College Football Rankings: Post-spring Top 25 projections for 2020

Texas figures to have another solid offense with a senior Sam Ehlinger having a world of experience, but even in the Big 12, the Longhorns defense is worrisome. They finished 125th in the nation and ninth in the Big 12 against the pass last season (292.5 yards per game). In a league that continues to improve, especially in the passing game, that’s simply not going to cut it. If the secondary improves, it could be a big year in Austin. If not, Tom Herman may be a goner.

Wisconsin wins its games in the trenches. They finished fifth in the nation at stopping the run last season and 15th at running the ball. They won’t have Jonathan Taylor next season, but the Badgers always find to seem the next man up. Expect another solid season from Paul Chryst’s program in 2020.

Oklahoma State‘s offense of Chuba Hubbard, Tylan Wallace and Spencer Sanders is downright ridiculous. Their defense finished middle of the pack last season but among the top in the Big 12. If their offense takes another step forward and their defense is can limit the big play, they can get back to the conference title game and New Year’s Six in 2020.

The Tigers have a winner at quarterback in Bo Nix. As a sophomore, he should take a big leap forward but will need help from his offensive line that has some question marks. The Tigers also have to find a reliable running back and find a trench monster on defense to step up and replace Derrick Brown. While there are some questions, Auburn’s roster is still one of the deepest in the nation.

After reaching the College Football Playoff in 2018, Notre Dame took a small step back last season, going 11-2. With Ian Book back at quarterback, the Irish are in good hands-on offense. If their defense can stop the run at an improved rate, look for them to push back into the playoff picture.