Joel Klatt, one of the most respected analysts in college football, is known for his comprehensive breakdowns of teams and their potential heading into the new season. After spring ball wraps up, Klatt offers insight into the top 25 teams that are poised to make noise when the season kicks off. His rankings come from an eye for talent, roster changes, and potential matchups that will shape the college football landscape in the coming months. Here’s a breakdown of Klatt’s top 25 teams heading into the 2025 season.
At the top, Klatt has Georgia sitting comfortably at No. 1. The Bulldogs, fresh off back-to-back national championships, show no signs of slowing down. With Kirby Smart continuing to build a dominant program in Athens, Georgia’s blend of elite recruiting, depth, and coaching makes them the team to beat. Quarterback Carson Beck is poised to step in as a steady leader, and the defense is loaded with talent across the board, led by standout players like linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson. Their strength on both sides of the ball is overwhelming, making them the early favorites to claim a third consecutive title.
Following Georgia in the rankings is Michigan, which comes in at No. 2. Jim Harbaugh’s squad is on a mission after consecutive playoff appearances. The Wolverines return one of the most potent offenses in the country, anchored by quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who has become one of the most reliable signal-callers in college football. Michigan’s offensive line, perhaps the best in the nation, will open lanes for a strong running game led by Blake Corum, while their defense continues to be a top-tier unit under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. With a powerful mix of offense and defense, Michigan is primed for another deep playoff run.
Ohio State slots in at No. 3. Despite some offseason challenges, the Buckeyes continue to be a force to be reckoned with. Quarterback Kyle McCord, who has big shoes to fill after the departure of C.J. Stroud, brings a calm and measured approach to the offense. Ohio State’s receiving corps, featuring Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the best wide receivers in the country, makes them a dangerous team. Ryan Day’s offense will be as explosive as ever, but the key to their success may be the development of their defense. If they can continue to improve in that area, Ohio State has the tools to compete for a national title.
Alabama lands at No. 4 in Klatt’s rankings, and while the Tide have had some turnover, they remain a top-tier program. The arrival of quarterback Jalen Milroe is a focal point for Alabama’s offense, as the dual-threat QB brings an exciting new dynamic. Nick Saban’s defensive units are always among the best in the country, and this season will be no different, as the defense remains ferocious, led by a veteran linebacker corps. While Alabama is still adjusting to some changes, they’re too talented to overlook. With Saban’s ability to adapt, it’s clear that Alabama is set to make a serious push in 2025.
At No. 5 is the defending Big 12 champions, Texas. The Longhorns have continued to build momentum since the arrival of head coach Steve Sarkisian, and in 2025, they’re primed for a breakthrough. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has shown flashes of brilliance, is set to take his game to the next level. Texas also has an elite group of wide receivers, including Xavier Worthy, who can stretch the field and make explosive plays. On the defensive side, the Longhorns have an incredibly talented group, especially in the secondary. With a well-rounded team that can both move the ball and stop it, Texas is looking like one of the top contenders for the college football playoff.
Coming in at No. 6 is USC, which is continuing its rise under Lincoln Riley. The Trojans’ offense is one of the best in the nation, thanks to Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams has proven himself to be one of the most talented quarterbacks in college football, and his ability to make plays in every situation will keep opposing defenses on their toes. The addition of top-tier skill players and continued growth from their offensive line makes USC’s offense nearly impossible to stop. However, USC’s defense will be the X-factor. If their defense can take a step forward and stop big plays, this is a team that could go far in 2025.
LSU, coming off a strong 2024 season, sits at No. 7 in Klatt’s rankings. Brian Kelly has quickly established a solid program in Baton Rouge, and the Tigers are now a regular fixture in the national conversation. Quarterback Jayden Daniels has the potential to take LSU to the next level with his dual-threat ability. LSU’s defense is consistently one of the best in the SEC, and the Tigers will once again field a squad that is deep and talented on that side of the ball. If they can continue to build on their success from last season, LSU will be a serious contender in 2025.
At No. 8, Klatt has Penn State, a team that continues to improve under head coach James Franklin. Penn State has a complete roster, with a defense that has been one of the most consistent in the Big Ten. The Nittany Lions’ offense is evolving, and quarterback Drew Allar, who showed promise last season, is ready to take over and lead the offense. The running back group is strong, and Penn State has one of the top wide receivers in the conference in KeAndre Lambert-Smith. With a balanced roster and a solid coaching staff, Penn State is poised for a strong 2025 season.
Oregon takes the No. 9 spot, thanks in large part to a dynamic offense led by quarterback Bo Nix. The Ducks have a well-balanced offensive attack, with explosive plays in both the passing and running game. Oregon’s defense continues to improve, and they have one of the best defensive lines in the Pac-12. With head coach Dan Lanning instilling a culture of toughness, Oregon is a team that could easily find itself in the playoff conversation in 2025.
No. 10 is Florida State, a program that is back on the rise. Head coach Mike Norvell has turned around the Seminoles, and in 2025, they’re a team to watch. Quarterback Jordan Travis is one of the most experienced and efficient quarterbacks in the country, and the team’s defensive line is among the best in the ACC. Florida State’s ability to win tough games, especially against top-tier opponents, is what makes them dangerous. If they can continue to play well on both sides of the ball, Florida State could be one of the biggest surprises of the season.
After Florida State, Klatt has Tennessee at No. 11. Josh Heupel’s offense is one of the most explosive in the country, and with quarterback Joe Milton leading the charge, the Volunteers are a dangerous team. Milton has the arm strength to make throws that few can, and the addition of several dynamic wide receivers will give him plenty of weapons to work with. Tennessee’s defense, while not as dominant as its offense, continues to improve, and if they can get stops when needed, Tennessee has the potential to be a playoff team in 2025.
Next up is the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, ranked at No. 12. Head coach Marcus Freeman has shown that he can build a strong program in South Bend, and in 2025, they’re looking to build on their momentum. Notre Dame’s defense is one of the best in the country, and they have a strong linebacker group that can cause havoc. Quarterback Sam Hartman, who transferred in from Wake Forest, brings experience and leadership to an offense that will be looking to get back to its roots. If the Irish can continue to develop their offense, they will be a tough team to beat.
In the No. 13 spot, Klatt has the Washington Huskies. Head coach Kalen DeBoer has created a program that is consistently improving, and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is one of the most talented signal-callers in college football. Washington’s offense, particularly the passing game, is one of the most explosive in the Pac-12. With a solid defense that can get stops when necessary, Washington is a team that could surprise some of the top contenders in 2025.
The No. 14 spot goes to Kansas State, a program that has seen significant growth under head coach Chris Klieman. Kansas State’s defense is tough, and their ability to control the clock with a strong running game gives them a competitive edge. Quarterback Will Howard is solid and has the ability to make key plays when needed. The Wildcats will be a team to watch in the Big 12 in 2025.
At No. 15, Klatt places the Utah Utes. Head coach Kyle Whittingham has established a culture of toughness at Utah, and his team is built to compete in the trenches. Utah’s defense is always tough and physical, and the Utes return a talented quarterback in Cameron Rising. If Utah can stay healthy and continue to build on their strong recruiting, they will be a formidable opponent in the Pac-12 in 2025.
In the rankings after Utah are teams like Oregon State, Auburn, Wisconsin, and North Carolina, all of whom have solid programs and should be factors in their respective conferences. Whether it’s the steady leadership of Oregon State’s Jonathan Smith, the defensive prowess of Auburn, or the explosive offense led by North Carolina’s Drake Maye, all of these teams will be worth keeping an eye on as the season progresses.
Klatt’s rankings, as always, provide a solid snapshot of where college football stands heading into the 2025 season. While some teams at the top are more established than others, there are plenty of programs with the potential to shake up the landscape and make a deep playoff run. The road to the national title is never easy, but with so much talent scattered across the country, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season for college football.