Predicted AP Top 25 Rankings: Miami Dominates FSU, Alabama Crushes Vandy, Texas Faces Humiliation

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Predicted AP Top 25 Rankings: Miami Dominates FSU, Alabama Crushes Vandy, Texas Faces Humiliation

College Football Week 7 AP Top 25 Projections: Shifting Rankings After Dramatic Week 6

The landscape of college football rankings is shifting dramatically after a chaotic Week 6, leading to significant changes in the AP Top 25 projections for Week 7. Powerhouse teams like Texas and Penn State faced surprising losses, while programs like the Miami Hurricanes showcased their strength. As the season progresses, the anticipation builds around how these developments will shape the rankings. Here’s a detailed look at the expected outcomes as voters prepare to submit their ballots this Sunday.

Notable Exits: Texas Longhorns and Iowa State Cyclones Drop Out of Rankings

Two notable teams have dropped out of this week’s AP Top 25: the Texas Longhorns, previously ranked 9th, and the Iowa State Cyclones, ranked 14th. Both teams faced defeats against unranked opponents, raising questions about their legitimacy as top contenders this season. The Longhorns’ back-to-back losses to Power Four teams signal a troubling trend, effectively eliminating them from contention for the time being.

Week 7 AP Top 25 Projections: Teams 25 to 21

25. Florida State Seminoles: After a tough loss to rival Miami, FSU manages to cling to its spot in the rankings, thanks in part to their earlier win over Alabama.
24. Penn State Nittany Lions: Following their defeat by UCLA, many doubt Penn State’s place in the rankings, yet they may still earn a nod from some voters.
23. South Florida Bulls: The Bulls continue to shine in the Group of Five, solidifying their position with a strong performance against Charlotte.
22. Cincinnati Bearcats: A convincing victory over Iowa State puts Cincinnati back on the radar as a contender in the Big 12 this season.
21. Vanderbilt Commodores: Despite a narrow loss to Alabama, Vanderbilt has displayed consistent performance, deserving of their spot in the rankings.

Moving Up: Rankings 20 to 16

20. Arizona State Sun Devils: With a recent victory over TCU, Arizona State returns to the Top 25, looking to build momentum against Utah.
19. Virginia Cavaliers: Virginia’s back-to-back overtime triumphs showcase their resilience, making them a team to watch in the ACC.
18. BYU Cougars: BYU continues to impress with a strong start to the season, demonstrating potential in both offense and defense.
17. Illinois Fighting Illini: A solid performance against Purdue highlights Illinois’s capability, though challenges ahead against Ohio State loom large.
16. Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Dominating Boise State showcases Notre Dame’s growth, yet future matchups will test their mettle.

Solidifying Presence: Rankings 15 to 11

15. Michigan Wolverines: Michigan keeps winning, but they’ll need more offensive consistency to maintain their position as contenders.
14. Missouri Tigers: Undefeated yet underrated, Missouri’s next matchup against Alabama could elevate their national profile significantly.
13. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets: After escaping a close call, Georgia Tech looks to capitalize on their remaining opportunities in a weak ACC conference.
12. Tennessee Volunteers: With a solid offensive output, Tennessee aims to bounce back following a week of rest before facing Arkansas.
11. LSU Tigers: Following a bye week, LSU hopes to recalibrate and address issues encountered against Ole Miss.

Top Contenders: Rankings 10 to 9

10. Texas Tech Red Raiders: Texas Tech shines following a strong road victory over Houston, indicating a cohesive team dynamic.
9. Georgia Bulldogs: Despite their recent defeat to Alabama, Georgia rebounded well, reaffirming their status as playoff contenders.

Elite Programs: Rankings 8 to 7

8. Alabama Crimson Tide: Alabama rebounds with a decisive win over Vanderbilt, though questions about their overall consistency remain.
7. Indiana Hoosiers: Indiana’s ability to stay competitive in the rankings showcases their potential as a playoff hopeful.

Top Five Favorites: Rankings 6 to 1

6. Texas A&M Aggies: Texas A&M continues their upward trajectory, showcasing impressive performances against challenging opponents.
5. Oklahoma Sooners: Strong victories place Oklahoma in contention, though quarterback injuries could pose challenges ahead.
4. Ole Miss Rebels: Ole Miss has proven their legitimacy as a top contender, demonstrating solid performances under Lane Kiffin.
3. Miami Hurricanes: Miami’s recent victories solidify their status as strong ACC contenders and possible national title hopefuls.
2. Oregon Ducks: Following a standout performance, the Ducks are positioned well for continued success heading into a challenging stretch.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes: After an impressive showing against Minnesota, Ohio State establishes itself as a top playoff contender.

As the college football season progresses, the competition intensifies, promising thrilling weeks ahead. Stay tuned for further updates and analyses as teams continue to vie for supremacy in the college football landscape.