Preseason AP Top 25 Poll: A Reflection of Team Potential

The Associated Press (AP) Top 25 poll is a highly anticipated annual event that sparks intense discussion among college football fans, journalists, and analysts. This year’s preseason poll is no exception, as the Big Ten dominated the top spots, with Ohio State and Oregon taking the first two positions. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) also made a strong showing, with Georgia and Texas ranking in the top five.

However, with any ranking comes the inevitable question of which teams are overrated and underrated. This year’s poll is no exception, with several teams jumping out as potential overachievers or underachievers.

Underrated Teams

One team that stands out as underrated is No. 5 Texas. The Longhorns have a stacked roster and a challenging schedule, but they failed to receive a single first-place vote in the AP poll. This skepticism may be due to concerns about Steve Sarkisian’s ability to get the most out of his talented players or doubts about quarterback Arch Manning’s potential.

Another team that may be flying under the radar is No. 7 Miami. Despite losing several key players from last year’s CFP runner-up team, the Hurricanes have a wealth of returning talent and a manageable schedule. With a strong incoming transfer quarterback and five-star offensive tackle, Miami should be a top contender in the ACC and a potential dark horse in the College Football Playoff.

Finally, No. 17 Washington is another team that could be considered underrated. The Huskies have a potential star quarterback in Demond Williams and one of the most underrated coaches in the country in Jedd Fisch. With a challenging schedule that includes several top-25 teams, Washington will need to prove itself in the coming weeks to make a strong case for a College Football Playoff spot.

Overrated Teams

On the other hand, there are several teams that may be overrated in the AP poll. One team that stands out is No. 14 USC. Despite a strong recruiting class and the return of Jayden Maiava, the Trojans have a history of underperforming with elite talent. With a challenging schedule that includes several top-25 teams, USC will need to prove itself in the coming weeks to justify its high ranking.

Another team that may be overrated is No. 8 Texas A&M. The Aggies had a strong 10-0 start to the 2025 season but ultimately crashed down in home losses to in-state rival Texas and Miami. With a challenging schedule that includes several top-25 teams, Texas A&M will need to prove itself in the coming weeks to make a strong case for a College Football Playoff spot.

Finally, No. 10 Oklahoma is another team that could be considered overrated. The Sooners had a strong playoff run last year but struggled with their offense late in the season. With a challenging schedule that includes several top-25 teams, Oklahoma will need to prove itself in the coming weeks to make a strong case for a College Football Playoff spot.

Teams Likely to Finish Unranked

Finally, there are several teams that may finish unranked in the final AP poll. One team that stands out is No. 25 Missouri. The Tigers have a challenging schedule that includes several top-25 teams and may struggle to stay above .500. Another team that could finish unranked is No. 10 Oklahoma, which has a challenging schedule and may struggle to stay above .500. Finally, No. 8 Texas A&M is another team that could finish unranked, despite its strong start to the season.