The recent release of the AP Top 25 revealed significant changes in the rankings, notably the absence of both Texas and Penn State. This marks a pivotal moment in the 2025 college football season, as both teams experienced their second consecutive losses, resulting in their unranking for the first time since the preseason.
Penn State and Texas Drop from AP Top 25 Rankings
Six weeks into the season, the Longhorns were defeated by Florida, a team struggling in the coach department. Meanwhile, Penn State faced a shocking setback against an 0-4 UCLA squad led by an interim head coach.
Preseason Expectations vs. Current Reality
At the start of the season, Texas was ranked No. 1 in the AP poll, while Penn State held the No. 2 position. Both teams had made appearances in the College Football Playoff semifinals and were anticipated to be key contenders for the national championship.
- Texas ranked No. 1 in preseason polls.
- Penn State ranked No. 2 in preseason polls.
- Both teams have no wins against Power 4 opponents this season.
This unprecedented unranking of both teams is a first in the history of the AP poll, highlighting their struggles. Experts noted that neither team deserves a pass based on their prior rankings, emphasizing the importance of current performance over past expectations.
Future Prospects for Coaches
The future for both programs appears uncertain. For Penn State, questions arise about the direction of head coach James Franklin. His relatively small buyout may lead him to consider openings within Power 4 teams looking for a program builder.
On the other hand, Texas faces a complicated scenario with quarterback Arch Manning. His struggles have left many questioning the effectiveness of the Longhorns’ offensive line and run game. Recently, Manning faced immense pressure, being pressured on nearly 60% of his dropbacks during the game against Florida.
Implications for the Season Ahead
As we move deeper into the season, both Texas and Penn State must regroup. Their rankings have dropped significantly, creating a challenging atmosphere for players and coaches alike. Rebuilding and realigning strategies will be crucial if they hope to salvage their seasons.
Other teams in the top rankings are taking advantage of these developments. Notably, Miami has surged with multiple wins against ranked opponents, further complicating the landscape for college football this season.
- Miami’s top spot justified by three wins over ranked teams.
- Texas Tech emerges as a strong contender in the Big 12.
As the college football season continues, the narratives surrounding Texas and Penn State will be among the most closely monitored, as both aim to climb back into contention.
