AP Poll Reaction: Next Steps for Every Top 25 MBA Team

Last Updated on November 29, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Thrilling Rivalry Week in College Football Leaves Playoff Race Wide Open

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In a week filled with intense match-ups and nail-biting finishes, the AP Top 25 rankings reflect the excitement of Rivalry Week in college football. With only a few games remaining in the regular season, top teams are battling for a spot in the playoffs. Let’s take a look at the notable mentions and their latest performances.

Heading into Week 13, the Florida State Seminoles were ranked sixth in the nation. After defeating their in-state rival, the Florida Gators, with a final score of 33-17, Florida State has now won nine out of their last ten games. Their impressive comeback has put them in a strong position as they head into the final stretch of the season.

The Alabama Crimson Tide, ranked fifth, delivered an exhilarating performance against the Auburn Tigers. In a closely contested match, Alabama emerged victorious with a crucial 31-28 win. This comeback victory ensures their spot in the top five and keeps their playoff hopes alive.

The Iowa Hawkeyes, ranked sixth, finished the regular season on a high note with a 28-21 win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers. This victory has secured them a spot in the Big Ten championship game, further solidifying their position in the rankings.

The Oregon Ducks, ranked seventh, clinched a place in the Pac-12 championship game after defeating their state rivals, the Oregon State Beavers, with a commanding 38-24 scoreline. The Ducks’ impressive performance has propelled them up the rankings and has them in contention for the playoffs.

Unfortunately, not all teams had a successful week. The Michigan State Spartans, previously ranked fifth, suffered a tough loss to the Penn State Nittany Lions, with a final score of 17-14. This defeat dropped them down the rankings but left them with an opportunity to bounce back in the conference championship game.

The Ohio State Buckeyes, ranked ninth, also faced disappointment as they lost to their arch-rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, 30-24 for the third consecutive year. With this defeat, Ohio State’s hopes of making the playoffs are dashed, but they still hold a top-ten ranking.

Similarly, the Auburn Tigers, ranked tenth, endured heartbreak as they lost to Alabama in a fiercely contested match, 31-28. Despite this defeat, Auburn remains a formidable team in the top ten.

As the regular season comes to a close, all eyes are now on the upcoming conference championship games. The top-ranked teams, such as Georgia, Michigan, Washington, and Florida State, will battle it out for a chance to secure their spots in the playoffs. With plenty of thrilling action and unexpected upsets, the race for the national championship promises to be an exhilarating one.