Norman, Oklahoma, October 7, 2025
The latest AP Top 25 College Football Poll introduced significant shifts among Oklahoma teams. The Oklahoma Sooners climbed to No. 12 following a decisive win over Kent State, while the Texas Longhorns fell out entirely after losing to Arkansas. In contrast, the Oklahoma State Cowboys remained unranked, facing their third consecutive loss against Kansas State. These changes highlight a tumultuous week in the Big 12 Conference, setting the stage for a highly anticipated Red River Rivalry matchup.
AP Top 25 College Football Poll Shakes Up Oklahoma Teams’ Rankings
Norman, Oklahoma – The latest AP Top 25 College Football Poll, released on Sunday, brought major changes for teams connected to Oklahoma, highlighting a turbulent week in the Big 12 Conference. The Oklahoma Sooners surged to No. 12 with a convincing 38-14 victory over Kent State, while their longtime rival, the Texas Longhorns, fell completely out of the rankings after an unexpected loss to unranked Arkansas. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State Cowboys stayed unranked, marking their third straight defeat in a 45-24 setback against Kansas State.
Oklahoma Sooners Climb Amid Conference Volatility
The Sooners’ climb to No. 12 rewards their resilience after earlier stumbles in the season. Their recent win against Kent State showcased a strong offensive performance and solid defense, adding much-needed momentum. This positions Oklahoma just outside the top 10, with eyes now on a pivotal matchup in the Red River Rivalry against Texas. Analysts suggest the Sooners could leverage Texas’s downturn to push higher in the rankings and strengthen their case for the expanded College Football Playoff.
In the broader Big 12 landscape, other teams maintained their spots. Utah Utes held firm at No. 8, continuing their consistent play, and Kansas Jayhawks stayed at No. 16 despite the conference’s ups and downs. These rankings underscore a season of unpredictability in the Big 12, where close games and surprise results have kept the standings fluid.
Texas Longhorns’ Shocking Exit from Top 25
The Texas Longhorns’ drop from the poll stems from their second loss in three weeks, this time a stunning upset by Arkansas. Previously a contender, Texas now faces an uphill battle to regain national attention. The loss not only ended their top-25 streak but also opened the door for rivals like Oklahoma to gain ground in the competitive Southwest region.
Oklahoma State’s Ongoing Struggles Keep Them Unranked
For Oklahoma State, the 45-24 loss to Kansas State extended their skid, leaving them outside the rankings for another week. The Cowboys’ challenges have mounted this season, with defensive lapses and inconsistent play contributing to their slide. As the Big 12 season progresses, Oklahoma State will need significant improvements to re-enter the national conversation.
Background on the Poll and Big 12 Dynamics
The AP Top 25 Poll, voted on by a panel of media members, reflects weekly performances across college football. This edition captures a snapshot of the sport’s volatility, particularly in the Big 12, where six teams entered the week ranked but only a few held steady. Oklahoma’s rise to No. 12 improves their conference standing and playoff prospects, especially with the Red River Rivalry looming on the horizon.
The rivalry game, set at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, has long been a highlight of the college football calendar. It draws massive crowds and national interest, often influencing season trajectories. For the Sooners, a win could propel them into the top 10, while Texas aims to rebound from their recent woes. The matchup embodies the intense competition within the Big 12, where every game carries weight for rankings and postseason hopes.
Looking ahead, the poll’s movements signal a wide-open race in the conference. Teams like Utah and Kansas provide stability at the top, but upsets like Arkansas over Texas show that any ranked squad can falter. Oklahoma State’s unranked status adds pressure to turn things around quickly, as the regular season moves into its critical phase. The expanded playoff format, now including 12 teams, means more opportunities for at-large bids, but climbing the rankings remains essential for the best seeding.
College football fans in Oklahoma and beyond are watching closely as these developments unfold. The Sooners’ ascent offers optimism, contrasting sharply with the Cowboys’ difficulties. As the season continues, the Big 12’s storylines promise to evolve, with rankings serving as a key barometer of success.
FAQ
What is the current ranking of the Oklahoma Sooners in the AP Top 25 College Football Poll?
The Oklahoma Sooners climbed to No. 12 after a gritty 38-14 win over Kent State.
Why did the Texas Longhorns drop out of the AP Top 25 College Football Poll?
The Texas Longhorns tumbled out of the top 25 following a shocking upset by unranked Arkansas, marking their second defeat in three weeks.
What is Oklahoma State’s status in the latest AP Top 25 Poll?
Oklahoma State remained unranked after extending their skid to three games with a 45-24 loss to Kansas State.
How did other Big 12 teams fare in the poll?
Other Big 12 squads like Utah (No. 8) and Kansas (No. 16) held steady.
What is the significance of the Red River Rivalry for Oklahoma?
The poll reflects a volatile season in the conference, with Oklahoma eyeing a strong showing in the Red River Rivalry to crack the top 10. Analysts predict the Sooners could capitalize on Texas’s slip-up to gain ground in the expanded playoff race.
Big 12 Teams in AP Top 25 Poll
| Team | Ranking | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Utes | No. 8 | Held steady with consistent performance |
| Oklahoma Sooners | No. 12 | Climbed after 38-14 win over Kent State |
| Kansas Jayhawks | No. 16 | Maintained position amid conference volatility |
| Texas Longhorns | Unranked | Dropped after upset loss to Arkansas |
| Oklahoma State Cowboys | Unranked | Extended skid with 45-24 loss to Kansas State |
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