The College Football Landscape Shifts: Unpredictable Week 7 Leaves Fans Guessing
We've reached the halfway mark of the 2025 college football season, and Week 7 delivered a slate of games that truly shook things up. With numerous matchups between ranked teams, the weekend provided a clearer picture of the Top 25, but also left us with plenty of questions. But here's where it gets controversial: were the upsets this week a sign of genuine shifts in power, or just temporary blips on the radar?
Let's dive into the projected AP Top 25 after a weekend that kept us all on the edge of our seats, courtesy of On3's analysis. We'll break down the key matchups, surprising results, and what they mean for the rest of the season.
1. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-0)
Result: 34-16 win at Illinois
The Buckeyes asserted their dominance early, jumping to a 20-0 lead before Illinois mounted a comeback. While the Fighting Illini halved the deficit, Ohio State responded decisively in the second half. Ryan Day's team has passed every test so far, though some argue their schedule hasn't been the toughest. And this is the part most people miss: their upcoming clash with a desperate Penn State could be the real litmus test for their championship aspirations.
2. Miami Hurricanes (5-0)
Result: BYE
Miami enjoyed a bye week after a hard-fought victory at Florida State. While the Seminoles' recent struggles have dimmed the shine of that win, the Hurricanes remain a force to be reckoned with. Their strength lies in their trenches, a factor that could keep them cruising until a team can match their physicality.
3. Texas A&M Aggies (6-0)
Result: 34-17 win vs. Florida
The Aggies took control early against Florida, though it took time to secure the win. Mike Elko's team continues to impress, showing no significant weaknesses and improving weekly. Controversial take: Could Texas A&M be the dark horse to win it all this year?
4. Ole Miss Rebels (6-0)
Result: 24-21 win vs. Washington State
Ole Miss, heavily favored, faced a tougher challenge than expected from Washington State. The Cougars led at various points, but the Rebels rallied behind Trinidad Chambliss' clutch performance. This win, though close, solidifies Ole Miss as a legitimate contender.
5. Indiana Hoosiers (6-0)
Result: 30-20 win at Oregon
Indiana secured a signature win in Eugene, dominating a physical Oregon team. What's most impressive? They did it without a perfect game, showcasing their depth and resilience. This victory cements the Hoosiers as a team to watch.
6. Alabama Crimson Tide (5-1)
Result: 27-24 win at Missouri
Alabama faced a tough road test against ranked Missouri, leading most of the way but needing a late interception to seal the win. Their resume is impressive, with three straight wins over ranked opponents. However, the early-season loss to Florida State raises questions. Can they maintain their momentum?
7. Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-0)
Result: 42-17 win vs. Kansas
Texas Tech dominated Kansas from the start, piling up 18 points in the first quarter. Cameron Dickey's monster performance (263 rushing yards) highlighted their ground game. Their upcoming road trip to Arizona State will be a crucial test.
8. Oregon Ducks (5-1)
Result: 30-20 loss vs. Indiana
Oregon faced their first true physical challenge of the season and came up short. Held to just 267 total yards, the Ducks struggled to establish their offense. With no remaining ranked opponents, their path to redemption is clear, but can they bounce back?
9. Georgia Bulldogs (5-1)
Result: 20-10 win at Auburn
Georgia overcame a sluggish start, aided by a controversial fumble call, to shut out Auburn in the second half. Kirby Smart's team faces a massive test next week against undefeated Ole Miss, a game that could reshape the SEC landscape.
10. LSU Tigers (5-1)
Result: 20-10 win vs. South Carolina
LSU secured another win but still hasn’t looked dominant. Garrett Nussmeier's two interceptions were offset by his 254 passing yards and two touchdowns. With a tough schedule ahead (Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, Alabama), the Tigers will need to step up their game.
The Rest of the AP Top 25 Projections
- Tennessee Volunteers (5-1)
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-0)
- Oklahoma Sooners (5-1)
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-2)
- BYU Cougars (6-0)
- Missouri Tigers (5-1)
- Virginia Cavaliers (5-1)
- Vanderbilt Commodores (5-1)
- Memphis Tigers (6-0)
- USF Bulls (5-1)
- Texas Longhorns (4-2)
- USC Trojans (5-1)
- Michigan Wolverines (4-2)
- Utah Utes (5-1)
- Cincinnati Bearcats (5-1)
Thought-Provoking Question: With so many teams still undefeated and others showing resilience in close games, who do you think will emerge as the true contenders by season's end? Share your predictions in the comments below!
