The preseason AP Top 25 is expected to confirm what the preseason Coaches poll did a week ago. The first blockbuster matchup of the 2025 college football season should pit No. 1 versus No. 2. Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns were the top program in the Coaches poll. The Ohio State Buckeyes were right behind them at No. 2.

Texas gets an early chance to prove it belongs. A showdown with the No. 2 Buckeyes in the season opener on Aug. 30 in Columbus looms large as a potential defining moment in the Longhorns' pursuit of their first national title in two decades.

Five Big 12 teams landed in the top 25, led by defending champion Arizona State (No. 11). Kansas State (No. 20), Iowa State (tied for 21st), BYU (No. 23) and Texas Tech (No. 24) joined the Sun Devils. The Wildcats and Cyclones open the season on Aug. 23 in Dublin, Ireland.