The first week of the 2025 NCAAF season brought thrilling matchups and unexpected outcomes, shaking up the College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape. Here’s a projection of how the CFP selection committee might rank the top 12 teams after Week 1, along with key takeaways and future challenges.

1. LSU Tigers (1-0)

LSU made a massive statement with a road victory against a strong ACC contender. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier showcased Heisman potential, while the defense proved its elite capabilities. However, LSU’s toughest test awaits on September 27 at Ole Miss, where ESPN’s FPI gives the Rebels a 70.1% chance to win.

2. Ohio State Buckeyes (1-0)

Ohio State’s defense dominated in a home win over Texas, but questions remain about their offense under first-year QB Julian Sayin. Their November 1 clash with Penn State could determine their playoff fate.

3. Miami Hurricanes (1-0)

Miami’s defense showed significant improvement, and transfer QB Carson Beck delivered a strong performance. Their October 4 rivalry game at Florida State will be a critical test.

4. Penn State Nittany Lions (1-0)

Penn State’s dominant win over Nevada didn’t impress, but their November 1 showdown with Ohio State could solidify their playoff credentials.

5. Florida State Seminoles (1-0)

FSU’s physical win over Alabama was a statement, but their November 8 trip to Clemson will be pivotal.

6. Georgia Bulldogs (1-0)

Georgia cruised past Marshall, but their November 15 matchup with Texas will be a true measuring stick.

7. Oregon Ducks (1-0)

Oregon’s offense shined against Montana State, but their September 27 game at Penn State will be their toughest challenge.

8. Tennessee Volunteers (1-0)

Tennessee’s balanced performance against Syracuse was impressive, but their September 13 clash with Georgia looms large.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (0-1)

Notre Dame’s loss to Miami exposed weaknesses, but their October 18 game against USC offers redemption.

10. Texas Longhorns (0-1)

Texas’s red zone struggles cost them against Ohio State, but their November 15 game at Georgia could revive their playoff hopes.

11. South Carolina Gamecocks (1-0)

South Carolina’s QB LaNorris Sellers impressed, but their October 11 game at LSU will be a major test.

12. Clemson Tigers (0-1)

Clemson’s offense struggled against LSU, and their November 29 rivalry game at South Carolina could determine their playoff fate.

Bracket Projections

Based on these rankings, the top four seeds (LSU, Ohio State, Miami, and Penn State) would earn first-round byes. First-round matchups would feature Florida State vs. USF, Georgia vs. Arizona State, Oregon vs. Texas, and Tennessee vs. Notre Dame.

Week 1 has set the stage for an exciting season, with plenty of opportunities for teams to rise or fall in the CFP rankings.