AP Top 25 Preview: Penn State Faces Potential Drop After UCLA Loss, Texas Also in Danger
Penn State and Texas Face Major Setbacks in College Football Rankings
Penn State’s Unexpected Loss to UCLA Shakes Rankings
Penn State University found itself on the wrong side of a major upset this week. The Nittany Lions, ranked No. 7, traveled to the West Coast only to be handed a shocking 42-37 defeat by UCLA. This result comes just one week after Penn State’s disappointing home loss to Oregon. The team’s lack of strong nonconference victories has left it vulnerable, and the recent loss could result in a significant drop when the Associated Press Top 25 rankings are updated on Sunday.
Texas Longhorns Stumble Against Florida
The No. 9 Texas Longhorns also suffered a setback, losing 29-21 to Florida. This defeat might see them fall out of the rankings. Head coach Steve Sarkisian was seen pacing the sideline during the game in Gainesville, Florida, as his team struggled to gain traction against a determined Florida squad.
High Stakes for Top College Teams
Meanwhile, the top-tier teams that took to the field this Saturday managed to secure victories. Ohio State showcased their strength with a commanding 42-3 win over Minnesota, maintaining their No. 1 position for the sixth consecutive week. Miami, ranked No. 3, held off a late surge from No. 18 Florida State to win 28-22, while No. 5 Oklahoma routed Kent State 44-0.
Alabama and Georgia Set to Climb Rankings
No. 10 Alabama capitalized on losses faced by Penn State and Texas. They defeated No. 16 Vanderbilt 30-14 and are poised to move up in the rankings. Likewise, No. 12 Georgia convincingly beat Kentucky 35-14, which should propel them back into the top 10.
Texas Tech and Michigan Eye Improvement
No. 11 Texas Tech emerged victorious against Houston, winning 35-11. This victory means the team is set for its highest ranking since 2013. No. 20 Michigan managed a 24-10 win over Wisconsin, which should also see them climb the rankings slightly.
Historical Context of Ranking Drops
Penn State’s impending drop out of the rankings could mirror the significant fall experienced by Oklahoma in 1959, when they plummeted 19 spots. Texas’ precarious position recalls their preseason No. 1 status, which quickly eroded following their opening loss to Ohio State.
Key Results from Other College Football Contenders
- No. 14 Iowa State couldn’t recover from an early deficit, losing 38-30 to Cincinnati.
- No. 22 Illinois secured a 43-27 victory at Purdue, setting up an exciting clash with Ohio State next week.
- No. 21 Notre Dame moved past Boise State 28-7 and may see further gains in the rankings.
Teams on the Rise: South Florida and Memphis
Outside of the Top 25, South Florida is making a strong case for re-entry after a dominant 54-26 win over Charlotte. Memphis, now 6-0 after a decisive 45-7 victory against Tulsa, is also pushing for recognition this season.
