Alabama Crimson Tide fans have reason to feel optimistic as the 2025 college football season approaches. USA TODAY Sports has ranked the team at No. 7 in its preseason list of all 136 FBS programs, placing them one spot higher than in the major top 25 polls released earlier this month.
This boost comes amid high expectations for coach Kalen DeBoer’s second year in Tuscaloosa, following a solid but challenging first season that included a 9-4 record and key wins like a thrilling victory over Georgia.
How USA TODAY Ranks Differ from Polls
USA TODAY Sports analyst Paul Myerberg released the rankings on August 18, 2025, just days before the season kickoff. In this list, Alabama sits at No. 7, ahead of teams like Oregon, which landed higher in other polls.
The AP Top 25, unveiled on August 11, placed Alabama at No. 8, while the US LBM Coaches Poll on August 4 also had them at No. 8. This marks the Crimson Tide’s lowest preseason AP ranking since 2008, yet USA TODAY sees more potential.
Experts point to Alabama’s strong returning roster and recruiting class as factors. The team boasts top talent, including standout players highlighted in various preseason analyses.
Recent projections from ESPN suggest Alabama could make the College Football Playoff, adding to the buzz around their ranking.
Key Factors Boosting Alabama’s Outlook
Alabama’s defense looks solid with returning players who gained experience last season. Offensively, the team has depth that could address past inconsistencies.
Sports Illustrated noted the Tide’s roster as one of the best returning groups, even under a new coaching era. This depth includes key positions that performed well in 2024.
Recruiting success plays a big role too. Alabama holds a top spot in the 2025 class with multiple five-star commits, strengthening future prospects.
Analysts like Joel Klatt from Fox Sports named two Alabama starters among the top 10 players for 2025, signaling high individual talent.
The schedule includes tough matchups, but wins in key games could propel them higher.
Comparing SEC Teams in Preseason Lists
In the SEC, competition remains fierce. USA TODAY ranks Texas at the top, followed by Georgia, with Alabama third among conference teams.
This aligns somewhat with the AP poll, where Texas is No. 1 and Georgia No. 6, but Alabama edges out LSU in some views.
Other SEC squads like Ole Miss and Texas A&M appear lower, reflecting varied expectations.
Here’s a quick comparison of top SEC teams across major preseason rankings:
| Team | USA TODAY Rank | AP Poll Rank | Coaches Poll Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Georgia | 4 | 6 | 4 |
| Alabama | 7 | 8 | 8 |
| LSU | 12 | 9 | 9 |
| Ole Miss | 21 | 22 | Not in top 25 |
This table shows Alabama’s consistent placement, with a slight edge in USA TODAY’s view.
Expert Views and Fan Reactions
Fans and experts are debating if No. 8 is too low for Alabama, given their history. Paul Finebaum called the ranking fair but noted the team’s potential to surprise.
Social media buzz highlights excitement over recruits and returning stars. Posts praise the five-star commits, fueling optimism for a strong start.
Some projections see Alabama as a national title contender, ranking them fourth among teams that could win it all.
Challenges remain, like generating quarterback pressure, but the overall sentiment is positive.
What This Means for the Season Ahead
Alabama opens against Florida State, a game that could set the tone. A win there might validate the higher USA TODAY ranking.
With the expanded playoff, a top ranking increases postseason chances. Analysts project them in the mix, possibly as a host.
The Crimson Tide’s blend of experience and new talent positions them well. Last season’s ups and downs, including a 4-0 start, offer lessons for improvement.
As kickoff nears, this ranking provides motivation. It reminds the team of their pedigree while highlighting areas to prove doubters wrong.
What do you think of Alabama’s preseason spot? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article along to fellow fans for more discussion.
