The 2025 college football season is already delivering surprises, with Week 3 rankings revealing significant ranking upheaval. Polling results released around September 7, 2025, highlighted teams exceeding expectations and others faltering early. “Tomorrow’s Top 25 Today” from CBS Sports, alongside the official AP Poll and Coaches Poll, showcased the dynamic shifts across the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Week 3’s Top Teams
Ohio State, Penn State, and LSU have maintained their positions at the top, reflecting their consistent performance. According to the AP Poll, these teams continue to be powerhouses in the college football arena. However, the real story lies in the teams that have surged into the Top 25 and those that have unexpectedly fallen.
South Florida’s Stunning Rise
The South Florida Bulls have made a dramatic entry into the Top 25, securing the No. 18 spot in the AP Poll and No. 23 in the Coaches Poll after starting the season with a 2-0 record. This leap reflects their impressive 18-16 upset victory on the road against then-No. 13 Florida, demonstrating their potential to compete at a high level. As noted by CBS Sports’ “Tomorrow’s Top 25 Today,” South Florida’s success positions them as a contender for the Group of Six’s automatic CFP berth.
Auburn and Missouri Join the Ranks
Auburn and Missouri have also climbed into the AP Poll, landing at No. 24 and No. 25, respectively. Auburn’s dominant 42-3 win over Ball State and Missouri’s 42-31 victory over Kansas were key factors in their ascent. These wins showcase their improved performance and potential to challenge established teams. The Coaches Poll also reflected these changes, acknowledging the growing strength of these programs.
Teams Facing Early Setbacks
Not all teams experienced positive movement in the Week 3 rankings. Several programs faced early season setbacks, leading to their departure from the Top 25. Arizona State, Florida, and SMU all dropped out of both the AP Poll and Coaches Poll following disappointing losses.
Florida’s Fall After South Florida Loss
Florida’s loss to South Florida was a significant blow, contributing to their exit from the Top 25. The Gators, who were previously ranked, struggled to contain the Bulls’ offense, resulting in a surprising defeat. This loss highlights the competitive nature of college football and the importance of consistent performance.
Arizona State and SMU’s Struggles
Arizona State’s loss to unranked Mississippi State and SMU’s defeat against Baylor also led to their removal from the Top 25. These losses underscore the challenges faced by these teams and the need for improvement as the season progresses. The AP Poll voters cited these defeats as key factors in their updated rankings.
Oklahoma’s Ascendancy
Oklahoma, led by quarterback John Mateer, has notably climbed in the rankings after a significant victory over Michigan. Mateer’s standout performance was instrumental in the Sooners’ success, solidifying their position as a team to watch. This win demonstrates Oklahoma’s ability to compete against top-tier opponents and their potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff.
Impact on the College Football Landscape
The Week 3 rankings are already shaping the narrative for the 2025 college football season. The rise of South Florida, a Group of Five team, puts them in a favorable position for a potential College Football Playoff berth. For teams like Oklahoma, their climb suggests a strong challenge for a playoff spot. The movement in the polls creates new talking points for media, influences recruiting, and can significantly affect team morale and fan expectations as the season progresses.
The early success of teams like Ohio State, Penn State, and LSU solidifies their status as national championship contenders, while others are now playing catch-up in the playoff hunt. These rankings influence recruiting strategies, as high-ranked teams often attract top talent. The polls also impact team morale, with players and coaches motivated to maintain or improve their standing.
Factors Influencing the Rankings
Several factors contributed to the shifts in the Week 3 rankings. South Florida’s impressive victory over Florida was a major catalyst for their Top 25 debut. Auburn’s dominant win over Ball State and Missouri’s triumph over Kansas also played a role in their ascensions. Oklahoma’s victory over Michigan, fueled by John Mateer’s performance, further solidified their position.
Conversely, losses by Florida, Arizona State, and SMU led to their decline in the rankings. Clemson’s close call against Troy also contributed to a projected drop in rankings. These results highlight the importance of consistent performance and the impact of individual game outcomes on a team’s overall standing.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 college football season progresses, the Week 3 rankings serve as a benchmark for teams striving for success. The rise of underdogs like South Florida adds excitement and unpredictability to the landscape. The performances of established programs like Ohio State, Penn State, and LSU will continue to be closely watched. The journey to the College Football Playoff is just beginning, and the Week 3 rankings provide a glimpse into the potential contenders and the challenges they face.
The Week 3 college football rankings for 2025 paint a compelling picture of the season’s early developments. Unexpected upsets, dominant performances, and shifting narratives underscore the unpredictable nature of the sport. With teams like South Florida emerging as potential playoff contenders and traditional powerhouses maintaining their dominance, the road to the championship promises to be filled with excitement and surprises.
