The conclusion of the college football season has brought forth a definitive champion and significant statement from the Ohio State Buckeyes, who were ceremoniously named the top team in the final Associated Press Top 25 poll. This year marked a notable resurgence for Ohio State, capturing their first national championship title since the 2014 season. The defeat of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the championship game encapsulated an impressive playoff run that positioned the Buckeyes firmly at the pinnacle of college football.
Ohio State’s success in the College Football Playoff was nothing short of commendable. With an overall record of 14-2, the Buckeyes entered the playoff as a sixth seed and quickly proved their capabilities by convincingly overcoming formidable opponents. They dismantled Tennessee with a 42-17 victory in the semifinals and followed that with a decisive 34-23 triumph over Notre Dame in the finals. This late-season surge allowed them to accumulate significant momentum, ultimately culminating in an undisputed No. 1 ranking, receiving all first-place votes—an endorsement reflective of their overwhelming dominance.
Finishing as the runner-up in the final rankings, Notre Dame (14-2) celebrated its best end-of-season positioning since 1993. Their journey throughout the season showcased resilience and skill, though ultimately it was not enough in the championship showdown against Ohio State. The Fighting Irish’s performance reinforced their status as a powerhouse program, ready to contend for future titles.
The Rise and Fall of Other Contenders
Oregon (13-1) ended the season third after an unexpected early exit from the playoff, having lost to Ohio State in the Rose Bowl quarterfinals. Despite an impressive regular season, the Ducks found themselves unable to translate that success into playoff advancement. They had enjoyed a lengthy run at the top, being ranked No. 1 in the preceding eight polls.
The final rankings also highlighted rising programs like Texas and Penn State, both of which finished in the top five after solid seasons. Texas’s consistent performances have helped them to conclude with a second consecutive top-five ranking, a feat not accomplished since the 2008-09 seasons. Meanwhile, Penn State’s appearance in the upper echelon signified a return to prominence for a program that had been dormant for several years.
Emergent Trends in College Football
The close of this season illustrated a fascinating trend in conference representation within the final poll, particularly for the Big Ten. This year, the Big Ten witnessed three teams—Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon—earning places in the coveted top five, marking a first for the conference. Such representation indicates a growing depth in talent and competitiveness within Big Ten football.
Conversely, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) continued to dominate the polls, boasting seven teams in the final Top 25, which is the highest since 2013. The conference’s ability to consistently maintain a prominent presence in the rankings speaks not only to its depth of talent but also to the overall competitiveness and quality of play across the board.
Notable Rankings and Shifts
In an unexpected turn of events, Alabama tumbled significantly in the rankings, falling from a higher position to No. 17 after an uncharacteristic season under first-year coach Kalen DeBoer. The Crimson Tide’s struggles, including a bowl loss to Michigan, marked their lowest ranking since 1995, raising questions about the team’s future trajectory and prospects.
Mississippi achieved notable recognition by climbing five spots to No. 11 post a convincing victory in the Gator Bowl. By contrast, the final poll did not witness any shake-ups with teams that were ranked as of December 8 failing to fall out of the Top 25.
The 2023 college football season has concluded with Ohio State reclaiming glory, and a compelling narrative around other contenders. Trends in conference performance and the shifting dynamics among programs signal a vibrant future for college football. As teams regroup and prepare for the upcoming season, the competitive landscape promises to evolve, compelling fans and analysts alike to stay tuned to unfolding developments. The resilience of teams across various conferences, coupled with the rise of unexpected contenders, ensures that excitement will remain at the forefront of college football as we look ahead to the next season.
