Texas projected to lead AP Top 25 after comeback victory over Ohio State

Texas is projected to move to No. 1 in the AP Top 25 after its 21-point fourth-quarter comeback win over top-ranked Ohio State, a result that has reignited the debate over the nation’s leading team. The Longhorns’ victory, combined with early-season losses by Oregon, Oklahoma and other contenders, is expected to cause notable shifts in the poll after Week 2.

Voters now face a complex task of weighing inconsistent early performances against preseason expectations. Michigan, for example, fell out of the Top 25 after a poor opener but rebounded with a 17-10 win over No. 11 Oklahoma, prompting questions about how much weight the victory should carry. Oregon, once favored by many voters as the preseason leader, dropped to 1-1 after a loss to Oklahoma State, raising doubts about its standing.

Analysts anticipate Georgia, Notre Dame, Indiana and Miami to rise modestly based on dominant early wins, while Ohio State is likely to settle near the top of the top-ten despite its first loss. Other teams such as LSU, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Alabama and USC are expected to hold or slightly improve their positions after solid performances.

The projected top ten includes Texas, Georgia, Notre Dame, Indiana, Miami, LSU, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Texas A&M and Alabama. Teams outside the top ten, including Oregon, Houston, Louisville and Virginia, are projected to remain in or near the Top 25, while Boise State could break into the rankings after a strong showing against Memphis.

"The voters will have to balance performance over reputation," a college football analyst said, noting that early-season setbacks are often forgiven for established programs but can quickly affect rankings if not addressed in subsequent games.

The upcoming weeks will test how voters adjust their ballots as teams face stronger conference opponents and the early-season volatility settles.