Ohio State, Oregon Lead AP Preseason Top 25 as Big Ten Secures Historic Top Two

The Associated Press released its annual preseason Top 25 college football rankings on Tuesday, and the first two slots went to Ohio State and Oregon. Ohio State earned the No. 1 position, while Oregon landed at No. 2, creating a historic moment for the Big Ten Conference. According to the poll, this is the first instance in more than six decades that the conference occupies both of the top two rankings before the season begins.

The AP poll, compiled from votes by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters across the nation, is widely regarded as a benchmark for gauging expectations heading into the fall schedule. Ohio State’s ascent to the summit reflects a blend of returning talent, a stable coaching staff, and a schedule that many analysts view as favorable for a deep postseason run. Oregon’s placement at No. 2 underscores the Ducks’ resurgence after a strong finish last year and a recruiting class that promises to keep the program competitive on the West Coast.

Big Ten officials hailed the achievement as a testament to the conference’s depth and consistency. While the poll’s top two spots are traditionally dominated by teams from the SEC and ACC, the current rankings suggest a shift in the national power balance. The Buckeyes’ top‑ranked status also positions them as the early favorite for the College Football Playoff, though the path remains challenging with other elite programs slated to test them throughout the season.

Beyond Ohio State and Oregon, the poll listed several other programs in the upper tier, though the specific rankings beyond the top two were not disclosed in the brief. The release of the AP preseason poll often fuels early-season debates about strength of schedule, coaching changes, and player development, setting the tone for a competitive college football landscape.

Original reporting: ESPN.