The college football landscape witnessed a seismic shift in Week 5, as early season surprises captivated fans and several perennial contenders faltered. As the first full month of the 2025 season concludes, ESPN’s latest Power Rankings reveal significant changes. From dramatic upsets to stunning individual performances, the race for national championship contention is already heating up. Notably, LSU experienced a precipitous drop, plummeting 13 spots. Meanwhile, BYU, Memphis, and Louisville surged into the coveted Top 25, injecting fresh blood into the elite ranks.
Navigating the Gridiron Upheaval: Week 5’s Dramatic Shifts
Week 5 delivered a thrilling slate of games, showcasing both established powerhouses and unexpected breakout teams. Underdogs defied expectations, and high-stakes prime-time matchups lived up to their billing. Ole Miss, propelled by Ferris State transfer Trinidad Chambliss, stunned LSU, marking his third consecutive 300-yard passing effort. Indiana and Georgia Tech, fresh off key wins, strategically navigated potential trap games. Both teams maintained their surprising positions in the College Football Playoff (CFP) race.
Other CFP contenders like Missouri, Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt continued their dominant starts. However, some traditional giants, including Florida State, TCU, and USC, stumbled. The weekend culminated in two highly anticipated showdowns. Alabama secured a hard-fought road victory over Georgia, despite concerns about their run defense. Oregon, led by first-year quarterback Dante Moore, claimed arguably the season’s biggest win in an overtime thriller against Penn State. Coach Dan Lanning enthusiastically dubbed Moore “the best quarterback in college football.” These shifts underscore the dynamic nature of the 2025 season.
Elite Dominance and Rising Contenders: The Top Tier
The top of the ESPN Power Rankings features teams demonstrating remarkable consistency and potential. Their performances suggest serious championship aspirations.
Ohio State: Defensive Masterclass Continues
The Ohio State Buckeyes maintained their grip on the No. 1 spot. Their defense has been absolutely dominant through four games, including a commanding 24-6 victory at Washington. This unit has surrendered a mere 22 points all season, averaging an astonishing 5.5 points per game. Despite losing eight starters from their national championship-winning 2024 squad, the Buckeyes’ defense, under new coordinator Matt Patricia, is performing at an elite level. New talent like linebacker Arvell Reese has seamlessly integrated alongside returning stars Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs. Their ability to shut down the run, pressure quarterbacks, and blanket receivers confirms their championship-caliber status.
Oregon: Moore’s Heisman Candidacy Takes Flight
Oregon climbed to No. 2, fueled by the spectacular play of quarterback Dante Moore. Coach Dan Lanning’s bold claim about Moore’s supremacy seems justified after his poise against Penn State. In a thrilling 30-24 double-overtime win, Moore navigated a hostile environment with over 110,000 fans. The former No. 2 recruit, with only 10 career starts, delivered under immense pressure. He led two crucial overtime touchdown drives and converted five of seven fourth-down attempts. Such performances firmly place Moore in the Heisman Trophy conversation. They also generate significant belief in Oregon’s national championship pursuit.
Miami & Ole Miss: Unexpected Climbs and Quarterback Heroics
The Miami Hurricanes secured the No. 3 position, primarily due to their formidable defensive line. Rueben Bain Jr., the 2023 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, alongside Akheem Mesidor, has formed one of the nation’s top pass-rushing duos. Both boast 19 pressures and rank among the top six nationally in pass rush win rate. First-year coordinator Corey Hetherman has transformed their defense, which also ranks 13th nationally against the run. Meanwhile, Ole Miss surged to No. 4, proving resilient despite quarterback Austin Simmons’ injury. Transfer Trinidad Chambliss has delivered three consecutive 300-yard passing games and three wins. His 974 passing yards, four touchdowns, 245 rushing yards, and two scores have not only kept the Rebels unbeaten but thriving.
Texas A&M & Oklahoma: Building Momentum
Texas A&M advanced to No. 5 after a gritty 16-10 victory over Auburn. Coach Mike Elko challenged his team to embrace excitement, and their defense responded. They stifled Auburn to just 1 yard in the fourth quarter and 176 total yards. The Aggies sacked Jackson Arnold five times and amassed 243 rushing yards against the SEC’s top run defense. Oklahoma, ranked No. 6, enjoyed a bye week but remained a playoff contender. Despite running back Jaydn Ott’s limited contribution due to injury, quarterback John Mateer has been instrumental. The Sooners will need their run game to click as they dive deeper into conference play.
The Shifting Middle Ground: Resilience and Disappointment
The middle ranks of the Power Rankings highlight teams facing diverse trajectories. Some demonstrate surprising resilience, while others grapple with unmet expectations.
Indiana’s Resurgent CFP Bid
Indiana continues its surprising return to the CFP race, landing at No. 7. Coach Curt Cignetti’s squad overcame mistakes in a tense game at Iowa. Fernando Mendoza’s 49-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt with 1:28 left secured the win. While offensive production has come from familiar sources, the defense has seen breakout performances. Safety Louis Moore, after winning an eligibility lawsuit, notched his team-leading third interception. Moore, along with linebacker Isaiah Jones and defensive lineman Kellan Wyatt, has anchored a defense allowing only 48 points through five games.
Penn State’s Offensive Woes
Penn State dropped to No. 8, grappling with an underwhelming offensive attack. Despite a veteran quarterback in Drew Allar and a strong running back duo, the Nittany Lions’ offense lagged. This was glaringly evident in their double-overtime loss to Oregon. They managed only 69 total yards and 3 points in the first half – their lowest under coach James Franklin. Allar’s 45 first-half passing yards were a career low, and his QBR ranks 85th nationally. Coordinator Andy Kotelnicki’s offense, expected to be elite, has been a significant disappointment.
Texas Tech and Alabama: Strengths and Vulnerabilities
Texas Tech surged to No. 9 after a bye week, following four straight wins by at least 24 points. They are outscoring opponents 52-11 on average. Quarterback Behren Morton is expected to return after an injury, but backup Will Hammond’s solid performance against Utah provided comfort. Alabama, now No. 10, ended Georgia’s 33-game home winning streak. However, their run defense remains a concern. They allowed over 200 rushing yards against both Florida State and Georgia. This alarming trend indicates an area requiring significant improvement for championship contention.
Georgia & Texas: Defensive Strengths, Offensive Questions
Georgia fell to No. 11 after their loss to Alabama. Their secondary, typically a strength under Kirby Smart, struggled against Ty Simpson’s passes, particularly on third downs. While they improved in the second half, Alabama’s early lead proved insurmountable. The Texas Longhorns, at No. 12, remain a mystery. Quarterback Arch Manning’s 888 passing yards rank 76th nationally, and the offense seeks consistency. However, their defense is exceptional, allowing just 7.8 points per game (2nd nationally) and 212 yards per game (4th nationally). This formidable defense gives them a chance in every contest.
Volatility and Breakthroughs: Mid-Rankings Action
This segment of the Power Rankings showcases the season’s inherent volatility, with teams either experiencing surprising surges or facing unexpected setbacks.
Tennessee’s Offensive Fireworks vs. Defensive Concerns
Tennessee moved to No. 13, riding high on Chris Brazzell II’s star turn. The receiver has already surpassed his 2024 receiving yards, with 31 catches for 531 yards and seven touchdowns in five games. His heroics, alongside quarterback Joey Aguilar, were essential in their 41-34 overtime win against Mississippi State. However, the Volunteers’ defense has regressed significantly, allowing 29.0 points per game in 2025, compared to 16.1 in 2024. This defensive lapse creates a precarious balance for the team.
Florida State’s Stumble and Leadership Test
Florida State dropped to No. 14 after a double-overtime loss at Virginia. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos admitted the team might have succumbed to external hype. Despite a brutal 14-0 early deficit, Castellanos displayed elite leadership. He delivered a clutch pass to Randy Pittman Jr. to force overtime. He also placed a perfect pass to Duce Robinson, which the receiver bobbled. Coach Mike Norvell and Castellanos insist they will prevent a tailspin, unlike previous seasons.
Iowa State, Missouri, LSU: Surprises and Setbacks
Iowa State held steady at No. 15. Quarterback Rocco Becht had a unique performance against Arizona, recording negative rushing yards and an interception. Yet, he ran for three scores and completed 14 of 20 passes for 243 yards, leading the Cyclones to their most comprehensive win. Missouri climbed to No. 16, boasting an unexpectedly powerful front seven. Key returners and transfers have transformed a unit that struggled last year. They lead the SEC in run defense (73.3 yards per game) and pressure rate (34.7%).
The biggest headline, however, belongs to LSU, which plummeted 13 spots to No. 17. Their passing game, expected to be stellar, has underperformed. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, after finishing 10th in Total QBR last year, struggled mightily against Ole Miss. He managed only 197 yards, one touchdown, and an interception. The Tigers’ offense accumulated just 254 total yards. Their 2-for-11 third-down conversion rate underscored their offensive woes.
New Faces and Historic Runs: Rounding Out the Top 25
The bottom third of the Power Rankings showcases emergent talents and teams making historical strides. Newcomers bring excitement and fresh challenges to the established order.
Vanderbilt’s Unprecedented Start
Vanderbilt makes a significant jump to No. 18, experiencing its best start since 2008. Quarterback Diego Pavia has been exceptional, accounting for six touchdowns (five passing, one rushing) in a 55-35 win over Utah State. Vanderbilt scored over 50 points in consecutive games for the first time since 1915. Wide receivers Junior Sherrill and Tre Richardson, along with running back Jamezell Lassiter, have provided crucial boosts. Playing with immense confidence, the Commodores now face a season-defining stretch against formidable SEC opponents.
Georgia Tech, Michigan, Notre Dame: Clutch Wins and Emerging Stars
Georgia Tech sits at No. 19 after a dramatic double-overtime win over Wake Forest. Despite nearly blowing a 20-3 lead, their resilience signals progress. Receiver Isiah Canion has blossomed this season, accumulating 237 yards on 15 catches. Michigan, at No. 20, had a bye week, integrating Alabama transfer Justice Haynes. Haynes has delivered four consecutive 100-yard performances. The Wolverines’ offense, centered around freshman QB Bryce Underwood, now boasts a top-10 rushing attack. Notre Dame, at No. 21, found its stride behind new quarterback CJ Carr. After an 0-2 start, Carr’s 354 yards and four touchdowns against Arkansas signal optimism for the Irish. His 88.4 Total QBR ranks fifth among Power 4 passers.
The Fresh Entrants: BYU, Illinois, Memphis, Louisville
Three teams broke into the Top 25 this week, highlighting dynamic performances and unexpected success stories. BYU, at No. 22, rallied from a 14-0 deficit against Colorado behind freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. His leadership secured a 24-21 comeback win. BYU faces a challenging schedule ahead, requiring offensive improvement for a Big 12 title run.
Illinois climbed to No. 23, leveraging an explosive offensive attack. Quarterback Luke Altmyer showcased his versatility with two passing touchdowns, one rushing, and even a reception in a 34-32 win over USC. Kaden Feagin and Collin Dixon both had receptions over 60 yards, providing the downfield threat the Illini sought. Running back Ca’Lil Valentine also contributed significantly.
Memphis entered the rankings at No. 24, transforming its offensive identity. Coach Ryan Silverfield’s team, known for high-flying offenses, now boasts a formidable ground game. They rushed for 291 yards and five touchdowns against Florida Atlantic. Fifth-year running back Greg Desrosiers Jr. exploded for 204 yards and a 90-yard score. Former Colorado and Nevada quarterback Brendon Lewis adds energy with six rushing scores. This ground-based attack could be the key to a playoff push.
Louisville rounds out the Top 25 at No. 25, pulling off a remarkable 34-27 road comeback against Pitt. Trailing 17-0, Miller Moss threw for 339 yards and three touchdowns. Their defense contributed five takeaways and a second-half shutout, a significant feat against Pitt. Now 4-0 under Jeff Brohm, Louisville looks to prove itself as an ACC contender.
Looking Ahead: Week 6 AP Poll and Key Matchups
The shifts in ESPN’s Power Rankings are largely mirrored in the Week 6 AP Top 25, indicating a consensus on the season’s early trajectory. The AP Poll shows Ohio State maintaining No. 1, with Oregon surging to No. 2 and Ole Miss climbing to No. 4. Alabama also jumped to No. 10 in the AP rankings, reflecting their crucial victory. Florida State, like in ESPN’s rankings, experienced a notable drop in the AP Poll as well.
Week 6 promises even more thrilling action and potential further shake-ups. Key matchups include No. 3 Miami (Fla.) traveling to face No. 18 Florida State in a crucial ACC battle. No. 10 Alabama hosts No. 16 Vanderbilt, a test for the Commodores’ historic run. No. 1 Ohio State will challenge Minnesota, and No. 22 BYU takes on West Virginia. Other top-25 teams in action include No. 5 Oklahoma, No. 6 Texas A&M, No. 7 Penn State, and No. 9 Texas. These contests will undoubtedly shape the narrative as the season progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the biggest upsets or surprises in Week 5 of college football?
Week 5 saw several major surprises. Ole Miss, led by transfer QB Trinidad Chambliss, defeated LSU, contributing to LSU’s significant 13-spot drop in the Power Rankings. Indiana continued its unexpected CFP race bid with a clutch win at Iowa. Louisville staged a remarkable 17-point comeback on the road against Pitt to enter the Top 25. The overall volatility and the strong performances of unheralded teams were significant storylines.
Which teams made significant moves up or down the college football power rankings after Week 5?
LSU experienced the most dramatic downturn, dropping 13 spots to No. 17 after a disappointing offensive performance against Ole Miss. Conversely, Ole Miss surged significantly, climbing to No. 4. Oregon moved up to No. 2 following a huge overtime win against Penn State. BYU, Memphis, and Louisville all entered the Top 25 for the first time this season, demonstrating their early success and strong Week 5 performances. Alabama also made a notable jump to No. 10 after defeating Georgia.
What are the key storylines to watch as the college football season progresses into Week 6?
As Week 6 unfolds, several storylines demand attention. The performance of surging teams like Ole Miss and Oregon will be critical in solidifying their CFP bids. LSU’s ability to rebound after their significant drop will be a major test for their program. The new entrants, BYU, Memphis, and Louisville, face tougher schedules ahead, proving if their early success is sustainable. Additionally, the highly anticipated ranked-on-ranked matchups, such as Miami at Florida State and Vanderbilt at Alabama, will be pivotal in shaping conference races and the national championship picture.
Conclusion
Week 5 of the 2025 college football season proved to be a crucible, forging new contenders and challenging established giants. The dramatic shifts in the Power Rankings, from LSU’s steep fall to the exciting emergence of BYU, Memphis, and Louisville, highlight the unpredictable nature of the sport. As teams navigate their conference schedules and vie for a spot in the College Football Playoff, every game will carry immense weight. The season’s first full month has delivered compelling narratives, and the stage is set for an even more exhilarating journey ahead. Stay tuned as the race to the national championship intensifies.
