Reviewing EAs CFB 25 Team Rankings: Who was snubbed from the Top 10?
As we approach the release of College Football 25, EA has released its team rankings. Follow along as we review these rankings and discuss who we believe is underrated, overrated, and who was snubbed from the Top 10.
As we approach the release of College Football 25, EA has released its team rankings. My goal is to review these rankings and compare them to data from the 2023 season, particularly using the FEI (Fremeau Efficiency Index) rankings, which is considered one of the best overall metrics systems in college football. This analysis will also consider the significant roster changes that have occurred over a huge transfer-ridden offseason. By examining these factors, we can assess whether EA’s rankings hold up against the efficiency metrics and the current team compositions.
EA's Rankings
Our Review
2023 Record: 13-1, FEI Ranking: 3, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 3, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 11
Georgia at number one makes perfect sense. They consistently have an elite defense and last year, even their offense ranked third in efficiency. With Heisman-favorite QB Carson Beck returning, they are poised for another dominant season. Georgia’s balanced attack and returning talent justify their top spot in both EA’s and FEI’s rankings.
2023 Record: 11-2, FEI Ranking: 4, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 13, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 2
Ohio State’s placement at number two is also well-deserved. They significantly upgraded their defense with Alabama transfer Caleb Downs, retained most of their starters, and boast a dynamic offense loaded with 5-star WRs. Their defense, which was the second-best in college football last year, and their offensive firepower make them a formidable team on both sides of the ball.
2023 Record: 12-2, FEI Ranking: 1, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 1, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 13
Oregon’s high ranking is largely due to their top offensive efficiency metrics from last year. While I believe they should be behind Alabama, the FEI metrics clearly loved Oregon’s performance last season despite the two losses. The integration of new QB Dillon Gabriel from Oklahoma and their adjustment to facing Big 10 defenses will be crucial for maintaining their high ranking.
2023 Record: 12-2, FEI Ranking: 8, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 20, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 8
Alabama, despite being ranked fourth, arguably deserves a higher spot. They were one of the hottest teams by the end of last season and have a Heisman hopeful in QB Jalen Milroe. Although their efficiency metrics were not outstanding last season, they ended strong and face an interesting season with new HC Kalen DeBoer, following Nick Saban’s retirement.
2023 Record: 12-2, FEI Ranking: 7, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 17, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 7
Texas is somewhat of a wild card but belongs in the upper tier this season. They face challenges in replacing their WR room and need to rely on their strong offensive and defensive lines. The health and consistency of QB Quinn Ewers will be pivotal in determining their success this season.
2023 Record: 9-4, FEI Ranking: 24, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 63, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 4
Clemson appears overranked by EA. Their offense was an abysmal 63rd in efficiency last year, and they lost their best RB, Will Shipley, to the NFL Draft. While their defense remains strong, ranked fourth in efficiency, QB Cade Klubnik’s ability to avoid turnovers will be critical to their success.
2023 Record: 10-3, FEI Ranking: 6, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 16, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 6
Notre Dame could surprise this season with Duke transfer QB Riley Leonard. Their defense, ranked sixth in efficiency, is solid, and if Leonard can keep the offense productive, they can justify their top 10 ranking.
2023 Record: 10-3, FEI Ranking: 10, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 2, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 102
LSU’s ranking seems to be based on pedigree. They lost key players, including Heisman winner Jaden Daniels and top receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. Their offense was the second-best by efficiency last season, but their 102nd-ranked defense needs significant improvement for them to maintain a top 10 spot.
2023 Record: 10-3, FEI Ranking: 5, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 19, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 5
Penn State’s strong defense and home field advantage keep them competitive. Their offense, however, struggled against strong opponents last season. QB Drew Allar and the RB tandem of Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen must step up in big games to keep them at or above this ranking.
2023 Record: 8-5, FEI Ranking: 26, Offensive Efficiency Ranking: 71, Defensive Efficiency Ranking: 14
Utah’s ranking at number ten seems optimistic. Although they have Cam Rising returning at QB and a strong defense, their easier schedule may not be enough to justify such a high ranking. HC Kyle Whittingham, one of the most underrated coaches, will need to maximize their potential to maintain this spot.
Snubs
Missouri should have been included in the top 10. They return most players, including top WR Luther Burden and QB Brady Cook. Their defense was ranked 12th in efficiency last season as well. They deserve at least a top 10, if not top 8, ranking.
Despite losing many players to the NFL, Michigan still has key talents like cover boy Donovan Edwards and cornerback Will Johnson. HC Sherrone Moore’s experience under difficult circumstances last season makes them a strong contender. Their exclusion from the top 10 is surprising given their potential and the fact that they are the defending champions.
Conclusion
This comprehensive comparison between EA’s College Football 25 rankings and the FEI metrics from the 2023 season offers valuable insights into each team’s potential. While some teams like Georgia and Ohio State rightfully hold their top spots, others like Clemson and Utah appear to be overestimated. Significant roster changes due to the offseason’s heavy transfer activity also play a crucial role in shaping these rankings. Ultimately, the upcoming season will reveal whether EA’s rankings or the efficiency metrics provide a more accurate prediction of team success. Stay tuned as the season unfolds to see which teams rise to the challenge and which may fall short of expectations.