Predicting the Top 12 Teams in the Third College Football Playoff Poll of 2025
As the 2025 college football season approaches its climax, the anticipation intensifies around the third College Football Playoff (CFP) poll of the year. The latest projections shed light on which programs are poised to secure spots in the expanded 12-team playoff, highlighting a mix of undefeated powerhouses and teams rising on strong late-season performances.
Ohio State and Indiana Lead the Pack
Undefeated Ohio State continues to solidify its position as the consensus No. 1 seed in the playoff conversation. The Buckeyes carry a perfect 10-0 record into the final stretch, leading ESPN experts and the CFP selection committee in their rankings. Indiana, boasting an unprecedented 11-0 start in program history, is predicted to hold the No. 2 spot, potentially earning a first-round bye with a win over Purdue.
Indiana’s strong schedule and ability to respond to challenges without significant setbacks have impressed the committee. Their undefeated run has reinvigorated hopes for a deep playoff berth, despite the lingering question about the impact of facing Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Texas A&M and Georgia Among Top Contenders
Following a remarkable comeback win over South Carolina, Texas A&M has surged into the No. 3 ranking among experts. Georgia has also moved up, benefiting from a commanding victory over Texas. Despite Georgia’s sole blemish earlier in the season, the Bulldogs have demonstrated resilience and now boast multiple wins against current AP Top 25 teams, showcasing their peak form heading into decisive matchups.
Mid-Tier Teams and Bubble Contenders
The middle of the poll features teams like Ole Miss and Oregon, each with strong showings that could influence their playoff fates significantly. Oregon’s recent dominant win against bowl-bound Minnesota and their gritty performance at Iowa have boosted their profile, positioning them just outside the top six. A forthcoming marquee clash against USC represents a crucial opportunity for the Ducks to solidify their playoff hopes.
Alabama and Notre Dame remain within the bubble. Alabama, despite a tough loss to Oklahoma, maintains a strong schedule with multiple wins against Top 25 and Power Conference bowl teams. Notre Dame’s resume, though marked by a single key win at Pitt, leaves questions on whether they can maintain higher placement than teams like Oklahoma following the Sooners’ landmark win at Alabama.
Final Thoughts
The forthcoming weeks leading up to the final CFP poll will prove pivotal. Teams like Oklahoma, who stunned Alabama on the road, will look to avoid upsets in less heralded matchups, which could make or break their playoff chances. Meanwhile, the continual shuffle among two-loss teams, such as Notre Dame and Oklahoma, emphasizes the committee’s challenge in balancing head-to-head outcomes with overall resume strength.
As the postseason nears, the expanded playoff format and competitive parity promise to keep fans and analysts captivated until the final rankings are released.