We asked Grok to rank the top 25 teams in college football for 2025

The 2025 college football season is just around the corner. The preseason AP Poll and Coaches Poll are both out, and Texas is the No. 1 team in the nation in both.

But what does Grok, X’s AI assistant, think of the college football landscape entering 2025? We asked it to rank its top 25 programs for the upcoming campaign, and it included 10 SEC football squads.

Check out Grok’s top 25 below, along with explanations for why it picked each school:

Top 25 College Football Rankings for 2025 Season

1. Texas Longhorns

• Why: Arch Manning steps in as QB, backed by elite talent across the roster. A strong offensive line, deep running back group (CJ Baxter, Quintrevion Wisner), and defensive stars like Colin Simmons make Texas a national title favorite. Their Week 1 clash at Ohio State will set the tone.

2. Penn State Nittany Lions

• Why: Returning QB Drew Allar, star RBs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, and a top-tier defense under new coordinator Jim Knowles give Penn State a legitimate shot at a Big Ten title. Their high ranking reflects roster continuity and a favorable schedule.

3. Ohio State Buckeyes

• Why: Despite losing 14 players to the NFL Draft, Ohio State’s talent pool remains deep. QB Julian Sayin and WR Jeremiah Smith headline an explosive offense, though new coordinators and defensive depth concerns drop them slightly. The Texas game is critical.

4. Georgia Bulldogs

• Why: Kirby Smart’s squad reloads with QB Gunner Stockton and transfers like Noah Thomas. Defensive talent (Christen Miller, CJ Allen) keeps them elite, but QB uncertainty and a tough SEC schedule place them just outside the top three.

5. Clemson Tigers

• Why: Cade Klubnik’s development and a veteran roster make Clemson the ACC favorite. A strong defense led by TJ Parker and Peter Woods, plus a manageable schedule, positions them for a playoff run.

6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

• Why: Despite QB turnover, RB Jeremiyah Love and a stout offensive line keep Notre Dame competitive. A tough opener at Miami and a rugged schedule temper expectations, but Marcus Freeman’s squad is playoff-caliber.

7. Alabama Crimson Tide

• Why: Kalen DeBoer’s second year brings stability, with Ty Simpson at QB and a talented roster. Alabama’s recruiting prowess ensures they remain SEC contenders, though quarterback questions linger.

8. LSU Tigers

• Why: Garrett Nussmeier’s experience at QB, paired with a top transfer class (Nic Anderson, Barion Brown), makes LSU’s offense potent. Defensive improvements are key to a deep playoff push.

9. Oregon Ducks

• Why: Dante Moore takes over at QB for a team with Big Ten title aspirations. A strong offensive line and playmakers like Evan Stewart keep Oregon dangerous, but a humbling 2024 playoff loss raises questions.

10. Michigan Wolverines

• Why: Sherrone Moore navigates a post-championship rebuild with QB Bryce Underwood as a potential game-changer. A tough Big Ten slate and defensive losses drop them slightly, but talent keeps them in the top 10.

11. Arizona State Sun Devils

• Why: Kenny Dillingham’s turnaround continues with QB Sam Leavitt and WR Jordyn Tyson. Their best preseason ranking since 1998 reflects momentum, but replacing RB Cam Skattebo is a challenge.

12. Illinois Fighting Illini

• Why: Bret Bielema’s squad returns 16 starters, including QB Luke Altmyer. Their highest preseason ranking since 1990 signals potential for a 10-win season and a playoff push.

13. Miami Hurricanes

• Why: Transfer QB Carson Beck brings experience, but Mario Cristobal needs a breakthrough. A tough opener vs. Notre Dame and an inconsistent track record keep them outside the top 10.

14. South Carolina Gamecocks

• Why: A strong 2024 finish and returning talent make South Carolina a dark horse. Their defense is a strength, but offensive consistency is key in the SEC.

15. Florida Gators

• Why: Billy Napier’s squad returns key pieces and faces a manageable schedule. A breakout season is possible, but they must prove they can compete with SEC elites.

16. SMU Mustangs

• Why: SMU’s move to the ACC and a talented roster keep them ranked. Their offense is dynamic, but defensive depth in a new conference is a concern.

17. Kansas State Wildcats

• Why: A veteran team with a strong rushing attack and manageable Big 12 schedule. They’re a playoff contender but face stiff competition in conference play.

18. Texas A&M Aggies

• Why: Mike Elko’s team has talent but faces a brutal SEC schedule. Their ranking reflects potential, but consistency is needed.

19. Indiana Hoosiers

• Why: Coming off a strong 2024, Indiana returns key players and has momentum. A tough Big Ten schedule could limit their ceiling, but they’re a team to watch.

20. Ole Miss Rebels

• Why: Lane Kiffin’s squad has talent but faces questions after losing key players. Their ranking reflects potential but acknowledges a step back from 2024.

21. Iowa State Cyclones

• Why: A strong Big 12 contender with returning starters, but a tough opener vs. Kansas State could set the tone. Their ceiling is limited by depth.

22. Tennessee Volunteers

• Why: Tennessee’s offense is explosive, but defensive losses and a tough SEC schedule drop them. They remain competitive but need to prove consistency.

23. Oklahoma Sooners

• Why: Brent Venables’ team has talent but faces a gauntlet in the SEC. Their ranking reflects a solid roster but a challenging path.

24. Texas Tech Red Raiders

• Why: A high-powered offense and improving defense make Texas Tech a Big 12 sleeper. Their ranking reflects potential for an upset-filled season.

25. Boise State Broncos

• Why: A Group of 5 powerhouse with a dynamic offense. They’re a lock for a playoff bid if they dominate the Mountain West.