The College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee unveiled its first rankings for the 2025 season on November 4, outlining a competitive landscape ahead of the playoff showdown. The top four teams are Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Alabama, all of which have shown impressive performances throughout the season.
As the rankings stand, Ohio State leads the pack with an undefeated record of 8-0, followed closely by Indiana at 9-0. Texas A&M also boasts a perfect record at 8-0, while Alabama, with one loss, occupies the fourth spot at 7-1. These rankings set the stage for an exciting race toward the playoffs, with fans eagerly anticipating how the season will unfold.
The full top-25 rankings feature a mix of familiar college football powerhouses and emerging programs. Georgia sits at fifth with a record of 7-1, followed by Ole Miss at sixth with 8-1. The ranking continues with BYU and Texas Tech at seventh and eighth, both sporting 8-0 and 8-1 records, respectively. Other notable teams include Oregon at ninth, Notre Dame at tenth, and a collection of teams with two losses or fewer, illustrating the depth of talent across the nation this season.
The introduction of a 12-team playoff format brings a fresh dynamic to the postseason. This system includes the five highest-ranked conference champions that automatically secure their spots, along with seven additional at-large teams. The top four ranked teams will receive first-round byes, setting a competitive tone for the playoffs. Currently, Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Alabama hold those coveted top four seeds.
In the initial playoff structure, the first round will take place at the home fields of the higher-seeded teams, promising an electrifying atmosphere for fans as the competition intensifies. Virginia stands as the highest-ranked ACC team at No. 14, potentially earning an automatic bid if they clinch the conference championship. On the other hand, Memphis is projected as the leading Group of 5 team, likely securing the No. 12 seed in the playoff bracket, though no teams from this category are currently ranked in the top 25.
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads all conferences with nine teams in the top-25, underscoring its dominance in college football. The Big Ten follows closely behind with seven teams, reflecting the strength of traditional rivalries and competitive programs.
With the season well underway, the excitement builds as teams strive to secure their place in the expanded playoff field. Fans and analysts alike remain hopeful for thrilling matchups and memorable performances leading into the playoffs.