New Mexico enters AP Top 25 as Ohio State drops nine spots

New Mexico has entered the Associated Press Top 25 poll for the first time this season, ranking at No. 22 following five consecutive victories. The Lobos currently sit three spots behind Boise State, the leading Group of Six team in the race for an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff.

The Lobos' only defeat of the season occurred on Sept. 19, a 14-6 loss at Oklahoma. Since then, the team has won five straight games to secure its current position in the rankings. This marks the first time New Mexico has appeared in the AP Top 25 during the 2026 season.

Ohio State fell nine spots to No. 11 after a 30-18 defeat at USC on Saturday. The Buckeyes are now the highest-ranked team in the poll with two losses. The drop reflects defensive struggles and passing errors that have plagued the team in its final four games under head coach Ryan Day, resulting in four losses.

Quarterback Julian Sayin suffered a season-ending arm injury during the loss to USC. The team now faces a demanding final stretch of the regular season, including games against Oregon, Northwestern, Nebraska, and Michigan. The last of these matchups is scheduled for Nov. 28.

South Carolina has risen to become the highest-ranked team with three losses. The Gamecocks have won three straight games under head coach Shane Beamer after starting their SEC schedule 0-3. The team holds two wins against Top 25 opponents, defeating Florida and Tennessee. South Carolina must win its final two games against Georgia and Clemson to remain in contention for an at-large bid.

Missouri climbed four spots to No. 19 following a 34-10 win at Arkansas in the rain. The victory came after a 28-point loss at Ole Miss earlier in the month. Running back Ahmad Hardy returned to the lineup for the win over Arkansas. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz’s team has one win against a ranked opponent and faces three consecutive games against Top 10 competition starting Saturday against Texas.

Quarterback Austin Simmons has thrown for 1,952 yards, 16 touchdowns, and two interceptions this season. The Tigers’ defense allows the fifth-fewest points in the SEC despite losing edge rusher Damon Wilson II to Miami during the offseason.