Week 8 AP Top 25 Predictions: Updated College Football Rankings After Key Saturday Games
College football fans are looking ahead to the Week 8 AP Top 25 rankings after another weekend full of important matchups and competitive performances. Several results are expected to influence the latest poll, with teams rising or falling based on consistency, defense, and strength of schedule.
Projected Movements in the Rankings
A few teams may slip out of the Top 25, while others are positioned to move in after solid showings.
Expected to Drop Out
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No. 15 Michigan
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No. 21 Arizona State
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No. 22 Iowa State
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No. 25 Florida State
Possible New Entrants and Rising Teams
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25. Cincinnati: Despite a narrow three-point loss to Nebraska, Cincinnati remains unbeaten in Big 12 play and could climb into the rankings.
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24. Utah: The Utes produced back-to-back 40-plus-point games against West Virginia and Arizona State, showing strong offensive balance.
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23. Nebraska: After improving to 5-1 and earning a head-to-head win over Cincinnati, Nebraska appears ready to join the Top 25.
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22. Memphis: Following a bye week, the undefeated Tigers have averaged over 40 points per game, keeping their postseason hopes alive.
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21. USF: The Bulls impressed with more than 300 rushing yards in a decisive win over North Texas.
Teams to Watch
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20. USC: A convincing performance over Michigan strengthens USC’s standing before meeting Notre Dame next week.
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19. Texas: After defeating Oklahoma, the Longhorns re-enter the rankings conversation.
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18. Missouri: The Tigers face a challenging road ahead after a close contest with Alabama.
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17. Vanderbilt: Using their open week to regroup, the Commodores prepare for upcoming SEC matchups.
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16. Virginia: The Cavaliers continue to perform well in the ACC, with no remaining games against ranked opponents.
Top of the Rankings
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1. Ohio State: The Buckeyes’ defense continues to dominate, turning turnovers into points and maintaining their unbeaten record.
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2. Miami: The Hurricanes’ victories over multiple ranked teams keep them near the top.
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3. Indiana: A key win over Oregon strengthens their playoff credentials.
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4. Texas A&M: The Aggies remain close behind, looking to secure a decisive win to climb higher.
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5. Ole Miss: Still undefeated, the Rebels aim to refine their play heading into the next stretch of games.
As Week 8 approaches, the AP Top 25 landscape continues to evolve. Each result adds a new dimension to the college football season, and the next rankings release is expected to highlight which programs have best sustained their momentum.