College Football Week Two Watchlist: Who’s Built to Rise, Who’s Bound to Fall
Week One delivered everything fans asked for, including unexpected upsets, breakout performances, and early playoff implications. With Week Two up next, teams now have the chance to keep the momentum going or risk falling into early-season turmoil. After everything settles from an eventful opening weekend, the focus shifts to teams positioned to rise in the rankings or fall under pressure. These are the top risers and fallers heading into Week Two of the 2025 College football season.
Built to Rise
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes made a powerful statement in Week One by defeating the preseason number one-ranked Texas Longhorns 14-7. The Buckeyes’ defense led the charge with four fourth-down stops and an interception. While freshman QB Julian Sayin completed 13 of his 20 pass attempts and threw for one touchdown. With Grambling State and Ohio up next for the Buckeyes, Sayin and the offense can continue to build confidence while the defense continues to thrive.
LSU Tigers
LSU opened its season with a close 17-10 win over Clemson. In a tight defensive battle, the Tigers showed their toughness and resilience. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier thrived, completing 28-of-38 passing attempts and throwing for a touchdown. The Tigers' defense dominated, forcing two turnovers and limiting Clemson to 31 rush yards on 20 carries. With a wide-open SEC, LSU looks like it can rise to the top and continue to improve. LSU looks to a home matchup with Florida Sept. 13th, where a win could prove them to be a true contender.
Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes attracted attention in Week One with a 27-24 win over number six-ranked Notre Dame. In the upset win, transfer QB Carson Beck tallied 205 passing yards and two touchdowns. Miami’s defense caused two turnovers and had three sacks in the thrilling victory. Miami looks to build more momentum and dominate their next matchup with Bethune-Cookman, and continue to prove why they are an ACC contender.
Bound to Fall
Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama’s 31-17 loss to unranked Florida State in Week One wasn’t just an upset but also a wake-up call. The Crimson Tide faced a major blow to their College Football Playoffs hopes. It also does not help that star wide receiver Ryan Williams is “day to day” after leaving Saturday’s game. After an ugly start and Williams navigating concussion protocol questions, doubts rise about whether this Alabama team can bounce back.
Texas Longhorns
The preseason number one Longhorns fell 14-7 at Ohio State, struggling to find the back of the endzone and completing only one of five fourth down attempts. Arch Manning was smothered by the Buckeyes and finished with only 170 passing yards and one turnover. The subpar performance leaves fans questioning the Longhorns' ability to compete with the best this season. This is going to be a long season ahead for the Longhorns. Fans will have to see if Texas can bounce back and keep its playoff hopes alive.
North Carolina Tar Heels
Bill Belichick's highly anticipated College coaching debut quickly turned into a disaster as UNC was blown out by TCU, 48-14. The Tar Heels gave up two defensive touchdowns and 542 total yards of offense, revealing major issues on both sides of the ball. With a rebuilt roster and a nightmare start, Belichick's team needs some time to rebound. Luckily, they play Charlotte in Week Two this Saturday.
