Diving into the Depths of College Football's Worst
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the spotlight often shines on national title contenders and powerhouse programs. However, there's another side to the sport that garners its own unique attention: the teams struggling to find their footing. ESPN's Ryan McGee has once again released his much-anticipated preseason Bottom 10 rankings, highlighting the 'best of the worst' in college football.
McGee's list, published on August 14, isn't about celebrating victories but rather commiserating with the programs facing uphill battles. As he puts it, 'If you want national title contenders, look somewhere else.' This annual ranking serves as a humorous yet insightful look at teams that might not be hoisting trophies but are still part of the sport's diverse landscape.
Unpacking the Struggles of the Bottom Tier
While specific team rankings for 2025 weren't fully detailed in the available content, McGee's approach remains consistent with past years, focusing on programs with poor performance records, challenging schedules, or ongoing rebuilding efforts. Historically, teams like Kent State, which has been mentioned in recent social media posts on X for prolonged losing streaks, often find themselves in these rankings. The sentiment on X also suggests ongoing discussions about perennial underperformers, though no definitive 2025 list was confirmed in those posts.
The Bottom 10 isn't just about numbers; it's about the stories behind the struggles. Whether it's a lack of talent, coaching changes, or tough conference competition, these teams often face systemic challenges. McGee's analysis typically blends humor with empathy, recognizing that even the lowest-ranked teams have passionate fan bases and players giving their all on the field.
For fans of college football, this ranking provides a counterbalance to the hype surrounding top-25 polls like the Coaches Poll or AP rankings, which recently placed teams like Texas and Ohio State at the forefront. Instead, McGee's list reminds everyone that every season has its underdogs, and sometimes, their journeys are just as compelling as those of the champions.
Looking Ahead at Redemption or Further Decline
As the 2025 season unfolds, the teams in McGee's Bottom 10 will have a chance to defy expectations or solidify their place at the bottom. Social media chatter on X indicates a keen interest in which program might wear the 'crown for the worst of the worst,' with polls and discussions already circulating among fans. While some teams may embrace the underdog role, others will be fighting tooth and nail to climb out of the basement.
The impact of being in the Bottom 10 extends beyond mere rankings. It can affect recruiting, fan morale, and even coaching decisions. Yet, as McGee often highlights, there's a certain charm in rooting for a team with nowhere to go but up. For now, college football enthusiasts eagerly await further details on which programs made the infamous list and how they'll fare when the games begin.