ESPN’s highly anticipated updated FPI rankings for Week 1 of the 2025 season have finally been released, and it’s safe to say that college football fans are in for an exciting start to the season. The top five teams in the rankings are all powerhouse programs, with Texas claiming the number one spot and Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State, and Penn State not far behind. These rankings have set the stage for some early-season battles that fans won’t want to miss.
Texas, under the guidance of head coach Tom Herman, has risen to the top of the rankings after an impressive run in the 2024 season. With quarterback Sam Ehlinger leading the offense and a strong defense backing them up, the Longhorns are poised to make a statement in the first game of the season. The pressure will be on for the team to maintain their top spot and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with.
But right on the heels of Texas are three other SEC powerhouses – Georgia, Alabama, and Penn State. These teams have consistently been at the top of the rankings and have proven time and time again that they are among the best in the country. With star players like Jake Fromm, Tua Tagovailoa, and Micah Parsons leading their respective teams, it’s no surprise that they are once again in the top five. Fans can expect some intense matchups between these teams early in the season, as they all fight to prove their dominance.
Not to be overlooked is Ohio State, who rounds out the top five in the FPI rankings. The Buckeyes have been a perennial powerhouse in college football and have a history of producing top-notch talent. With Ryan Day taking over as head coach, the Buckeyes are looking to continue their success and climb back to the top of the rankings. Quarterback Justin Fields will be leading the charge for the team, and fans can expect some exciting plays from the dynamic dual-threat QB.
Looking beyond the top five, there are several other teams in the FPI rankings that have the potential to make a run for the top spot. Clemson, LSU, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame are just a few of the teams that are hot on the heels of the top five. These teams may not have made the cut for the top five, but they cannot be underestimated. Each of them has a talented roster and a hunger to prove themselves on the field.
With such a competitive lineup of teams in the FPI rankings, fans can expect some intense early-season battles that will set the tone for the rest of the season. The Longhorns will have their hands full defending their number one spot, as they face off against Georgia and Penn State in back-to-back weeks. Alabama and Ohio State will also have tough matchups early in the season, with games against LSU and Notre Dame, respectively.
One thing is for sure – these early-season battles will be must-watch games for any college football fan. Each team will be fighting to establish themselves as the team to beat and make a statement in the rankings. And with so much talent and depth in the top five teams, it’s anyone’s guess as to who will come out on top.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans can feel the excitement building for these highly anticipated matchups. The FPI rankings have set the stage for an intense and competitive start to the season, and there’s no doubt that these teams will deliver some unforgettable games. So mark your calendars and get ready for some early-season battles that will keep you on the edge of your seat. College football is back and better than ever!
