| 1. Ohio State (4-0) |  | ||
| 2. Oregon (5-0) |  | ||
| 3. Miami (4-0) |  | ||
| 4. Texas A&M (4-0) |  | ||
| 5. Ole Miss (5-0) |  | ||
| 6. Oklahoma (4-0) |  | ||
| 7. Tennessee (4-1) |  | ||
| 8. Alabama (3-1) |  | ||
| 9. LSU (4-1) |  | ||
| 10. Indiana (5-0) |  | ||
| 11. Georgia (3-1) |  | ||
| 12. Illinois (3-1) |  | ||
| 13. Notre Dame (2-2) |  | ||
| 14. Michigan (3-1) |  | ||
| 15. Texas Tech (4-0) |  | ||
| 16. Georgia Tech (5-0) |  | ||
| 17. Missouri (5-0) |  | ||
| 18. Vanderbilt (5-1) |  | ||
| 19. USC (4-1) |  | ||
| 20. Penn St (3-2) |  | ||
| 21. Auburn (2-2) |  | ||
| 22. Iowa State (5-1) |  | ||
| 23. Florida State (4-2) |  | ||
| 24. Arizona State (4-1) |  | ||
| 25. BYU (5-0) |  |
GTM’s Week 7 Top 25: Momentum, Surprises & What’s Next
As college football’s midseason approaches, Go Trucking Magazine (GTM) released its Top 25 for Week 7, reflecting rising programs, surprises, and shifting expectations. Their rankings spotlight powerhouses, dark horses, and teams to watch as the campaign accelerates. gotruckingmagazine.com
Below is an analysis of last week’s action (Week 6) from ESPN’s scoreboard, how it aligns with GTM’s rankings, and a look ahead at pivotal games in Week 7. ESPN.com ESPN.com
Some other notable placements: Georgia at #11, Notre Dame at #13, Michigan at #14, Texas Tech at #15, and BYU creeping in at #25. These rankings suggest GTM is valuing undefeated records heavily, but also factoring in strength of schedule, margin of victory, and program trajectory.
Week 6 Review: What the Scores Showed
A look at key upsets, confirmations, and performances from Week 6 that could shift perceptions heading into Week 7:
- Ohio State looked dominant in their rout of Minnesota (42–3), asserting themselves as a contender in the Big Ten. ESPN.com
- Miami continued to roll, strengthening their case for inclusion among elite programs.
- Texas A&M also stayed unbeaten, reinforcing their standing in SEC play.
- Meanwhile, power teams like Alabama (3–1) and LSU (4–1) held firm, but must now prove consistency against stronger opponents. GTM slots them at #8 and #9, respectively. gotruckingmagazine.com
- Notre Dame at 2–2 might feel pressure — GTM’s #13 suggests it’s not over, but they’ll need key wins to climb.
- The inclusion of BYU at #25 suggests respect for early season performance, though their margin for error is slim.
Looking deeper into the Week 6 scoreboard, league play is beginning to separate contenders from pretenders, and GTM rewards programs that combine undefeated or near-undefeated records with quality wins and in such cases, like Auburn, quality losses. GTM’s method of rating isn’t sentiment or expectation. For instance, a team like Auburn might have four losses to top 10 teams, all by a total of 24 points or less. Or, an average of less than 6 points each. We don’t believe they should not be ranked, but then have to ask yourself, “Who can they beat?” and rank them accordingly!
Week 7 Preview: Games That Could Reshape the Rankings
Here’s what to watch this coming week (based on ESPN’s Week 7 schedule): ESPN.com
- Ohio State vs. Illinois — A Big Ten clash where the Buckeyes will seek to prove that Ohio State is not just winning, but winning big against strong competition.
- Alabama vs. Missouri — A showdown that could test Alabama’s consistency and give Missouri a chance to climb.
- Oregon and Indiana face off in a clash of undefeated teams — a game that will likely impact the top 3 in GTM’s eyes.
- Notre Dame, at home, faces a test. With their recent mixed results, they’ll need to win convincingly to bolster confidence in their ranking.
- Texas A&M will aim to maintain perfection, possibly against SEC competition that can challenge their ranking.
These matchups are more than just wins and losses — they’re proof points. A strong showing here can propel teams upward or validate GTM’s placement; a stumble can cause precipitous drops.
Observations & Predictions
- GTM seems to weigh unblemished records strongly — teams with fewer or no losses have fewer hurdles to entry into the Top 5 or Top 10.
- But undefeated status isn’t enough — the margin of victory and performance in marquee matchups will matter more in coming weeks.
- For teams like Notre Dame and Michigan, the window to reclaim higher positioning narrows with every game.
- Upset potential abounds — a few surprise losses or dominant wins could reshuffle the rankings significantly.
If I were to bet: Oregon has a strong path ahead, especially if they win a tough matchup in Week 7. Ohio State’s dominance might keep them near the top, but they’ll have to continue delivering big wins. Teams like Missouri and Texas A&M have momentum, but face stiffer competition now. Notre Dame must be flawless in upcoming weeks if they hope to break into the top 10.
Week #7 Preview
Oklahoma vs. Texas (Red River Rivalry)
The storied Red River Rivalry returns this Saturday in Dallas as No. 6 Oklahoma (5-0) takes on Texas (3-2) in what’s shaping up as a high-stakes showdown. The Sooners boast one of the top defenses in the nation, allowing just over 7 points per game — a foundation behind their undefeated start. Meanwhile, Texas is riding momentum in must-win mode. Odds suggest a tight margin — some line makers favor Texas by 3.5 points. Oklahoma’s tight ends, including TE Jaran Kanak, are expected to play a pivotal role in stretching Texas’ secondary. Against this backdrop, Texas must crack Oklahoma’s defense early and keep pressure through the second half. If the Longhorns’ offense can avoid turnovers and control tempo, they could shock the top-ranked Sooners. Otherwise, Oklahoma’s consistency may carry them through the rivalry.
Auburn vs. Georgia
In a clash of SEC tradition, Georgia travels to Auburn, seeking to maintain its status among the top. According to betting odds, Georgia enters as a 3.5-point favorite, indicating confidence in their defense and depth. [turn0search6] Auburn, meanwhile, will need to upset expectations at home, drawing strength from crowd energy and potential Georgia miscues. The Bulldogs’ offensive balance — running and passing threats — could force Auburn to defend everywhere. If Auburn’s ground game can control the clock and wear down Georgia’s front, they might stay competitive. But Georgia’s discipline and talent advantage give them the edge, especially late in close situations.
Michigan vs. USC
This cross-country showdown pits Michigan (4-1) against USC (4-1) in a high-profile battle inside the Coliseum. Odds favor USC by 2.5 points, pointing to a lean toward the home side. Michigan will rely on defensive strength and a methodical offense that minimizes mistakes. USC, playing in front of its home crowd, will seek big plays to swing momentum early. Special teams and turnovers could prove decisive — each team must avoid costly errors. If Michigan can slow USC’s pace and build manageable leads, they may steal a road win. But the Trojans’ explosiveness and home advantage make them dangerous until the final whistle.
Indiana vs. Oregon
One of the marquee non-conference games of the week: No. 7 Indiana (5-0) meets No. 3 Oregon (5-0) in Eugene. ESPN analytics view this as a key Playoff-level matchup. Oregon is favored by about 7.5 points, reflecting confidence in their offense and home comfort. Indiana enters with a strong run game and disciplined defense, hoping to challenge Oregon’s passing efficiency. If Indiana can sustain drives and avoid turnovers, they’ll keep the Ducks under pressure. However, Oregon’s firepower and familiarity at home make them tough to beat. Expect a fast, high-tempo game where both teams test each other’s adaptability. A close Indiana showing would enhance their national standing; a win would shake up the Top 5.
Ohio State vs. Illinois
No. 1 Ohio State (5-0) continues Big Ten play on the road against No. 17 Illinois (5-1). The Buckeyes open as 15.5-point favorites, reflecting their dominance on both sides of the ball. Illinois, however, poses challenges — their quarterback Luke Altmeyer has been efficient, and the offense is capable of scoring in bursts. To win, Illinois must disrupt Ohio State’s rhythm and force turnovers. Ohio State, by contrast, will aim to press early and lean on their defense. The Buckeyes need control — if this becomes a shootout, anything can happen. But barring miscues, Ohio State’s consistency and balance should carry them to expected victory.
Alabama vs. Missouri
The No. 8 Crimson Tide (4-1) travels to face No. 14 Missouri (5-0) in a senior rivalry clash. Alabama enters with momentum after wins over tough opponents; Missouri, undefeated, will try to use home-field energy to shock the Crimson Tide. Odds lean slightly toward Alabama. Missouri’s run game must dominate the line of scrimmage if they hope to slow Alabama’s offense. Alabama will look to test Missouri’s defense early, aiming to force mismatches. If Missouri can stay disciplined, force turnovers, and keep the score close late, they have a path. But Alabama’s experience, deeper roster, and ability to execute under pressure give them a narrow edge.