As the 2025 college football season kicks off, excitement builds in cities across the nation and everyone is wondering what the year will bring. This season feels different, with many changes off the field impacting what happens on the gridiron. The spotlight is currently on the College Football Playoff (CFP), which remains a hot topic among fans. It’s clear that the chase for the national championship seems more open than it has in past years.
The idea of parity in college football has often felt like a distant dream. However, this season, it seems we’re starting to see the early signs of it. In previous seasons, if you asked me to pick three teams most likely to win it all, the odds were good at least one would come through. This year, though, there is less certainty.
The influx of players through the transfer portal and the impact of NIL rights have significantly altered top-tier rosters. Plus, the end of extended COVID eligibility means older players won’t be around to dominate like in seasons past. Programs such as Ohio State are expected to stay competitive, but it’s entirely possible they might not find themselves in the top tier for a while.
In light of these shifts, I will be sharing my weekly power rankings for the top 12 teams throughout the regular season. Why 12? That’s how many teams will make the CFP. These rankings will be based on performance rather than a typical poll—it’s about predicting outcomes, not merely reflecting game results. For instance, if I have a team ranked first, I believe they would outperform the second-ranked team on a neutral field.
This season promises shifts and surprises, and as we dive deeper into the action, we will see how injuries and other factors come into play. Buckle up, as there is a long season ahead filled with plenty of twists and turns.
