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2022 National Rankings (AP, Coaches, CFP) Meta Thread

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ESPN  Early Top 25      (Texas not ranked)

  • 1. Alabama Crimson Tide
  • 2. Ohio State Buckeyes
  • 3. Georgia Bulldogs
  • 4. Utah Utes
  • 5. Texas A&M Aggies
  • 6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
  • 7. NC State Wolfpack
  • 8. Michigan State Spartans
  • 9. Michigan Wolverines
  • 10. Oklahoma State Cowboys
  • 11. Clemson Tigers
  • 12. USC Trojans
  • 13. Houston Cougars
  • 14. Oklahoma Sooners
  • 15. Pittsburgh Panthers
  • 16. Oregon Ducks
  • 17. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
  • 18. Baylor Bears
  • 19. BYU Cougars
  • 20. Arkansas Razorbacks
  • 21. Ole Miss Rebels
  • 22. Kentucky Wildcats
  • 23. Cincinnati Bearcats
  • 24. Tennessee Volunteers
  • 25. Iowa Hawkeyes

 

Mark SchlabachESPN Senior Writer

College football rankings: Updated Way-Too-Early Top 25 (ESPN)

Quote

For most college football teams across the FBS, spring practice is either over or will be winding down during the next couple of weeks.

But the transfer portal, into which more than 3,600 FBS players have entered this year already, never stops churning. Coaches around the country will look to address weaknesses (and, sadly, recruiting mistakes) over the next couple of months.

Many of the top teams have already tackled roster deficiencies through the portal, and the rich will probably continue to get richer between now and the start of the 2022 season on Aug. 27.

It's a good time to update the 2022 Way-Too-Early Top 25. The top three teams remain unchanged, at least for now, but Utah has moved up to No. 4. Southern California was another team that rose sharply, while Iowa took a pretty big fall.

Pittsburgh, which admittedly should have been ranked in the first version in January, debuts at No. 15. Tennessee is another new team, while South Carolina and Wisconsin have dropped out.

1. Alabama Crimson Tide

Previous ranking: 1
2021 record: 13-2 (7-1 SEC)
Returning starters: 5 offense, 7 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: OT Evan Neal, DL Phidarian Mathis, LB Christian Harris, WR Jameson Williams, CB Josh Jobe, RB Brian Robinson Jr., WR John Metchie III, WR Agiye Hall 😋
Key additions: CB Eli Ricks, WR Jermaine Burton, OL Tyler Steen, DE Jeremiah Alexander, WR Shazz Preston, RB Jahmyr Gibbs
Spring update: Alabama brings back many players from the team that lost to Georgia 33-18 in the College Football Playoff National Championship game, and coach Nick Saban has deftly added a few new faces through the transfer portal. Gibbs, a transfer from Georgia Tech, earned high praise in the spring for his pass catching out of the backfield and ability to pick up the offense. Burton, who played at Georgia last year, is an experienced addition to a wide receiver corps that lost Williams, Metchie and Slade Bolden to the NFL draft. Hall, one of the Tide's top young wideouts, was suspended from the team and entered the transfer portal earlier this month. Steen, who started 10 of 11 games at Vanderbilt in 2021, will get a long look at offensive tackle, after starters Neal and Chris Owens departed.

2. Ohio State Buckeyes

Previous ranking: 2
2021 record: 11-2 (8-1 Big Ten)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: WR Garrett Wilson, WR Chris Olave, G Thayer Munford, OT Nicholas Petit-Frere, DT Haskell Garrett, DE Tyreke Smith, CB Marcus Williamson
Key additions: S Tanner McCalister, ATH Alex Styles, OLB C.J. Hicks, DE Kenyatta Jackson Jr., OLB Gabe Powers, ATH Kaleb Brown, DT Caden Curry
Spring update: After failing to win a Big Ten title for the first time in coach Ryan Day's three seasons, much of the attention this spring was on the 4-2-5 defense under new coordinator Jim Knowles. The Buckeyes ranked ninth in the Big Ten in scoring defense (22.8 points) and total defense (372.6 yards), and they'll have to vastly improve to get back to the playoffs. The addition of McCalister, who started 23 games the past two seasons at Oklahoma State, should help in Knowles' "safety-driven" defense. Finding adequate replacements for Olave and Wilson also was a priority, although the return of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who caught 95 passes for 1,606 yards with nine touchdowns, should make things easier. Noah Ruggles, one of the top kickers in the FBS, took the spring off, but he is expected to return this summer, according to Day.

3. Georgia Bulldogs

Previous ranking: 3
2021 record: 14-1 (8-0 SEC)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 4 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: DE Travon Walker, NT Jordan Davis, DT Devonte Wyatt, LB Nakobe Dean, LB Channing Tindall, CB Derion Kendrick, OT Jamaree Salyer, RB James Cook
Key additions: S Tykee Smith, DB Malaki Starks, CB Jaheim Singletary, RB Branson Robinson, OLB Jalon Walker, CB Daylen Everette, QB Gunner Stockton
Spring update: After finally ending a 41-year drought without a national championship, Georgia spent the spring rebuilding its historically good defense, which might have at least four players selected in the first round of the NFL draft. Defensive linemen such as Zion Logue, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Chaz Chambliss, Warren Brinson and Nazir Stackhouse might play dramatically bigger roles in 2022. At least the Bulldogs bring back D-tackle Jalen Carter, who might be even better than the first-rounders who left. There's plenty of firepower coming back on offense, especially if onetime LSU transfer Arik Gilbert continues to progress after missing all of last season because of personal reasons. All-American tight end Brock Bowers missed the spring after undergoing shoulder surgery, but he should be ready by the start of preseason camp.

4. Utah Utes

Previous ranking: 7
2021 record: 10-4 (8-1 Pac-12)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: LB Devin Lloyd, LB Nephi Sewell, DE Mika Tafua, WR Britain Covey, RB TJ Pledger, C Nick Ford, OT Bamidele Olaseni, S Vonte Davis
Key additions: LB Mohamoud Diabate, QB Nathan Johnson, ATH Justius Lowe, LB Lander Barton, S Elijah Davis, LB Justin Medlock, WR Landon Morris, TE Logan Kendall, DE Gabe Reid
Spring update: If the Utes are going to repeat as Pac-12 champions, they're going to have to rebuild a defense that lost many of its top playmakers, including All-American linebacker Lloyd. Barton, an early enrollee and younger brother of NFL players Cody and Jackson Barton, has made quite an impression on coach Kyle Whittingham this spring. Diabate, a Florida transfer, couldn't do much this spring after having surgery for a torn labrum. After injuries decimated the secondary a year ago, the Utes are trying to build depth, especially after Davis and safety Brandon McKinney left.

5. Texas A&M Aggies

Previous ranking: 4
2021 record: 8-4 (4-4 SEC)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 4 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: OT Kenyon Green, DT DeMarvin Leal, RB Isaiah Spiller, TE Jalen Wydermyer, DL Jayden Peevy, DB Leon O'Neal Jr., DE Tyree Johnson, LB Aaron Hansford, DE Micheal Clemons
Key additions: QB Max Johnson, QB Conner Weigman, DT Walter Nolen, DT Gabe Brownlow-Dindy WR Evan Stewart, DE Lebbeus Overton
Spring update: The Aggies will try to end an 83-year drought without a national championship this season. First, coach Jimbo Fisher must choose a starting quarterback. Johnson, a former LSU starter, is the most experienced and doesn't make a lot of mistakes. Haynes King, who is coming back from a broken leg, might be more dynamic but continues to make questionable decisions. Weigmann was the No. 1 pocket passer in the 2022 ESPN 300. Stewart, the No. 2 wide receiver in the ESPN 300, looked like the Aggies' No. 1 pass-catcher in the spring. On defense, Texas A&M will have to replace the entire front four, but Fisher signed four of the top seven players in the country to fill those voids.

6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Previous ranking: 6
2021 record: 11-2
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: S Kyle Hamilton, RB Kyren Williams, G Cain Madden, QB Jack Coan, NG Kurt Hinish, DE Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa, LB Drew White
Key additions: LB Jaylen Sneed, WR Tobias Merriweather, CB Jaden Mickey, DE Tyson Ford, ILB Niuafe Tuihalamaka, OT Aamil Wagner, S Brandon Joseph, DL Chris Smith
Spring update: It seems as if everything wasn't rosy between former Irish coach Brian Kelly and the administration before his unexpected departure to LSU. New coach Marcus Freeman, who was Kelly's former defensive coordinator, can make Irish fans forget about Kelly in a hurry if he can win this season. Notre Dame's offensive line, led by tackles Joe Alt and Blake Fisher, has a chance to be one of the best in the FBS. Bringing back respected offensive line coach Harry Hiestand won't hurt their chances, either. Tyler Buchner and Drew Pyne are locked in a pretty good battle for the starting quarterback job, which might not be decided until late in preseason camp. New defensive coordinator Al Golden has some holes to fill up front. Defensive tackle Aidan Keanaaina tore an ACL in the first spring practice. The Irish quickly signed Harvard transfer Smith to help.

7. NC State Wolfpack

Previous ranking: 8
2021 record: 9-3 (6-2 ACC)
Returning starters: 8 offense, 9 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: OT Ikem Ekwonu, RB Zonovan Knight, RB Ricky Person Jr., WR Emeka Emezie, DE Daniel Joseph, LB Vi Jones
Key additions: ATH Michael Allen, DT Brandon Cleveland, OLB Torren Wright, G Jacarrius Peak, QB M.J. Morris, P Shane McDonough, WR Darryl Jones
Spring update: With so many starters coming back, there weren't many areas of concern for the Wolfpack this spring. But one of them was replacing Ekwonu, the starting left tackle, who might be a top-five pick in the NFL draft. Sophomore Anthony Belton got the first chance this spring, followed by Timothy McKay. With top rushers Knight and Person departing, Jordan Houston, who ran for 83 yards in 2021, left the spring as the No. 1 running back. Quarterback Devin Leary picked up where he left off from last season, throwing for 355 yards with three scores in the spring game.

8. Michigan State Spartans

Previous ranking: 10
2021 record: 11-2 (7-2 Big Ten)
Returning starters: 5 offense, 9 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: RB Kenneth Walker III, WR Jalen Nailor, C Matt Allen, OT Kevin Jarvis, DE Jacub Panasiuk, DE Drew Beesley, K Matt Coghlin
Key additions: CB Ameer Speed, RB Jarek Broussard, LB Aaron Brule, DE Khris Bogle, LB Jacoby Windmon, RB Jalen Berger, CB Caleb Coley, DT Alex VanSumeren, TE Daniel Barker, OL Brian Greene
Spring update: After posting the biggest turnaround in school history, the Spartans spent the spring searching for Walker's replacement and filling in key transfers on defense. Berger has already transferred from Wisconsin, and Broussard, who ran for 1,556 yards the past two seasons at Colorado, is expected to enroll in May. Greene, a Washington State transfer, might be able to help at guard or center. Two other transfers -- Windmon (UNLV) and Brule (Mississippi State) -- started at inside linebacker in the spring game. Speed, a Georgia transfer, was one of the starting cornerbacks.

9. Michigan Wolverines

Previous ranking: 5
2021 record: 12-2 (8-1 Big Ten)
Returning starters: 8 offense, 4 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: DE Aidan Hutchinson, OLB David Ojabo, RB Hassan Haskins, LB Josh Ross, SS Brad Hawkins, CB Vincent Gray, S Daxton Hill, C Andrew Vastardis, OT Andrew Stueber, DT Christopher Hinton
Key additions: OT Olu Oluwatimi, CB William Johnson, DE Derrick Moore, OT Tyler Morris, S Keon Sabb, WR Darrius Clemons
Spring update: The Wolverines will have to reload, as well, after losing the heart and soul of the team that won a Big Ten championship and reached a CFP semifinal. Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald returned to the Baltimore Ravens, and offensive coordinator Josh Gattis took a job at the University of Miami. New D-coordinator Jesse Minter has many holes to fill. Defensive tackle Mazi Smith was impressive this spring, along with fellow tackle Kris Jenkins and edge rusher Jaylen Harrell. The quarterback battle between returning starter Cade McNamara and J.J. McCarthy didn't materialize this spring, as McCarthy didn't throw in practice because of soreness in his shoulder. Oluwatimi, a transfer from Virginia, was working as the No. 1 center.

10. Oklahoma State Cowboys

Previous ranking: 9
2021 record: 12-2 (8-1 Big 12)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 4 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: RB Jaylen Warren, WR Tay Martin, G Josh Sills, LB Malcolm Rodriguez, LB Devin Harper, S Kolby Harvell-Peel, S Tanner McCalister, CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse
Key additions: RB Ollie Gordon, WR Talyn Shettron, QB Garret Rangel, RB Braylin Presley, OT Tyrone Webber, LB Xavier Benson, RB CJ Brown, OL Jason Brooks, OT Casey Collier
Spring update: Coming off one of the best seasons in school history, the Cowboys have to replace many of their key players on defense. Coordinator Jim Knowles, who transformed the Cowboys into one of the top defensive units in the FBS, left for Ohio State. Coach Mike Gundy hired former Auburn D-coordinator Derek Mason to replace him. Mason inherits a unit that lost leading tacklers Rodriguez and Harper and four starters in the secondary, including Bernard-Converse, who transferred to LSU. On offense, the Pokes lose top wideout Martin and leading rusher Warren. Gordon, an early enrollee, has made a strong impression this spring.

11. Clemson Tigers

Previous ranking: 11
2021 record: 10-3 (6-2 ACC)
Returning starters: 10 offense, 6 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: LB Baylon Spector, LB James Skalski, CB Andrew Booth Jr., FS Nolan Turner, CB Mario Goodrich, WR Justyn Ross
Key additions: QB Cade Klubnik, CB Jeadyn Lukus, WR Antonio Williams, OT Collin Sadler, WR Adam Randall, CB Toriano Pride, CB Sherrod Covil Jr.
Spring update: Clemson has two new coordinators -- Brandon Streeter on offense and Wes Goodwin on defense -- and coach Dabo Swinney hopes the Tigers return to their old ways after slipping with three losses in 2021. Quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei shed about 25 pounds in the offseason after struggling in his first season as the full-time starter. Uiagalelei left spring practice atop the depth chart, but he might continue to be pushed by Klubnik, an early enrollee, who looked good over 15 practices. Clemson's defensive line had its way in the spring game against a thin offensive line. Randall, who was expected to help the wide receiver corps, might miss the season after suffering a torn ACL in his knee during the spring.

12. USC Trojans

Previous ranking: 22
2021 record: 4-8 (3-6 Pac-12)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: WR Drake London, LB Drake Jackson, LB Kana'i Mauga, CB Chris Steele, CB Isaac Taylor-Stuart, TE Erik Krommenhoek, OT Jalen McKenzie, G Liam Jimmons
Key additions: QB Caleb Williams, RB Travis Dye, WR Mario Williams, WR Brenden Rice, WR Terrell Bynum, OL Bobby Haskins, LB Romello Height, LB Shane Lee, CB Mekhi Blackmon
Spring update: Former Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley's face-lift of USC's roster includes the addition of 13 players through the transfer portal, including former Sooners starting quarterback Caleb Williams and Oregon star tailback Dye. Riley also has vastly upgraded the wide receiver corps by bringing in Mario Williams, Rice and Bynum. Haskins, who started 20 games at Virginia, might get plugged in at left tackle. USC's defense seems to need more work, although former Alabama linebacker Lee and ex-Colorado cornerback Blackmon should help. The Trojans won't play Oregon or Washington during the regular season, and they'll hit the road for games with Stanford, Utah and UCLA.

13. Houston Cougars

Previous ranking: 13
2021 record: 12-2 (8-0 AAC)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 5 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: G Keenan Murphy, WR Jake Herslow, C Kody Russey, OT Dennis Bardwell, DE David Anenih, LB Deontay Anderson, DB/KR Marcus Jones, DT Logan Hall
Key additions: WR Matthew Golden, QB Lucas Coley, OL Tyler Johnson, RB Brandon Campbell, OL Lance Robinson, WR Joseph Manjack IV, LB Jamal Morris, WR Brice Johnson
Spring update: As the Cougars prepare for what might be their final season in the AAC before potentially moving to the Big 12 in 2023, coach Dana Holgorsen and his staff have been very active in the transfer portal. They recently added Robinson, who started 12 games at Middle Tennessee State last season, and Tyler Johnson, a former ESPN 300 recruit who played sparingly the past three seasons at Texas, to help shore up losses on the offensive line. Coley, an Arkansas transfer, might be Houston's quarterback of the future. The Cougars were dealt a big blow in the spring when starting tailback Alton McCaskill, who ran for 961 yards with 16 touchdowns in 2021, tore the ACL in his left knee on April 1. He is expected to miss the 2022 season. Ta'Zhawn Henry, who ran for 513 yards with seven scores last season, and Campbell, a Southern California transfer, might split carries in his absence.

14. Oklahoma Sooners

Previous ranking: 17
2021 record: 11-2 (7-2 Big 12)
Returning starters: 4 offense, 5 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: QB Caleb Williams, WR Mario Williams, DE Nik Bonitto, LB Brian Asamoah, DE Isaiah Thomas, DL Perrion Winfrey, S Delarrin Turner-Yell, S Pat Fields, WR Jadon Haselwood, RB Kennedy Brooks, G Marquis Hayes
Key additions: QB Dillon Gabriel, G McKade Mettauer, TE Daniel Parker Jr., OL Tyler Guyton, CB Trey Morrison, DL Jonah Laulu, CB C.J. Coldon, RB Gavin Sawchuk, ATH Gentry Williams

Spring update: The Sooners' roster was decimated by players leaving for the NFL draft and transferring after Riley left for USC. But first-time head coach Brent Venables has done a nice job of reloading through the transfer portal. Gabriel threw for more than 8,000 yards with 70 touchdowns in three seasons at UCF. Coldon, a transfer from Wyoming, and Morrison, from North Carolina, were nice additions to the secondary. Laulu had eight tackles for loss and four sacks at Hawai'i last season. Venables will get things fixed on defense, and the offense will be good enough to outscore most teams in the Big 12. The Sooners will play Kansas State, Baylor and Oklahoma State at home.

15. Pittsburgh Panthers

Previous ranking: Not ranked
2021 record: 11-3 (7-1 ACC)
Returning starters: 8 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: QB Kenny Pickett, LB Phil Campbell III, LB Cam Bright, CB Damarri Mathis, DT Keyshon Camp, WR Shocky Jacques-Louis, TE Lucas Krull
Key additions: QB Kedon Slovis, WR Konata Mumpfield, LB Shayne Simon
Spring update: The post-Pickett era at Pittsburgh began with a new quarterback as well as a new offensive coordinator -- albeit a familiar name for Panthers fans. Frank Cignetti Jr. is back for a third time to call plays on offense, and Pittsburgh should be more balanced than it was under pass-happy Mark Whipple the past three seasons. Slovis, who threw for 7,576 yards with 58 touchdowns in 27 games at Southern California, was battling Nick Patti to replace Pickett. The Panthers added Mumpfield, who had 751 receiving yards and eight scores as a freshman at Akron in 2021. Replacing two starting linebackers, including Bright, who transferred to Washington, was a priority this spring.

16. Oregon Ducks

Previous ranking: 12
2021 record: 10-4 (7-2 Pac-12)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 7 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, CB Mykael Wright, CB DJ James, QB Anthony Brown, WR Devon Williams, G George Moore, S Verone McKinley III, RB Travis Dye
Key additions: QB Bo Nix, DL Sam Taimani, CB Christian Gonzalez, WR Chase Cota, DL Jordon Riley, LB Devon Jackson, ATH Jalil Tucker, DE Gracen Halton, S Trejon Williams, OL Josh Conerly Jr.
Spring update: New Ducks coach Dan Lanning, a former defensive coordinator at Georgia, has spent the spring installing new schemes on both sides of the ball. Nix, who started three seasons at Auburn, has been working with the No. 1 offense. He will continue to battle Ty Thompson and Jay Butterfield for the starting quarterback job. Dye transferred to Southern California, so sophomores Byron Cardwell, Seven McGee and Sean Dollars are competing for carries. The Ducks added some beef up front on defense in Taimani (6-foot-2, 330 pounds) and Riley (6-foot-6, 310 pounds). Gonzalez, a two-year starter at Colorado, should help in the secondary, where three of four starters departed.

17. Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Previous ranking: 14
2021 record: (11-3, 7-1 ACC)
Returning starters: 8 offense, 6 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: WR Jaquarii Roberson, TE Brandon Chapman, DT Miles Fox, DE Luiji Vilain, LB Luke Masterson, CB Ja'Sir Taylor, K Nick Sciba, S Traveon Redd, RB Christian Beal-Smith
Key additions: DT Kobie Turner, WR Jaydn Girard, CB Zamari Stevenson, DE Eli Hall, WR Wesley Grimes, LB Tommy Bebie, TE Jaeger Bull
Spring update: The Demon Deacons won 11 games and reached the ACC championship game in 2021. If its defense can improve after ranking 10th in the league in scoring defense (28.9 points) and 12th in rushing defense (195.6 yards) last season, Wake Forest might be even better. Turner, an All-Colonial Athletic Association first-team selection at Richmond, was a big addition on the defensive line. Chase Jones emerged as a top linebacker this spring. New defensive coordinator Brad Lambert, a former Charlotte head coach, has had success at Wake Forest in the past. Finding a replacement for Beal-Smith, the team's leading rusher the past two seasons, is a priority after he transferred to South Carolina.

18. Baylor Bears

Previous ranking: 16
2021 record: 12-2 (7-2 Big 12)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 6 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: RB Abram Smith, CB Kalon Barnes, S Jalen Pitre, WR Tyquan Thornton, LB Terrel Bernard, S JT Woods, WR R.J. Sneed, CB Raleigh Texada, RB Trestan Ebner
Key additions: LB Josh White, DL Jaxon Player, WR Armani Winfield, TE Kaian Roberts-Day, G George Maile, S Devyn Bobby, OLB Jeremy Patton, RB Richard Reese
Spring update: If Baylor is going to continue its success under coach Dave Aranda, it's going to have to find hardworking running backs to replace Smith and Ebner and rebuild a defense that ranked second in the Big 12 in scoring defense (18.3 points) and rushing defense (118 yards). Smith and Ebner combined for 2,400 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns in 2021. The good news: Four super seniors are back on the offensive line, including center Jacob Gall and left tackle Connor Galvin. Four starters must be replaced in the secondary, including Pitre, an All-American. Player, a native of Waco, Texas, was an All-AAC selection at Tulsa in 2020 and had 23.5 tackles for loss over the past two seasons combined.

19. BYU Cougars

Previous ranking: 18
2021 record: 10-3
Returning starters: 8 offense, 11 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: RB Tyler Allgeier, WR Neil Pau'u, C James Empey
Key additions: OT Kingsley Suamataia, CB Gabe Jeudy-Lally, WR Cody Hagen, WR Dominique McKenzie, DE Aisea Moa, DE Logan Fano, RB Christopher Brooks, FB Houston Heimuli, OL Lisala Tai
Spring update: Coming off back-to-back seasons with 10 victories and entering their final one as an independent, the Cougars bring back almost everyone who was a big contributor in 2021. In fact, BYU will return 88% of its production, according to ESPN's Bill Connelly, and that ranks second in the FBS. If the Cougars can keep quarterback Jaren Hall healthy and find a capable replacement for Allgeier, who left for the NFL, they'll be poised for another campaign with 10 wins or more. One concern: BYU's schedule next season includes home games against Baylor and Arkansas, road games versus Oregon, Boise State and Stanford and a contest with Notre Dame in Las Vegas.

20. Arkansas Razorbacks

Previous ranking: 20
2021 record: 9-4 (4-4 SEC)
Returning starters: 6 offense, 3 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: WR Treylon Burks, WR Tyson Morris, OT Myron Cunningham, LB Grant Morgan, S Joe Foucha, CB Montaric Brown, DT John Ridgeway
Key additions: WR Jadon Haselwood, DE Landon Jackson, LB Drew Sanders, CB Dwight McGlothern, S Latavious Brini, DE Jordan Domineck, OT Andrew Chamblee
Spring update: After guiding the Razorbacks to nine victories in his second season (which was two more than Arkansas tallied over the previous three years combined), coach Sam Pittman is having to rebuild his defense and find a new No. 1 receiver this spring. The Hogs will attempt to fill holes on defense with a handful of veteran transfers, including four from SEC schools: Brini (Georgia), Jackson (LSU), Sanders (Alabama) and McGlothern (LSU). Haselwood, who caught 39 passes with six touchdowns at Oklahoma in 2021, will help offset the loss of Burks, who had 66 receptions for 1,104 yards and 11 scores last season.

21. Ole Miss Rebels

Previous ranking: 23
2021 record: 10-3 (6-2 SEC)
Returning starters: 5 offense, 6 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: QB Matt Corral, RB Jerrion Ealy, WR Braylon Sanders, WR Dontario Drummond, C Orlando Umana, DE Sam Williams, LB Mark Robinson, SS Jake Springer, LB Chance Campbell
Key additions: RB Zach Evans, QB Jaxson Dart, S Isheem Young, DE Jared Ivey, TE Michael Trigg, OT Mason Brooks, DL J.J. Pegues, LB Khari Coleman, LB Troy Brown, RB Ulysses Bentley IV, WR Jordan Watkins, S Ladarius Tennison

Spring update: Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin, the self-proclaimed "King of the Portal," has reloaded the Rebels' roster with more than a dozen transfers. Dart, from Southern California, is battling Luke Altmyer for the unenviable task of replacing Corral. Evans, who transferred from TCU, will be the No. 1 tailback, and Western Kentucky transfer Brooks will solidify the offensive line at right tackle. Kiffin has raved about the potential of Southern California transfer Trigg. Brown, a three-time All-MAC selection at Central Michigan, and Coleman, who had 15 tackles for loss and three sacks at TCU in 2020, are nice additions on defense.

22. Kentucky Wildcats

Previous ranking: 21
2021 record: 10-3 (5-3 SEC)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: OT Darian Kinnard, C Luke Fortner, WR Wan'Dale Robinson, DE Joshua Paschal, NG Marquan McCall, CB Cedrick Dort Jr., FS Yusuf Corker
Key additions: WR Tayvion Robinson, WR Javon Baker, OL Tashawn Manning, OT Kiyaunta Goodwin, DE Tyreese Fearbry, LB Keaten Wade, WR Dane Key
Spring update: After guiding Kentucky to its second 10-win season since 1977, coach Mark Stoops and his staff spent the spring trying to rebuild both lines of scrimmage. Three starting offensive linemen must be replaced. Manning, an Auburn transfer, looks like one of the starting guards. On the defensive line, three starters departed, including tackle Abule Abadi-Fitzgerald, who is attempting to join the WWE. Adding Tayvion Robinson, who had at least 31 catches in each of the past three seasons at Virginia Tech, should shore up the wide receiver corps.

23. Cincinnati Bearcats

Previous ranking: 19
2021 record: 13-1 (8-0 AAC)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 2 defense, 1 special teams
Key departures: QB Desmond Ridder, CB Ahmad Gardner, CB Coby Bryant, DE Myjai Sanders, WR Alec Pierce, RB Jerome Ford, LB Joel Dublanko, LB Darrian Beavers, DT Curtis Brooks
Key additions: QB Ben Bryant, RB Corey Kiner, LB Ivan Pace Jr., WR Nick Mardner, K Ryan Coe
Spring update: With Ridder leaving for the NFL, the Bearcats turned to a familiar face -- former backup Bryant -- to compete with Evan Prater for the quarterback job. Bryant spent three seasons at Cincinnati before transferring to Eastern Michigan in 2021; last season, he completed 68.4% of his attempts for 3,121 yards with 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Prater, who attempted 11 passes in 2021, was Mr. Football in Ohio in 2019. Kiner, a Cincinnati native, is transferring from LSU, where he was the Tigers' second-leading rusher with 324 yards for two scores last season. Another former Mr. Football in Ohio, Kiner will be a favorite to replace Ford. Arquon Bush and Leroy Bowers look like the top candidates to replace Gardner and Bryant at cornerback, but that won't be easy.

24. Tennessee Volunteers

Previous ranking: Not ranked
2021 record: 7-6 (4-4 SEC)
Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: OL Cade Mays, WR JaVonta Payton, WR Velus Jones Jr., S Theo Jackson, DL Ja'Quain Blakely, DT Matthew Butler
Key additions: OT Gerald Mincey, LB Jackson Hannah, TE Charlie Browder, S Wesley Walker
Spring update: Volunteers coach Josh Heupel and his staff did a remarkable job in their first season, given the state of the program they inherited. With quarterback Hendon Hooker, tailback Jabari Small and wide receiver Cedric Tillman coming back, the Volunteers should again be potent on offense. Mincey, a transfer from Florida, might get a long look in replacing Mays at tackle. The Vols lost two of their top wideouts, and they remain in the mix for former Southern California wide receiver Bru McCoy. The top three tacklers are coming back from last season, but help is needed in the secondary. Walker, a transfer from Georgia Tech, might help at nickelback. Tennessee could add another cornerback through the portal. With potential NCAA sanctions looming, the Volunteers still face an uncertain future. Road games versus Pittsburgh, LSU, Georgia and South Carolina will be tricky.

25. Iowa Hawkeyes

Previous ranking: 15
2021 record: 10-4 (7-2 Big Ten)
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 special teams
Key departures: C Tyler Linderbaum, RB Tyler Goodson, G Kyler Schott, DE Zach VanValkenburg, FS Jack Koerner, CB Matt Hankins, S/LB Dane Belton
Key additions: DE Aaron Graves, S Xavier Nwankpa, DE Caden Crawford, RB Kaleb Johnson, RB Jaziun Patterson, OT Jack Dotzler, TE Steven Stilianos
Spring update: Iowa fans haven't questioned too many of coach Kirk Ferentz's decisions in his previous 23 seasons, but more than a few are scratching their heads and holding their breath about his plan to fix the Hawkeyes' struggling offense. With Ken O'Keefe moving into an off-field position, Ferentz gave his son, offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz, the role of quarterbacks coach. A former offensive lineman at Iowa, Brian Ferentz has never coached quarterbacks. He was heavily criticized last season when the Hawkeyes finished 99th in the FBS in scoring (23.4 points) and 121st in total offense (303.7 yards). Quarterback Spencer Petras, who has started 10 of the past 20 games, will try to hold off Alex Padilla, who went 3-0 as the starter when Petras was injured in 2021.

 

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Well, that’s not the AP poll, so …

mdmost
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For anyone like me who sat in Texas Stadium in early December 2001, Chris Simms would be the last person I'd want to speak on the difficulty level of winning the Big 12. 

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LTtxfan

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College football rankings: Alabama, Ohio State lead post-spring top 25 ahead of 2022 season

By Dennis Dodd.   18 hrs ago 

 Post-spring top 25 

Quote

1    Alabama

Following the loss of six first-round draft choices, 2021 was definitely supposed to be a "rebuilding" year. The Crimson Tide then won the SEC and went to their ninth national title game under Nick Saban. That means look out for this year when Bama is loaded. You can't be surprised. Saban fields arguably the best offensive player (Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Bryce Young) and best defensive player (linebacker Will Anderson Jr.) in the country. Louisville transfer Tyrell Harrell is the next difference-making wide receiver. Coming out the spring, the offensive line needed work. Way-too-early ranking: 1

2    Ohio St.

The Rose Bowl might have provided us with the top two Heisman contenders: QB C.J. Stroud (573 yards passing, six touchdowns) and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (15 catches, 347 yards). It certainly provided optimism for 2022. The biggest, huge, mega question is defense. Ryan Day addressed the growing concern by stealing Jim Knowles from Oklahoma State as defensive coordinator. That will be the difference between a Big Ten title and a playoff run. Way-too-early ranking: 2

3    Georgia

The Bulldogs attempt to run it back after losing the core of a generational defense and a generational team (15 players taken in the NFL Draft). With the remains, they should at least get back to the CFP. Quarterback Stetson Bennett is playing with house (and NIL) money. If he loses the starting job to Carson Beck or Brock Vandagriff, so what? SBIV never has to spend a dime in Athens, Georgia, again. He's that big of a hero. There is enough talent left on defense to still be the SEC's best in that department. Way-too-early ranking: 3

4     Oklahoma

It's hard to pick the Sooners to win the Big 12 when they didn't in Lincoln Riley's last season and now have Brent Venables as a rookie head coach. That's not to disparage what was just about a perfect hire by athletic director Joe Castiglione. The OU defense will be better because it can't help but be under Venables. But these are transition years with one foot in the SEC and another trying to kick Big 12 butts. UCF transfer Dillon Gabriel gives Venables a plug-and-play quarterback. The running back position is deep. Way-too-early ranking: 4

5    Baylor

Let's not dismiss the defending Big 12 champions. The Bears beat Texas and Oklahoma last season by a combined 20 points. Dave Aranda is one of the deepest thinkers in college football. Remember his field goal with 3 seconds left against Oklahoma up 10? He had somehow thought ahead to a potential Big 12 tiebreaker. Aranda also named his quarterback starter after the spring. Unconventional? Sure, but that allowed last year's starter Gerry Bohanon to transfer. Told you Aranda was a deep thinker. Way-too-early ranking: 6

6     Michigan

Only Jim Harbaugh could interview for an NFL job on National Signing Day, not get the job, retain the class and get an extension with a raise a few days later. That's an introduction to Year 8 of the Harbaugh regime. Despite the loss of edge rushers Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo, the Wolverines are going to be a hiccup behind Ohio State and possibly a playoff team. Way-too-early ranking: 11

7     Texas A&M

The Aggies are going to be good, really good. Just not good enough. They can't be while still searching for a playoff-worthy quarterback in Jimbo Fisher's fifth season. The 2022 recruiting class might be the best ever, but someone has to tell me how many of those five-stars are going to be difference makers in the SEC West as true freshmen. The Aggies are going to be really good, not great in 2022. Way-too-early ranking: 5

8    Notre Dame

The Marcus Freeman Experience begins. The 38-year-old defensive coordinator was probably the only logical hire when Brian Kelly left less than a week before Selection Sunday. The first-time head coach takes over a giant. There is plenty of talent around for the Fighting Irish to win 10. Michael Mayer is a John Mackey Award candidate at tight end. Northwestern safety All-American Brandon Joseph is a huge add from the transfer portal. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees made the decision to stay -- with Freeman, in a package deal -- after overtures from Kelly. Way-too-early ranking: 7

9     Utah

That was more than Utah's first Rose Bowl last January. It was a defining moment for the program. The Utes went toe-to-toe with Ohio State. The defending Pac-12 champs should make a return to the Rose Bowl. Gritty Cam Rising returns at quarterback. Stanford linebacker Gabe Reid arrives via the portal. The biggest "move" for the Utes might have been no move at all. Kyle Whittingham, 62, didn't retire in the offseason. Way-too-early ranking: 13

10     Arkansas

Remember when Arkansas "lost" the bidding war with Missouri for Eli Drinkwitz and had to settle for Sam Pittman? Yeah, me either. In Year 3 under the folksy Pittman, the Razorbacks have turned the corner as a knock-your-head-off SEC program. KJ Jefferson might be the second-best SEC quarterback to Young. Former Alabama transfer Drew Sanders anchors an improving defense. Way-too-early ranking: 10

11    Clemson

I'm not buying that Clemson won 10 in an "off" year. The conclusion here is that program declined in general and needs to get its mojo back quickly. Something is up with D.J. Uiagalelei's game. It has to be fixed for the Tigers to ascend back to the top of the ACC. Both coordinators left. Dabo Swinney continues to complain about NIL and the transfer portal. That can't be good for transfers looking at the Tigers. The question has to be asked: Is Clemson's dynasty over when its ceiling for 2022 is only the ACC title? Way-too-early ranking: NR

12    Miami (Fla.)

The school and its boosters have thrown money at a two-decade old problem -- winning national championships. Mario Cristobal arrives with a proven track record and desire to get his alma mater back to the top. Two proven coordinators and recruiters -- Josh Gattis and Kevin Steele -- round out a stellar staff. Is Miami back? Under Cristobal, it just might be. Way-too-early ranking: 12

13     Ole Miss

The season after the program's first 10-win regular season, "The Portal King" Lane Kiffin, has enthusiastically jumped into the deep end of the roster management pool. Ole Miss had the top transfer class, according to 247Sports. Watch USC tight end Michael Trigg and projected Matt Corral replacement Jaxson Dart. Way-too-early ranking: NR

14     USC

Just to get to a bowl game would be a dramatic improvement. But that's why USC is paying Lincoln Riley a reported $110 million over 10 years. Riley must develop a running game and some toughness in both lines. Quarterback Caleb Williams is the headliner in Hollywood. Way-too-early ranking: 14

15     Tennessee

Josh Heupel had a nice debut season in the SEC. But this will be Year 2 with the dark specter of an NCAA investigation hanging over the program. Hendon Hooker returns after throwing 31 touchdown passes and leading the SEC in efficiency. Way-too-early ranking: 15

16     Michigan St.

Mel Tucker reset the market with that monster new contract. That's what 11 wins, beating Michigan and winning a New Year's Six bowl game will get you. (Actually the $95 million, 10-year deal was signed in late November before that 11th win.) Wisconsin transfer Jalen Berger and Colorado transfer Jarek Broussard will try to replace Kenneth Walker III in the backfield. Way-too-early ranking: 20

17     Texas

A disappointing 5-7 debut for Steve Sarkisian included a loss to Kansas. The Longhorns must start fast and they must be entertaining. An explosive offense should take care of the latter. Ohio State transfer QB Quinn Ewers, WR Xavier Worthy and the return of RB Bijan Robinson will make the 'Horns fun to watch. Way-too-early ranking: 16

18     Oregon

First-time head coach Dan Lanning is the Ducks' fourth coach since 2016. Cristobal said he left the cupboard loaded. It certainly is on defense where Justin Flowe and Noah Sewell return trying to lead Oregon to a fourth consecutive Pac-12 championship game. Way-too-early ranking: 18

19     Wisconsin

Wash, rinse, repeat for the Badgers. They will contend in the Big Ten West with a big, physical offense. However, QB Graham Mertz needs to rebound. Jim Leonhard's defense gets a huge boost from UCLA transfer cornerback Jay Shaw. Way-too-early ranking: 19

20     Okla. St.

The Cowboys were literally within inches from perhaps going to the CFP but couldn't punch it in from the 2-yard line with four tries against Baylor in the Big 12 Championship Game. How much of that "What if?" will still be lingering over the program? A Fiesta Bowl win (a school-record tying 12th) over Notre Dame helps. Quarterback Spencer Saunders returns for a fourth season. How much will the loss of Knowles mean to what was a top-five defense? Way-too-early ranking: 25

21     Wake Forest

As long as Sam Hartman is quarterbacking, the Demon Deacons have a chance. Wake Forest got off to an 8-0 start before settling for 11 wins (the most in 15 years) and a Gator Bowl win. Wake will lead the country in offensive plays, try to tire out the defense and hang on. The defense has finished no higher than eighth in the ACC five years running. Way-too-early ranking: 17

22     BYU

The Cougars have certainly earned an invite to the Big 12. Kalani Sitake has the program on an even course with 21 combined wins the last two seasons. Versatile RB Tyler Allgeier is gone to the NFL, but Cal transfer Christopher Brooks hopes to fill in. Way-too-early ranking: 21

23     Houston

The Cougars should get the New Year's Six auto bid considering everything that is coming back. Coach Dana Holgorsen got a raise in the offseason. Quarterback Clayton Tune took over for D'Eriq King a couple of years ago and never looked back. Coordinator Doug Belk's defense is loaded. Way-too-early ranking: NR

24     Penn St.

The season went south when QB Sean Clifford went down against Iowa. Clifford is back which might be the difference in the always-tough Big Ten East. James Franklin -- 11-11 the last two seasons -- has security with a new 10-year contract. Way-too-early ranking: 24

25     Cincinnati

Most of the big names are gone, but we're betting on Luke Fickell. He stayed despite overtures from Power Five programs and will continue building something lasting as the Bearcats transition into the Big 12. There will be battles at quarterback and tailback. We'll get a sense for which way the season is headed in the opener at Arkansas. Way-too-early ranking: 23

 

  • #4   blOU  
  • #5   baylor 
  • #7   aggy.      
  • #17   Texas     
  • #20   okie lite   

 

 

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College football Top 25 rankings: 247Sports' post-spring poll for 2022

ByBRAD CRAWFORD Apr 27, 8:48 AM

With spring practice coming to a close this month across college football ahead of the dog days of summer, the votes are in and now is the time to release our updated post-spring top 25 rankings ahead of the 2022 season. We're not expecting the national hierarchy to shift all that much in terms of College Football Playoff contenders, however, there are several programs picking up steam thanks to roster enhancements and coaching changes who could crash the party this fall.

First-time playoff participants Michigan and Cincinnati will be featured front and center during Thursday's opening round of the NFL Draft, but unfortunately for the Wolverines and Bearcats, that affects the narrative for this year's teams, respectively.

Five national analysts at 247Sports participated in our updated top 25 and every program’s previous ranking from January's first edition is included. Teams who received the most points in our top 25, but fell short of the rankings were Wisconsin (15), Miami (14), Cincinnati (5) and South Carolina (4). 

Based on a scoring system centered around placement — 25 points for Alabama at No. 1, 24 points for Ohio State at No. 2 and so on — here are the results.

Quote

.25. Oklahoma State Cowboys (21 total points)

Previous ranking: No. 15

Oklahoma State cracked the top 15 of our way-too-early rankings, but opinions on the Cowboys were not unanimous. Such is the case again it appears. Oklahoma State was left off three ballots entirely and was ranked inside the top 20 on the other two.

24. Kentucky Wildcats (24 points)

Previous ranking: No. 22

Kentucky loses top playmaker Wan'Dale Robinson offensively, but quarterback Will Levis is returning after a 10-win season and you know Mark Stoops' team will be a bully in the trenches despite a couple notable losses at the line of scrimmage.

23. Iowa Hawkeyes (25 points)

Previous ranking: No. 16

After giving the Hawkeyes a closer look this spring, our voters decided to turn the dial down a notch, resulting in a seven-spot slide for Kirk Ferentz's team heading into summer.

22. Tennessee Volunteers (26 points)

Previous ranking: No. 24

Hendon Hooker is back as Tennessee's conductor offensively under Josh Heupel for a team that should challenge for an upper-tier finish in the SEC East. Building on the Volunteers' success in Year 1 under its new regime is the mindset this fall.

21. Arkansas Razorbacks (28 points)

Previous ranking: No. 17

Arkansas is one SEC program we're high on, but maybe not quite as lofty as a few others. One of our voters left Arkansas off his ballot completely. The return of K.J. Jefferson at quarterback means the Razorbacks will have one of the league's top quarterbacks and that gives them a shot against a brutal slate.

T20. Ole Miss Rebels (34 points)

Previous ranking: N/A

Ole Miss was ranked inside the top 20 on three ballots and outside of the poll altogether on two others, so there's a mass difference of opinion on the Rebels coming out of spring practice. Ole Miss is one of a half-dozen SEC teams to appear in our rankings, including four from the SEC West

T20. Houston Cougars (34 points)

Previous ranking: No. 22

With quarterback Clayton Tune returning, the Cougars should once again be explosive offensively. Our analysts are slotting Houston as the preseason favorite in the AAC over Cincinnati.

18. USC TROJANS (41 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 23

Ranked as high as No. 10 on one preseason ballot and outside of the top 25 on another, opinions are heavily-skewed on the Trojans entering Lincoln Riley's first campaign at USC. Much of the national attention in January centered on the transfer portal and after landing five-star Oklahoma transfer Caleb Williams, some voters believe in USC coming out of spring. He's not the only impact transfer for Riley, who went heavy on player acquisitions this spring and it looks like that could pay off in a big way. USC is the first of three Pac-12 programs ranked in our post-spring poll.

17. PITTSBURGH PANTHERS (43 POINTS)

Previous ranking: N/A

Nowhere to be found in our January way-too-early poll, that was an oversight from voters. We may have overestimated the exit of OC Mark Whipple along with Heisman finalist quarterback Kenny Pickett, who both were instrumental in helping the Panthers win the ACC in 2021. Jordan Addison returns at receiver after an All-American campaign and will now be catching passes from USC transfer signal caller Kedon Slovis. The only team ranked in the ACC Coastal, the Panthers are on the shortlist to get back to the New Year's Six if there's execution on both sides of the football similar to last season.

T16. WAKE FOREST DEMON DEACONS (48 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 11

While most voters were high on the Demon Deacons as a top-15 team, two others were not, thus the five-spot slide from early January here. NC State's ascension into the top 10 of our post-spring rankings also didn't help Wake Forest, who is slotted behind the Wolfpack and Clemson according to our experts in the ACC Atlantic. This team's wide receiver group might be the league's best and multi-year starter Sam Hartman at quarterback is criminally-underrated from a national standpoint. After nearly winning the conference last season, there's some unfinished business to attend to in Winston-Salem for the Demon Deacons.

T16. TEXAS LONGHORNS (48 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 19

Drinking the Kool-Aid yet? We are — in small doses. After acquiring several instant-impact transfers, second-year Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian has some media members believing Texas will have a chance to compete for a Big 12 championship coming off a 5-7 disaster. Is it possible? Sure, as long as Quinn Ewers or Hudson Card play well at quarterback and the rest of the star-studded cast perform. Insiders however aren't overly optimistic about the Longhorns' defense and whether this group can develop the pass rushers necessary to combat Big 12 offenses. Texas hosts Alabama early, so we'll know if this preseason ranking holds water.

14. BYU COUGARS (51 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 14

When you return a difference-maker at quarterback coming off a 10-win season, hype is warranted. But now, BYU welcomes back top wideout Gunner Romney — who skipped an NFL opportunity — and landed Cal running back Christopher Brooks and Stanford fullback Houston Heimuli out of the portal to complete what should be a feared offense next fall. Over the first seven weeks, BYU will play Baylor, Oregon, Notre Dame and Arkansas, four teams included in our preseason way-too-early rankings. If there's a dark-horse playoff team for 2022, you could be looking at them based on the schedule opportunities.

13. MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS (52 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 9

The Spartans would’ve been higher had one voter not left Michigan State off of his ballot entirely in favor of Wisconsin and Iowa, among others in the Big Ten. Surprisingly, only one of those aforementioned "other" league teams actually made the rankings. The Spartans piled up players in the transfer portal and hope veteran leadership on offense can help replace the production of Doak Walker winner Kenneth Walker and his obvious impact in the ground game. Three new starters along the offensive line might be concerning. The secondary was college football's worst in 2021, so improvements needed there are obvious as well.

12. OREGON DUCKS (54 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 13

Considering the Ducks were as low as No. 24 on one ballot, Oregon managing to stay put outside the top 10 of our post-spring lookahead was a bit surprising. Bo Nix appears to be the guy for Dan Lanning's team at quarterback after a terrific showing in the spring game and suffice to say this squad will take the hard-nosed mindset on the other side of the football. Oregon is one of three teams from the Pac-12 we've slotted inside our post-spring top 20 and might be the most valuable given the expectation level nationally outside of the title picture.

11. BAYLOR BEARS (56 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 10

The Big 12 race is a tough nut to crack at the moment given the handful of teams all within a couple spots of one another. Baylor gets the benefit of the doubt here as the league's reigning champs because the schedule is treacherous and projecting another plus-12 showing in turnover margin would yield the utmost optimism. Those stats are fickle year to year. That being said, only one Big 12 team is ranked ahead of Dave Aranda's Bears coming out of spring. And we'll give you a hint — it's not the Texas Longhorns. 

10. OKLAHOMA SOONERS (78 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 12

Our voters are bullish on the Sooners as a "good" team, but maybe not national championship contender material just yet under Brent Venables. Much of that overall worth hingers on his defense's performance in Year 1 along with the progression of UCF transfer quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who takes over for the departed Caleb Williams under center. Oklahoma moved up two spots from its previous ranking after a better-than-expected spring. One thing is obvious surrounding this year's squad in Norman — the fanbase is jazzed up and ready for a new era of Oklahoma football judging by the spring-game attendance numbers.

9. MICHIGAN WOLVERINES (83 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 7

Since J.J. McCarthy was unable to throw during spring camp, it's difficult to ascertain how this offense is going to look this fall at the quarterback spot with Cade McNamara returning.  Both of those guys are going to play and much of the pressure falls on their shoulders with play-caller Josh Gattis moving on to Miami. The rushing attack of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards should alleviate some of that stress, however. Ranked No. 8 on two ballots and No. 5 on another, one of our voters slotted the Wolverines at No. 16, which skewed results a bit and pushed Michigan two spots back of its pre-spring ranking.

8. NC STATE WOLFPACK (84 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 18

The Wolfpack come in at No. 8 in our post-spring update after one voter pushed NC State all the way to No. 4 given what Dave Doeren’s program returns after a 9-3 finish. NC State's 10-spot difference from early-January to now shows there's considerable hype building around the ACC Atlantic program with much of that steam surrounding quarterback Devin Leary, who nuked opposing defense to the tune of 35 touchdown passes last fall. Two games that we're keeping an eye on that will heavily impact the Wolfpack's value as a preseason title contender are Clemson and Wake Forest. Win those and NC State could run the table.

7. NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH (86 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 5

The Fighting Irish fell out of our preseason way-too-early top five in this post-spring update thanks to one voter slotting Notre Dame at No. 15 on his ballot. Ranked as high as No. 5 on another, Notre Dame should be able to maintain it pace throughout the 2022 campaign as a title contender if the quarterback situation works itself out and the Fighting Irish learn from their Week 1 showdown at Ohio State. Win or lose, one game will not define Marcus Freeman's first campaign and that's the message he'll be giving in South Bend if the opener goes south.

6. UTAH UTES (97 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 8

Back in January, Utah was the unanimous No. 8 team across all of our ballots, but the Utes are moving up after one voter slotted Kyle Whittingham's at No. 5 on his ballot. The reigning Pac-12 champs could be one of this season's preseason darlings after winning 10 games last fall and nearly taking the Rose Bowl against Ohio State. Much of that nucleus is back in 2022, including quarterback Cam Rising. Running back Tavion Thomas returns as well after rushing for 1,108 yards and 21 scores. Keep an eye on this team early with a chance to make serious noise.

5. CLEMSON TIGERS (98 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 6

Clemson's garners a top 5 ranking post-spring by one point over Pac-12 favorite Utah. Given what we saw from Clemson's defense over the past month, a unit returning a bevy of starters and girth at the line of scrimmage, the Tigers should be the ACC's team to beat. The bigger question lies at quarterback and whether D.J. Uiagalelei can hold on to his job against the likes of five-star freshman Cade Klubnik. The latter flashed during spring practice and is going to play this season. It remains to be seen if that's with first-team reps or in relief of the incumbent, however.

4. TEXAS A&M AGGIES (108 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 4

Preseason darlings. Sound familiar for the Aggies? Texas A&M was in a similar spotlight this time last spring, but failed to live up to lofty expectations from outsiders during the regular season. Ranked as low as No. 6 on one ballot and high as No. 3 on another, the Aggies are the SEC’s third-highest ranked team coming out of spring, according to our experts. Much of that is do to this team's ceiling and how many of these five-star true freshmen get their feet wet as dependable options in Year 1 under Jimbo Fisher. It's an all-time class that will pay immediate dividends, but how much so remains to be seen.

3. GEORGIA BULLDOGS (115 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 3

Are the defending national champions underrated exiting spring or are we properly slotting Georgia behind two heavyweights with fewer holes coming out of the 2022 NFL Draft? It might be a little of both. One of our voters ranked the Bulldogs in the No. 2 spot, three placed Kirby Smart’s team at No. 3 and another slotted Georgia at No. 4 in the preseason just behind Texas A&M. With half of the defense's impact guys expect to go in the first round this week, that side of the ball for the Bulldogs' may take some getting used to in September.

2. OHIO STATE BUCKEYES (119 POINTS)

Previous ranking: No. 2

Every voter placed the Buckeyes at No. 2 on their respective ballot, except one, who had Ohio State at No. 3 behind Georgia. It's hard to argue with the primary points on why Ohio State should be one of the College Football Playoff frontrunners this season. The Buckeyes have the nation's top returning quarterback not-named Bryce Young and believe they have fixed their well-documented defensive issues with the hiring of Oklahoma State's Jim Knowles. He's going to ensure Ohio State's talent is in position to make plays. If the Buckeyes are elite up front, they'll be in the mix at year's end.

1. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE (125 POINTS; FIVE FIRST-PLACE VOTES)

Previous ranking: No. 1

Armed with Young and Will Anderson, arguably the nation's two best players overall, Alabama received a maximum of 125 points in our post-spring update after all five ballots that were cast tabbed Nick Saban's program in the top spot. Alabama addressed a couple of needs with high-end additions through the transfer portal and could be looking for another prior to fall camp. Offensive line play is one area to watch early and was a point of emphasis this spring from Saban, despite a couple injuries that limited how this group will actually look in a few months

 

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Shaggy3.0

Shaggy3.0 1695

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My Early 2022 College Football Rankings

1. Texas

2. Texas

3. Texas

4. Texas

5. Texas

6. Texas

7. Texas

8. Texas

9. Texas

10. Texas

11. Texas

12. Texas

13. Texas

14. Texas

15. Texas

16. Texas

17. Texas

18. Texas

19. Texas

20. Texas

21. Texas

22. Texas

23. Texas

24. Texas

25. Texas

 

Others receiving votes: WGAF

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Hook 'Em 4
  • Haha 3
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Davis Lane

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9 hours ago, Shaggy3.0 said:

My Early 2022 College Football Rankings

1. Texas

2. Texas

3. Texas

4. Texas

5. Texas

6. Texas

7. Texas

8. Texas

9. Texas

10. Texas

11. Texas

12. Texas

13. Texas

14. Texas

15. Texas

16. Texas

17. Texas

18. Texas

19. Texas

20. Texas

21. Texas

22. Texas

23. Texas

24. Texas

25. Texas

 

Others receiving votes: WGAF

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aggy boycot imminent.

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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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8 hours ago, oldhorn2 said:

Hmmm... Texas at 21 and25 seems about right....

Preseason rankings are always crazy... Nobody has enough info to get any of this shit right yet...

Just more off-season malarkey for Surly folks to break down and discuss... 😋

 

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On 5/6/2022 at 12:23 PM, horn4life said:

Well at least LTtxFan is excited about this.  4x as excited as the next most enthusiastic poster... uh... Me?

It seems like a pretty stupid poll.  Their discussions of the teams shows why the rankings they have are ridiculous.  A&M, NCSU, Okie St., Wake Forest, Cincinnati, Kentucky?

A&M wasn't very good but lost a lot of people.  NCSU returns a lot, but lost some key people.  The rest lost everybody important.

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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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Texas is unranked... I like it !!!  🤘

Athlon Sports Releases Annual College Football Top 25 Predictions

DANIEL CHAVKIN      8 HOURS AGO

Here is Athlon Sports’s full preseason Top 25:

  1. Alabama
  2. Ohio State
  3. Georgia
  4. Clemson
  5. Texas A&M
  6. Michigan
  7. Notre Dame
  8. Utah
  9. USC
  10. Oregon
  11. Baylor
  12. NC State
  13. Oklahoma
  14. Michigan State
  15. Cincinnati
  16. Wake Forest
  17. Oklahoma State
  18. Tennessee
  19. Wisconsin
  20. Miami
  21. Kentucky
  22. Arkansas
  23. Pitt
  24. Houston
  25. Penn State
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markstanco

markstanco 12582

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Texas is unranked... I like it !!!  
Athlon Sports Releases Annual College Football Top 25 Predictions
DANIEL CHAVKIN      8 HOURS AGO
Here is Athlon Sports’s full preseason Top 25:
  1. Alabama
  2. Ohio State
  3. Georgia
  4. Clemson
  5. Texas A&M
  6. Michigan
  7. Notre Dame
  8. Utah
  9. USC
  10. Oregon
  11. Baylor
  12. NC State
  13. Oklahoma
  14. Michigan State
  15. Cincinnati
  16. Wake Forest
  17. Oklahoma State
  18. Tennessee
  19. Wisconsin
  20. Miami
  21. Kentucky
  22. Arkansas
  23. Pitt
  24. Houston
  25. Penn State

Being unranked is not a positive for the program whatsoever. Ask schools like Colorado and California and vandy how that works out for recruiting. Not sure why you think this is a positive, but I would love to hear it.
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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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Preseason polls don't mean shit, and can be great for motivation if you're being overlooked.  Texas has plenty of games on their 2022 schedule that will allow them to move up substantially in the rankings if they win...  🤘

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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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Interesting CFB Playoff Stats

Sure, everyone wants their team to rank at or near the top of the AP Top 25 poll. But it turns out, being just average is also a good place to start out.  One team from outside the preseason Top 10 is likely to make the final four College Football Playoff rankings, based on recent seasons.

Which schools made the CFP ranked No. 10 or lower in the last few years?

  • 2021: Michigan (preseason unranked)
  • 2021: Cincinnati (preseason No. 10)
  • 2020: Notre Dame (preseason No. 10)
  • 2018: Notre Dame (preseason No. 12)
  • 2017: Georgia (preseason No. 15)
  • 2016: Washington (preseason No. 14)
  • 2015: Oklahoma (preseason No. 19)
  • 2015: Clemson (preseason No. 12)
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TrashMaster G

TrashMaster G 17568

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1 hour ago, markstanco said:


Being unranked is not a positive for the program whatsoever. Ask schools like Colorado and California and vandy how that works out for recruiting. Not sure why you think this is a positive, but I would love to hear it.

You think their recruiting struggles are because of their preseason rankings and not because of years of on-field sucking?

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markstanco

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Preseason polls don't mean shit, and can be great for motivation if you're being overlooked.  Texas has plenty of games on their 2022 schedule that will allow them to move up substantially in the rankings if they win...  

Good point, but in some poll I think it was around #6 or 7? and Vegas has us winning every single game except Alabama. Iwanttobelieve.jpg but I have to see it first.
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Zeus

Zeus 6100

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Being in the high teens for blow U (AND FUCKING WINNING) would be nice.

Big mid season games with lots of eyes not a good look to be an unranked blue blood.

Other than that who fucking cares get in the top 15 by the end and win a bowl game I'd be very happy

 

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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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12 hours ago, markstanco said:


Any idea who makes up this poll? Many Vegas sites has texas the favorite in every single game this year. Which I disagree with. Wait, it’s July, no I don’t.

It's the Big 12 media.  Bob Ballou said he was one of 2 reporters that voted Texas 1st place.  Maybe try contacting him for a complete list??

I am sure FCB, FBD, and Kunt Bowels are B12 media voters too...

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I for one appreciate that LTtxfan is on that wall, battling for us, every day. Bringing us gobs of useless information. I look forward to the day he posts a poll that has us ranked WAY too high, and he posts the Al Cverik / Pulp Fiction dancing gif. 

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3 minutes ago, FartingDreamer said:

I think we should do away with having any real polls until the 3rd or 4th week in September.  

Username checks out.

This is one of the recurring most dipshit comments ever. People will have polls. They don’t count until mid-October. You can’t outlaw polls you dumb Mormon fuck. 

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FartingDreamer

FartingDreamer 138

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36 minutes ago, Porterhouse said:

Username checks out.

This is one of the recurring most dipshit comments ever. People will have polls. They don’t count until mid-October. You can’t outlaw polls you dumb Mormon fuck. 

I was referring to the AP and Coaches polls, fuckface.  

Edited by FartingDreamer
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15 minutes ago, FartingDreamer said:

I was referring to the AP and Coaches polls, fuckface.  

Okay?  You’re going to stop the media for a tradition-laden poll?  

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LTtxfan

LTtxfan 49288

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29. Texas

102. Kansas

68. Texas Tech

66. West Virginia

62. UTSA

60. TCU

43. Iowa State

37. Kansas State

31. LSU

30. Florida

29. Texas

28. Iowa

27. Ole Miss

26. BYU

22. Houston

17. Cincinnati

16. Arkansas

13. Oklahoma State

12. USC

10. Baylor Bears

Dave Aranda is ascending the coaching ranks at a rapid pace after winning the Big 12 last season at Baylor and establishing the Bears as a perennial threat among the dozen or so elites following a Sugar Bowl title. Doing it for a second time is always more difficult than the first and staying in contention shows program stability and poise. Aranda is one of the nation's best at getting the most out of his players and defensively, his Bears play with a mean streak at the line of scrimmage. That hard-nosed mentality makes Baylor the preseason favorite in the Big 12, however, national media will likely slot the Bears behind Oklahoma in the preseason top 25.

9. Texas A&M Aggy

Surprisingly, it doesn't appear Texas A&M is going to start the season inside the top five, at least if this early power ranking is any indication. That's one question no one knows the answer to at the moment. AP ballots are due soon and while there's positivity surrounding the Aggies thanks to the highest-rated signing class of all-time, there are still skeptics of the quarterback situation in College Station and Texas A&M's overall value after stumbling to eight wins in 2021. This roster is built for double-digit wins this time around with above average play under center. The schedule is challenging, however — as always in the SEC West.

7. Oklahoma Sooners

Seeing Brent Venables back in Crimson and not his usual orange will take some getting used to early this season as the former Clemson defensive coordinator takes over one of college football's best jobs with the Sooners. One thing that's a guarantee about Venables and Oklahoma — this defense will play with precision and tenacity. He landed Jeff Lebby to call Oklahoma's offense with UCF transfer quarterback Dillon Gabriel in tow. The two worked together in Orlando with rapid-fire production. Gabriel flipped his commitment in the portal from UCLA to Oklahoma and could lead the Big 12 in several categories this fall.

1. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE

Go ahead and stamp Alabama with the preseason No. 1 label this season. That's a guarantee. Given the love for the Crimson Tide last month at SEC Media Days and the media fawning over Nick Saban, Bryce Young and Will Anderson, Alabama should be a near unanimous pick at the top of the AP poll in a few weeks. We expect the Buckeyes to garner a few first-place votes too from media members within the Big Ten. This Alabama defense has a chance to be spectacular in 2022 and the other side of the football welcomes back the reigning Heisman winner along with a few notable transfer portal additions. Saban could easily win his eighth national championship with this team.

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