Although the CFP selection committee has its own independent rankings, the AP Poll influences public and media perception, indirectly affecting the committee's decisions.
  • Recruiting: High rankings can enhance a program's prestige and attract top recruits.
  • Fan engagement: The weekly release of the AP Top 25 generates considerable discussion and excitement among fans.

Recent Notable Shifts

Keep an eye on teams that have shown significant improvement or faced unexpected defeats. These shifts can lead to substantial changes in the rankings week to week. For example, an unranked team defeating a top-five opponent can catapult them into the Top 25, while a highly-ranked team suffering an upset loss can plummet several spots.

Teams to Watch

  • Teams on the rise after key victories.
  • Programs with challenging schedules ahead.
  • Underdogs with the potential to surprise.

Staying Updated

To stay current with the latest AP college football rankings:

  • Visit the official AP website.
  • Follow major sports news outlets such as ESPN, CBS Sports, and Fox Sports.
  • Engage with sports discussions on social media platforms.

The AP Top 25 rankings provide an exciting, week-by-week snapshot of the college football landscape, influencing everything from bowl selections to fan engagement. By understanding how the rankings are determined and staying informed, fans can fully appreciate the drama and competition of college football.