NCAA Football Predictions 2025: Teams, Surprises & Playoff Picks

The NCAA Football Predictions 2025 season preview is here, and the anticipation could not be higher. As college football fans gear up for another wild fall, it’s time to take a close look at which teams are set to dominate, who might surprise everyone, and what players could shake up the Heisman race. With conference realignments, transfer portal moves, and rising coaching stars, this year feels more unpredictable than ever.

In this article, we break down the most exciting storylines, analyze the top contenders, reveal our bold playoff predictions, and highlight a few under-the-radar teams to keep an eye on.

What’s New in NCAA Football for Fall 2025?

Before diving into predictions, let’s take a look at what’s changed heading into the 2025 season:

• Expanded College Football Playoff (CFP): The playoff format now includes 12 teams, giving more programs a shot at the title.
• Conference Realignment: Several teams have switched conferences, shaking up traditional rivalries and competition levels.
• Transfer Portal Surge: More athletes are transferring than ever before, giving once-average teams a big boost.
• NIL Impact Grows: Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals continue to influence recruiting and retention, especially among top-tier programs.

Top Contenders for the 2025 Season

1. Georgia Bulldogs

The Georgia Bulldogs enter 2025 as the team to beat. With a stacked roster, returning quarterback Landon Reese, and head coach Kirby Smart still at the helm, this team looks ready to make another title run. Their defense remains elite, and the offensive line is among the best in the nation.

Key Games:

• vs Alabama (Oct 12)
• vs Texas (Nov 2)

Why They’re Dangerous:

• Elite depth and recruiting
• Championship experience

2. Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State is ready for revenge after missing the playoffs in 2024. With five-star quarterback Carter Jennings leading the charge and new offensive coordinator Drew Leach bringing innovation to the playbook, expect fireworks in Columbus.

Key Players:

• WR Jaylen Rivers
• CB Tariq Douglas

Why They’re Dangerous:

• Explosive offense
• Deep defensive backfield

3. Texas Longhorns

Texas finally looked like “back” wasn’t just a meme in 2024. Now, in 2025, they are real contenders. With experience, talent, and an SEC-ready roster, this might be their best shot in over a decade.

Why They’re Dangerous:

• Veteran leadership
• Strong defensive line

4. Michigan Wolverines

Despite losing key pieces to the NFL Draft, Michigan remains strong. Their offensive line, now fully rebuilt, could be the best in the country. If sophomore QB Dante Russell continues to develop, this team will be dangerous again.

Why They’re Dangerous:

• Balanced offense and defense
• Strong coaching culture

Dark Horse Teams That Could Shock Everyone

1. Oregon Ducks

Now playing in the Big Ten, the Ducks are adjusting well. QB Tyrese Monroe is dynamic, and the team’s speed and creativity make them hard to defend.

Why They’re a Dark Horse:

• Creative offensive schemes
• Big-play ability

2. Florida State Seminoles

The Seminoles finished strong in 2024 and bring back most of their offensive weapons. Coach Mike Norvell is building something special in Tallahassee.

Why They’re a Dark Horse:

• High-scoring offense
• Motivated after CFP snub

3. Penn State Nittany Lions

With one of the nation’s top defenses and RB Chase Singleton leading the ground attack, Penn State has the tools to break into the top tier.

Why They’re a Dark Horse:

• Dominant defense
• Top-5 recruiting class

Heisman Trophy Watch: Who’s Leading the Race?

The Heisman race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years. Here are the early frontrunners:

1. Carter Jennings (QB, Ohio State)

Dual-threat, accurate, and experienced — he’s got all the tools.

2. Landon Reese (QB, Georgia)

If Georgia goes undefeated, it’ll be hard to ignore Reese’s leadership and poise.

3. Chase Singleton (RB, Penn State)

A true workhorse back who could run for over 1,800 yards this season.

4. Tyrese Monroe (QB, Oregon)

His ability to extend plays and create magic is unmatched.

Bold NCAA Football Predictions 2025

1. A Group of Five Team Will Make the Playoff

With 12 teams now qualifying, the door is open. Look for a team like Tulane or Boise State to crash the party.

2. A Non-QB Will Win the Heisman

It’s been a while, but Chase Singleton might just have the season to buck the trend.

3. USC Will Miss the Playoff Again

Despite Caleb Johnson returning, USC’s defense remains a major concern. In a deep Big Ten, it’ll be tough to navigate the schedule.

4. Texas Beats Alabama in Tuscaloosa

Circle this one on your calendar. The Longhorns have the talent and maturity to get the job done.

Key Games That Will Shape the Season

• Ohio State vs Michigan (Nov 30): Could decide the Big Ten East and a CFP spot.
• Georgia vs Texas (Nov 2): SEC supremacy on the line.
• Penn State vs Oregon (Oct 19): Defense vs speed.
• FSU vs Clemson (Oct 5): ACC leadership battle.

Early College Football Playoff Prediction

With everything considered, here’s our pick for the final 12-team playoff bracket:

1. Georgia
2. Ohio State
3. Michigan
4. Texas
5. Oregon
6. Penn State
7. Florida State
8. Alabama
9. USC
10. Tulane
11. LSU
12. Utah

First-Round Matchups:

• (5) Oregon vs (12) Utah
• (6) Penn State vs (11) LSU
• (7) Florida State vs (10) Tulane
• (8) Alabama vs (9) USC

Who Wins the 2025 National Championship?

Our pick: Georgia Bulldogs

The Bulldogs have the experience, coaching, and roster depth to survive a 12-team playoff. Landon Reese should elevate his game in the postseason and bring another title to Athens.

Final Thoughts on NCAA Football Predictions 2025

This season has everything — powerhouse programs, hungry underdogs, elite quarterbacks, and a bigger playoff stage. The changes to the format and the evolving nature of college football make 2025 one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory.

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