How will the top 10 of college football change after Week 6 surprises?
This past weekend’s upsets among some major teams in the US LBM Coaches Poll are sure to cause significant changes in this week’s Top 25 rankings.
Four teams in the top 10 suffered losses on a Saturday that initially seemed uneventful before the games started.
No. 2 Alabama was defeated by Vanderbilt, No. 4 Tennessee went down against Arkansas, No. 9 Missouri was overwhelmed by No. 21 Texas A&M, and No. 10 Michigan lost to Washington.
The only certainty for this week’s poll, which will be released around noon on Sunday, is that Texas will hold on to the No. 1 spot. The Longhorns did not play on Saturday as they prepare for their rivalry game against No. 17 Oklahoma next weekend.
Everything else is up in the air. Here’s our prediction for how the top 10 may look in the upcoming poll:
1. Texas (5-0)
Texas will undoubtedly remain at No. 1 after sharing first-place votes with Alabama. The Longhorns have demonstrated they are a top team in the nation, but they cannot afford to underestimate Oklahoma, even with their recent difficulties transitioning to the SEC.
2. Ohio State (5-0)
The Buckeyes passed an early challenge posed by Iowa, overcoming a sluggish start that included two turnovers and a failed fourth-down attempt. After that, they relied on a talented receiving corps led by veteran Emeka Egbuka and impressive freshman Jeremiah Smith, with Egbuka scoring three touchdowns in their 35-7 victory.
3. Georgia (4-1)
Georgia’s loss to Alabama doesn’t significantly impact their playoff aspirations, but it raises questions about how voters will view the Bulldogs compared to the Crimson Tide. Despite having beaten Alabama directly, the Tide’s defeat to Vanderbilt cannot be overlooked.
4. Oregon (5-0)
The Ducks showed no signs of struggle against Michigan State, keeping themselves on course for a potential unbeaten matchup with Ohio State this Saturday. While a victory wouldn’t guarantee them the No. 1 ranking, it could elevate Oregon to No. 2 and possibly push them past Georgia for the No. 3 spot, though that lightning-fast jump might be a stretch.
5. Penn State (5-0)
Penn State hasn’t been able to play a full, strong game in recent wins against Illinois and UCLA, pulling away only in the second half. This inconsistency could be concerning ahead of their November matchup with Ohio State. However, they still stand out as a solid candidate for an at-large playoff spot.
6. Miami (6-0)
Miami’s incredible comeback against California keeps them among the few undefeated teams left in the Power Four and as the highest-ranked team in the ACC. On a day when many contenders faced tough matches, Miami deserves credit for securing a victory on the road.
7. Alabama (4-1)
Alabama’s top 10 status is largely due to their prior win against Georgia. They also have some notable victories, including a road win over Wisconsin, but ultimately they are benefiting from their history and the significance of last week’s triumph.
8. Tennessee (4-1)
Tennessee’s 19-14 loss at Arkansas was surprising given their strong performance in September. This highlights the unpredictability in the SEC this season. There are several issues the Volunteers need to tackle following the weekend, though they’ve shown their capabilities in recent weeks.
9. Mississippi (5-1)
After falling to Kentucky 20-17 and losing their undefeated record, the Rebels bounced back with an easy win against South Carolina. Although they can be inconsistent, it’s clear that when they play well, the Rebels can compete and win against most teams.
10. LSU (4-1)
LSU, previously ranked No. 12, seems poised to rise into the top 10 as they prepare for an important game against Ole Miss. While their performance has been variable, excluding a season-opening loss to Southern California, they have secured four consecutive wins and remain one of the few teams unbeaten in SEC play.