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SALT LAKE CITY — From Colorado's surprise start to the season to Duke closing out the first week of action with a blowout win over Clemson, college football's return did not disappoint.
The first week of the season always features some overreactions and hyperbole, and there might be some results that blind us to what we expect a team to be this season, but that's what makes this sport so great. Deion Sanders is "keeping all the receipts," but Florida State is making an early case for a potential run at a national championship.
Are you buying stock in either program? Or are you selling like I did on Clemson (probably a bit harshly)?
Welcome to the first official rankings of the season. While I try not to overreact too much to a single game — once again, sorry, Clemson — I attempt to look at where a team is trending (short and long term). So let's kick off the season with some rankings!
Here's the ballot I submitted to the Associated Press that will be counted toward the official consensus poll that will be released later today.
1. Georgia
The two-time reigning national champions opened up the season with a 41-point victory over UT Martin. The schedule is friendly to Georgia and we're not going to know much about this team until later in season, but it's difficult to pick against the Bulldogs until there is a reason not to. There is no reason yet.
2. Michigan
Outside of the players' ridiculous decision to "honor" Jim Harbaugh while he sits out on a self-imposed three-game suspension, the Wolverines remain one of the best teams in the country (on paper). A 27-point win over East Carolina won't tell us much, even if it was short of the Vegas line set (-35) in the Week 1 game.
3. Florida State
The Seminoles made a statement to open up the season. Florida State went toe-to-toe with LSU in the first half, and then took control of the game in the second half as it did whatever it wanted against the Tigers. Quarterback Jordan Travis and wide receiver Keon Coleman form a dangerous tandem who will do some damage to teams this season. Buy the stock now!
4. Alabama
I've been on the record in the past as someone who believes Alabama may be slipping a bit, with other powers starting to emerge. But I'm also not stupid, and I know the Crimson Tide remain one of the best teams year-in and year-out. This year is no different, even as Alabama puts its hopes on Jalen Milroe as the team's quarterback. Week 2 will be a great test to see if Alabama has lost a step or if it remains at the top.
5. Penn State
The Nittany Lions may be one of the best all-around teams in the country. Their defense is elite, and the offense has household names at the skills positions that will get the job done effectively. And the future rests on the shoulders of quarterback Drew Allar, who had a solid opening week against West Virginia, throwing for 325 yards and three touchdowns. Penn State looks like a team that can challenge for a Big Ten title ... and maybe more.
6. Ohio State
The Buckeyes' Week 1 matchup against the Hoosiers wasn't perfect by any means. Ohio State started out slow and lacked a sense of confidence we've seen in year's past as one of the best teams in the Big Ten. Don't get me wrong, Ohio State remains a viable force in the Big Ten and in college football in general, but it needs to work out some kinks before I put them as one of my top five teams. I expect the Buckeyes to be there, but I'm withholding judgement a bit.
7. USC
Not much has changed for the Trojans, which is both good and bad for the west coast power. The offense behind reigning Heisman winner Caleb Williams remains potent and loaded, with points seemingly coming at will. But the defense still doesn't appear as though it's improved from last season. USC is already 2-0 on the season, but the competition hasn't been there (outside from a Week 0 slow start against San Jose State) to get a true read on the team.
8. Washington
Michael Penix Jr. hasn't missed a step and showed everyone why the Huskies project to be a favorite in the Pac-12. Coming into the season, I had my doubts about the defense — they're not fully answered yet — but a 37-point drubbing of a good Boise State team goes a long way to easing my concerns in what this team can do. It's a tougher test in 2023 for Washington, but the program is off to an impressive start. Don't sleep on the Huskies.
9. Tennessee
Joe Milton III can throw the ball out of the stadium effortlessly — it's like a little flick of the wrist for a 70-yard pass. With Milton under center, Tennessee has a valuable asset that can give the team what it needs post Hendon Hooker to challenge again in the SEC. Though Milton has a cannon of an arm, I want to see if he has a little more touch inside 20 yards to help his team take the next step. I like what I see, but can the Vols execute to the same level as last season when Hooker was firing on all cylinders? That remains to be seen.
10. Notre Dame
The opponents haven't been anything to judge Notre Dame by, but between QB Sam Hartman and an immovable offensive line that opens up massive holes for running backs, the Fighting Irish appear destined for a great season. Admittedly, I'm not settled on Notre Dame in the Top 10 just yet, but they've looked good so far in two games. A Week 4 matchup against Ohio State appears like when we'll know what this team can do.
Checking in: Colorado, Duke
Dropping out: Clemson, TCU
In consideration: UCLA, Wyoming, Fresno State, Mississippi State, Pittsburgh, Clemson
If you can't see my full ballot below, click here.
