Units That Are Changing College Football’s Postseason Picture
This past weekend in college football provided a stark reminder that when offenses stall, defenses still prevail. Across multiple games, defensive units delivered game-changing plays, turnovers, third-down stops, and pressure that rattled opposing quarterbacks. The dominance on that side of the ball changed outcomes, reshaped postseason expectations, and reinforced an old truth: defense still wins championships. As fans begin to look ahead to conference title games and bowl matchups, defense is emerging as the defining factor in who gets rewarded.
One of the clearest examples came from teams that leaned heavily on defensive discipline. The Ohio State Buckeyes continued to show why their defense ranks among the best nationally in yards allowed per game. Their defense’s ability to limit big plays and push opponents into making mistakes has been the foundation of their season-long success. With the regular season now complete, teams like Ohio State that have maintained elite defensive numbers are positioned well for postseason success. Observers around the sport are paying attention to defensive efficiency metrics such as stop rate, and these metrics suggest defenses are now more valuable than at almost any point in recent seasons.
Another program making noise on defense is the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Their rush defense stood out this year by limiting ground gains and disrupting opposing offensive lines. In games this past weekend, their front seven and secondary combined to force turnovers and make several third-down stops that turned the momentum. That kind of defensive toughness on the line of scrimmage and in the backfield could prove decisive in their championship game scenario. If Texas Tech carries this defensive form into December, they might not just compete; they could dominate.
Looking forward, defense may be the deciding factor in many of the upcoming high-stakes games. As offenses around college football become more predictable in bowl season play, teams with disciplined, opportunistic defenses will likely have an edge. The defensive surge of 2025 might not just be a trend; it could become the blueprint for postseason success. For teams with championship aspirations, building through the back may prove to be the smartest path forward.
