Oklahoma Soars in Rankings, Oklahoma State Plummets After Week 4
College football never really sits still, does it? Week 4 of the 2025 season just flipped a few scripts and gave us plenty to chew on.
Most of the top teams either took a breather or faced off against weaker squads. That left the stage wide open for programs like Texas Tech and Indiana to steal the show.
Let’s break down the newest rankings, a few eyebrow-raising results, and what might be coming next.
Week 4 Highlights: Texas Tech and Indiana Make Their Mark
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Saturday felt like a turning point for a handful of teams hoping to make some noise this season. Texas Tech and Indiana, in particular, grabbed headlines with statement wins that rocketed them into the top 15 of this week’s Athletic 136.
The Red Raiders pummeled Utah, 34-10. Indiana, meanwhile, ran roughshod over Illinois, dropping 63 points in a wild blowout.
Texas Tech’s Ascendancy
Texas Tech looked tough and smart in that win over Utah. The Red Raiders have poured resources into their program, and you can see it paying off on the field.
They’re climbing the rankings fast, and honestly, they might be a real problem for the rest of the Big 12 this year.
Indiana’s Resurgence
Indiana didn’t just beat Illinois—they dismantled them. Their offense clicked, and the defense barely gave up an inch.
People wondered if the Hoosiers were for real. This week, they answered loud and clear.
Top 10 Movements: Oklahoma Climbs to No. 3
Oklahoma made a jump to No. 3 after handling Auburn with ease. That’s two big wins now, counting their earlier victory over Michigan.
They’ve got a breather coming up against Kent State, then it’s the big one: Texas. Mark your calendars.
LSU’s Slippage
LSU took care of business against an FCS opponent, but their spot in the rankings slipped anyway. Their earlier wins against Clemson and Florida don’t look as shiny now that both teams are struggling at 1-3.
This whole situation just shows how much strength of schedule can mess with the rankings.
Ohio State and Miami: The Battle for No. 1
Ohio State still sits atop the pile, thanks to a win over a top-10 team. Miami’s right behind them, nipping at their heels.
The Hurricanes’ latest performance against Florida didn’t exactly wow anyone, but you can’t count them out yet.
Key Matchups on the Horizon
The next few weeks are loaded with games that could shake things up even more. Oregon and Penn State will face off in Happy Valley—neither has really been tested yet, so this one should tell us a lot.
Other Notable Games
- Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma: Texas Tech could prove they really belong in the conversation.
- Indiana vs. Michigan: Another shot for Indiana to show they can hang with the big boys.
- Washington vs. Ohio State: Washington needs this one to get respect, and Ohio State needs it to stay on top.
Teams on the Rise
A few teams made big moves this week. Ole Miss crushed Tulane, 45-10, and Missouri handled South Carolina. Both jumped up the rankings.
TCU and Michigan also saw bumps after wins over SMU and Nebraska. There’s a lot of movement in the middle of the pack right now.
USC’s Return to the Top 25
USC’s back in the top 25 after a comfortable win over Michigan State. That’s their first real highlight of the season.
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The Trojans could be a team to watch if they keep this up.
Memphis and BYU: Steady Climbers
Memphis pulled off a comeback win against Arkansas and now sits at No. 31. BYU hasn’t faced anyone tough yet, but they’re hanging around in the rankings because of a backloaded schedule.
Teams Facing Challenges
Not everyone is having a good time. LSU’s drop in the rankings stands out, especially since their early-season wins aren’t aging well.
Clemson fell all the way to No. 46 after losing to Syracuse. The rankings can be brutal.
Cal’s Shocking Defeat
Cal’s 34-0 loss to San Diego State turned heads for all the wrong reasons. That one stings, but they’re still ahead of Minnesota thanks to last week’s head-to-head win.
Oklahoma State’s Struggles
Oklahoma State, under Mike Gundy, has sunk to No. 111 after losing to Tulsa. The Cowboys just can’t get anything going right now, and it shows.
Looking Ahead: What to Watch For
The season’s starting to take shape, but a lot can still change. The fight between Ohio State and Miami for the top spot is heating up.
And let’s see if Texas Tech and Indiana can keep this momentum. Feels like we’re in for a few more surprises.
Potential Breakout Teams
- Texas Tech: If they keep rolling, top 10 isn’t out of the question.
- Indiana: Right now, they look like a dark horse for the playoff race.
- USC: If the Trojans keep stacking wins, they’ll keep climbing.
Key Games to Circle
Several matchups in the next few weeks could seriously shake up the rankings. These games might decide the fate of some teams and, honestly, might even change how we see the whole season.
If you want more details or the latest rankings, check out The New York Times Athletic.