Ohio State Dominates 2025 Rankings, But What Shocking Move Could Sink USC? Find Out Now!

Michigan owns Ohio State — a claim that has held true for the last four years. However, as the college football season reaches its climax, the narrative is ripe for a compelling twist. Since December 1 of the previous year, the Buckeyes have positioned themselves as the best team in the nation, eyeing a repeat as national champions, a feat not accomplished since the Georgia Bulldogs did so in 2021-2022. Their path to glory, however, runs through a formidable obstacle: the Wolverines, whom Ohio State has not defeated since 2019.

This Saturday, the rivalry known as "The Game" will unfold in Ann Arbor. The stakes couldn't be higher for Ohio State, which is facing the unique challenge of overcoming a four-year losing streak to its archrival. The Buckeyes have an impressive season record, showcasing their dominance with a robust performance, including an average of under 10 points allowed in the last three games. However, as history has shown, nothing in this storied rivalry is guaranteed.

As we approach Week 13 of the college football season, let’s take a look at the current rankings and how the teams are performing as they head into this crucial phase:

Top 25 Rankings Following Week 13

25. SMU (8-3)

Week 13 result: Defeated Louisville, 38-6. Quarterback Kevin Jennings threw for 303 yards and four touchdowns, propelling the Mustangs to a shot at the ACC title game. This is notable considering SMU was in Conference USA just over a decade ago.

24. Arizona State (8-3)

Week 13 result: Defeated Colorado, 42-17. Running back Raleek Brown had a standout performance with 258 rushing yards, further lighting the path toward a potential Big 12 title game.

23. Pitt (8-3)

Week 13 result: Defeated Georgia Tech, 42-28. Ja’Kyrian Turner rushed for 201 yards, and linebacker Braylan Lovelace returned an interception for a touchdown, demonstrating a classic display of Pat Narduzzi's football mentality.

22. USC (8-3)

Week 13 result: Lost to Oregon, 42-27. The Trojans' struggles continue, as they have not managed to beat a top-10 team under coach Lincoln Riley, raising questions about their potential for entering the College Football Playoff.

21. James Madison (10-1)

Week 13 result: Defeated Washington State, 24-20. Running back Wayne Knight's critical touchdown run solidified James Madison's place as a leading contender for the Group of 6 CFP spot.

20. Tennessee (8-3)

Week 13 result: Defeated Florida, 31-11. This victory illustrates the depth of the SEC, as Tennessee's performance against a capable team suggests they are contenders in the conference.

19. Navy (8-2)

Week 13 result: Idle.

18. North Texas (10-1)

Week 13 result: Defeated Rice, 56-24. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker’s extraordinary performance with 469 passing yards signifies North Texas's contention as a leading Group of 6 team.

17. Virginia (9-2)

Week 13 result: Idle.

16. Utah (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Kansas State, 51-47. The Utes managed to secure a win despite conceding over 470 rushing yards, showcasing their resilience in a high-scoring affair.

15. Michigan (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Maryland, 45-20. Freshman running back Bryson Kuzdzal stepped up in the absence of star tailbacks, rushing for 100 yards and three touchdowns, keeping Michigan's College Football Playoff hopes alive.

14. Vanderbilt (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Kentucky, 45-17. Quarterback Diego Pavia’s performance was historic, marking Vanderbilt's first nine-win season since 1915 and only their second winning season in SEC play since 1992.

13. Notre Dame (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Syracuse, 70-7. The Fighting Irish showcased an explosive offense, with running back Jeremiyah Love rushing for 171 yards and three touchdowns.

12. Alabama (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Eastern Illinois, 56-0. Alabama's dominance was evident as they held their opponent to just 34 total yards, underscoring their strength.

11. Miami (Fla.) (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Virginia Tech, 34-17. Quarterback Carson Beck's stellar performance included 320 passing yards and four touchdowns, solidifying Miami's ranking.

10. Texas (8-3)

Week 13 result: Defeated Arkansas, 52-37. Quarterback Arch Manning led the charge with 389 passing yards, but inconsistency raises concerns about their playoff hopes.

9. BYU (10-1)

Week 13 result: Defeated Cincinnati, 26-14. BYU is on track for a likely rematch in the Big 12 title game.

8. Texas Tech (10-1)

Week 13 result: Idle.

7. Oklahoma (9-2)

Week 13 result: Defeated Missouri, 17-6. The Sooners' defense continues to impress, solidifying their place among the top teams.

6. Ole Miss (10-1)

Week 13 result: Idle.

5. Oregon (10-1)

Week 13 result: Defeated USC, 42-27. With a strong defense, the Ducks aim for an at-large berth in the CFP.

4. Georgia (10-1)

Week 13 result: Defeated Charlotte, 35-3. The Bulldogs remain a dominant force, continuously proving their worth this season.

3. Texas A&M (11-0)

Week 13 result: Defeated Samford, 48-0. Quarterback Marcel Reed had a stellar first quarter, showcasing A&M's prowess.

2. Indiana (11-0)

Week 13 result: Idle.

1. Ohio State (11-0)

Week 13 result: Defeated Rutgers, 42-9. Ohio State's defense has been top-notch, allowing just 16 points or fewer in each game this season. The real test awaits as they face Michigan next, a matchup crucial to their aspirations for another national title.

The upcoming clash is more than just a game; it’s a pivotal moment that could redefine the narratives of both programs. As Ohio State prepares to face Michigan, the weight of history and the promise of glory hang in the balance.