Though expectations are typically high at most college football programs at this juncture, even the most optimistic outlook includes potential pitfalls.
That holds true even for the 25 squads highlighted in our post-spring rankings of top contenders. Despite seemingly deep rosters, every team faces uncertainties or possible vulnerabilities.
Our college football analysts delve into the primary concerns for each of the leading teams, pinpointing potential weaknesses that could hinder their seasonal aspirations.
Area of concern: Wide receiver
The Nittany Lions sought to bolster their wide receiver corps via the transfer portal, adding Syracuse’s Trebor Pena, among others. However, questions remain until their on-field performance improves. Over the past three seasons, only one Penn State wide receiver has ranked among the Big Ten’s top 10 in receiving yards (Tyler Warren played tight end). With both Warren and leading receiver Harrison Wallace III now departed, Penn State needs its transfer acquisitions — Pena, a second-team All-ACC honoree in 2024, along with Devonte Ross (Troy) and Kyron Hudson (USC) — to furnish quarterback Drew Allar with sufficient reliable targets this fall. Although Allar’s struggles in major contests are also a concern, he has lacked a consistently strong receiving group throughout his Penn State tenure. — Adam Rittenberg
Area of concern: Running back
Since the spring, the running back position has been a frequent topic of discussion at Clemson, largely because the team is losing significant production with Phil Mafah’s departure for the NFL. However, the Tigers possess considerable depth at this position, which should alleviate concerns as they head into fall camp. Historically, Clemson has excelled in the running game, even when other offensive areas have faltered. (Clemson has seen a 1,000-yard rusher in 11 of the past 16 years, excluding 2023 when Mafah and Will Shipley nearly evenly split carries, amassing over 1,700 yards collectively.) True freshman Gideon Davidson could potentially emerge as a standout performer, given Clemson’s past success with true freshman running backs under Dabo Swinney’s leadership. Additionally, receiver Adam Randall is practicing at running back to enhance depth in a unit that also includes Keith Adams Jr. and David Eziomume. Jay Haynes is still recovering from a knee injury. — Andrea Adelson
Area of concern: Offensive line
The Longhorns lost four offensive line starters to the NFL draft and are introducing a new quarterback, although Arch Manning started twice last season. They also face the challenge of integrating several new receivers due to the departures of Matthew Golden, Isaiah Bond, and tight end Gunnar Helm. While they lost tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., projected as the No. 9 draft pick in 2025, Trevor Goosby gained valuable playing time at that position last year when Banks was injured. With the loss of 56-game starter Jake Majors at center, and an opening game against Ohio State in Week 1, the Longhorns’ almost entirely new offensive line group faces a steep learning curve. — Dave Wilson
Area of concern: Pass rush
The Bulldogs lost six experienced players from their defensive front seven, with the departures of edge rushers Jalon Walker, Mykel Williams, and Chaz Chambliss being particularly significant. Walker and Williams were both first-round picks in the NFL draft, while Chambliss provided valuable contributions over four seasons. Together, they accounted for 18 sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss in 2024. Adding to the challenge, Damon Wilson, a projected replacement on the edge, transferred to Missouri. Georgia is optimistic about Gabe Harris Jr. and has added Army transfer Elo Modozie, who recorded 6.5 sacks for the Black Knights last season. — Mark Schlabach
Area of concern: Quarterback
Last season, quarterback Will Howard fulfilled the Buckeyes’ expectations during his year at Ohio State. He performed exceptionally well in the College Football Playoff, achieving a QBR of 97.2 over four games during the Buckeyes’ championship pursuit. With Howard now in the NFL, the Buckeyes will choose between former five-star freshman Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz as their quarterback this season, the decision to be made during training camp. The presence of outstanding wideout Jeremiah Smith will benefit the eventual starting quarterback. However, even with Smith and All-American safety Caleb Downs anchoring both sides of the ball, it’s challenging to imagine the Buckeyes contending again unless their quarterback play reaches a high level, similar to last season. — Jake Trotter
Area of concern: Offensive line
Although LSU’s offseason moves may mitigate concerns about the offensive line, its performance remains a key area to monitor due to the significant losses. Last season, the Tigers boasted one of college football’s premier tackle duos in Will Campbell and Emery Jones, both of whom were selected in the NFL draft’s first and third rounds, respectively. In total, they lost four starting linemen. DJ Chester and Tyree Adams are returning but in different roles, while Brian Kelly has added Braelin Moore from Virginia Tech. — Harry Lyles Jr.
Area of concern: Tight end
Since 2011, Notre Dame has produced an impressive 10 NFL draft selections at tight end, including last season’s leading receiver, Mitchell Evans, who recorded 43 catches for 421 yards and three touchdowns. While the Irish believe they have enhanced their wide receiver group with the additions of Virginia transfer Malachi Fields and Wisconsin’s Will Pauling, the tight end position remains somewhat uncertain as they enter preseason camp. Senior Eli Raridon possesses the size (6-foot-7) and pass-catching ability to excel, but his early college career has been hampered by injuries, including an ACL tear as a freshman. In 2024, he had 11 receptions for 90 yards and two touchdowns. The status of another tight end, Cooper Flanagan, who tore his left Achilles tendon in the Sugar Bowl, is also uncertain. — Mark Schlabach
Area of concern: Defensive line
While it’s premature to definitively label it as a concern, Oregon’s defensive line does present some uncertainties due to the losses of Derrick Harmon and Jordan Burch from last year’s team (as well as Jamaree Caldwell). Defensive end is a position of strength with Matayo Uiagalelei holding down the edge, but the rest of the line will need newcomers to step up, such as USC transfer Bear Alexander and rising lineman Aydin Breland, who could be poised for a breakout season. A’mauri Washington, one of the few returning players, is also likely to be a key component of the revamped line. — Paolo Uggetti
Area of concern: Pass rush
Alabama finished 13th in the SEC in quarterback sacks last season, and while sack numbers are not the only measure of pass-rushing effectiveness, the Crimson Tide need to generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The roster lacks a pure edge pass rusher in the mold of Will Anderson Jr. or Dallas Turner, meaning Alabama will need to rely on increased pressure from its interior linemen and potentially a breakout season from redshirt sophomore outside linebacker Qua Russaw. — Chris Low
Area of concern: Quarterback
At the end of last season, quarterback seemed to be a clear strength for BYU, with Jake Retzlaff expected to return. However, with Retzlaff likely to transfer as of late June, the Cougars are left without an established starter. McCae Hillstead demonstrated potential at Utah State in 2023, Treyson Bourguet started eight games over two years for Western Michigan, and true freshman Bear Bachmeier was a highly-rated recruit who briefly enrolled at Stanford earlier this offseason before transferring to Provo. It is anticipated that all three will compete for the starting job in fall camp, with no clear front-runner. — Kyle Bonagura
Area of concern: Offensive explosiveness
The Illini offense was generally effective and efficient in 2024, but it lacked explosiveness, ranking in the middle of the pack nationally in plays of 10 yards or more and plays of 20 yards or more. Despite the return of quarterback Luke Altmyer and a veteran offensive line, Illinois needs to replace its top two receivers, Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin, who are pursuing NFL careers, as well as leading rusher Josh McCray, who transferred to Georgia. Offensive coordinator Barry Lunney believes that Collin Dixon, who averaged 14.7 yards per catch with limited playing time last fall, and incoming freshman Brayden Trimble can provide a spark to the offense. “Overall, we’re going to have a little bit more vertical speed in what we’re doing to stretch the defense than what we did,” Lunney stated. “That’s not a slight on Zakhari or Pat at all. Those were just kind of bigger, stronger guys.” — Rittenberg
Area of concern: Pass rush
ASU’s late-season improvement, transforming them from a decent team into one that nearly reached the CFP semifinals, was primarily due to players who are returning in 2025. While the loss of star running back Cam Skattebo is significant, the Sun Devils have a substantial amount of overall returning production. However, their pass rush remains a question mark. Last season, ASU ranked just 110th in sacks per dropback, and while both of their sacks leaders (Clayton Smith and Elijah O’Neal) are returning, they combined for only 8.5 sacks. Kenny Dillingham apparently believes he has internal solutions, as he did not add any edge rushers in the transfer portal. Although the secondary is solid and experienced, giving quarterbacks too much time can undermine even the most seasoned defense. — Bill Connelly
Area of concern: Defensive front
What was arguably South Carolina’s greatest strength last season could become its biggest concern entering 2025. Gone are key defensive front players such as Kyle Kennard, Bam Martin-Scott, Demetrius Knight, and TJ Sanders, among others. These departures have created numerous holes to fill, which the Gamecocks have largely addressed through the transfer portal. Rising star Dylan Stewart will be the most prominent player, and Bryan Thomas is the only established senior, with transfers Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy, Davonte Miles, and Justin Okoronkwo filling significant voids. However, sophomore Fred “JayR” Johnson, a versatile linebacker with highly praised leadership qualities, is a key player to watch. South Carolina hopes he will develop into the centerpiece of the defense after playing a limited role as a freshman in 2024. — David Hale
Area of concern: Wide receiver
With receivers Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins both heading to the NFL — drafted in consecutive rounds by the Houston Texans — receiver is an obvious area of concern. Noel and Higgins combined for nearly 2,400 receiving yards last season, and replacing that production will require contributions from more than just two players. Nevertheless, the lack of a consistent pass rush last season remains a significant question mark. If the Cyclones cannot improve their conference-worst sack total, it’s challenging to envision them contending for the Big 12 title, particularly given the uncertainty at receiver. — Bonagura
Area of concern: Defensive line
One of the most overlooked factors in SMU’s playoff run last season was the experienced talent on the defensive front. Elijah Roberts, Jared Harrison-Hunte, and Jahfari Harvey, all transfers from Miami, had several years of starting experience in 2024. This year, the team will have significantly less experience. Adding to the departures of Ahmad Walker and Kobe Wilson at linebacker, there is a void to be filled in terms of leadership. SMU does retain safety Isaiah Nwokobia, an All-ACC performer last season, and there is considerable anticipation surrounding East Carolina transfer Zakye Barker at linebacker. However, establishing key leaders — and performers — on the D-line remains a question mark. — Hale
Area of concern: Defense
Will the defensive overhaul be successful? The Red Raiders’ defense can hardly perform worse than it did in 2024, and that’s not an exaggeration. Texas Tech finished 126th in total defense in 2024, and their secondary ranked 132nd in passing yards allowed per game. Shiel Wood is the new defensive coordinator, and numerous players have been added to this side of the ball via the transfer portal. Standout players include Stanford linebacker David Bailey and Georgia Tech end Romello Height, along with five transfer defensive backs. The only direction for this group to go is up. — Lyles Jr.
Area of concern: Defense
Despite the return of talented defensive end Mikail Kamara, the transfer-heavy unit that allowed the fewest rushing yards per game in the Big Ten last season lost key contributors. CJ West and James Carpenter are now in the NFL, and while Indiana actively used the transfer portal to acquire players such as Hosea Wheeler (Western Kentucky), Stephen Daley (Kent State), Dominique Ratcliff (Texas State), and Kellan Wyatt (Maryland), one of the Hoosiers’ strongest position groups last year has much to prove and must live up to expectations in 2025. — Uggetti
Area of concern: Stopping big plays
K-State’s offense was impressively explosive last season, but the defense often surrendered as many big plays as the offense created. The Wildcats frequently blitzed and pressured quarterbacks effectively, but they ranked 110th in Total QBR allowed and 107th in completions of 10 or more yards allowed. This is a concern, especially considering the defense lost leading pass rusher Brendan Mott and four of last year’s five starters in the secondary. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman may need to adjust the risk-reward balance to maximize the defense’s effectiveness and help the Wildcats contend in the highly competitive Big 12. — Connelly
Area of concern: Wide receiver
One reason for the expectation that Florida will improve in 2025 is the talent that quarterback DJ Lagway brings to the team. However, the Gators’ top receivers from last season, Elijhah Badger and Chimere Dike, have both departed for the NFL. Eugene Wilson III is returning, but he is also recovering from season-ending hip surgery. It will be crucial for Vernell Brown III, Dallas Wilson, Naeshaun Montgomery, and J. Michael Sturdivant (UCLA transfer) to establish themselves as reliable targets. — Lyles Jr.
Area of concern: Wide receiver
The Wolverines ranked 129th last season with just 1,678 passing yards. The quarterback situation was a factor, as Michigan rotated through three quarterbacks (Davis Warren, Jack Tuttle, and Alex Orji) in their first season after losing national champion JJ McCarthy. However, Michigan’s receivers collectively did not make enough plays, with no wideout catching more than 27 passes or totaling more than 248 yards. The pressure on Michigan’s receivers will be even greater with tight end Colston Loveland — the Wolverines’ only reliable target last year — now playing for the Chicago Bears. Immediate contributions from transfers Anthony Simpson (UMass) and Donaven McCulley (Indiana), along with internal improvement from players such as Fredrick Moore and Semaj Morgan, will be crucial if Michigan is to challenge opposing defensive backfields in 2025. — Trotter
Area of concern: Linebacker
The Hurricanes continued to strengthen their roster through the transfer portal, especially considering the amount of turnover they experienced from last season. However, if there is one position that still presents some questions, it is linebacker, primarily due to potential depth issues as the season progresses. Miami returns three key veterans in Wesley Bissainthe, Jaylin Alderman, and Popo Aguirre, and has added NC State transfer Kamal Bonner and Rutgers transfer Mo Toure. Miami’s linebackers often appeared slow and out of position last season, but the new scheme under defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman should help. The player to watch is Toure, whom Hetherman coached while at Rutgers. Toure is recovering from a knee injury (his second ACL tear in three years), but his potential fit within this defense, given his previous connection with Hetherman, is significant. — Adelson
Area of concern: Defensive end
For the past three years, Louisville relied on a standout edge rusher in Ashton Gillotte, who accumulated 21.5 sacks from 2022-24. Gillotte is now in the NFL, having been drafted by the Chiefs in the third round, leaving a significant void at defensive end. Louisville has added a couple of transfers — Wesley Bailey from Rutgers and Clev Lubin from Coastal Carolina — hoping to fill that void, but the strength of the D-line will likely be on the interior, where the Cardinals have more established depth. As Louisville works to address issues in defending the pass, finding someone — or ideally several players — who can consistently pressure the quarterback will be a crucial task for the defense in preparation for 2025. — Hale
Area of concern: Wide receiver
As in the previous season, a major question surrounding the Aggies’ potential is the development of their wide receiver room. The Aggies lost Noah Thomas, a bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent position for A&M and new offensive coordinator Collin Klein. Thomas caught 39 passes for 574 yards and eight touchdowns last year before transferring to Georgia. No other player caught more than two touchdowns or surpassed 400 yards on the season as the Aggies navigated a QB transition from Conner Weigman to Marcel Reed. This year, the Aggies are looking to NC State transfer KC Concepcion (71 catches, 839 yards, 10 TDs in 2023, 53-460-6 last year), Mississippi State transfer Mario Craver (17-368-3 as a freshman), as well as returners Ashton Bethel-Roman, 6-2, 220-pound freshman four-star recruit Jerome Myles, and dynamic 2024 five-star recruit Terry Bussey, who played an all-purpose role last year. The performance of this group will significantly impact Reed and the offense. — Wilson
Area of concern: Quarterback
Austin Simmons appears to be a talented player — with the athletic ability to play baseball for Ole Miss as well. However, replacing a quarterback of Jaxson Dart’s caliber, a projected first-round NFL draft pick, inevitably raises concerns. Simmons has shown promise. His performance against Georgia last season, where he led a 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to tie the game while Dart was injured, provides Ole Miss fans with reason for optimism. — Lyles Jr.
Area of concern: Tight end
The Sooners have struggled at tight end, and uncertainty surrounds the position again heading into the 2025 season. While there was ample blame to be shared for Oklahoma’s offensive struggles last season, more consistent performance from the tight ends in both receiving and blocking would significantly benefit an offense with numerous new faces. There is no clear front-runner for the starting tight end position entering preseason camp. Transfers Will Huggins (Kansas and Pittsburg State) and Carson Kent (Kennesaw State) are expected to compete with converted linebacker Jaren Kanak for the role. — Low
Source: https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/45609057/area-concern-top-25-college-football-teams-2025
