Tennessee, Oregon Rise as Top 10 of College Football Rankings Shuffle

The college football rankings can shift dramatically even without major upsets. Following the action of Week 3, the AP Top 25 poll voters were faced with various changes as they crafted their new ballots. While the week lacked any significant upsets, it still delivered unexpected outcomes that will influence rankings.

Eight ranked teams ventured into the homes of unranked opponents this weekend, with half of those matches renewing in-state rivalries. Although several unranked teams put up tough performances, the favored ranked teams managed to secure victories in every case. The only losses for ranked squads emerged from the two matchups between ranked opponents; No. 20 Arizona was defeated by No. 14 Kansas State, while No. 24 Boston College fell to No. 6 Missouri.

Despite the absence of upsets, the close calls and performances of ranked teams have raised questions that could lead to movements in the rankings.

Voters may reconsider whether Georgia retains its position as the No. 1 team after a narrow victory over Kentucky. The Bulldogs had previously dominated their season opener against Clemson, receiving 54 of 63 first-place votes last week. However, this recent performance could lead some voters to place their support behind Texas, Ohio State, or even Alabama, following the Crimson Tide’s commanding win against Wisconsin in Madison.

Additionally, the impressive display by Oregon, a bounce-back win for Notre Dame, and near defeats for Missouri and LSU will all play a role in how voters adjust their rankings. The results from this week are set to impact the rankings significantly as teams prepare for conference play in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, here’s a projection for the updated AP Top 25 poll after the results of Week 3:

1. Georgia (Last week — 1): Georgia is likely to see a few first-place votes shift away after a breathtaking encounter at Kentucky. Their earlier success against Clemson had established their dominance, but this close game has sparked discussions about the top team in college football.

2. Texas (2): With star quarterback Quinn Ewers injured, questions surrounding Texas’s future arise. Yet, the performance of Arch Manning, who threw five touchdowns, cements the Longhorns’ claim for the top spot following a decisive 56-7 victory against UTSA.

3. Ohio State (3): The Buckeyes enjoyed a bye week in Week 3. They are set to resume action next Saturday against Marshall.

4. Alabama (4): Alabama is expected to gain momentum after their decisive win over Wisconsin. Even though their prior voting gap may limit their ascent, the Tide’s dominant performance should bolster their standing and shift many votes their way.

5. Ole Miss (5): Ole Miss remains steady, following a decisive 40-6 win against Wake Forest. Their continued scoring prowess, having surpassed 40 points in each victory, underscores their potential as championship contenders this fall.

6. Tennessee (7): Tennessee continues to impress, maintaining an undefeated record. Their offense has been explosive and has yet to trail in three games. Upcoming challenges against Oklahoma and Alabama will be crucial for the Vols as they seek to maintain their momentum.

7. Oregon (9): Oregon appears to be returning to the form expected of them at the start of the season, fulfilling the preseason hype as a top-ranked team. Voter approval is likely to come back strong after their recent showing.

8. Missouri (6): Missouri faced their first real challenge against Boston College and had a mixed performance that might see them drop in the rankings despite a 3-0 record.

9. Penn State (8): The Nittany Lions had a bye week and are preparing to take on Kent State next Saturday.

10. Miami (10): Miami made a strong statement with a commanding 62-0 victory against Ball State, reaffirming their effectiveness in the rankings.

11. USC (11): The Trojans will be back in action next Saturday as they prepare to face Michigan.

12. Utah (12): With backup quarterback Isaac Wilson leading the charge, Utah secured a solid win against in-state rival Utah State.

13. Oklahoma State (13): Oklahoma State demonstrated their capabilities with a significant win over Tulsa, showcasing impressive passing statistics.

14. Kansas State (14): Kansas State impressed with a dominant win over Arizona, avenging an early touchdown against them and gathering support from voters.

15. Oklahoma (15): The Sooners secured a close victory against Tulane, marking a 3-0 start for the season.

16. Notre Dame (18): Notre Dame surged back into relevance with a prolific offensive showing, scoring 66 points against Purdue in a crucial bounce-back performance.

17. LSU (16): LSU demonstrated resilience by recovering from an early deficit to clinch a narrow victory against South Carolina.

18. Michigan (17): Michigan’s quarterback situation is under scrutiny after their victory against Arkansas State, as different plays led to a win amidst challenges.

19. Louisville (19): Louisville is gearing up for their return to action next Saturday against Georgia Tech.

20. Iowa State (21): The Cyclones are preparing for their next match after a week off, set to face Arkansas State.

21. Clemson (22): The Tigers will look to bounce back against NC State after a week off.

22. Nebraska (23): Nebraska maintained their momentum with a solid win, positioning themselves for a huge matchup against Illinois.

23. Northern Illinois (25): Northern Illinois is set to return next week against Buffalo.

24. Illinois (NR): Illinois earns recognition for their recent performances and their potential to solidify a place in the rankings following a solid victory.

25. Texas A&M (NR): Texas A&M’s impactful win against Florida has reinvigorated their standing, making them strong contenders for a top 25 placement.

Projected to drop out: No. 20 Arizona, No. 24 Boston College