The opening week of college football has concluded after five days of action, showcasing both standout performances and areas for improvement. Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava made headlines with a record-breaking debut, raising expectations for the season ahead. As the Volunteers prepare to face NC State, a top-25 opponent in Week 2, questions remain about whether Iamaleava can replicate his success. Additionally, LSU must address its shortcomings following a last-minute loss to USC.
Here’s a look at the expert-recommended top 25 teams and their Week 1 performances:
No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs
Georgia’s defense continued to dominate, leading to a decisive 34-3 victory over Clemson in Atlanta. The Bulldogs held the Tigers to just 188 yards and 13 first downs, with linebacker Mykel Williams and freshman safety KJ Bolden making significant contributions. However, depth concerns on the defensive line emerged after injuries to key players.
No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State showcased its offensive talent with a 52-6 victory over Akron. Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith caught two touchdown passes in his debut, while the Buckeyes’ skilled roster, including running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, contributed to the win. Following a slower start, the offense picked up momentum in the second half.
No. 3 Texas Longhorns
Texas started strong with a 34-6 victory over Colorado State. Quarterback Quinn Ewers threw for three touchdowns, and freshman Arch Manning also made an impact. The Longhorns’ secondary was impressive, limiting Colorado State’s passing attack significantly as they prepare for a tough matchup at Michigan.
No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama, under new coordinator Kalen DeBoer, dominated Western Kentucky with a 42-0 halftime lead, ultimately winning 56-0. Quarterback Jalen Milroe had an efficient outing, and the defense held WKU to minimal offensive production.
No. 5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame edged Texas A&M 23-13 in a gritty performance, highlighted by a strong defensive showing and effective play from quarterback Riley Leonard. Running back Jeremiyah Love emerged as a key player in the game.
No. 6 Penn State Nittany Lions
In a solid display, Penn State defeated West Virginia 34-12, with quarterback Drew Allar leading the way with three touchdown passes. The Nittany Lions’ revamped offense showcased potential while the defense performed admirably.
No. 7 Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss jumped to a quick start with a 76-0 victory over Furman. Quarterback Jaxson Dart had a standout performance, throwing for 418 yards and six touchdowns, while the defense limited Furman significantly.
No. 8 Oregon Ducks
Oregon delivered a 24-14 win against Idaho despite inconsistency. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel had a strong passing performance, but the Ducks’ offensive line struggled, leading to penalties that stalled drives.
No. 9 Miami Hurricanes
Quarterback Cam Ward impressed in a win against Florida, throwing for 385 yards and three touchdowns. Miami’s physicality on the offensive line marked growth under coach Mario Cristobal.
No. 10 Michigan Wolverines
In a mixed performance against Fresno State, Michigan’s Davis Warren earned the starting quarterback role, throwing for one touchdown while the team relied on its defense for key plays.
No. 11 Missouri Tigers
Missouri dominated against Murray State, securing a 48-3 victory. Quarterback Brady Cook and transfer rushers contributed significantly to the early lead.
No. 12 Tennessee Volunteers
Iamalave broke a school record for passing yards in a half during a dominant 69-3 victory over Chattanooga. The Volunteers’ offense was efficient, setting up a strong competition in Week 2.
No. 13 USC Trojans
In a thrilling 27-20 victory over LSU, the Trojans’ new defense showed marked improvement. Quarterback Miller Moss directed a key touchdown drive to secure the win.
No. 14 Utah Utes
Utah’s Cam Rising made a triumphant return, throwing five touchdown passes in a commanding 49-0 win against Southern Utah.
No. 15 Oklahoma Sooners
Oklahoma cruised past Temple with a strong offensive showing, highlighted by Jackson Arnold’s four touchdown passes. Despite some shortcomings, the Sooners secured a decisive win.
No. 16 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Oklahoma State maintained control throughout a 44-20 victory over South Dakota State, led by impressive performances from running back Ollie Gordon II and quarterback Alan Bowman.
No. 17 Kansas State Wildcats
Kansas State triumphed over UT Martin with a solid 41-6 victory, thanks to a strong defensive effort and quarterback Avery Johnson’s early contributions.
No. 18 LSU Tigers
Despite a confident performance from new quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, LSU succumbed to USC in a 27-20 loss, highlighting areas for improvement in their game strategy.
No. 19 Kansas Jayhawks
Kansas overwhelmed Lindenwood with a dominant 48-3 victory, establishing its offensive depth with contributions from multiple players.
No. 20 Arizona Wildcats
Arizona’s wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan had an outstanding game, catching 10 passes for 304 yards and four touchdowns, despite a defensive struggle against New Mexico.
No. 21 Iowa Hawkeyes
In a slow start, Iowa managed to pick up momentum in the second half for a 40-0 victory against Illinois State, showcasing potential under new offensive coordinator Tim Lester.
No. 22 NC State Wolfpack
NC State pulled off a 38-21 win over Western Carolina, with standout performances from running back Jordan Waters and wide receiver KC Concepcion leading the charge.
No. 23 Texas A&M Aggies
The Aggies struggled against Notre Dame, ending in a disappointing 23-13 loss, raising concerns over their offense under new coordinator Collin Klein.
No. 24 Clemson Tigers
Clemson’s offense faltered against Georgia, resulting in a 34-3 loss as they aim to regroup for their next matchup against Appalachian State.
No. 25 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Georgia Tech demonstrated a physical style of play with its running game, defeating Georgia State and showcasing the foundation coach Brent Key wants for the program.