With the 2024 college football season winding down and the National Title still up for grabs, it’s a little early to definitively predict the powerhouses of 2025. After all, the 2024 season was wild enough with the terrible officiating, surprise wins, and sideline brawls. But for college football fans, we are already breaking down next year's schedules because “too early” doesn’t exist. The offseason hype train is already barreling down the tracks, fueled by returnees, incoming talent, and way-too-early position battles.
Here’s a glimpse at next season’s top contenders. Spoiler alert: the South Carolina Gamecocks are making waves.
1. Texas
The Longhorns are staring at a golden opportunity. With Arch Manning finally taking the reins, Texas might have the best quarterback situation in the country. While they’ll need to rebuild their offensive line after some NFL departures, Steve Sarkisian has quietly built a roster full of depth. On defense, young stars like Colin Simmons and Anthony Hill make this team dangerous.
2. Ohio State
Ohio State’s quarterback spot is a question mark, but their talent is undeniable. Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs could be the best players at their positions in the country. However, the defense will need an overhaul, which is why the Buckeyes fall just short of the top two.
3. Oregon
Despite major losses to the NFL and graduation, Oregon remains a threat. Dan Lanning’s relentless recruiting has kept the Ducks stocked, and now it’s Dante Moore’s turn to lead the offense. With key returnees like Jeremiah McClellan and defensive talents Matayo Uiagalelei and Peyton Woodyard, Oregon won’t miss a beat.
4. Penn State
Drew Allar’s decision to return for 2025 gives Penn State a legitimate star under center. Combine that with a seasoned, veteran team fresh off a Playoff appearance, and the Nittany Lions could make even more noise next year.
5. Notre Dame
Injuries tested the Irish’s depth in 2024, but those challenges have built a young, capable core. With C.J. Carr likely stepping up as QB1, Notre Dame’s talented offensive line and growing skill players should make them dangerous in 2025.
6. Georgia
Georgia is Georgia—consistently built for greatness. Gunner Stockton’s flashes of potential at quarterback point to a bright future. With returning stars like Nate Frazier and Dillon Bell on offense, plus K.J. Bolden on defense, Kirby Smart’s crew isn’t going anywhere.
Now, let’s talk Gamecocks
7. South Carolina
This isn’t just homer hype—it’s real, folks. The 2025 South Carolina Gamecocks have the ingredients to shake up the college football world.
It starts with quarterback LaNorris Sellers. By the end of 2024, Sellers had won over the fanbase with his dual-threat ability and clutch performances. An entire offseason of preparation under head coach Shane Beamer will only make him better. And he won’t be working alone.
Freshman phenom Josiah Thompson stepped onto campus and immediately locked down the left tackle spot. His protection allows Sellers time to unleash South Carolina’s dynamic offense. Meanwhile, on the defensive side, Dylan Stewart turned heads in 2024 as a freshman edge rusher. With Kyle Kennard gone, Stewart could emerge as one of the best pass-rushers in the SEC—provided the coaching staff develops or lands a complementary threat on the opposite side.
Add the relentless energy of Beamer and a roster stacked with young talent, and these Gamecocks are built to compete with anyone.
8. Alabama
Missing the playoffs was a significant letdown in Kalen DeBoer’s debut season, but the Crimson Tide remains a powerhouse in the SEC, driven by their elite talent heading into 2025. With Jalen Milroe off to the NFL, Alabama faces a quarterback decision between Ty Simpson and ex-Washington transfer Austin Mack. Whoever earns the starting role will have a premier target in Ryan Williams, a standout wide receiver and Heisman contender. On defense, retaining Deontae Lawson as a key leader is a major boost.
9. Clemson
Clemson fans have reasons to be optimistic. Cade Klubnik found his groove in 2024, and Dabo Swinney’s newfound embrace of the transfer portal is paying dividends. With defensive talent like T.J. Parker and Peter Woods returning, Clemson should be a force in 2025.
10. SMU
SMU football looks to build on a 11-3 season and ACC dominance in 2024. Despite postseason losses, their explosive offense remains a strength. With Rhett Lashlee leading, SMU will aim for another College Football berth.
From Austin to Eugene to Columbia, 2025 looks set to deliver yet another thrilling college football season. For South Carolina fans, the buzz is real: the Gamecocks have a shot to mix it up at the top.
The offseason may be long, but one thing is certain—when football returns, the garnet and black will be ready to battle. Go Gamecocks!