AP Top 25 Forecast After Chaotic Week 7 in College Football
Five of the top seven teams lost in Week 7, and the No. 1 team fell for a second consecutive week. The projected AP Top 25 has Miami at No. 1, Ohio State at No. 2, and BYU moving into the top five. The article outlines how the rankings could shift after an unusually disruptive weekend.
Week 7 produced unprecedented upheaval: five teams ranked in the top seven lost, and the No. 1 squad was beaten for a second straight weekend. The projected AP Top 25 reflects that disorder, placing Miami first, Ohio State second, and BYU in the top five.
Miami survived Florida State 43–35 in double overtime behind Malachi Toney’s 11 catches, 154 yards and two scores, plus Javian Mallory’s 108 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Ohio State edged Indiana 19–15 despite Julian Sayin’s injury, while BYU topped Notre Dame 28–24 as Bear Bachmeier accounted for three touchdowns.
This chaotic weekend may shift national attention toward Miami, Ohio State, and BYU, affecting fans, athletes, and universities through changed playoff expectations and media coverage. Injuries, such as Ohio State’s quarterback situation, could alter team trajectories and fan hopes. For schools and conferences, a surprise top-five entry may boost visibility and recruiting interest, while unexpected losses could dampen momentum. The broader impact remains uncertain, but rankings can shape how casual viewers and communities engage with college football in the coming weeks.