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Ranking all FBS programs for the 2025 season
David Hale ranks 136 college football programs into 20 tiers, forecasting team performance.

David Hale provides a detailed ranking of all college football programs ahead of the upcoming season.
FBS programs ranked into 20 tiers for the 2025 season
In a comprehensive ranking of 136 college football programs, David Hale classifies teams into 20 tiers ahead of the 2025 season. Teams are evaluated based on performance, talent, and playoff potential, with Ohio State and Texas topping the list in Tier 1a. Notably, Ohio State is under scrutiny as it transitions to a new quarterback following the departure of veterans to the NFL. The rankings reflect a shift in evaluating FBS programs, aiming to bring clarity to playoff prospects amidst a convoluted landscape of rankings often criticized as flawed or biased. Teams in Tier 1b, including Georgia and Oregon, show strong potential but face critical challenges, particularly in quarterback play. Following this, several other tiers address expectations for playoff appearances, along with schools that have lost their footing, signaling an exciting yet unpredictable future for college football.
Key Takeaways
"The secret that few in college football like to discuss is that each season, only a handful of teams can really win it all."
This highlights the prevailing belief among insiders about playoff competitiveness.
"The best teams get as many bites at the apple as they need to close the deal."
This reflects the advantage of expanded playoffs in giving teams multiple chances.
The tier ranking indicates a significant evolution in how teams are analyzed and perceived within college football. As programs transition and adapt to new competitions and playoff formats, the focus shifts towards depth and potential. The disparity between elite and struggling teams suggests a widening gap, yet the unpredictability of college football leaves room for surprises. The playoff expansion continues to alter dynamics, potentially skewing traditional power structures while giving rising teams a shot at contention. Insisting that thorough analysis depends on real conversations and performance metrics rather than mere speculation underscores a vital shift towards accountability and strategy within the sport.
Highlights
- Every ranking is an opportunity for a heated discussion.
- Expect the unexpected in college football's evolving landscape.
- Quarterback choices can make or break a season.
- The gap between elite and struggling teams continues to widen.
Concerns Over Competitive Integrity
The growing divide between elite and lower-tier programs raises questions about fairness in competition. As playoff formats shift, perceptions of eligibility and potential success become increasingly fractured, risking dissatisfaction among fans and stakeholders.
As the 2025 season approaches, the optics on college football teams will inevitably shift, revealing the impact of strategy and commitment on the field.
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