College football is heating up, and this week’s Coaches Poll gives us plenty to talk about. With several undefeated teams and some unexpected risers, the race for the playoff picture is already intense.
1. Ohio State (5-0)
Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Joshua Padilla (62) motions during the NCAA football game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Oct. 4, 2025. Credit: © Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Ohio State continues its dominance with another convincing win, showing elite balance on both sides of the ball. Their offense looks unstoppable as they push toward another Big Ten title run.
2. Oregon (5-0)
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore throws a pass as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania. Credit: © Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Oregon’s high-powered offense keeps rolling, and their defense is stepping up in key moments. The Ducks are proving they belong among the nation’s best.
3. Miami (FL) (5-0)
Miami Hurricanes running back Mark Fletcher Jr. (4) carries the football against Florida Gators defensive back Jordan Castell (14) during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Miami remains undefeated after another gritty performance, fueled by a strong defensive showing. The Hurricanes are playing with confidence and swagger reminiscent of their glory days.
4. Ole Miss (5-0)
Mississippi Rebels linebacker Jaden Yates (30) reacts during the fourth quarter against the LSU Tigers at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Ole Miss keeps finding ways to win, with their offense firing on all cylinders. The Rebels’ balanced attack is making them one of the toughest outs in the SEC.
5. Texas A&M (5-0)
Texas A&M Aggies defensive end Cashius Howell (9) reacts after sacking Auburn Tigers quarterback Jackson Arnold (not pictured) during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
The Aggies continue to impress with consistent play and a dominant defense. Their recent win solidified their spot among the country’s elite.
6. Oklahoma (5-0)
Oklahoma quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. (3) passes the ball during the second half of an NCAA football game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and Kent State Golden Flashes at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025. Credit: © NATE BILLINGS/FOR THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Oklahoma’s offense looks sharp again, and their defense made key stops late in their latest victory. The Sooners are showing they can win close games as well as blowouts.
7. Indiana (5-0)
Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) throws a pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Indiana’s dream season continues with yet another upset win. The Hoosiers’ defense has become a real difference-maker in their undefeated run.
8. Alabama (4-1)
Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jam Miller (26) runs into the end zone late in the second half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Credit: David Leong-Imagn Images
Alabama bounced back strong after their early loss, showing why they’re still a powerhouse. The Crimson Tide’s offense looked efficient and poised once again.
9. Georgia (4-1)
Georgia Bulldogs tight end Elyiss Williams (10) runs after a catch against the Kentucky Wildcats at Sanford Stadium. Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Georgia handled business with a strong ground game and stout defense. The Bulldogs are finding rhythm at the right time in a tough SEC slate.
10. Texas Tech (5-0)
Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Will Hammond (15) throws the ball against the Utah Utes during the fourth quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Texas Tech continues to shock doubters with another dominant showing. Their explosive offense is putting them firmly in the national spotlight.
11. LSU (4-1)
LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (18) is sacked by Mississippi Rebels defensive lineman Da’Shawn Womack (15) during the fourth quarter at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
LSU looked sharp this week, led by stellar quarterback play. The Tigers are gaining momentum after a tough start.
12. Tennessee (4-1)
Tennessee Volunteers running back Star Thomas (9) runs with the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second half at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images
Tennessee bounced back with a statement win at home. Their balanced offense and physical defense are starting to click.
13. Georgia Tech (5-0)
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets kicker Aidan Birr (33) kicks a field goal during the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
Georgia Tech’s perfect record is no fluke—this team is playing with confidence and creativity. Their offense continues to find new ways to put up points.
14. Missouri (5-0)
Missouri Tigers tight end Brett Norfleet (87) catches a pass against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second half of the game at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Missouri’s defense stood tall once again, keeping their undefeated streak alive. The Tigers are emerging as one of the SEC’s surprise contenders.
15. Michigan (4-1)
Michigan Wolverines running back Justice Haynes (22) rushes at Wisconsin Badgers cornerback D’Yoni Hill (5) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Michigan recovered from their earlier loss with an impressive performance on both sides. The Wolverines’ defense is regaining its dominant form.
16. Notre Dame (3-2)
Notre Dame Fighting Irish wide receiver Malachi Fields (0) makes a catch as Boise State Broncos defensive back Jeremiah Earby (6) defends during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images
Notre Dame got back in the win column with a gritty road victory. Their offense showed better rhythm after some early-season struggles.
17. Illinois (5-1)
Illinois Fighting Illini wide receiver Hank Beatty (80) runs the ball down field during the second quarter against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Illinois continues to surprise fans with disciplined play and efficient offense. The Fighting Illini’s resilience is keeping them in the national conversation.
18. BYU (5-0)
Brigham Young Cougars safety Tanner Wall (28) reacts to an interception against the West Virginia Mountaineers during the third quarter at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
BYU stays undefeated with another impressive all-around effort. Their offense remains one of the most efficient in college football.
19. Texas (3-2)
Texas Longhorns tight end Emaree Winston (85) runs after a catching pass while defended by Sam Houston Bearkats defensive back Jace Arnold (9) during the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Texas bounced back this week, leaning on their running game and a strong defensive effort. The Longhorns are regaining some confidence after early setbacks.
20. Vanderbilt (5-1)
Vanderbilt wide receiver Richie Hoskins (5) runs in a touchdown against Utah State during the third quarter at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025. Credit: © Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Vanderbilt is turning heads with their best start in years. Their defense continues to be a bright spot in every matchup.
21. Iowa State (5-1)
Iowa State Cyclones’ wide receiver Chase Sowell (0) breaks a tackle from Arizona Wildcats defensive back Genesis Smith (12) after making a catch during the fourth quarter in the Big-12 conference showdown on Sept. 27, 2025, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. Credit: © Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Iowa State’s balanced attack helped them earn another big win. The Cyclones are showing toughness and consistency as conference play heats up.
22. Penn State (3-2)
Penn State Nittany Lions safety Karson Kiesewetter (28) and defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) react during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
Penn State showed grit in their latest win, relying on their veteran defense. The offense still has room to grow, but progress is clear.
23. Arizona State (4-1)
Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) dives into the end zone in the second quarter of the game between Arizona State Sun Devils and Texas State Bobcats. Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
Arizona State continues to shine with another strong outing. Their offense is efficient, and their defense is starting to make key stops.
24. Virginia (5-1)
Virginia’s John Rogers catches the ball for a first down against Louisville at L&N Stadium Saturday.
Oct. 4, 2025. Credit: © Scott Utterback/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Virginia’s latest victory came through clutch second-half adjustments. The Cavaliers are playing smart, disciplined football week after week.
25. Memphis (6-0)
Memphis Tigers quarterback Brendon Lewis (2) looks to pass the ball against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane during the second half at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images
Memphis remains undefeated after another explosive offensive showing. The Tigers are proving they’re a serious contender outside the Power Five.
Conclusion
Oregon defensive back Dillon Thieneman, right, grabs the game-winning interception as Oregon inside linebacker Jerry Mixon celebrates as the Oregon Ducks face the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sept. 27, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania. Credit: © Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
This week’s rankings highlight just how unpredictable and exciting college football can be. With several undefeated teams and new contenders emerging, the second half of the season promises to be unforgettable.
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