The preseason Associated Press Top-25 poll, set to be released Monday, often sparks debate among college football fans. However, history shows that teams ranked outside the top 10 in preseason polls can go on to win national championships.

Recent Championship Success

The 2025 Indiana Hoosiers serve as a recent example. Despite a preseason ranking of #20, they exceeded expectations, making a College Football Playoff appearance and ultimately winning the national championship. This victory was achieved with a significantly tougher schedule than in their previous playoff run, a feat attributed in part to the coaching of Curt Cignetti and the breakout performance of quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who went from a transfer to a Heisman Trophy winner and a top NFL Draft pick.

Historical Precedent

Several other teams have defied preseason rankings to claim national titles.

The 2013 Florida State Seminoles, ranked #11 to start the season, captured the last BCS National Championship. Despite losing significant veteran leadership, the team, under head coach Jimbo Fisher and redshirt freshman quarterback Jameis Winston, achieved an undefeated season and dominated ACC opponents.

The 2000 Oklahoma Sooners, ranked #19, also began their championship journey outside the top 10. Under second-year head coach Bob Stoops, the Sooners went undefeated, capping their season with a national championship win over Florida State.

The 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes, ranked #13, with a second-year head coach Jim Tressel, overcame preseason doubts. Led by freshman running back Maurice Clarett and a strong defense, they defeated a highly-touted Miami team in a double-overtime thriller to win the national championship. A general view of an Ohio State Buckeyes helmet

A Star's Impact

Perhaps one of the most striking examples is the 2010 Auburn Tigers, who entered the season ranked #22. With quarterback Cam Newton at the helm, the Tigers achieved a perfect 14-0 record, with Newton winning the Heisman Trophy and Auburn securing the national championship. Cam Newton rushes with the football The team's subsequent performance in the following seasons, after Newton's departure, highlighted the extraordinary impact he had on their championship run.

These examples illustrate that while preseason rankings offer an initial snapshot, they do not define a team's ultimate potential. Coaching, player development, and unexpected standout performances can lead teams to achieve greatness, regardless of initial expectations.