With the conclusion of the 2024 college football season, eyes are already turning to the 2025 campaign. As teams address roster needs through the transfer portal and gear up for spring practice, it’s clear that the upcoming season will bring some exciting matchups. CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd’s early Top 25 for 2025 provides a glimpse into the teams poised for a strong run, but each squad will have one game that stands out as crucial. Here’s a look at those key matchups for each team in the rankings:
1. Texas
Game: at Ohio State (Saturday, Aug. 30)
This game marks the beginning of the Arch Manning Era, as Texas visits the defending national champions, Ohio State, in a rematch of a College Football Playoff semifinal. A win here would solidify Manning’s legacy and set the tone for a major season.
2. Georgia
Game: vs. Texas (Saturday, Nov. 15)
Texas will look for redemption in a repeat battle with Georgia after the Bulldogs’ dominant win in the SEC Championship. This game could be pivotal in determining the conference title race and playoff implications.
3. Miami
Game: vs. Notre Dame (Sunday, Aug. 31)
Miami will face a major test right out of the gate, with Notre Dame coming to town. A win would show Miami is ready to compete at the highest level, particularly as they aim to establish themselves as a contender after losing key players.
4. Ohio State
Game: at Michigan (Saturday, Nov. 29)
Despite winning the national title, Ohio State has a big task ahead: breaking its four-game losing streak to rival Michigan. The rivalry is fierce, and a victory here would solidify Ohio State’s return to the top of the Big Ten.
5. Penn State
Game: at Ohio State (Saturday, Nov. 1)
Penn State has made strides but is still seeking a signature win against top-tier competition. Beating Ohio State would mark a major step toward competing for Big Ten and national honors.
6. Notre Dame
Game: at Miami (Sunday, Aug. 31)
Notre Dame also faces a significant test early in the season against Miami. This game offers a chance for Notre Dame to prove it can compete with the best after a tough loss in the National Championship.
7. Oregon
Game: at Penn State (Saturday, Sept. 27)
In a pivotal Big Ten showdown, Oregon will travel to Penn State for a tough road test. With Oregon’s strong 2024 campaign, a victory over Penn State would further solidify their position in the playoff race.
8. Clemson
Game: at South Carolina (Saturday, Nov. 29)
Clemson faces a rivalry game with South Carolina, which could have significant College Football Playoff implications. This in-state battle will be key for the Tigers to maintain their dominance in the ACC.
9. Tennessee
Game: Georgia (Saturday, Sept. 13)
Tennessee has made strides in recent years but has yet to overcome Georgia. Beating the Bulldogs would give the Vols a major boost in their quest for an SEC title and playoff berth.
10. LSU
Game: at Clemson (Saturday, Aug. 30)
LSU kicks off the 2025 season with a crucial road game at Clemson. A strong start would help LSU reassert itself as a top contender in the SEC, especially with their recent struggles in season openers.
11. South Carolina
Game: vs. Alabama (Saturday, Oct. 25)
For South Carolina, defeating Alabama would be a statement win to prove the program has joined the ranks of the SEC elite. A victory here could be pivotal for their playoff hopes.
12. SMU
Game: at Clemson
After a strong season in 2024, SMU gets another shot at Clemson. This rematch provides the Mustangs with an opportunity to prove their worth in the ACC and make a run at the College Football Playoff.
13. BYU
Game: at Iowa State
BYU faces a major test against Iowa State, which will be looking to build off its successful 2024 season. A win here could boost BYU’s credentials in the Big 12.
14. Alabama
Game: at Georgia (Saturday, Sept. 27)
Alabama’s dynasty faces a major challenge against Georgia. A win would show that Alabama’s place at the top of the SEC is far from over.
15. Illinois
Game: vs. Ohio State (Saturday, Oct. 11)
Illinois aims to establish itself as a Big Ten contender and will face its toughest challenge in Ohio State. A victory would prove Illinois is ready to compete with the best.
16. Arizona State
Game: at Iowa State
After a surprising College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, Arizona State takes on Iowa State in a crucial Big 12 matchup. A win would solidify Arizona State’s legitimacy.
17. Ole Miss
Game: vs. Florida (Saturday, Nov. 15)
Ole Miss faces Florida in a pivotal game for both teams’ playoff hopes. This contest could play a major role in determining their postseason fates.
18. Florida
Game: vs. Tennessee (Saturday, Nov. 22)
Florida has a prime opportunity to notch a big win against Tennessee, which could be crucial for their late-season playoff positioning.
19. Iowa State
Game: vs. BYU
A showdown between two Big 12 contenders, Iowa State will look to defend its home turf against BYU. This game could be key for the conference championship race.
20. Missouri
Game: vs. South Carolina (Saturday, Sept. 20)
Missouri faces South Carolina in a matchup that could decide which team breaks into the SEC’s upper tier. A win here could be crucial for both teams’ playoff chances.
21. Georgia Tech
Game: vs. Clemson
Georgia Tech has struggled to assert itself consistently in the ACC, but beating Clemson would be a major step in returning to the conference’s elite.
22. Texas A&M
Game: at Texas (Saturday, Nov. 29)
Texas A&M gets a second chance at Texas after nearly pulling off an upset in 2024. This rivalry game could be crucial for both teams’ postseason aspirations.
23. Indiana
Game: at Penn State (Saturday, Nov. 8)
Indiana looks to take the next step in the Big Ten by defeating Penn State, which would show they belong in the upper echelon of the conference.
24. Texas Tech
Game: vs. BYU
Texas Tech aims to prove it belongs among the Big 12’s best with a showdown against BYU. A win here could cement their rise in the rankings.
25. UNLV
Game: at Boise State
UNLV, now under new leadership, will face Boise State in a crucial game for Mountain West supremacy. This matchup could be key to their rise in the conference standings.
Each of these games represents a crucial opportunity for these teams to make a statement in the 2025 season, whether it’s asserting dominance in their conference, securing a playoff spot, or proving they belong among the nation’s elite.
