The third set of College Football Playoff rankings for 2025 is imminent, and many fans expect to see shifts in the standings as two top-10 teams faced defeat last week. The rankings will be revealed by the CFP committee on Tuesday, November 18, and ahead of this announcement, predictions on the possible top 25 placements are generating buzz.
Following Week 12’s action, the top contenders are assessed based on head-to-head outcomes, strength of schedule, and performances against ranked opponents. As of Sunday, November 16, here’s how the top teams may be ranked:
Leading the way at No. 1 is Ohio State (10-0), which showcased a powerful defense against UCLA. Indiana (11-0) follows closely at No. 2 after a commanding victory over Wisconsin, with quarterback Fernando Mendoza making a significant impact. Texas A&M (10-0) retains its No. 3 position despite an unsteady start against South Carolina, ultimately pulling off a comeback.
Georgia (9-1) will likely advance to No. 4 after securing a notable win against Texas, while Texas Tech (10-1) may find itself in the top five following a victory over UCF. Ole Miss (10-1) is expected to rise to sixth place after finally overcoming Florida under head coach Lane Kiffin.
Oklahoma (8-2) has gained attention, moving up to the seventh spot after defeating Alabama in Tuscaloosa, a win deemed significant enough to position them as the top-ranked two-loss team, edging out Alabama (8-2), which could drop to No. 8 specifically due to head-to-head results.
Notre Dame (8-2) is projected to climb to No. 9 after a dominant performance against Pittsburgh, and Oregon (9-1) is expected to drop as its previous ranked win against Iowa loses relevance. BYU (9-1) is poised to creep closer to the top 10 after a strong win against TCU.
Miami (Fla.) (8-2) continues to trend upward, cementing its position with a convincing win over NC State, while teams like Utah (8-2) and Vanderbilt (8-2) struggle to improve their rankings based on their recent performances. Southern California (8-2) will find itself in the top 15 after winning against a ranked Iowa team.
Meanwhile, Texas (7-3) is likely to see a decline in rank due to a rough loss to Georgia, though it may remain above Michigan (8-2), which continues to fight for a playoff spot despite a strong win against Northwestern.
Notably, Virginia (9-2) remains stagnant after its win against Duke, while Tennessee (7-3) breaks into the top 20 following a decisive victory over New Mexico State. New entries into the rankings are anticipated with teams like Illinois (7-3), Houston (8-2), Arizona (7-3), and Tulane (8-2) fighting for recognition.
The committee has difficult decisions ahead, especially regarding Alabama and Texas, after their defeats. These placements will shape conference strengths and the playoff outlook as the season heads into its crucial final weeks.
As these rankings could significantly influence playoff considerations and the direction of several teams, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike. With new teams potentially entering the conversation, the landscape of college football remains dynamic and exciting.