Underrated Teams
Texas at No. 5 surprised many, as the Longhorns received no first-place votes. Skepticism may stem from coach Steve Sarkisian's ability to maximize talent or doubts about quarterback Arch Manning. Last year's preseason No. 1 ranking ended in a playoff miss, but this year's schedule is tough, including five top-11 teams. A Week 2 clash with No. 1 Ohio State will test them early.[S1]
Miami at No. 7 feels low after reaching the national championship game in January. Despite losing key players like quarterback Carson Beck, the Hurricanes return talent like receiver Malachi Toney and add transfer quarterback Darian Mensah. With only one top-25 opponent on the schedule, Miami should win the ACC and secure a top-4 seed.[S1]
Washington at No. 17 is a sleeper playoff pick. Quarterback Demond Williams is a potential star, and coach Jedd Fisch is underrated. The Huskies face a tough schedule, but a 3-2 record in those games could be enough for a CFP berth.[S1]
Overrated Teams
USC at No. 14 is overrated, according to analysis. Coach Lincoln Riley has squandered elite talent in four seasons. The defense, now led by Gary Patterson, who last coached in 2021, is a question mark. A brutal six-game stretch against top teams will define their season.[S1]
Texas A&M at No. 8 is also overrated. After a 10-0 start, they lost to Texas and Miami at home. They must replace coordinators and 10 NFL Draft picks. Road games against Oklahoma, LSU, and Alabama, plus a home game vs. Texas, make a playoff miss likely.[S1][S2]
Teams That Could Finish Unranked
History shows preseason top-10 teams often fall out. Last year, seven preseason top-15 teams missed the final rankings. Candidates include Texas A&M and Ole Miss, but Oklahoma is a better pick. The Sooners' offense struggled late last season, leading to a playoff exit. If quarterback John Mateer doesn't improve, they could drop out.[S1]
