AP Top 25: College Football Rankings Explained

Are you a college football fan who wants to understand the AP Top 25 rankings? This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know. From how the rankings are determined to their impact on the College Football Playoff, we'll cover it all.

The AP Top 25 is a weekly poll of the top 25 college football teams in the United States, compiled by the Associated Press. It's one of the most visible and influential rankings in college football, and it shapes the narrative around the season.

What is the AP Top 25?

The AP Top 25 is a weekly poll conducted throughout the college football season, from the preseason to the end of the regular season. Sportswriters from across the country vote on their top 25 teams. The votes are tallied, and the teams are ranked accordingly.

How the AP Top 25 Works

• The Voters: The poll is composed of a panel of sports writers and broadcasters from the Associated Press. These individuals are responsible for evaluating teams and casting their votes each week.
• The Voting Process: Each voter submits a ballot ranking their top 25 teams. Teams are awarded points based on their ranking: 25 points for a first-place vote, 24 for second, and so on.
• The Calculation: The AP calculates the total points for each team and ranks them from highest to lowest. The team with the most points is ranked number one, the team with the second-most points is ranked number two, and so on.
• Weekly Release: The AP Top 25 is released every Sunday during the college football season. The rankings reflect the results of the previous week's games.

History and Evolution

The AP Poll has a rich history, dating back to 1936. Over the years, it has evolved to reflect the changing landscape of college football, including the expansion of conferences, the rise of television, and the advent of the College Football Playoff.

The Criteria Used in the AP Top 25

The AP Poll voters consider several factors when ranking teams. While there is no strict formula, the following elements are typically considered:

Game Results

• Wins and Losses: The most straightforward factor is a team's win-loss record. Teams with more wins are generally ranked higher.
• Strength of Schedule: Voters consider the quality of the opponents a team has played. Wins against highly-ranked teams are more valuable than wins against weaker opponents.
• Margin of Victory: While not a primary factor, the margin of victory can sometimes influence voters, especially when comparing teams with similar records.

Performance Metrics

• Offensive Production: Voters assess a team's ability to score points, considering factors like yards per game, touchdowns, and turnovers.
• Defensive Prowess: A team's ability to prevent the opposition from scoring is a crucial factor. Voters look at metrics like points allowed per game, sacks, and turnovers forced.
• Special Teams: The impact of special teams on the game, including field goals, punting, and return yardage, can also influence rankings.

Intangible Factors

• Injuries: Injuries to key players can affect a team's performance and, consequently, their ranking.
• Coaching: The quality of coaching and the impact it has on the team's performance are considered.
• Recent Trends: How a team has performed in recent games can influence voters.

How the AP Top 25 Influences College Football

The AP Top 25 isn't just a list; it has a significant impact on the college football season. — Matt Rhule's Penn State Impact & Analysis

Playoff Implications

• Selection Committee's Influence: The College Football Playoff selection committee considers the AP Poll, along with other factors, when choosing the four teams that will compete for the national championship. Though not the only factor, being ranked high in the AP Top 25 can enhance a team's chances of making the Playoff.
• Perception and Bias: The AP Top 25 can create momentum for teams, influencing the selection committee and the general public.

Media and Fan Engagement

• Storylines and Narratives: The rankings fuel conversations among fans and the media, creating storylines and driving interest in the sport.
• Television and Revenue: High rankings can boost a team's visibility, which can lead to increased television revenue and other financial benefits.

Recruiting Impact

• Prestige and Exposure: High rankings attract top recruits, who want to play for successful programs.
• National Recognition: The AP Top 25 gives teams national recognition, improving their recruiting efforts.

The AP Top 25 vs. Other Rankings

It is important to understand how the AP Top 25 differs from other college football rankings.

Coaches Poll

The Coaches Poll is another prominent ranking system. It is conducted by coaches from various teams. While both polls influence the sport, they sometimes differ in their rankings because of the different voters and criteria used.

College Football Playoff Rankings

The College Football Playoff (CFP) Rankings are released weekly by the CFP selection committee, which includes former coaches, athletic directors, and other experts. These rankings are the ones that ultimately determine the teams that make it into the CFP.

Frequently Asked Questions About the AP Top 25

Q: When is the AP Top 25 released? A: The AP Top 25 is typically released every Sunday during the college football season. — Dow Jones Futures: Your Complete Guide

Q: Who votes in the AP Top 25? A: The poll is compiled by a panel of sports writers and broadcasters from the Associated Press.

Q: Does the AP Top 25 determine the College Football Playoff teams? A: No, the AP Top 25 is considered by the College Football Playoff selection committee but does not solely determine which teams make the Playoff.

Q: How are teams ranked in the AP Top 25? A: Voters rank their top 25 teams, and the votes are tallied to determine the final rankings.

Q: How does the AP Top 25 influence the sport? A: The rankings drive fan engagement, help create storylines, and can influence the recruiting process. — Kentucky Football: News, Scores, And More

Q: Is the AP Top 25 the only college football ranking? A: No, other rankings include the Coaches Poll and the College Football Playoff Rankings.

Conclusion

The AP Top 25 is a crucial element of the college football season. It shapes the narrative surrounding the sport and significantly impacts how teams are perceived by fans, the media, and the College Football Playoff committee. By understanding how the rankings are determined and the factors that influence them, you'll be well-equipped to follow the exciting world of college football.