College Football Top 25 Rankings (After Week 14, 2016)
Jalen Hurts
Weekly rankings are a big part of every college football season, and Athlon Sports will update its top 25 following the games each weekend. The final weekend of the 2016 regular season produced a couple of interesting conference championship matchups. Clemson held off Virginia Tech in the fourth quarter to claim its second consecutive ACC title. Penn State rallied from a 28-7 deficit to beat Wisconsin in the Big Ten title game, while Washington dominated Colorado 41-10 on Friday night to win the Pac-12 Championship. With only a handful of games in Week 14, there are only a few changes to the top 25. Temple joins the rankings after beating Navy, while the Midshipmen drop out of the top 25.
College Football Post-Week 14 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (13-0)
Week 14 Result: Beat Florida 54-16
Last Week: 1
Crimson Tide extend winning streak to 25 with dominant 54-16 victory over Florida in SEC Championship.
2. Ohio State (11-1)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 2
Regular season completed in Week 13.
3. Clemson (12-1)
Week 14 Result: 3
Last Week: 3
Virginia Tech made it interesting late, but thanks to another big performance from quarterback Deshaun Watson, Clemson earned its second ACC title in a row and booked a trip to the CFB Playoff.
4. Washington (12-1)
Week 14 Result: Beat Colorado 41-10
Last Week: 4
Ground game and defense carries Huskies to 41-10 victory over Colorado in Pac-12 Championship Game.
5. Michigan (10-2)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 5
Regular season completed in Week 13.
6. Penn State (11-2)
Week 14 Result: Beat Wisconsin 38-31
Last Week: 9
Nittany Lions claim first Big Ten title since 2008 with 38-31 thriller over Wisconsin in Indianapolis.
7. Oklahoma (10-2)
Week 14 Result: Beat Oklahoma State 38-20
Last Week: 7
Sooners claim 10th Big 12 title under Bob Stoops.
8. Wisconsin (10-3)
Week 14 Result: Lost to Penn State 38-31
Last Week: 6
Badgers fall short of Big Ten title after being unable to contain Penn State’s offense in the second half.
9. USC (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 8
Regular season completed in Week 13.
10. Colorado (10-3)
Week 14 Result: Lost to Washington 41-10
Last Week: 10
Buffaloes handled by Washington in Pac-12 title game, but 2016 still a special season for coach Mike MacIntyre’s team.
11. Florida State (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 11
Regular season completed in Week 13.
12. Oklahoma State (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Lost to Oklahoma 38-20
Last Week: 12
With a bowl win, Oklahoma State would earn its third season of 10 victories over the last four years.
13. West Virginia (10-2)
Week 14 Result: Beat Baylor 24-21
Last Week: 13
Mountaineers win 10 games for the first time since 2011.
14. Louisville (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 14
Regular season completed in Week 13.
15. Western Michigan (13-0)
Week 14 Result: Beat Ohio 29-23
Last Week: 15
Ohio gave Western Michigan all it could handle, but Broncos hold on for 29-23 win and complete 13-0 regular season.
16. Auburn (8-4)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 16
Regular season completed in Week 13.
17. Florida (8-4)
Week 14 Result: Lost to Alabama 54-16
Last Week: 17
Gators simply overmatched and undermanned in SEC Championship loss to Alabama.
18. LSU (7-4)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 18
Regular season completed in Week 13.
19. Virginia Tech (9-4)
Week 14 Result: Lost to Clemson 42-35
Last Week: 19
Hokies fell short in ACC Championship, but future of program is bright under coach Justin Fuente’s watch.
20. Iowa (8-4)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 20
Regular season completed in Week 13.
21. Nebraska (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 21
Regular season completed in Week 13.
22. Stanford (9-3)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 22
Regular season completed in Week 13.
23. Temple (10-3)
Week 14 Result: Beat Navy
Last Week: NR
Matt Rhule has guided Temple to back-to-back 10-win seasons and claimed the school’s first conference title since 1967 with Saturday’s win over Navy.
24. USF (10-2)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 23
Regular season completed in Week 13.
25. Pitt (8-4)
Week 14 Result: Regular Season Over
Last Week: 25
Regular season completed in Week 13.
College Football Post-Week 13 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (12-0)
Week 13 Result: Beat Auburn 30-12
Last Week: 1
Week 14 Opponent: SEC Championship vs. Florida
Crimson Tide defense did not allow a touchdown in November.
2. Ohio State (11-1)
Week 13 Result: Beat Michigan 30-27
Last Week: 2
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
The Game certainly lived up to the hype, as the Buckeyes steal a win over the Wolverines in overtime.
3. Clemson (11-1)
Week 13 Result: Beat South Carolina 56-7
Last Week: 3
Week 14 Opponent: ACC Championship vs. Virginia Tech
Deshaun Watson tosses six touchdown passes in dominant win over rival South Carolina.
4. Washington (11-1)
Week 13 Result: Beat Washington State 45-17
Last Week: 6
Week 14 Opponent: Pac-12 Championship vs. Colorado
Huskies claim Apple Cup thanks to strong performances by quarterback Jake Browning and the defense.
5. Michigan (10-2)
Week 13 Result: Lost to Ohio State 30-27
Last Week: 4
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Missed opportunities will haunt Wolverines in double overtime loss at Ohio State.
6. Wisconsin (10-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat Minnesota 31-17
Last Week: 5
Week 14 Opponent: Big Ten Championship vs. Penn State
Badgers use big second half to continue domination of Minnesota.
7. Oklahoma (9-2)
Week 13 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 7
Week 14 Opponent: Oklahoma State
Bye week allows Sooners to prep for showdown against Oklahoma State to decide Big 12 title.
8. USC (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Beat Notre Dame 45-27
Last Week: 9
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Adoree’ Jackson delivers one of the best all-around performances of 2016 in USC’s 45-27 win over Notre Dame.
9. Penn State (10-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat Michigan State 45-12
Last Week: 9
Week 14 Opponent: Big Ten Championship vs. Wisconsin
Saquon Barkley’s health will be a storyline to watch after Penn State clinches East Division with win over Michigan State and books trip to Indianapolis for Big Ten title game.
10. Colorado (10-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat Utah 27-22
Last Week: 10
Week 14 Opponent: Pac-12 Championship vs. Washington
Buffaloes clinch Pac-12 South with win over Utah – and Mike MacIntyre should be the national coach of the year.
11. Florida State (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Beat Florida 31-13
Last Week: 12
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Seminoles’ senior class finishes 8-0 against Florida and Miami.
12. Oklahoma State (9-2)
Week 13 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 13
Week 14 Opponent: at Oklahoma
Cowboys have won only two out of the last 13 matchups against rival Oklahoma.
13. West Virginia (9-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat Iowa State 49-19
Last Week: 14
Week 14 Opponent: Baylor
Freshman running back Martell Pettaway gives injured backfield a boost, while quarterback Skyler Howard tosses five touchdowns in 49-19 win over Iowa State.
14. Louisville (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Lost to Kentucky 41-38
Last Week: 11
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season
Late-season losses hurt Lamar Jackson’s Heisman candidacy, but the sophomore is still the favorite with one week of games left.
15. Western Michigan (12-0)
Week 13 Result: Beat Toledo 55-35
Last Week: 17
Week 14 Opponent: MAC Championship vs. Ohio
Broncos likely one win away from claiming the Group of 5 spot in a New Year’s Six Bowl.
16. Auburn (8-4)
Week 13 Result: Lost to Alabama 30-12
Last Week: 16
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Despite Auburn’s November defeats against Alabama and Georgia, losses by Tennessee and Florida in Week 13 could help Auburn reach the Sugar Bowl.
17. Florida (8-3)
Week 13 Result: Lost to Florida State 31-13
Last Week: 18
Week 14 Opponent: SEC Championship vs. Florida
Gators have to find some offense to have any shot against Alabama.
18. LSU (7-4)
Week 13 Result: Beat Texas A&M 54-39
Last Week: 20
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Derrius Guice sets a new LSU single-game record with 285 rushing yards in 54-39 win over Texas A&M on Thanksgiving night.
19. Virginia Tech (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Beat Virginia 52-10
Last Week: 22
Week 14 Opponent: ACC Championship vs. Clemson
Hokies continue successful first year under coach Justin Fuente with division title and a blowout win over rival Virginia.
20. Iowa (8-4)
Week 13 Result: Beat Nebraska 40-10
Last Week: NR
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Hawkeyes continue late-season surge with 30-point win over Cornhuskers.
21. Nebraska (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Lost to Iowa 40-10
Last Week: 15
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Huskers thoroughly dominated at Iowa.
22. Stanford (9-3)
Week 13 Result: Beat Rice 41-17
Last Week: NR
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Cardinal finish regular season by winning five in a row.
23. USF (10-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat UCF 48-31
Last Week: NR
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Quarterback Quinton Flowers is quietly having an outstanding season.
24. Navy (9-2)
Week 13 Result: Beat SMU 75-31
Last Week: NR
Week 14 Opponent: AAC Championship vs. Temple
Midshipmen have scored at least 66 points in each of their last two games.
25. Pitt (8-4)
Week 13 Result: Beat Syracuse 76-61
Last Week: NR
Week 14 Opponent: Regular Season Over
Panthers gave up 61 points in win over Syracuse, but coach Pat Narduzzi’s team scored 76. That’s the highest combined total from two teams in a FBS game.
College Football Post-Week 12 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (11-0)
Week 12 Result: Beat Chattanooga 31-3
Last Week: 1
Week 13 Opponent: Auburn
Sluggish effort, but Crimson Tide still coast to 28-point win over Chattanooga.
2. Ohio State (10-1)
Week 12 Result: Beat Michigan State 17-16
Last Week: 2
Week 13 Opponent: Michigan
Buckeyes barely survive trip to East Lansing. However, playoff hopes remain intact as Michigan visits Columbus next Saturday.
3. Clemson (10-1)
Week 12 Result: Beat Wake Forest 35-13
Last Week: 3
Week 13 Opponent: South Carolina
Tigers dominate Wake Forest to clinch ACC Atlantic title.
4. Michigan (10-1)
Week 12 Result: Beat Indiana 20-10
Last Week: 4
Week 13 Opponent: Beat Indiana 20-10
Wolverines didn’t get much from quarterback John O’Korn in his first start, but coach Jim Harbaugh’s team used a strong effort by the defense and running back De’Veon Smith (158 yards) to end Indiana’s upset bid.
5. Wisconsin (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat Purdue 49-20
Last Week: 6
Week 13 Opponent: Minnesota
Badgers use 35-point second quarter to crush Boilermakers and move within one victory of clinching the Big Ten West Division title.
6. Washington (10-1)
Week 12 Result: Beat Arizona State 44-18
Last Week: 7
Week 13 Opponent: at Washington State
Huskies rebound from last week’s loss to USC and set the stage for a huge showdown against rival Washington State to decide the Pac-12 North title.
7. Oklahoma (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat West Virginia 56-28
Last Week: 8
Week 13 Opponent: Oklahoma State
Mayfield, Perine and Mixon come up big in 56-28 victory over West Virginia. For the second consecutive year, the Bedlam rivalry will decide the winner of the Big 12 title.
8. USC (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Beat UCLA 36-14
Last Week: 14
Week 13 Opponent: Notre Dame
Trojans hold bragging rights over crosstown rival UCLA for another year after 36-14 victory on Saturday night.
9. Penn State (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat Rutgers 39-0
Last Week: 9
Week 13 Opponent: Michigan State
Penn State is one win away from claiming the Big Ten East. However, as Michigan State showed against Ohio State, the Spartans won’t be a pushover next Saturday.
10. Colorado (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat Washington State 38-24
Last Week: 12
Week 13 Opponent: Utah
Quarterback Sefo Liufau and the defense lead Colorado to 38-24 win over Washington State. Buffaloes will clinch Pac-12 South next week with a win over Utah.
11. Louisville (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Lost to Houston 36-10
Last Week: 5
Week 13 Opponent: Kentucky
Penalties, turnovers and shaky offensive line play doom Cardinals’ playoff hopes in Thursday night defeat at Houston.
12. Florida State (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Beat Syracuse 45-14
Last Week: 11
Week 13 Opponent: Florida
Dalvin Cook rushes for 225 yards and four touchdowns and sets new school career rushing record in Florida State’s 45-14 win over Syracuse.
13. Oklahoma State (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat TCU 31-6
Last Week: 20
Week 13 Opponent: Bye Week
Mike Gundy’s team isn’t getting much national attention, but the Cowboys have quietly won seven in a row. The annual Bedlam matchup against Oklahoma will decide the Big 12 title in two weeks.
14. West Virginia (8-2)
Week 12 Result: Lost to Oklahoma 56-28
Last Week: 10
Week 13 Opponent: at Iowa State
Second-half rally helped make final score more respectable, but Mountaineers dug too big of an early hole against Oklahoma with turnovers and mistakes.
15. Nebraska (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat Maryland 28-7
Last Week: 15
Week 13 Opponent: at Iowa
No Tommy Armstrong? No problem for Nebraska. Ryker Fyfe completes 23 of 37 throws for 220 yards and one score in relief of an injured Armstrong in victory over Maryland.
16. Auburn (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Beat Alabama A&M 55-0
Last Week: 16
Week 13 Opponent: at Alabama
Matchup against Alabama A&M allows Tigers to rest a couple of key players with Iron Bowl looming next Saturday.
17. Western Michigan (11-0)
Week 12 Result: Beat Buffalo 38-0
Last Week: 18
Week 13 Opponent: Toledo
Wyoming’s win over San Diego State helps Western Michigan in its quest to be the top Group of 5 team for a New Year’s Six bowl bid.
18. Florida (8-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat LSU 16-10
Last Week: 22
Week 13 Opponent: at Florida State
Goal-line stand and timely offense help Gators stun LSU in Baton Rouge. Florida is headed to the SEC Championship for the second year in a row.
19. Utah (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Lost to Oregon 30-28
Last Week: 13
Week 13 Opponent: at Colorado
Surprising loss against Oregon ends Utah’s Pac-12 South title hopes.
20. LSU (6-4)
Week 12 Result: Lost to Florida 16-10
Last Week: 17
Week 13 Opponent: at Texas A&M
Ed Orgeron’s hopes (and LSU’s Sugar Bowl chances) of keeping the full-time job likely ended after LSU’s loss to Florida.
21. Texas A&M (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Beat UTSA 23-10
Last Week: 21
Week 13 Opponent: LSU
A healthy Myles Garrett on defense makes a big difference for the Aggies. Texas A&M’s two-game losing streak ends with 23-10 win over UTSA.
22. Virginia Tech (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Beat Notre Dame 34-31
Last Week: 23
Week 13 Opponent: Virginia
Hokies had to overcome two 17-point deficits in 34-31 win over Notre Dame in South Bend. Next week’s game against Virginia will decide whether or not Virginia Tech or North Carolina represents the Coastal in the ACC Championship.
23. Washington State (8-3)
Week 12 Result: Lost to Colorado 38-24
Last Week: 19
Week 13 Opponent: Washington
Eight-game winning streak ends in Boulder, but all is not lost for coach Mike Leach’s team. The Cougars can win the North Division with a victory over Washington next week.
24. Houston (9-2)
Week 12 Result: Beat Louisville 36-10
Last Week: NR
Week 13 Opponent: at Memphis
Cougars rejoin the top 25 after impressive win over Louisville on Thursday night.
25. Boise State (10-1)
Week 12 Result: Beat UNLV 42-25
Last Week: 25
Week 13 Opponent: at Air Force
Big night from running back Jeremy McNichols (206 yards) is more than enough in 42-25 win over UNLV.
College Football Post-Week 11 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (10-0)
Week 11 Result: Beat Mississippi State 51-3
Last Week: 1
Week 12 Opponent: Chattanooga
No post-LSU hangover for Alabama in 51-3 victory over Mississippi State.
2. Ohio State (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Beat Maryland 62-3
Last Week: 5
Week 12 Opponent: at Michigan State
Buckeyes win 62-3 for the second week in a row and climb to No. 2 in the rankings after losses by Clemson, Michigan and Washington.
3. Clemson (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Pitt 43-42
Last Week: 2
Week 12 Opponent: at Wake Forest
Loss against Pitt is a setback, but Tigers still in good shape to make the CFB Playoff by winning out.
4. Michigan (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Iowa 14-13
Last Week: 3
Week 12 Opponent: Indiana
Offense struggles to get on track in stunning loss at Iowa.
5. Louisville (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Beat Wake Forest 44-12
Last Week: 5
Week 12 Opponent: at Houston
Louisville’s offense comes alive for 34 points in fourth quarter to pull away from Wake Forest.
6. Wisconsin (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Illinois 48-3
Last Week: 7
Week 12 Opponent: at Purdue
Losses by three top-five teams on Saturday should help boost Wisconsin’s playoff chances – if it can beat Penn State, Ohio State or Michigan in the Big Ten title game.
7. Washington (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Lost to USC 26-13
Last Week: 4
Week 12 Opponent: Arizona State
Ground game and quarterback Jake Browning struggle mightily in loss to USC. However, Huskies aren’t out of the playoff picture.
8. Oklahoma (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Baylor 45-24
Last Week: 9
Week 12 Opponent: at West Virginia
Sooners quietly moving back into the playoff discussion and have two opportunities to impress with games against ranked opponents (West Virginia and Oklahoma State).
9. Penn State (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Indiana 45-31
Last Week: 11
Week 12 Opponent: at Rutgers
Thanks to Iowa’s win over Michigan, the Nittany Lions are now a legitimate playoff contender.
10. West Virginia (8-1)
Week 11 Result: Beat Texas 24-20
Last Week: 15
Week 12 Opponent: Oklahoma
Last-minute defensive stand preserves victory over the Longhorns. Mountaineers have a huge opportunity to take control of the Big 12 with a matchup against Oklahoma next Saturday.
11. Florida State (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Beat Boston College 45-7
Last Week: 13
Week 12 Opponent: at Syracuse
Seminoles’ defense limits Boston College to just eight first downs and 146 total yards in dominant 45-7 win on Friday night.
12. Colorado (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Arizona 49-24
Last Week: 16
Week 12 Opponent: Washington State
Win over Arizona ensures Colorado will at least double last week’s year’s win total (four). Is next week’s game against Washington State a preview of the Pac-12 Championship Game?
13. Utah (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Arizona State 49-26
Last Week: 17
Week 12 Opponent: Oregon
Utes turn in dominant effort on the line of scrimmage (22 tackles for a loss) in 49-26 win over Arizona State on Thursday night.
14. USC (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Beat Washington 26-13
Last Week: 23
Week 12 Opponent: at UCLA
Defense leads the way in USC’s 26-13 upset over Washington.
15. Nebraska (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Minnesota 24-17
Last Week: 18
Week 12 Opponent: Maryland
Tommy Armstrong’s three touchdowns and a late interception by the defense helps Cornhuskers secure win over Minnesota.
16. Auburn (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Georgia 13-7
Last Week: 8
Week 12 Opponent: Alabama A&M
Absence of running back Kamryn Pettway and quarterback Sean White’s injured shoulder hinder offense in 13-7 loss at Georgia.
17. LSU (6-3)
Week 11 Result: Beat Arkansas 38-10
Last Week: 21
Week 12 Opponent: Florida
Tigers didn’t let Alabama beat them twice, as Derrius Guice and Leonard Fournette help LSU reclaim the Golden Boot trophy.
18. Western Michigan (10-0)
Week 11 Result: Beat Kent State 37-21
Last Week: 19
Week 12 Opponent: Buffalo
Broncos overcome slow start to defeat Kent State and remain the top team from the Group of 5 ranks.
19. Washington State (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat California 56-21
Last Week: 20
Week 12 Opponent: at Colorado
Cougars win eighth game in a row after beating California 56-24. A tough two-game stretch awaits coach Mike Leach’s team to close out the regular season: at Colorado and Washington.
20. Oklahoma State (8-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat Texas Tech 45-44
Last Week: 22
Week 12 Opponent: at TCU
The Mason Rudolph to James Washington connection and a missed extra point by Texas Tech was just enough for Oklahoma State to win 45-44.
21. Texas A&M (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Ole Miss 29-28
Last Week: 10
Week 12 Opponent: UTSA
The Aggies missed quarterback Trevor Knight, but the real storyline in Saturday’s loss was the defensive performance against Ole Miss freshman quarterback Shea Patterson.
22. Florida (7-2)
Week 11 Result: Beat South Carolina 20-7
Last Week: 25
Week 12 Opponent: at LSU
Quarterback Austin Appleby and running back Jordan Scarlett help the offense find a spark against South Carolina. However, the Gators’ defense suffered another big setback with the loss of safety Marcus Maye to an arm injury.
23. Virginia Tech (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Georgia Tech 30-20
Last Week: 14
Week 12 Opponent: at Notre Dame
Hokies struggled to contain Georgia Tech’s option attack, but coach Justin Fuente’s team can win Coastal Division with a win over Virginia on Nov. 26.
24. North Carolina (7-3)
Week 11 Result: Lost to Duke 28-27
Last Week: 12
Week 12 Opponent: The Citadel
Loss to Duke damaged division title hopes, but Tar Heels remain alive for Coastal crown after Georgia Tech upset Virginia Tech.
25. Boise State (9-1)
Week 11 Result: Beat Hawaii 52-16
Last Week: NR
Week 12 Opponent: UNLV
Broncos aren’t out of the New Year’s Six bowl contention – especially after UNLV knocked off Wyoming and opened the door for the Broncos in the division once again.
College Football Post-Week 10 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (9-0)
Week 10 Result: Beat LSU 10-0
Last Week: 1
Week 11 Opponent: Mississippi State
Defense and timely plays by quarterback Jalen Hurts helps Alabama dominate LSU in Baton Rouge.
2. Clemson (9-0)
Week 10 Result: Beat Syracuse 54-0
Last Week: 2
Week 11 Opponent: Pitt
No letdown for Tigers a week after victory over Florida State in easy win over Syracuse. Quarterback Deshaun Watson’s shoulder injury isn’t serious.
3. Michigan (9-0)
Week 10 Result: Beat Maryland 59-3
Last Week: 3
Week 11 Opponent: at Iowa
Wolverines continue to cruise to late November showdown against Ohio State. Only one team (Michigan State) has scored more than 10 points against Michigan’s defense over the last six games.
4. Washington (9-0)
Week 10 Result: Beat California 66-27
Last Week: 4
Week 11 Opponent: USC
As long as Washington keeps winning, the CFB Playoff rankings will get sorted out in its favor at the end of the year.
5. Ohio State (8-1)
Week 10 Result: Beat Nebraska 62-3
Last Week: 6
Week 11 Opponent: at Maryland
J.T. Barrett’s 290 passing yards against a good Nebraska secondary should ease some of the concerns about the passing game.
6. Louisville (8-1)
Week 10 Result: Beat Boston College 52-7
Last Week: 5
Week 11 Opponent: Wake Forest
Lamar Jackson’s big day (seven touchdowns) leads Louisville to easy win over Boston College.
7. Wisconsin (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Northwestern 21-7
Last Week: 7
Week 11 Opponent: Illinois
Badgers regain control of Big Ten West thanks to win at Northwestern, along with a Nebraska loss at Ohio State.
8. Auburn (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Vanderbilt 23-16
Last Week: 9
Week 11 Opponent: at Georgia
Quarterback Sean White wasn’t 100 percent healthy, but his return in the second half helped spark Auburn to a closer-than-expected win over Vanderbilt.
9. Oklahoma (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Iowa State 34-24
Last Week: 10
Week 11 Opponent: Baylor
Sooners overcome tricky road environment and injuries to beat Iowa State 34-24.
10. Texas A&M (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Lost to Mississippi State 35-28
Last Week: 8
Week 11 Opponent: Ole Miss
Loss in Starkville was costly in many ways for the Aggies.
11. Penn State (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Iowa 41-14
Last Week: 22
Week 11 Opponent: at Indiana
Is Penn State the nation’s most-improved team from Week 1 to Week 10?
12. North Carolina (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Georgia Tech 48-20
Last Week: 14
Week 11 Opponent: at Duke
Tar Heels use big performances from Mitch Trubisky and Elijah Hood to keep the pressure on Virginia Tech in the Coastal Division.
13. Florida State (6-3)
Week 10 Result: Beat NC State 24-20
Last Week: 15
Week 11 Opponent: Boston College
Late touchdown pass by quarterback Deondre Francois helps Florida State survive another tough trip to Raleigh.
14. Virginia Tech (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Duke 24-21
Last Week: 17
Week 11 Opponent: Georgia Tech
Special teams and defense help Virginia Tech hold off Duke’s upset bid.
15. West Virginia (7-1)
Week 10 Result: Beat Kansas 48-21
Last Week: 18
Week 11 Opponent: at Texas
As expected, West Virginia has little trouble in easy win over Kansas.
16. Colorado (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat UCLA 20-10
Last Week: 20
Week 11 Opponent: at Arizona
Victory over UCLA wasn’t pretty, but Buffaloes find a way to win and stay in front of the Pac-12 South standings.
17. Utah (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 21
Week 11 Opponent: at Arizona State
Two of Utah’s final three games take place on the road, including a Nov. 26 showdown against Colorado.
18. Nebraska (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Lost to Ohio State 62-3
Last Week: 12
Week 11 Opponent: Minnesota
Cornhuskers dominated in Columbus, but the best sight of the evening was Tommy Armstrong’s return to the stadium after a scary injury in the first half.
19. Western Michigan (9-0)
Week 10 Result: Beat Ball State 52-20
Last Week: 19
Week 11 Opponent: at Kent State
Broncos in the driver’s seat to be the top Group of 5 team and earn a spot in a New Year’s Six bowl.
20. Washington State (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Arizona 69-7
Last Week: 23
Week 11 Opponent: California
Washington State’s 69 points are the most scored in school history against a Pac-12 opponent.
21. LSU (5-3)
Week 10 Result: Lost to Alabama 10-0
Last Week: 16
Week 11 Opponent: at Arkansas
Offense falls short once again in loss to Alabama.
22. Oklahoma State (7-2)
Week 10 Result: Beat Kansas State 43-37
Last Week: 24
Week 11 Opponent: Texas Tech
Quarterback Mason Rudolph (457 yards) shines, while last-second defensive stand preserves victory for Cowboys.
23. USC (6-3)
Week 10 Result: Beat Oregon 45-20
Last Week: 25
Week 11 Opponent: at Washington
Trojans continue to click behind quarterback Sam Darnold.
24. Arkansas (6-3)
Week 10 Result: Beat Florida 31-10
Last Week: NR
Week 11 Opponent: LSU
Razorbacks rebound with dominant win over Florida after disappointing showing at Auburn in Week 8.
25. Florida (6-2)
Week 10 Result: Lost to Arkansas 31-10
Last Week: 11
Week 11 Opponent: South Carolina
Offensive woes beginning to catch up with Gators in tougher portion of the schedule.
College Football Post-Week 9 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (8-0)
Week 9 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 1
Week 10 Opponent: at LSU
Crimson Tide defense against Leonard Fournette will be a must-see matchup next Saturday.
2. Clemson (8-0)
Week 9 Result: Beat Florida State
Last Week: 2
Week 10 Opponent: Syracuse
Deshaun Watson and standout defensive line deliver clutch plays late in the fourth to propel Clemson to first win in Tallahassee for the first time since 2006.
3. Michigan (8-0)
Week 9 Result: Beat Michigan State 32-23
Last Week: 3
Week 10 Opponent: Maryland
Wolverines get revenge for last year’s last-second loss to Michigan State. However, the Spartans made coach Jim Harbaugh’s team work more than most anticipated.
4. Washington (8-0)
Week 9 Result: Beat Utah 31-24
Last Week: 5
Week 10 Opponent: at California
Washington’s win over Utah moves the Huskies to 8-0 for the first time since 1992.
5. Louisville (7-1)
Week 9 Result: Beat Virginia 32-25
Last Week: 4
Week 10 Opponent: at Boston College
Lamar Jackson’s four touchdowns help Louisville dodge Virginia’s upset bid in final minute.
6. Ohio State (7-1)
Week 9 Result: Beat Northwestern 24-20
Last Week: 6
Week 10 Opponent: Nebraska
Win over Northwestern wasn’t pretty, but Buckeyes needed a rebound victory after last week’s loss at Penn State. In a surprise, the Wildcats generated 406 total yards against Ohio State’s defense. Is the defense showing a few chinks in the armor?
7. Wisconsin (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Nebraska 23-17
Last Week: 7
Week 10 Opponent: at Northwestern
Turnovers, a sluggish passing game and special teams issues nearly cost Wisconsin win over Nebraska. However, coach Paul Chryst’s defense steps up once again to hold on in overtime.
8. Texas A&M (7-1)
Week 9 Result: Beat NMSU 52-10
Last Week: 8
Week 10 Opponent: at Mississippi State
Easy win over New Mexico State allowed coach Kevin Sumlin to rest a couple of key players dealing with injuries.
9. Auburn (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Ole Miss 40-29
Last Week: 13
Week 10 Opponent: Vanderbilt
Tigers use another huge performance from Kamryn Pettway to win at Ole Miss and earn fifth victory in a row.
10. Oklahoma (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Kansas 56-3
Last Week: 14
Week 10 Opponent: at Iowa State (Thursday)
Another week, another Saturday of big plays from quarterback Baker Mayfield and receiver Dede Westbrook.
11. Florida (6-1)
Week 9 Result: Beat Georgia 24-10
Last Week: 15
Week 10 Opponent: at Arkansas
Gators in firm control of SEC East after win over Georgia and Tennessee’s loss to South Carolina.
12. Nebraska (7-1)
Week 9 Result: Lost to Wisconsin 23-17
Last Week: 10
Week 10 Opponent: at Ohio State
Cornhuskers knocked from ranks of unbeaten in overtime loss at Wisconsin. Things won’t get any easier for Nebraska with a trip to Ohio State up next.
13. Baylor (6-1)
Week 9 Result: Lost to Texas 35-34
Last Week: 9
Week 10 Opponent: TCU
Seth Russell’s huge day not enough for Baylor to overcome struggles against the run and in pass protection in 35-34 defeat at Texas.
14. North Carolina (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 16
Week 10 Opponent: Georgia Tech
Three out of North Carolina’s four remaining games take place in Chapel Hill.
15. Florida State (5-3)
Week 9 Result: Lost to Clemson 37-34
Last Week: 17
Week 10 Opponent: at NC State
Upset bid falls just short for Florida State after Deshaun Watson’s fourth-quarter heroics keep Clemson unbeaten and in control of ACC Atlantic.
16. LSU (5-2)
Week 9 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 20
Week 10 Opponent: Alabama
Ed Orgeron looks for statement win as LSU’s interim coach next Saturday against Alabama.
17. Virginia Tech (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Pitt 39-36
Last Week: 23
Week 10 Opponent: at Duke
Big night from quarterback Jerod Evans (406 yards) helps Virginia Tech edge Pitt 39-36 on Thursday night.
18. West Virginia (6-1)
Week 9 Result: Lost to Oklahoma State 37-20
Last Week: 12
Week 10 Opponent: Kansas
Three turnovers converted into 17 points for Oklahoma State prove costly for West Virginia.
19. Western Michigan (8-0)
Week 9 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 21
Week 10 Opponent: at Ball State (Tuesday)
Broncos hit the midweek portion of their schedule with a Tuesday night matchup at Ball State this week.
20. Colorado (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 22
Week 10 Opponent: UCLA
Path to win Pac-12’s South Division goes through Boulder with Colorado playing three of its final four games at home.
21. Utah (7-2)
Week 9 Result: Lost to Washington 31-24
Last Week: 19
Week 10 Opponent: Bye Week
Utah’s upset bid falls short against Washington, but Utes could get another shot at Huskies in Pac-12 title game.
22. Penn State (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Purdue 62-24
Last Week: 25
Week 10 Opponent: Iowa
No letdown for the Nittany Lions after last week’s win over Ohio State. Running back Saquon Barkley totaled 277 total yards and two scores in the 62-24 victory over Purdue.
23. Washington State (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat Oregon State 35-31
Last Week: NR
Week 10 Opponent: Arizona
Trip to Corvallis provided a tougher matchup than most anticipated. However, coach Mike Leach’s team overcame the early deficit to match Washington’s 5-0 start in Pac-12 play.
24. Oklahoma State (6-2)
Week 9 Result: Beat West Virginia 37-20
Last Week: NR
Week 10 Opponent: at Kansas State
Win over West Virginia helps Oklahoma State climb back into the Big 12 title picture, but Cowboys play three out of last four games away from Stillwater.
25. USC (5-3)
Week 9 Result: Beat California 45-24
Last Week: NR
Week 10 Opponent: Oregon
Trojans continue to roll behind quarterback Sam Darnold with victory over California on Thursday night.
College Football Post-Week 8 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (8-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat Texas A&M 33-14
Last Week: 1
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Alabama turns in another dominant performance against a ranked team in 33-14 victory over Texas A&M. Trip to LSU on Nov. 5 will be interesting for coach Nick Saban’s team.
2. Clemson (7-0)
Week 8 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 3
Week 9 Opponent: at Florida State
Tigers looking for first win at Florida State since 2006 next Saturday night.
3. Michigan (7-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat Illinois 41-8
Last Week: 4
Week 9 Opponent: at Michigan State
Wolverines cruise to easy win over Illinois and benefit from Ohio State’s loss at Penn State.
4. Louisville (6-1)
Week 8 Result: Beat NC State 54-13
Last Week: 5
Week 9 Opponent: at Virginia
Lamar Jackson posts 431 overall yards and four total scores in Louisville’s easy 54-13 victory over NC State.
5. Washington (7-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat Oregon State 41-17
Last Week: 6
Week 9 Opponent: at Utah
Next Saturday’s showdown at Utah could be a preview of the Pac-12 Championship.
6. Ohio State (6-1)
Week 8 Result: Lost to Penn State 24-21
Last Week: 2
Week 9 Opponent: Northwestern
Errors on special teams and inconsistent passing attack doom Buckeyes in Happy Valley. However, Ohio State still controls its own destiny for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
7. Wisconsin (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Iowa 17-9
Last Week: 8
Week 9 Opponent: Nebraska
Win over Hawkeyes is huge for West Division title hopes, but coach Paul Chryst’s team faces another tough opponent with Nebraska visiting Madison next week.
8. Texas A&M (6-1)
Week 8 Result: Lost to Alabama 33-14
Last Week: 7
Week 9 Opponent: New Mexico State
Alabama’s defense and ground attack simply too much for Texas A&M to overcome in Tuscaloosa. However, the season is far from over for the Aggies, as an 11-1 record and a New Year’s Six Bowl berth is within reach.
9. Baylor (6-0)
Week 8 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 9
Week 9 Opponent: at Texas
Bears have cruised to 6-0 record, but the schedule will get tougher over the next six games, starting with a trip to Austin against Texas in Week 9, followed by matchups against TCU and Oklahoma.
10. Nebraska (7-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat Purdue 27-14
Last Week: 10
Week 9 Opponent: at Wisconsin
Cornhuskers pull away from pesky Purdue in second half, setting up a huge showdown in Madison against Wisconsin next Saturday night.
11. Tennessee (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 11
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Bye week was a needed break for a Tennessee team dealing with significant injuries on both sides of the ball.
12. West Virginia (6-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat TCU 34-10
Last Week: 17
Week 9 Opponent: at Oklahoma State
Dana Holgorsen’s team continues to impress with easy 34-10 victory over TCU.
13. Auburn (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Arkansas 56-3
Last Week: 23
Week 9 Opponent: at Ole Miss
Tigers have made marked improvement over the last few weeks and dominated Arkansas 56-3 on Saturday night.
14. Oklahoma (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Texas Tech 66-59
Last Week: 13
Week 9 Opponent: Kansas
Sooners survive crazy shootout in Lubbock thanks to big performances from quarterback Baker Mayfield, running back Joe Mixon and receiver Dede Westbrook.
15. Florida (5-1)
Week 8 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 14
Week 9 Opponent: Georgia (Jacksonville)
Gators control their own destiny in SEC East, but the schedule features road trips to LSU and Arkansas, as well as the neutral site battle with Georgia next Saturday.
16. North Carolina (6-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Virginia 35-14
Last Week: 15
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s big day leads Tar Heels to 35-14 win over Virginia.
17. Florida State (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 16
Week 9 Opponent: Clemson
Seminoles look to play spoiler with Clemson visiting Tallahassee next Saturday night.
18. Boise State (7-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat BYU 28-27
Last Week: 18
Week 9 Opponent: at Wyoming
Broncos overcome turnovers and last-second Hail Mary attempt to earn one-point win over BYU.
19. Utah (7-1)
Week 8 Result: Beat UCLA 52-45
Last Week: 22
Week 9 Opponent: Washington
Return of running back Joe Williams from retirement has been a huge boost for Utah’s offense.
20. LSU (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Ole Miss 38-21
Last Week: NR
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Leonard Fournette’s huge night and a standout effort on defense helps Tigers overwhelm Rebels in Death Valley.
21. Western Michigan (8-0)
Week 8 Result: Beat Eastern Michigan 45-31
Last Week: 21
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Broncos should be 11-0 headed into Nov. 25 showdown against Toledo.
22. Colorado (6-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Stanford 10-5
Last Week: 25
Week 9 Opponent: Bye Week
Buffaloes are headed to a bowl for the first time since 2007.
23. Virginia Tech (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Miami 37-16
Last Week: NR
Week 9 Opponent: at Pitt
Jerod Evans and Bud Foster’s defense lead Hokies to convincing 37-16 win over Miami.
24. Navy (6-1)
Week 8 Result: Beat Memphis 42-28
Last Week: NR
Week 9 Opponent: at South Florida
Midshipmen increase lead in American Athletic West Division with victory over Memphis and Houston’s loss to SMU.
25. Penn State (5-2)
Week 8 Result: Beat Ohio State 24-21
Last Week: NR
Week 9 Opponent: Purdue
Nittany Lions score biggest win of James Franklin’s tenure with upset over Ohio State.
College Football Post-Week 7 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (7-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Tennessee 49-10
Last Week: 1
Week 8 Opponent: Texas A&M
Another week, another dominant performance from the Crimson Tide. Alabama now has a 10-game winning streak over the Volunteers.
2. Ohio State (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Wisconsin 30-23
Last Week: 2
Week 8 Opponent: at Penn State
Goal-line stand in overtime preserves Ohio State’s unbeaten record and place as the Big Ten’s frontrunner at the midway point of the season.
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3. Clemson (7-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat NC State 24-17
Last Week: 3
Week 8 Opponent: Bye Week
Tigers barely survive NC State’s upset bid to remain unbeaten. Will the bye week help this offense get back on track?
4. Michigan (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 4
Week 8 Opponent: Illinois
Wolverines have one more contest (Illinois) before a game against rival Michigan State.
5. Louisville (5-1)
Week 7 Result: Beat Duke 24-14
Last Week: 5
Week 8 Opponent: NC State
Cardinals overcome sluggish performance and utilize a late penalty against Duke to seal the 24-14 victory over the Blue Devils.
6. Washington (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 6
Week 8 Opponent: Oregon State
Huskies hope to keep their momentum rolling against Oregon State in Week 8, while a tough road trip to Utah looms in Week 9.
7. Texas A&M (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 7
Week 8 Opponent: at Alabama
Timely bye week should help Aggies return to full strength after key injuries hit this team over its last two games.
8. Wisconsin (4-2)
Week 7 Result: Lost to Ohio State 30-23
Last Week: 8
Week 8 Opponent: at Iowa
No shame in an overtime loss against Ohio State.
9. Baylor (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Kansas 49-7
Last Week: 11
Week 8 Opponent: Bye Week
As expected, Baylor has no trouble in Saturday’s easy win over Kansas.
10. Nebraska (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Indiana 27-22
Last Week: 12
Week 8 Opponent: Purdue
It wasn’t pretty, but the Cornhuskers are 6-0 for the first time since 2001.
11. Tennessee (5-2)
Week 7 Result: Lost to Alabama 49-10
Last Week: 9
Week 8 Opponent: Bye Week
No second-half rally was in the cards for Tennessee this week, as Alabama dominated from the opening snap and never took its foot off the pedal.
12. Houston (6-1)
Week 7 Result: Beat Tulsa 38-31
Last Week: 13
Week 8 Opponent: at SMU
Goal-line stand on final play against Tulsa saves Houston’s New Year’s Six bowl hopes.
13. Oklahoma (4-2)
Week 7 Result: Beat Kansas State 38-17
Last Week: 14
Week 8 Opponent: at Texas Tech
The Baker Mayfield to Dede Westbrook connection stays hot in 38-17 win over Kansas State.
14. Florida (5-1)
Week 7 Result: Beat Missouri 40-14
Last Week: 15
Week 8 Opponent: Bye Week
Gators averaged 6.8 yards per play against Missouri, but quarterback Luke Del Rio wasn’t sharp (three interceptions and 18 of 38) in his return to the starting lineup.
15. North Carolina (5-2)
Week 7 Result: Beat Miami 20-13
Last Week: 17
Week 8 Opponent: at Virginia
Tar Heels quickly erase last week’s disappointment with a crucial win at Miami.
16. Florida State (5-2)
Week 7 Result: Beat Wake Forest 17-6
Last Week: 18
Week 8 Opponent: Bye Week
Demon Deacons gave Florida State all it could handle, but Seminoles hold on to keep slim ACC Atlantic title hopes alive. Next up? A bye week before a date against Clemson on Oct. 29.
17. West Virginia (5-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Texas Tech 48-17
Last Week: 21
Week 8 Opponent: TCU
The Mountaineers held Texas Tech’s high-powered offense to just 17 points in an easy 48-17 victory in Lubbock.
18. Boise State (6-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Colorado State 28-23
Last Week: 19
Week 8 Opponent: BYU (Thursday night)
Broncos hold off late rally by Colorado State to improve to 6-0 overall. Boise State faces a short week and a tough opponent (BYU) for Week 8.
19. Arkansas (5-2)
Week 7 Result: Beat Ole Miss 34-30
Last Week: NR
Week 8 Opponent: at Auburn
Quarterback Austin Allen and a few timely stops on defense help Hogs rebound from 49-30 loss to Alabama.
20. Ole Miss (3-3)
Week 7 Result: Lost to Arkansas 34-30
Last Week: 10
Week 8 Opponent: at LSU
Rebels fall in heartbreaker at Arkansas. All three of Ole Miss’ losses came by seven points or less this season.
21. Western Michigan (7-0)
Week 7 Result: Beat Akron 41-0
Last Week: 22
Week 8 Opponent: Eastern Michigan
The Broncos have scored at least 41 points in each of their last four games. With games remaining against Eastern Michigan, Ball State, Kent State, Buffalo and Toledo, Western Michigan is on track for a perfect regular season record (12-0) before the MAC title game.
22. Utah (6-1)
Week 7 Result: Beat Oregon State 19-14
Last Week: 23
Week 8 Opponent: at UCLA
Weather conditions and injuries took a toll on Utah in Saturday’s 19-14 win over Oregon State.
23. Auburn (4-2)
Week 7 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 24
Week 8 Opponent: Arkansas
Tough two-game stretch – Arkansas and at Ole Miss – coming up for the Tigers.
24. USF (6-1)
Week 7 Result: Beat UConn 42-27
Last Week: 25
Week 8 Opponent: at Temple (Friday)
Strong performance from quarterback Quinton Flowers (5 overall TDs) helps Bulls pull away from UConn 42-27. Win over Temple on Friday night would give coach Willie Taggart’s team a commanding lead in the American Athletic Conference’s East Division.
25. Colorado (5-2)
Week 7 Result: Beat Arizona State 40-16
Last Week: NR
Week 8 Opponent: at Stanford
Buffaloes already have three Pac-12 victories after having just one from 2014-15.
College Football Post-Week 6 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Arkansas 49-30
Last Week: 1
Week 7 Opponent: at Tennessee
The Crimson Tide quickly ended any hopes Arkansas had of an upset win in Fayetteville.
2. Ohio State (5-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Indiana 38-17
Last Week: 2
Week 7 Opponent: at Wisconsin
Indiana’s defense contained the Buckeye passing attack, but J.T. Barrett, Curtis Samuel and Mike Weber were too tough to stop on the ground.
3. Clemson (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Boston College 56-10
Last Week: 3
Week 7 Opponent: NC State
No letdown for coach Dabo Swinney’s team after last week’s win at Louisville, as Clemson cruised to easy 56-10 win over Boston College on Friday night.
4. Michigan (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Rutgers 78-0
Last Week: 4
Week 7 Opponent: Bye Week
Michigan’s statistical domination against Rutgers is one of the most staggering box scores to read in recent memory.
5. Louisville (4-1)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 6
Week 7 Opponent: Duke
Lamar Jackson’s Heisman campaign resumes with a Friday night matchup against Duke.
6. Washington (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Oregon 70-21
Last Week: 7
Week 7 Opponent: Bye Week
A changing of the guard is underway in the Pac-12 North. The Huskies dominated Oregon to end a 12-game losing streak in this rivalry.
7. Texas A&M (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Tennessee 45-38
Last Week: 8
Week 7 Opponent: Bye Week
Win over Tennessee sets up huge showdown against Alabama in two weeks. And the upcoming bye week is good news for coach Kevin Sumlin’s team after a physical battle against the Volunteers, as well as to heal injuries to a couple of key players.
8. Wisconsin (4-1)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 10
Week 7 Opponent: Ohio State
Wisconsin’s brutal schedule resumes after week off with No. 2 Ohio State visiting Madison.
9. Tennessee (5-1)
Week 6 Result: Lost to Texas A&M 45-38
Last Week: 9
Week 7 Opponent: Alabama
Volunteers nearly pulled off another second-half rally but ran out of magic in overtime against Texas A&M.
10. Ole Miss (3-2)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 13
Week 7 Opponent: at Arkansas
Rebels return from bye week looking to end two-game losing streak to Arkansas.
11. Baylor (5-0)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 14
Week 7 Opponent: Kansas
The Bears have one more tune up (Kansas) before hitting the toughest portion of their 2016 slate.
12. Nebraska (5-0)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 15
Week 6 Opponent: at Indiana
The Week 6 bye came at a good time for the Cornhuskers. Quarterback Tommy Armstrong, tight end Cethan Carter and receiver Jordan Westerkamp are just a few key Cornhuskers nursing injuries from the first month of the season.
13. Houston (5-1)
Week 6 Result: Lost to Navy 46-40
Last Week: 5
Week 7 Opponent: Tulsa
Houston’s playoff hopes sink after loss to Navy. Coach Tom Herman’s team now needs a little help to win the American Athletic Conference’s West Division.
14. Oklahoma (3-2)
Week 6 Result: Beat Texas 45-40
Last Week: 21
Week 7 Opponent: Kansas State
Sooners use big performances by quarterback Baker Mayfield (390 passing yards), running back Samaje Perine (214 yards) and receiver Dede Westbrook (232 receiving yards) to hold off Texas 45-40 in the Red River Rivalry.
15. Florida (4-1)
Week 6 Result: Game Against LSU Postponed
Last Week: 20
Week 7 Opponent: Missouri
After Saturday’s game against LSU was postponed, Florida turns its attention to Missouri and an upcoming showdown against Georgia on Oct. 29. The additional time to heal should help quarterback Luke Del Rio and a couple of key defenders return to full strength for coach Jim McElwain.
16. Virginia Tech (4-1)
Week 6 Result: Beat North Carolina 34-3
Last Week: NR
Week 7 Opponent: at Syracuse
New coach Justin Fuente clearly has the Hokies trending in the right direction.
17. North Carolina (4-2)
Week 6 Result: Lost to Virginia Tech 34-3
Last Week: 17
Week 7 Opponent: at Miami
Loss to Virginia Tech hurts in Coastal race, but Tar Heels can quickly rebound with a trip to Miami ahead next Saturday.
18. Florida State (4-2)
Week 6 Result: Beat Miami 20-19
Last Week: 24
Week 7 Opponent: Wake Forest
Seminoles use blocked extra point to extend winning streak over Miami to seven.
19. Boise State (5-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat New Mexico 49-21
Last Week: 22
Week 7 Opponent: Colorado State
Quarterback Brett Rypien’s five first-half touchdown passes were more than enough for Boise State in Friday night’s 49-21 win over New Mexico.
20. Miami (4-1)
Week 6 Result: Lost to Florida State 20-19
Last Week: 11
Week 7 Opponent: North Carolina
Hurricanes lose in heartbreaking fashion to Florida State but need to quickly refocus with North Carolina visiting in Week 7.
21. West Virginia (4-0)
Week 6 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 23
Week 7 Opponent: at Texas Tech
Mountaineers use bye week to prepare for tough upcoming stretch: at Texas Tech, TCU and at Oklahoma State
22. Western Michigan (6-0)
Week 6 Result: Beat Northern Illinois 45-30
Last Week: 25
Week 7 Opponent: at Akron
Loss by Houston certainly helps Western Michigan’s case to be the top Group of 5 program this year.
23. Utah (5-1)
Week 6 Result: Beat Arizona 36-23
Last Week: NR
Week 7 Opponent: at Oregon State
Utes knock off Arizona, but injuries taking a toll on coach Kyle Whittingham’s offense.
24. Auburn (4-2)
Week 6 Result: Beat Mississippi State 38-14
Last Week: NR
Week 7 Opponent: Bye Week
Tigers quietly on the right track after 1-2 start.
25. USF (5-1)
Week 6 Result: Beat East Carolina 38-22
Last Week: NR
Week 7 Opponent: UConn
Bulls have scored at least 35 points in every game this season.
College Football Post-Week 5 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Kentucky 34-6
Last Week: 1
Week 6 Opponent: at Arkansas
Crimson Tide started slow but easily pulled away from Kentucky after the first quarter. Tough back-to-back road trips (Arkansas and Tennessee) are up next.
2. Ohio State (4-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Rutgers 58-0
Last Week: 2
Week 6 Opponent: Indiana
Quarterback J.T. Barrett throws four touchdowns for the second week in a row, as Ohio State easily defeats Rutgers 58-0.
3. Clemson (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Louisville 42-36
Last Week: 6
Week 6 Opponent: at Boston College
Tigers edge Louisville to emerge as the top team from the ACC in one of the best games so far in the 2016 college football season.
4. Michigan (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Wisconsin 14-7
Last Week: 4
Week 6 Opponent: at Rutgers
Cornerback Jourdan Lewis’ nifty one-handed interception was just one highlight from a standout defensive effort in Saturday’s 14-7 win over Wisconsin.
5. Houston (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat UConn 42-14
Last Week: 5
Week 6 Opponent: at Navy
Big night from quarterback Greg Ward helps Houston cruise to easy win and get revenge against UConn from last season’s loss.
6. Louisville (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Lost to Clemson 42-36
Last Week: 3
Week 6 Opponent: Bye Week
Another huge effort from Lamar Jackson, but Cardinals fall short of win at Clemson. Despite the loss, Louisville is still one of the nation’s top teams and a threat to make the College Football Playoff (if the Cardinals win out).
7. Washington (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Stanford 44-6
Last Week: 9
Week 6 Opponent: at Oregon
Convincing victory over Stanford should end any doubts on whether or not the Huskies were worthy of their preseason hype.
8. Texas A&M (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat South Carolina 24-13
Last Week: 10
Week 6 Opponent: Tennessee
Aggies were missing three key players but avoided post-Arkansas hangover with 24-13 win over South Carolina.
9. Tennessee (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Georgia 34-31
Last Week: 11
Week 6 Opponent: at Texas A&M
More second-half heroics from quarterback Joshua Dobbs (this time on a Hail Mary completion as time expired) gives Tennessee a commanding lead in the SEC East.
10. Wisconsin (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Lost to Michigan 14-7
Last Week: 8
Week 6 Opponent: Bye Week
No shame in Wisconsin’s defensive effort against Michigan in Saturday’s 14-7 loss. Schedule doesn’t get any easier for the Badgers with Ohio State visiting Madison on Oct. 15.
11. Miami (4-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Georgia Tech 35-21
Last Week: 17
Week 6 Opponent: Florida State
Steady play of quarterback Brad Kaaya and an opportunistic defense (three turnovers) led guided the Hurricanes to a 35-21 win over Georgia Tech. Miami will be looking to snap a six-game losing streak to Florida State in Week 6.
12. Stanford (3-1)
Week 5 Result: Lost to Washington 44-6
Last Week: 7
Week 6 Opponent: Washington State
Cardinal simply overwhelmed in Friday night loss at Washington.
13. Ole Miss (3-2)
Week 5 Result: Beat Memphis 48-28
Last Week: 14
Week 6 Opponent: Bye Week
Rebels head into bye week with momentum after getting revenge from last year’s loss against Memphis.
14. Baylor (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Iowa State 45-42
Last Week: 15
Week 6 Opponent: Kansas
Bears pound away for 469 yards on the ground to escape Ames with a 45-42 victory over Iowa State.
15. Nebraska (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Illinois 31-16
Last Week: 16
Week 6 Opponent: Bye Week
Cornhuskers are the lone remaining unbeaten in the Big Ten’s West Division.
16. Colorado (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Beat Oregon State 47-6
Last Week: 21
Week 6 Opponent: at USC
Buffaloes get another strong start from redshirt freshman quarterback Steven Montez in relief of an injured Sefo Liufau in Saturday’s 47-6 win over Oregon State.
17. North Carolina (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Beat Florida State 37-35
Last Week: NR
Week 6 Opponent: Virginia Tech
Tar Heels rejoin Athlon’s top 25 rankings after last-second win over Florida State.
18. UCLA (3-2)
Week 5 Result: Beat Arizona 45-24
Last Week: 18
Week 6 Opponent: at Arizona State
Bruins showed no hangover effect from last week’s crushing loss to Stanford. Quarterback Josh Rosen threw for 350 yards and three scores in Saturday night’s 45-24 over Arizona.
19. Arkansas (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Beat Alcorn State
Last Week: Beat Alcorn State 52-10
Week 6 Opponent: Alabama
Razorbacks able to empty the bench and rest starters in easy win over Alcorn State. Next up? A home date against Alabama.
20. Florida (4-1)
Week 5 Result: Beat Vanderbilt 13-6
Last Week: 20
Week 6 Opponent: LSU
Win over Vanderbilt wasn’t pretty, but Gators leave Nashville with a victory. Will quarterback Luke Del Rio be healthy enough to return to the lineup for next week’s game against LSU?
21. Oklahoma (2-2)
Week 5 Result: Beat TCU 52-46
Last Week: NR
Week 6 Opponent: Texas
Sooners use 28-point second quarter and late stop on defense to defeat TCU 52-46 in Fort Worth. Despite early losses to Houston and Ohio State, Oklahoma is still alive in the Big 12 title picture.
22. Boise State (4-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Utah State 21-10
Last Week: 24
Week 6 Opponent: at New Mexico
San Diego State’s loss to South Alabama moves Boise State into the No. 2 spot behind Houston for the top Group of 5 team in 2016.
23. West Virginia (4-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Kansas State 17-16
Last Week: 25
Week 6 Opponent: Bye Week
Narrow victory (17-16) over Kansas State in Week 5 was West Virginia’s first win over the Wildcats since joining the Big 12.
24. Florida State (3-2)
Week 5 Result: Lost to North Carolina 37-35
Last Week: 12
Week 6 Opponent: at Miami
Late pass interference penalty and three missed field goals loom large in Florida State’s two-point loss to North Carolina. The Seminoles were a popular pick to play for the national title this preseason.
25. Western Michigan (5-0)
Week 5 Result: Beat Central Michigan 49-10
Last Week: NR
Week 6 Opponent: Northern Illinois
Broncos crush rival Central Michigan 49-10 to join top 25 rankings for first time this year.
College Football Post-Week 4 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Kent State 48-0
Last Week: 1
Week 5 Opponent: Kentucky
As expected, Crimson Tide posted a dominant 48-0 victory over Kent State. Injuries to receiver Calvin Ridley, running back Damien Harris and cornerback Marlon Humphrey from the win over Kent State don’t appear to be serious.
2. Ohio State (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 2
Week 5 Opponent: Rutgers
Buckeyes will be heavy favorites in their next two games (Rutgers and Indiana). The Oct. 15 road date at Wisconsin looks a lot tougher than it did in the preseason.
3. Louisville (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Marshall 59-28
Last Week: 3
Week 5 Opponent: at Clemson
Another huge performance from Lamar Jackson leads the Cardinals to easy road win over Marshall. Next up? A showdown against Clemson.
4. Michigan (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Penn State 49-10
Last Week: 4
Week 5 Opponent: Wisconsin
Wolverines dominated the line of scrimmage (and the scoreboard) in Saturday’s 49-10 victory over Penn State.
5. Houston (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Houston 64-3
Last Week: 5
Week 5 Opponent: UConn (Thursday)
Revenge is on Houston’s mind with UConn – the only team to beat the Cougars last year – visiting TDECU Stadium on Thursday night.
6. Clemson (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Georgia Tech 26-7
Last Week: 6
Week 5 Opponent: Louisville
Clemson’s defense dominated the line of scrimmage and never allowed Georgia Tech’s option offense to get on track.
7. Stanford (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat UCLA 22-13
Last Week: 7
Week 5 Opponent: at Washington (Friday)
Last-minute heroics by quarterback Ryan Burns and receiver JJ Arcega-Whiteside lift Stanford to its ninth consecutive win over UCLA.
8. Wisconsin (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Michigan State 30-6
Last Week: 11
Week 5 Opponent: at Michigan
Badgers score another impressive win after a dominant 30-6 victory in East Lansing over Michigan State. However, the schedule doesn’t get any easier with a trip to Michigan next Saturday.
9. Washington (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Arizona 35-28
Last Week: 8
Week 5 Opponent: Stanford (Friday)
Were the Huskies caught looking ahead to Stanford? Washington needed overtime to knock off Arizona on Saturday night.
10. Texas A&M (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Arkansas 45-24
Last Week: 14
Week 5 Opponent: at South Carolina
Aggies had a complete team performance in the 45-24 win over Arkansas. End Myles Garrett and safety Armani Watts led the effort on defense, while quarterback Trevor Knight guided the offense to an average of 10 yards per play.
11. Tennessee (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Florida 38-28
Last Week: 11
Week 5 Opponent: at Georgia
The streak is over. Tennessee uses strong second-half performance to end 11-game losing streak to Florida.
12. Florida State (3-1)
Week 4 Result: Beat USF 55-35
Last Week: 10
Week 5 Opponent: North Carolina
Dalvin Cook finally looked like the player we expected to see in 2016. However, Florida State still has a lot of question marks to address on defense.
13. Michigan State (2-1)
Week 4 Result: Loss to Wisconsin 30-6
Last Week: 9
Week 5 Opponent: at Indiana
Turnovers and a sputtering offense too much for Michigan State to overcome in 30-6 loss against Wisconsin.
14. Ole Miss (2-2)
Week 4 Result: Beat Georgia 45-14
Last Week: 18
Week 5 Opponent: Memphis
Dominant. That’s the easiest way to describe Ole Miss’ 45-14 victory on Saturday.
15. Baylor (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Oklahoma State 35-24
Last Week: NR
Week 5 Opponent: at Iowa State
Quarterback Seth Russell throws for 387 yards and four scores to lead 35-24 win over Oklahoma State in Baylor’s Big 12 opener.
16. Nebraska (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Northwestern
Last Week: NR
Week 5 Opponent: Illinois
After tossing 16 interceptions last season, quarterback Tommy Armstrong has only one interception through the first four games of 2016.
17. Miami (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 24
Week 5 Opponent: at Georgia Tech
Timely bye week helps Miami prepare for Georgia Tech’s option attack.
18. UCLA (2-2)
Week 4 Result: Lost to Stanford 22-13
Last Week: 16
Week 5 Opponent: Arizona
Bruins couldn’t hold onto late lead in 22-13 loss to Stanford. However, there’s no shame in losses to Stanford and Texas A&M.
19. Arkansas (3-1)
Week 4 Result: Lost to Texas A&M 45-24
Last Week: 15
Week 5 Opponent: Alcorn State
Missed opportunities in the red zone and turnovers marred Arkansas’ loss to Texas A&M.
20. Florida (3-1)
Week 4 Result: Loss to Tennessee 38-28
Last Week: 17
Week 5 Opponent: at Vanderbilt
The second half wasn’t kind to Florida in the 38-28 loss to Tennessee. The Gators couldn’t get anything going on offense, while the defense allowed the Volunteers to score touchdowns on five of the first seven drives in the final two quarters.
21. Colorado (3-1)
Week 4 Result: Beat Oregon 41-38
Last Week: NR
Week 5 Opponent: Oregon State
If there was any doubt regarding Mike MacIntyre’s coaching ability, Colorado’s start to the 2016 season should put those to rest.
22. San Diego State (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 20
Week 5 Opponent: at South Alabama
Aztecs have one more non-conference trip remaining before opening Mountain West play on Oct. 8 against UNLV.
23. Utah (4-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat USC 31-27
Last Week: NR
Week 5 Opponent: at California
Quarterback Troy Williams delivered in the clutch in Friday night’s win over USC.
24. Boise State (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat Oregon State 38-24
Last Week: 25
Week 5 Opponent: Utah State
Broncos go 2-0 against Pac-12 teams after 38-24 win over Oregon State.
25. West Virginia (3-0)
Week 4 Result: Beat BYU 35-32
Last Week: NR
Week 5 Opponent: Kansas State
Mountaineers quietly off to a solid 3-0 start after beating BYU at FedEx Field in Week 4.
College Football Post-Week 3 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Ole Miss 48-43
Last Week: 1
Week 4 Opponent: Kent State
Crimson Tide rushing attack comes alive, while defense scores twice to avoid a third consecutive loss to Ole Miss.
2. Ohio State (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Oklahoma 45-24
Last Week: 4
Week 4 Opponent: Bye Week
The Buckeyes returned only six starters this season. However, after Saturday night’s dominant 45-24 victory over Oklahoma, Urban Meyer’s team looks better team than the one that went 12-1 last season.
3. Louisville (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Florida State 63-20
Last Week: 13
Week 4 Opponent: at Marshall
Quarterback Lamar Jackson was terrific once again, but the Louisville defense was also instrumental in the blowout victory over Florida State.
4. Michigan (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Colorado 45-28
Last Week: 5
Week 4 Opponent: Penn State
Michigan’s defense held Colorado to just 18 total yards over the last seven drives in Saturday’s 45-28 victory.
5. Houston (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Cincinnati 40-16
Last Week: 5
Week 4 Opponent: at Texas State
Two interceptions returned for touchdowns and timely plays by quarterback Greg Ward propelled Houston to a big fourth quarter and a 40-16 victory over Cincinnati on Thursday night.
6. Clemson (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat South Carolina State 59-0
Last Week: 6
Week 4 Opponent: at Georgia Tech (Thursday)
Tigers cruised to an easy win over South Carolina State and may have worked out some of the kinks on offense (7.1 ypp).
7. Stanford (2-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat USC 27-10
Last Week: 8
Week 4 Opponent: at UCLA
Running back Christian McCaffrey delivers another big performance against USC to lead the Cardinal to their third win in a row over the Trojans.
8. Washington (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Portland State 41-3
Last Week: 7
Week 4 Opponent: at Arizona
As expected, the Huskies dominated their non-conference slate. There’s a looming showdown against Stanford on Sept. 30.
9. Michigan State (2-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Notre Dame 36-28
Last Week: 12
Week 4 Opponent: Wisconsin
Spartans take advantage of three Notre Dame turnovers and use 21-point effort in third quarter to earn a 36-28 victory over the Fighting Irish.
10. Florida State (2-1)
Week 3 Result: Lost to Louisville 63-20
Last Week: 2
Week 4 Opponent: at USF
The Seminoles have a lot of issues to address, but coach Jimbo Fisher’s team has plenty of time to play their way back into the playoff picture.
11. Wisconsin (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Georgia State 23-17
Last Week: 10
Week 4 Opponent at Michigan State
It wasn’t pretty, but the Badgers held off upset-minded Georgia State on Saturday. The focus shifts to conference play with a trip to Michigan State next week, but who takes the majority of snaps at quarterback after Alex Hornibrook replaced Bart Houston late in the win on Saturday?
12. Tennessee (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Ohio 28-19
Last Week: 14
Week 4 Opponent: Florida
Once again, the Volunteers weren’t impressive in a victory. However, the Volunteers are 3-0 and still in good shape to win the SEC East.
13. Georgia (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Missouri 28-27
Last Week: 15
Week 4 Opponent: at Ole Miss
Jacob Eason’s clutch touchdown toss to Isaiah McKenzie with less than two minutes remaining propels Georgia to win over Missouri. Bulldogs have won last two games by a combined three points.
14. Texas A&M (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Auburn 29-16
Last Week: 17
Week 4 Opponent: Arkansas (Arlington)
Balanced attack on offense (247 passing yards to 231 rushing) and stingy defense (4.5 yards per play allowed) guides Texas A&M to road win at Auburn.
15. Arkansas (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Texas State 42-3
Last Week: 20
Week 4 Opponent: Texas A&M (Arlington)
Hogs cruised to easy win over Texas State to move to 3-0, but the focus shifts to SEC play and the neutral site matchup against Texas A&M next Saturday. Arkansas has lost by seven points in each of the last two years against the Aggies.
16. UCLA (2-1)
Week 3 Result: Beat BYU 17-14
Last Week: 21
Week 4 Opponent: Stanford
Bruins will be looking to end eight-game losing streak against Stanford in Week 4.
17. Florida (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat North Texas 32-0
Last Week: 22
Week 4 Opponent: at Tennessee
Injury to quarterback Luke Del Rio puts a damper on Florida’s win over North Texas (and 3-0 start).
18. Ole Miss (1-2)
Week 3 Result: Lost to Alabama 48-43
Last Week: 16
Week 4 Opponent: Georgia
Rebels gave No. 1 Alabama all it could handle (and nearly made it three in a row over the Crimson Tide).
19. LSU (2-1)
Week 3 Result: Beat Mississippi State 23-20
Last Week: 23
Week 4 Opponent: at Auburn
Mississippi State made it interesting late, but quarterback Danny Etling (19 of 30 for 215 yards) was solid in his first start and running back Leonard Fournette (147 yards) was in midseason form.
20. San Diego State (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat NIU 42-28
Last Week: NR
Week 4 Opponent: Bye Week
Aztecs make their first appearance of the season in Athlon’s top 25.
21. California (2-1)
Week 3 Result: Beat Texas 50-43
Last Week: NR
Week 4 Opponent: at Arizona State
Davis Webb to Chad Hansen is becoming one of the nation’s top pass-catch combinations for 2016.
22. Texas (2-1)
Week 3 Result: Lost to California 50-43
Last Week: 9
Week 4 Opponent: Bye Week
Longhorns unable to contain California’s offense in a 50-43 loss at Berkeley.
23. Notre Dame (1-2)
Week 3 Result: Lost to Michigan State 36-28
Last Week: 11
Week 4 Opponent: Duke
Defense woes showed up once again in loss to Michigan State.
24. Miami (3-0)
Week 3 Result: Beat Appalachian State 45-10
Last Week: NR
Week 4 Opponent: Bye Week
Hurricanes easily avoided Appalachian State’s upset bid with 45-10 victory in Boone.
25. Boise State (2-0)
Week 3 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 25
Week 4 Opponent: at Oregon State
Broncos look to go 2-0 against Pac-12 teams with a matchup against Oregon State this Saturday.
College Football Post-Week 2 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat WKU 38-10
Last Week: 1
Week 3 Opponent: at Ole Miss
Nick Saban may not be happy, but the Crimson Tide still looks like the best team in the nation.
2. Florida State (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Charleston Southern 52-8
Last Week: 2
Week 3 Opponent: at Louisville
Injury to safety Derwin James is something to monitor with huge matchup at Louisville ahead in Week 3.
3. Ohio State (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Tulsa 48-3
Last Week: 4
Week 3 Opponent: at Oklahoma
The Buckeyes’ defense has yet to allow a touchdown through the first two games of the season. A better test awaits this unit on Saturday at Oklahoma.
4. Michigan (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat UCF 51-14
Last Week: 5
Week 3 Opponent: Colorado
Wolverines have dominated on defense through the first two games of 2016, but the pieces are also starting to fall into place on offense.
5. Houston (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Lamar 42-0
Last Week: 6
Week 3 Opponent: at Cincinnati
No Greg Ward? No problem against Lamar. All signs point to Ward returning for Week 3.
6. Clemson (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Troy 30-24
Last Week: 3
Week 3 Opponent: South Carolina State
The Tigers have not looked sharp through the first two games. Will Dabo Swinney’s team get on track against South Carolina State next week?
7. Washington (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Idaho 59-14
Last Week: 7
Week 3 Opponent: Portland State
Huskies have one more tune-up opportunity in Week 3 (Portland State) before Pac-12 play opens on Sept. 24 at Arizona.
8. Stanford (1-0)
Week 2 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 8
Week 3 Opponent: USC
The Cardinal opens Pac-12 play next week with USC coming to town, with road dates also looming against UCLA (Sept. 24) and Washington (Sept. 30).
9. Texas (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat UTEP 41-7
Last Week: 9
Week 3 Opponent: at California
Are the Longhorns the Big 12’s best team and hope for a playoff contender?
10. Wisconsin (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Akron 54-10
Last Week: 10
Week 3 Opponent: Georgia State
There was no hangover from the upset win over LSU for the Badgers in an easy win against Akron on Saturday.
11. Notre Dame (1-1)
Week 2 Result: Beat Nevada 39-10
Last Week: 11
Week 3 Opponent: Michigan State
Fighting Irish cruised in win over Nevada but need a win over Michigan State to keep playoff hopes alive next week.
12. Michigan State (1-0)
Week 2 Result: Bye Week
Last Week: 13
Week 3 Opponent: at Notre Dame
Spartans use bye week to prep for road trip to Notre Dame.
13. Louisville (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Syracuse 62-28
Last Week: 16
Week 3 Opponent: Florida State
Cardinals are averaging 66 points a game through the first two weeks of the season. Can that hold in Week 3 against Florida State?
14. Tennessee (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Virginia Tech 45-24
Last Week: 14
Week 3 Opponent: Ohio
The Battle of Bristol was close for a half, but the Volunteers eventually played like a team that was picked as the SEC East favorite in 2016.
15. Georgia (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Nicholls 26-24
Last Week: 14
Week 3 Opponent: at Missouri
Bulldogs were not impressive against Nicholls in Kirby Smart’s home opener.
16. Ole Miss (1-1)
Week 2 Result: Beat Wofford 38-13
Last Week: 15
Week 3 Opponent: Alabama
Can the Rebels make it three in a row over the Crimson Tide?
17. Texas A&M (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Prairie View 67-0
Last Week: 17
Week 3 Opponent: at Auburn
No trouble in Week 2 for the Aggies with easy win over Prairie View.
18. Oklahoma (1-1)
Week 2 Result: Beat ULM 59-17
Last Week: 18
Week 3 Opponent: Ohio State
Next week’s matchup against Ohio State will make-or-break Oklahoma’s playoff hopes.
19. Iowa (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Iowa State 42-3
Last Week: 19
Week 3 Opponent: North Dakota State
Hawkeyes’ 39-point win over in-state rival Iowa State is biggest over Cyclones since 1997.
20. Arkansas (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat TCU 41-38
Last Week: NR
Week 3 Opponent: Texas State
New quarterback Austin Allen and senior linebacker Brooks Ellis delivered clutch plays to beat TCU.
21. UCLA (1-1)
Week 2 Result: Beat UNLV 42-21
Last Week: 21
Week 3 Opponent: at BYU
UCLA’s defense is banged up headed into Week 3 showdown against BYU.
22. Florida (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Kentucky 45-7
Last Week: 23
Week 3 Opponent: North Texas
Domination over Kentucky continued with 45-7 dismantling over Wildcats in Week 2.
23. LSU (1-1)
Week 2 Result: Beat Jacksonville State 34-13
Last Week: 20
Week 3 Opponent: Mississippi State
Is Danny Etling the spark LSU needs at quarterback?
24. Oregon (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Virginia 44-26
Last Week: 25
Week 3 Opponent: at Nebraska
Dakota Prukop (21 of 31 for 331 yards and three scores) was impressive in win over Virginia.
25. Boise State (2-0)
Week 2 Result: Beat Washington State 31-28
Last Week: NR
Week 3 Opponent: at Oregon State (Sept. 24)
Broncos should be 2-0 over Pac-12 opponents after a Sept. 24 trip to Oregon State.
College Football Post-Week 1 Top 25 Rankings
1. Alabama (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat USC 52-6
Last Week: 1
Week 2 Opponent: WKU
The Crimson Tide dominated USC and found their quarterback in freshman Jalen Hurts.
2. Florida State (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Ole Miss 45-34
Last Week: 2
Week 2 Opponent: Charleston Southern
Redshirt freshman quarterback Deondre Francois and senior defensive end DeMarcus Walker were instrumental in the second-half rally to beat the Rebels.
3. Ohio State (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Bowling Green 77-10
Last Week: 3
Week 2 Opponent: Tulsa
The Buckeyes have a wealth of promising playmakers, and J.T. Barrett looks a lot like the quarterback that accounted for 45 touchdowns in 2014.
4. Clemson (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Auburn 19-13
Last Week: 4
Week 2 Opponent: Troy
Auburn’s defense gave Clemson’s offense all it could handle. Tigers’ offense should bounce back against Troy this Saturday.
5. Michigan (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Hawaii 63-3
Last Week: 5
Week 2 Opponent: UCF
Easy win over Hawaii showcased Michigan’s dominant defense, while quarterback Wilton Speight (10 of 13) was steady in his debut.
6. Houston (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Oklahoma 33-23
Last Week: 15
Week 2 Opponent: Lamar
It’s a long ways off, but Houston’s win over Oklahoma certainly helps the playoff hopes of Tom Herman’s team.
7. Washington (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Rutgers 48-13
Last Week: 11
Week 2 Opponent: Idaho
Washington needed more from its passing game to win the Pac-12 this year. After one game, quarterback Jake Browning (287 yards against Rutgers) looks ready for a breakout year.
8. Stanford (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Kansas State 26-13
Last Week: 12
Week 2 Opponent: Bye Week
Christian McCaffrey was impressive once again, and quarterback Ryan Burns was steady in his first start in Friday’s win over Kansas State.
9. Texas (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Notre Dame 50-47
Last Week: 43
Week 2 Opponent: UTEP
New coordinator Sterlin Gilbert – along with the combination of Shane Buechele and Tyrone Swoopes at quarterback – is the right mix for Texas’ offense.
10. Wisconsin (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat LSU 16-14
Last Week: 33
Week 2 Opponent: Akron
Wisconsin’s win over LSU was one of Week 1’s biggest surprises.
11. Notre Dame (0-1)
Week 1 Result: Lost to Texas 50-47
Last Week: 8
Week 2 Opponent: Nevada
Loss at Texas hurts, but Fighting Irish can still climb into playoff contention with an 11-1 record.
12. Georgia (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat North Carolina 33-24
Last Week: 16
Week 2 Opponent: Nicholls
The Bulldogs looked like the SEC East’s best team in Week 1 in win over North Carolina.
13. Michigan State (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Furman 28-13
Last Week: 13
Week 2 Opponent: Bye Week
Spartans sluggish in win over Furman, but a bigger test for coach Mark Dantonio’s team awaits on Sept. 17 at Notre Dame.
14. Tennessee (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Appalachian State 20-13
Last Week: 7
Week 2 Opponent: Virginia Tech (Bristol)
Volunteers escaped on Thursday night with an overtime victory over Appalachian State. Butch Jones’ team has to play better to beat Virginia Tech.
15. Ole Miss (0-1)
Week 1 Result: Lost to Florida State 45-34
Last Week: 10
Week 2 Opponent: Wofford
Rebels were impressive for a half but were unable to hold on against Florida State. Monday night’s game showed this team still has plenty of returning talent to absorb the offseason losses at receiver and on the defensive line.
16. Louisville (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Charlotte 70-14
Last Week: 18
Week 2 Opponent: at Syracuse (Friday)
Cardinals and quarterback Lamar Jackson were impressive in rout over Charlotte. The schedule gets a little tougher with a trip to Syracuse this Friday.
17. Texas A&M (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat UCLA 31-24
Last Week: 28
Week 2 Opponent: Prairie View
Aggies’ defense continues to improve under coordinator John Chavis, while the offense has the right fit at quarterback in Trevor Knight.
18. Oklahoma (0-1)
Week 1 Result: Lost to Houston 33-23
Last Week: 6
Week 2 Opponent: ULM
Week 2 opponent (ULM) allows the Sooners to sort out the issues on both sides of the ball before the showdown against Ohio State on Sept. 17.
19. Iowa (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Miami, Ohio 45-21
Last Week: 19
Week 2 Opponent: Iowa State
Hawkeyes averaged 7.3 yards per rush in easy win over Miami (Ohio) on Saturday.
20. LSU (0-1)
Week 1 Result: Lost to Wisconsin 16-14
Last Week: 9
Week 2 Opponent: Jacksonville State
Offseason tweaks and improvement on offense? Still waiting.
21. UCLA (0-1)
Week 1 Result: Lost to Texas A&M 31-24
Last Week: 14
Week 2 Opponent: UNLV
Late rally came up short for the Bruins in College Station. Jim Mora’s team is still Athlon’s pick to win the South Division.
22. TCU (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat South Dakota State 59-41
Last Week: 17
Week 2 Opponent: Arkansas
Horned Frogs will have to play a lot better than they did against South Dakota State to beat Arkansas this Saturday.
23. Florida (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat UMass 24-7
Last Week: 20
Week 2 Opponent: Kentucky
New quarterback Luke Del Rio was steady, but Gators still have some issues to iron out on offense.
24. Oklahoma State (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat Southeastern Louisiana 61-7
Last Week: 24
Week 2 Opponent: Central Michigan
Cowboys cruised over Southeastern Louisiana, but the jury is out on whether or not the ground attack (3.8 yards per rush) is improved.
25. Oregon (1-0)
Week 1 Result: Beat UC Davis 53-28
Last Week: 23
Week 2 Opponent: Virginia
Dakota Prukop (21 of 30 for 271 yards and three scores) was steady in his first start for the Ducks.
