The latest AP Top 25 college football poll released Sunday features New Mexico at No. 22, marking the program's first appearance in the rankings in its history. The Lobos have won five straight games since a 14-6 loss at Oklahoma on Sept. 19 and sit three spots behind Group of Six leader Boise State.
Ohio State falls to No. 11 after USC loss
Ohio State dropped nine places to No. 11 following a 30-18 defeat at USC, its second loss of the season and fourth in the last 10 games under coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes also lost quarterback Julian Sayin to a season-ending arm injury, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith's Heisman Trophy hopes have diminished. Ohio State's remaining schedule includes games against Oregon, Northwestern, Nebraska, and Michigan.
South Carolina climbs as highest-ranked three-loss team
South Carolina enters the poll as the highest-ranked team with three losses after winning three consecutive games following an 0-3 start in SEC play under coach Shane Beamer. The Gamecocks own top-25 victories over Florida and Tennessee and led then-No. 8 Kentucky by 17 points in September before losing in overtime. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers has powered an offense that has voters viewing South Carolina as a potential at-large College Football Playoff contender.
Missouri moves up to No. 19 after bounce-back win
Missouri rose four spots to No. 19 after a 34-10 victory at Arkansas, rebounding from a 28-point loss at Ole Miss earlier in the month. The Tigers benefited from the return of running back Ahmad Hardy and hold one ranked win over Florida. Missouri faces three consecutive top-10 opponents starting with Texas at home. Quarterback Austin Simmons has thrown for 1,952 yards with 16 touchdowns and two interceptions, while the defense ranks fifth in the SEC in scoring despite the offseason departure of edge rusher Damon Wilson II to Miami.
