Georgia Tech has jumped into the Associated Press top 25 college football rankings at number 18 after a perfect 3-0 start, their highest spot since 2015. The University of Georgia moved up to number 5 following a dramatic overtime victory, shaking up the poll as teams like Texas A&M and Notre Dame made headlines in the latest update released on September 14, 2025.
Key Highlights from the New Rankings
College football fans saw major shifts in the AP top 25 after an exciting Week 3. Ohio State held onto the top spot with a strong performance, while underdogs and comebacks defined the weekend.
The poll reflects games played through September 13, 2025, with several teams rewarding voters for bold plays. Georgia Tech’s entry marks a turnaround for the program, and Georgia’s rise shows their grit in tough road games.
Teams like Vanderbilt and Southern California also debuted in the rankings, adding fresh faces to the mix. Meanwhile, powerhouses like Alabama climbed after dominant wins.
Full AP Top 25 List for September 14
Here is the complete Associated Press top 25 college football rankings as of September 14, 2025, including records and previous positions:
| Rank | Team | Record | First-Place Votes | Previous Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | 3-0 | 55 | 1 |
| 2 | Penn State | 3-0 | 5 | 2 |
| 3 | LSU | 3-0 | 2 | 3 |
| 4 | Miami | 3-0 | 3 | 5 |
| 5 | Georgia | 3-0 | 0 | 6 |
| 6 | Oregon | 3-0 | 1 | 4 |
| 7 | Florida State | 2-0 | 0 | 10 |
| 8 | Texas | 2-1 | 0 | 7 |
| 9 | Illinois | 3-0 | 0 | 9 |
| 10 | Texas A&M | 3-0 | 0 | 16 |
| 11 | Oklahoma | 3-0 | 0 | 13 |
| 12 | Iowa State | 4-0 | 0 | 14 |
| 13 | Mississippi | 3-0 | 0 | 17 |
| 14 | Alabama | 2-1 | 0 | 19 |
| 15 | Tennessee | 2-1 | 0 | 15 |
| 16 | Utah | 3-0 | 0 | 20 |
| 17 | Texas Tech | 3-0 | 0 | 21 |
| 18 | Georgia Tech | 3-0 | 0 | NR |
| 19 | Indiana | 3-0 | 0 | 22 |
| 20 | Vanderbilt | 3-0 | 0 | NR |
| 21 | Michigan | 2-1 | 0 | 23 |
| 22 | Auburn | 3-0 | 0 | 24 |
| 23 | Missouri | 3-0 | 0 | 25 |
| 24 | Notre Dame | 0-2 | 0 | 8 |
| 25 | Southern California | 3-0 | 0 | NR |
This table captures the current standings, with Ohio State leading the pack after a solid win. Voters gave first-place nods to several teams, showing a tight race at the top.
Georgia Tech’s Breakthrough Moment
The Yellow Jackets earned their spot with a thrilling 24-21 upset over Clemson on September 13, 2025, sealed by a record-breaking 59-yard field goal as time expired. This victory, combined with wins over Georgia State and VMI, gives them their first 3-0 start since 2016.
Running back Jamal Haynes played a key role, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring a crucial touchdown. Coach Brent Key praised the team’s resilience, noting how they overcame early season doubts.
This ranking boosts recruiting and fan excitement in Atlanta. Georgia Tech now faces Syracuse next, aiming to build on this momentum.
Experts point to improved defense and quarterback play as reasons for the surge. The program has not seen this level of national attention in years, sparking talks of a potential ACC title run.
UGA’s Dramatic Rise and Key Win
Georgia climbed to number 5 after a 44-41 overtime thriller against Tennessee in Knoxville on September 13, 2025. The Bulldogs trailed late but forced overtime and won with a touchdown pass.
Quarterback Carson Beck threw for over 300 yards, while the defense made critical stops. This win keeps Georgia undefeated at 3-0 and positions them as national title contenders.
The move up came despite a close game, as voters valued the road victory over a ranked opponent. Georgia’s schedule includes upcoming tests against Kentucky and Alabama.
Fans recall similar comebacks in past seasons that led to championships. This performance silences critics who questioned the team’s early-season form.
Other Notable Shifts and Surprises
Texas A&M jumped six spots to number 10 after a last-second 41-40 win over Notre Dame, overcoming penalties and a blocked punt. The Aggies are 3-0 for the first time since 2021.
Notre Dame stayed ranked at number 24 despite an 0-2 start, the first such case since 1988’s Michigan team. Close losses to ranked foes kept them in the poll.
Alabama rose five spots to 14 with a convincing win over Wisconsin. Tennessee held at 15, avoiding a big drop after the overtime loss.
- Vanderbilt entered at 20 after strong non-conference wins, surprising many with their speed.
- Southern California debuted at 25, riding a hot offense led by quarterback Miller Moss.
- Teams like Clemson and South Carolina received votes but fell out, showing the poll’s volatility.
These movements highlight how one weekend can reshape the season. Analysts expect more changes as conference play heats up.
Historical Context and What It Means
Georgia Tech’s ranking echoes their 2014 season, when they finished 11-3 and won the Orange Bowl. For UGA, this climb mirrors their path to recent national titles.
The poll’s inclusion of an 0-2 Notre Dame draws parallels to past teams that rebounded strongly. College football history shows early rankings can shift dramatically by November.
This update ties into broader trends, like the expanded playoff format in 2025, giving more teams a shot at postseason glory. Fans debate if these rankings predict playoff contenders accurately.
Looking Ahead for Georgia Teams
Both Georgia schools face pivotal games soon. Georgia Tech hosts Syracuse on September 20, while UGA travels to Kentucky.
Success could push them higher, but losses might drop them out. Coaches stress focus amid the hype.
College football remains unpredictable, with injuries and upsets always possible. These rankings add pressure and excitement for players and fans alike.
Share your thoughts on these rankings in the comments below, and pass this article along to fellow fans to join the discussion.
