Story perspectives

Ohio State Claims Top Spot in Updated Playoff Rankings

11/12/2025

Center

Ohio State Rises

The College Football Playoff Rankings were updated on November 11, 2025, with Ohio State ranked No. 1 after defeating Purdue.
Indiana is in second place following a narrow victory over Penn State, while Texas A&M holds the third position.
Alabama and Georgia round out the top five, and Texas Tech climbed to sixth after a strong win against BYU.
South Florida is the highest-ranked Group of Five team at No. 24.
The next rankings will be announced on November 18, ahead of the playoff bracket selection on December 7.

Right

Ohio vs. Western Michigan

Ohio and Western Michigan will meet in a MAC game on November 11, 2025, with both teams tied for first at 4-1.
Ohio is on a three-game winning streak and bowl eligible.
Western Michigan ranks 17th in points allowed, reflecting strong defense.
The winner earns a MAC Championship Game spot on December 6, and the loser is eliminated.
Weather conditions are expected to favor defense, making the game competitive.

History

Historical Context

The College Football Playoff (CFP) system was introduced in 2014, replacing the Bowl Championship Series to enhance competition among top teams. The inaugural playoffs culminated in Ohio State's victory over Oregon on January 12, 2015, marking a significant shift in college football's postseason structure. This change has since influenced team funding, recruitment, and fan engagement across the sport.

1 of 3

Ohio State Rises

The College Football Playoff Rankings were updated on November 11, 2025, with Ohio State ranked No. 1 after defeating Purdue.
Indiana is in second place following a narrow victory over Penn State, while Texas A&M holds the third position.
Alabama and Georgia round out the top five, and Texas Tech climbed to sixth after a strong win against BYU.
South Florida is the highest-ranked Group of Five team at No. 24.
The next rankings will be announced on November 18, ahead of the playoff bracket selection on December 7.

1 / 3