The college football landscape witnessed a seismic shift as Ohio State emerged as the unrivaled champion in the final Associated Press Top 25 poll. Gaining the top spot for the first time since their previous national title in 2014, the Buckeyes solidified their dominance by defeating Notre Dame in a compelling championship match. Ohio State’s meteoric rise, culminating in a satisfying finish with a record of 14-2, has not only rekindled their pride but also left a mark on the entire college football scene.
In securing their sixth AP national championship, Ohio State added to a legacy steeped in success, boasting titles from notable years such as 1942, 1954, 1968, 2002, and 2014. Their journey through the College Football Playoff was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing a blend of strategic prowess and athletic talent that overwhelmed their opponents. The Buckeyes showcased their strength not just once but consistently, culminating in their commanding victories over significant rivals—Tennessee (42-17), Oregon (41-21), Texas (28-14), and finally, Notre Dame (34-23).
This season marked a turning point for Ohio State. After an unexpected mid-season dip, where they suffered a shocking loss to an underdog Michigan, the Buckeyes regrouped and showcased their determination. They overcame adversity and faced down every contender in the playoffs with relentless performance, solidifying their place at the pinnacle of college football.
The end-of-season rankings revealed a fascinating competitive landscape, with Notre Dame finishing in the second position, their highest since 1993. This year not only highlighted Ohio State’s brilliance but also emphasized the noteworthy resurgence of the Irish. Furthermore, Oregon’s fall from grace—a team that had held the top rank in eight consecutive polls—after a defeat to Ohio State in the playoff quarterfinal, showed the unpredictable nature of college football rivalries. The Ducks ended their season ranked third, their best since 2014, despite the bitter disappointment of failing to advance further.
Texas and Penn State rounded out the top five; both teams displayed remarkable seasons as well. Texas, with a final tally of 13-3, achieved a top-five finish for the second consecutive year, marking its best performance since 2008-09. For Penn State, this was a return to form, breaking a drought that lasted since 2005. The Big Ten’s ability to boast three teams in the top five signifies the conference’s growing competitiveness, suggesting a shift in the traditional power dynamics of college football.
In sharp contrast, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) maintained its reputation as a powerhouse. Notably, Georgia stood out as the highest-ranked team that didn’t win a playoff game, ending the season at No. 6. This underscores the competitive nature of the SEC, where excellence is not confined to playoff success. With seven teams reaching the final AP Top 25—its highest tally since 2013—the SEC continues to dominate college football discussions.
Meanwhile, programs like Arizona State and Boise State elicited excitement in their performances. Arizona State’s ranking represents their highest since the 1996 Rose Bowl team, whereas Boise State achieved a top-10 finish for the first time since 2011, showcasing the competitive resurgence of programs outside the traditional football powerhouses.
The final Top 25 served not just as a retrospective of the season but an indicator of what years to come may hold as well. With teams like UNLV breaking into the rankings for the first time and maintaining a record number of wins, the dynamic of competitive college football is evolving. While established teams like Alabama faced challenges, dropping six spots to 17, they will likely intensify their efforts in reclaiming their former glory.
Furthermore, the play from teams such as Mississippi and BYU indicates a broader trend towards greater competitiveness among programs that historically might not have been in the spotlight. As college football continues to evolve and expand its horizons, the 2023 season sets the stage for a thrilling future, with numerous teams vying for dominance and storied rivalries ready to reignite.
In reflection, Ohio State’s ascent coupled with the resurgence and challenges faced by other teams marks a transformative season in college football, etching narratives that will be recounted for years to come. As fans and players alike look forward to the next chapter, one thing is certain—the excitement of college football is set to continue its exhilarating rise.