Georgia Bulldogs
The Bulldogs look every bit the part of a national champion. After routing a good Oklahoma team, they’ve reasserted themselves as the team to beat in the SEC, and perhaps the nation. Georgia’s defense is, once again, a unit that suffocates opponents,
forcing turnovers and making life miserable for quarterbacks. Even with their top running back banged up, the offense hasn't missed a beat, showcasing a blend of power and efficiency. With a massive showdown against an undefeated Alabama on the horizon, their path isn't easy, but right now, Georgia sits at the top of most power rankings for a reason. They control their own destiny completely.
Texas Longhorns
Holding the top spot in the AP Poll, the Longhorns have the single most impressive victory of the season so far: a road win against Ohio State. That victory provides a massive resume buffer that no other team can claim. However, a recent, sloppy 20-17 win at Tennessee showed they aren't invincible. The offense, led by quarterback Arch Manning, stalled at times, but the defense was utterly dominant, racking up 10 sacks. Texas has proven it can beat the best, but their challenge will be to bring that elite level of play every single week in the punishing SEC.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Fighting Irish entered the season as a media darling and have done nothing to disappoint. At 4-0, they've handled their business efficiently and look like a lock for a playoff berth, especially with the unique access their independence grants them in the new format. While their schedule hasn't been the toughest in the nation, they have a top-10 scoring defense and an offense that puts up points in bunches. With a veteran coach in Marcus Freeman and talent across the board, Notre Dame has one of the clearest and most forgiving paths to a top seed in the playoff.
Miami Hurricanes
Down in the ACC, the Hurricanes are quietly assembling a dominant season. They are 4-0 and have looked flawless, leading many to believe they are the clear frontrunner to win the conference. Quarterback Darian Mensah is getting Heisman buzz, and the offense is firing on all cylinders. Coach Mario Cristobal has infused the program with talent, and while the defense was a question mark entering the year, it has performed admirably. With their toughest tests still ahead, Miami has the swagger and firepower to not just make the playoff, but to make a deep run.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Don't let the '1' in their loss column fool you; the Buckeyes are as dangerous as any undefeated team. Their only blemish came in a close game against Texas, the current No. 1 team in the AP Poll. Since then, they have responded with authority. With Julian Sayin at quarterback and superstar Jeremiah Smith at wide receiver, this is arguably the most explosive offense in the country. They still have a gauntlet of a schedule to navigate in the Big Ten, but no team wants to see this version of Ohio State in a must-win game. They are the quintessential one-loss titan.
Florida Gators
No team has improved its stock more in the last few weeks than Florida. After being a preseason afterthought, the Gators are 4-0 and just announced their arrival with a 52-28 demolition of a top-10 Ole Miss team. Quarterback Aaron Philo is playing at an elite level, and the offense is putting up video game numbers. Their surge has catapulted them into the top 10 and has completely reshaped the SEC landscape. While their schedule remains difficult, their statement win proves they belong in the conversation with the conference's traditional powers.
Indiana Hoosiers
They are the defending national champions, and they are still undefeated. That alone keeps them squarely in the title hunt. It hasn't always been pretty—a recent shaky 29-23 win over Northwestern raised some eyebrows—but coach Curt Cignetti's team simply finds ways to win. After their improbable championship run last year, nobody is taking them lightly. They have a target on their back every week, but with quarterback Josh Hoover leading an efficient offense, they have the experience and resilience to defend their crown. You can't be the champ until you beat the champ.
