In recent years, the preseason polls in college football have stirred significant emotions among fans. If you’re one of those who finds this frustrating, consider taking a break on Monday, as the much-anticipated preseason AP Poll will be unveiled.
The release of the AP Top-25 is often seen as the heralding of the college football season. However, it has increasingly become a source of discontent for fans who feel their teams are undervalued or overlooked.
This article examines five college football teams from the 21st century that started with modest preseason expectations but achieved remarkable success. These teams turned potential disappointment into unforgettable triumphs.
2025 Indiana Hoosiers (Preseason #20)
Head coach Curt Cignetti of the Indiana Hoosiers hoists the George P. Crumbley Trophy after defeating the Oregon Ducks in the College Football Playoff semifinal.
The Indiana Hoosiers’ 2025 season stands out as a prime example of exceeding preseason expectations. Initially ranked 20th, the Hoosiers not only returned to the Playoffs but also clinched the national title against a challenging schedule.
Coach Curt Cignetti led the Hoosiers beyond predictions despite a roster seen as lacking in star recruits. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza emerged from obscurity to win the Heisman Trophy and become the top NFL Draft pick, proving doubters wrong.
2013 Florida State Seminoles (Preseason #11)
The 2013 Florida State Seminoles might seem less surprising, as they started at 11th place, but their journey was historic. Despite losses of key players to the NFL, head coach Jimbo Fisher rallied a new team to an undefeated season and a national championship.
Quarterback Jameis Winston’s debut was staggering, leading an offensive dominance that crushed opponents. Florida State’s victory underscored its resilience and proved preseason skeptics wrong.
2000 Oklahoma Sooners (Preseason #19)
A general view of an Oklahoma Sooners helmet during a Reese’s Senior Bowl team practice session.
The Oklahoma Sooners’ 2000 season mirrored the Hoosiers’ story. Under second-year head coach Bob Stoops, they rallied from a low preseason rank to win the national championship, including a triumph over a powerful Florida State.
Stoops harnessed a strong defense and explosive offense to deliver a flawless season, surprising critics who undervalued them.
2002 Ohio State Buckeyes (Preseason #13)
In 2002, Ohio State, also led by a second-year head coach, Jim Tressel, was not expected to shine. Yet, their relentless defense and the emergence of freshman Maurice Clarett powered them to a national championship over a star-studded Miami team.
The Buckeyes defied odds as 11.5-point underdogs in a thrilling championship game, etching their season into football history.
2010 Auburn Tigers (Preseason #22)
The Auburn Tigers’ 2010 season exemplifies defying expectations dramatically. Despite skepticism about coach Gene Chizik’s hiring, Auburn, led by quarterback Cam Newton, soared to a perfect 14-0 record and a national title.
Newton’s brilliance overshadowed any limitations, leading a high-scoring offense without any other prominent NFL talent. Auburn’s success was fleeting, with the team faltering after Newton’s departure, highlighting the extraordinary nature of that season.
These examples illustrate that preseason rankings often miss untapped potential. These teams transformed doubt into victory, captivating fans and redefining expectations.