Colorado’s football program made its first appearance on the AP Top 25 Poll since 2025, earning votes after a nail‑biting 14‑13 victory over Georgia Tech in the season opener, a game that showcased a markedly improved run defense and a more aggressive rushing attack.
Big 12 Shifts and National Movement
Within the Big 12, Texas Tech remains the conference’s highest‑ranked team but slipped from No. 12 to No. 13, while Colorado joins four other league members listed in the poll, reflecting a reshaped hierarchy that also saw BYU drop a spot after a dominant opener.
Nationally, LSU surged from No. 11 to No. 8 following a 51‑10 win over Clemson, Oregon fell from No. 2 to No. 6 after a close battle with Boise State that still attracted 86 votes, and Michigan dropped out of the poll entirely after a controversial victory over Western Michigan; Texas A&M and Washington each slipped two places, while Louisville and Virginia entered the Top 25 for the first time this season, and Arizona and ASU collected 33 and two votes respectively after strong early performances.
Looking ahead, the Buffaloes are heavily favored to sustain their momentum with a Week 2 matchup against Weber State, a game that could further solidify their rise in the rankings.