The 2023 college football season has concluded with Ohio State University atop the final Associated Press Top 25 poll, marking a triumphant return to glory for the Buckeyes. With their victory over Notre Dame in the national championship game, Ohio State not only secured its first title since 2014 but also reaffirmed its position as a powerhouse in collegiate football. This article delves into the highlights, surprises, and notable shifts within the standings that characterized a season defined by competitiveness and ambition.
Ohio State finished the season with a formidable record of 14 wins against 2 losses. Their run through the College Football Playoff was nothing short of spectacular. After a rocky start that included a shocking loss to Michigan, who was a heavy underdog, the Buckeyes rebounded dramatically, showcasing remarkable resilience and skill. Their playoff victories were all decisive: a 42-17 win over Tennessee, a 41-21 triumph against Oregon, and a 34-23 championship victory over Notre Dame in Atlanta reflected the team’s growth and strategic prowess. The Buckeyes’ ability to adapt and perform under pressure ultimately crowned them as the national champions, bringing their total tally of AP national championships to six.
Notre Dame not only impressed this season with a commendable 14-2 record but also advanced to the national championship game, claiming the second spot in the rankings—their highest end-of-season placement since 1993. The Fighting Irish’s run demonstrated a return to form, underscoring their historical significance in college football. Finishing third was Oregon, which hadn’t performed as well in the playoffs, losing decisively to Ohio State. Their trajectory during the season had shown promise, having held the top spot in the polls for eight consecutive weeks before the playoff began.
Completing the top five were Texas and Penn State, both of whom reached the semifinals and ended the season with identical records of 13-3. For Texas, this marks a significant resurgence, being their second consecutive year in the top five—a notable achievement since they last accomplished it in the 2008-09 seasons. Likewise, Penn State’s return to the upper echelons of college football, with their first top-five finish since 2005, heralds a promising future for the Nittany Lions.
As the season wrapped up, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) showcased its depth by securing seven positions within the final Top 25—its highest tally since 2013. Georgia led this cohort at sixth place despite not winning a playoff game. Their performance, along with that of their peers, highlighted the continued reputation of the SEC as a breeding ground for championship-caliber teams. Meanwhile, Arizona State and Boise State also made headlines, with Arizona State garnering its best final ranking since 1996 and Boise State breaking into the top 10 for the first time in over a decade.
The ACC found representation primarily through SMU and Clemson, who finished at No. 12 and No. 14, respectively. SMU’s ranking, although somewhat controversial given their loss to Clemson in the conference championship, marked their highest finish since 1984, affirming their emerging presence on the national stage, even amid playoff setbacks.
This year’s rankings revealed a notable fall from grace for Alabama, which dropped six spots to No. 17. Under first-year coach Kalen DeBoer, the Crimson Tide struggled towards the season’s end, with disappointing performances that culminated in a narrow bowl game loss to Michigan. This positioning represents their lowest ranking since a dismal showing in 1995, which raises questions about the program’s future trajectory.
In contrast, teams like Mississippi and Illinois made strides up the rankings, highlighting the ebb and flow of college football dynamics that often see traditional powerhouses face challenges from emerging programs.
As the college football season draws to a close, Ohio State’s ascension back to the summit reminds fans and critics alike of the cyclical nature of this sport. The rankings reflect not just the outcomes of games, but also the evolving narratives surrounding each program. As teams regroup in anticipation of next season, the lessons learned this year will undoubtedly shape strategies moving forward, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in college football history. Fans can only hope for a similarly exciting season ahead, filled with unexpected twists and memorable moments.
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