The Associated Press preseason Top 25 college football poll is out and it’s topped by Texas for the first time in an opening poll. The Longhorns narrowly edged out Penn State by just five points in the closest preseason vote since 1998. Defending champion Ohio State ranked No. 3.
The survey released Monday dates back to 1936 and is among the nation’s longest-running ranking systems for the sport. Over 60 journalists decide the results, focusing on head-to-head wins and losses.
Last season, Ohio State topped the poll after winning the national championship against Notre Dame.
The 2025 season kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 23.
AP Top 25 college football poll rankings:
1. Texas
2. Penn State
3. Ohio State
4. Clemson
5. Georgia
6. Notre Dame
7. Oregon
8. Alabama
9. LSU
10. Miami (FL)
11. Arizona State
12. Illinois
13. South Carolina
14. Michigan
15. Florida
16. SMU
17. Kansas State
18. Oklahoma
19. Texas A&M
20. Indiana
21. Ole Miss
22. Iowa State
23. Texas Tech
24. Tennessee
25. Boise State
