Final College Football Rankings 2018: Complete Breakdown of Every Top 25 Team
As I sit down to analyze the final college football rankings for 2018, I can't help but reflect on how much these rankings feel like the intricate player trades we see in professional leagues. Just last week, I was studying how the 26-year-old Calma was recently acquired by the Beermen in a trade with Northport prior to the start of the PBA Philippine Cup in exchange for rookie guard Avan Nava and a second round pick in the coming Season 50 draft. These kinds of strategic moves in professional sports remind me of how college teams maneuver throughout the season to position themselves for these final rankings. The parallels between professional roster management and college team development are striking, really.
Looking at Clemson's dominant performance this season, I've got to say their number one spot is absolutely deserved. They finished with a perfect 15-0 record, which is just phenomenal when you consider the level of competition in the ACC. What impressed me most was their average margin of victory - nearly 31 points per game. That's not just winning, that's complete domination. Their defense allowed only 13.1 points per game while the offense put up 44.3 points consistently. Having watched every one of their games this season, I can confidently say this might be one of the most complete college football teams I've seen in my twenty years of covering the sport.
Alabama at number two certainly makes sense, though I'll admit I was surprised they didn't put up more of a fight in the championship game. Their 14-1 record is nothing to scoff at, and their offense was absolutely explosive, averaging 47.7 points per game. But here's where I might differ from some analysts - I think their defense showed vulnerabilities throughout the season that many chose to overlook. They gave up 28 points to both Arkansas and Tennessee, teams that finished with losing records. That's not typical Saban defense, and it showed in the championship when they surrendered 44 points to Clemson.
Ohio State at number three feels about right to me, though I know some Buckeye fans will argue they deserved higher. Their 13-1 record included that massive comeback against Penn State, which I consider one of the best games of the season. Their offense averaged 42.4 points, but what really stood out was their rushing attack - 245 yards per game. That kind of ground dominance reminds me of classic Ohio State teams. Personally, I think if their passing game had been more consistent, they might have challenged for the top spot.
Oklahoma at number four brings back memories of that explosive offense led by Kyler Murray. The Heisman winner threw for 4,361 yards and 42 touchdowns while rushing for another 1,001 yards. Those numbers are just video game statistics. Their defense was another story though - allowing 33.3 points per game ultimately cost them in the playoff against Alabama. I've always believed defense wins championships, and Oklahoma's season perfectly illustrates that principle.
Notre Dame at number five completes the playoff teams, and while I respect their 12-1 record, I have to question whether they truly belonged in the playoff conversation. Their schedule featured only two ranked wins, and their loss to Clemson in the Cotton Bowl was decisive. Still, you can't argue with their consistency throughout the regular season. Their defense was particularly impressive, allowing just 17.9 points per game.
As we move through the rest of the Top 25, Florida at number seven really caught my attention. Their 10-3 record in Dan Mullen's first season exceeded most expectations, including mine. I remember predicting they'd go 8-4, so I'll gladly admit I underestimated their turnaround. Their defense was legitimately elite, allowing only 20 points per game in the tough SEC. If they can develop more offensive consistency, I see them challenging Georgia in the East next season.
LSU at number six had that signature win against Georgia that showed their potential, but inconsistency plagued them throughout the season. Their 10-3 record included some head-scratching performances, like scoring only 3 points against Alabama. Still, their defense was typically stout, allowing just 21.8 points per game in the offensive powerhouse that is the SEC.
Texas at number nine marked a significant return to relevance under Tom Herman. Their 10-4 record included that thrilling Sugar Bowl win against Georgia. Sam Ehlinger's development was remarkable to watch - he threw for 3,292 yards and 25 touchdowns while adding another 16 rushing touchdowns. I've been critical of Herman in the past, but he's winning me over with this turnaround.
Washington State at number ten was one of my favorite stories of the season. Mike Leach's team went 11-2 playing that unique air raid offense, with Gardner Minshew becoming a folk hero while throwing for 4,779 yards. Their two losses were by a combined 7 points - they were literally a few plays away from potential playoff consideration.
The middle portion of the rankings from 11-25 features several teams that exceeded expectations. Kentucky at number 12 had their best season in decades, going 10-3 behind that physical running game. Syracuse at number 15 surprised everyone with their 10-3 record and explosive offense. Army at number 19 went 11-2 running that unique triple option, and I have to admit I love watching their brand of football - it's such a refreshing contrast to the spread offenses dominating the sport.
As I reflect on this final Top 25, what strikes me most is the parity we're seeing in college football. Teams like Fresno State at number 18 and Cincinnati at number 24 show that programs outside the traditional power structure are closing the gap. The transfer portal and early signing period have changed roster management dramatically, creating more competitive balance across the sport. While Clemson and Alabama remain at the top, the distance between them and the rest of the pack seems to be shrinking each year. This 2018 season will be remembered not just for Clemson's dominance, but for the emergence of several programs that signaled a shifting landscape in college football.