Dark Horse Teams to watch in 2025 College Football Season
As the 2025 college football season approaches, several programs are poised to exceed expectations and emerge as dark horse contenders. These teams, often overlooked in preseason rankings, have made significant strides through strategic recruiting, impactful transfers, and strong finishes in the previous season. Here are such teams to watch:
- Texas Tech Red Raiders (Big 12)
2024 Season Recap
Texas Tech concluded the 2024 season with a 9–4 record, showcasing resilience and growth under head coach Joey McGuire. The Red Raiders demonstrated offensive prowess, particularly in their passing game, setting the stage for heightened expectations in 2025.
Transfers and Roster Updates
Texas Tech capitalized on the transfer portal, securing the second-ranked transfer class nationally. Key additions include experienced offensive linemen and skill position players, bolstering both depth and talent across the roster. Quarterback Behren Morton returns for his fourth year, providing stability and leadership on offense. Defensively, the hiring of coordinator Shiel Wood aims to address previous shortcomings and enhance overall performance.
2025 Outlook
With a favorable schedule and a roster infused with talent and experience, Texas Tech is well-positioned to contend for the Big 12 title and a potential College Football Playoff berth. The combination of a seasoned quarterback, reinforced offensive line, and revamped defense makes the Red Raiders a formidable opponent in 2025.
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (ACC)
2024 Season Recap
Under head coach Brent Key, Georgia Tech surpassed expectations in 2024, finishing with a 7–6 record and securing a bowl game appearance. Notable victories, including a win against Miami and a competitive game against Georgia, highlighted the team’s potential .
Transfers and Roster Updates
The Yellow Jackets return key offensive players, including quarterbacks Haynes King and Aaron Philo, and running back Jamal Haynes. The offensive line remains strong with All-ACC guard Keylan Rutledge. Defensively, the team aims to build upon improvements made in 2024, with a focus on consistency and depth.
2025 Outlook
Georgia Tech’s blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent positions them as a dark horse in the ACC. With a manageable schedule and continuity in coaching staff, the Yellow Jackets have the potential to challenge traditional conference powers and vie for a playoff spot.
- Nebraska Cornhuskers (Big Ten)
2024 Season Recap
Nebraska’s 5–7 record in 2024 belied a team that was competitive in most games, with five losses by one score. The Cornhuskers’ defense ranked among the nation’s top 15, keeping them in contention throughout the season .
Transfers and Roster Updates
The addition of five-star freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola brings optimism to Nebraska’s offense, which struggled in 2024. Retaining the majority of their defensive starters ensures continuity and strength on that side of the ball.
2025 Outlook
If the offense can complement the defense’s performance, Nebraska has the potential to flip close losses into wins. With Raiola’s talent and a seasoned defense, the Cornhuskers could emerge as a surprise contender in the Big Ten.
- Memphis Tigers (AAC)
2024 Season Recap
Memphis achieved a 10–3 record in 2024, demonstrating consistency and competitiveness in the American Athletic Conference. Head coach Ryan Silverfield’s leadership has been instrumental in the program’s upward trajectory .
Transfers and Roster Updates
The Tigers secured the No. 2 ranked transfer portal class among non-Power Four schools, adding key players like quarterback Brendon Lewis and running back Rashod Amos. These additions aim to enhance an already potent offense and solidify defensive capabilities.
2025 Outlook
With a strong roster and favorable schedule, Memphis is poised to dominate the AAC and potentially secure a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff. Their blend of experience and new talent makes them a formidable dark horse candidate.
- James Madison Dukes (Sun Belt)
2024 Season Recap
In their second FBS season, James Madison posted a 9–4 record, including a remarkable 70–50 victory over North Carolina. The Dukes have quickly adapted to the higher level of competition, maintaining momentum under new head coach Bob Chesney .
Transfers and Roster Updates
While specific transfer details are limited, James Madison’s continued success suggests effective recruitment and player development. The team’s depth and resilience have been key factors in their rapid ascent.
2025 Outlook
With a challenging non-conference schedule that includes games against Louisville and Liberty, James Madison has opportunities to make a national statement. Success in these matchups, combined with strong conference play, could position the Dukes as a legitimate playoff contender from the Group of Five.
- Auburn Tigers (SEC)
2024 Season Recap
Under head coach Hugh Freeze, Auburn concluded the 2024 season with a 7–5 record, showcasing flashes of potential amidst inconsistency. The Tigers demonstrated resilience, particularly in their rushing attack, setting the stage for heightened expectations in 2025.
Transfers and Roster Updates
Auburn secured a top-10 transfer portal class, headlined by former Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold and former Georgia Tech wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. These additions aim to bolster an offense that showed promise but lacked consistency in 2024. Defensively, the Tigers return several key starters, providing stability and experience on that side of the ball.
2025 Outlook
With a favorable schedule that avoids matchups with several top SEC teams and includes home games against rivals Georgia and Alabama, Auburn is well-positioned to contend in the SEC. The combination of a revamped offense and experienced defense makes the Tigers a formidable opponent in 2025.
- Kansas State Wildcats (Big 12)
2024 Season Recap
Kansas State finished the 2024 season with a 9–4 record, continuing their trend of strong performances under head coach Chris Klieman. The Wildcats showcased a balanced attack and a resilient defense, setting the foundation for a promising 2025 season.
Transfers and Roster Updates
The Wildcats return rising sophomore quarterback Avery Johnson, who accounted for 32 total touchdowns as a freshman. The offensive line and receiving corps remain largely intact, providing continuity and experience. Defensively, Kansas State retains key contributors, ensuring stability on that side of the ball.
2025 Outlook
With a manageable schedule and a roster filled with experience and talent, Kansas State is poised to challenge for the Big 12 title. The combination of a dynamic quarterback and a seasoned defense positions the Wildcats as a dark horse contender for the College Football Playoff.
8.NC State Wolfpack (ACC)
2024 Season Recap
NC State concluded the 2024 season with a 9–4 record, showcasing a strong defensive unit and a developing offense. The Wolfpack demonstrated resilience and competitiveness, setting the foundation for a promising 2025 season.
Transfers and Roster Updates
The Wolfpack secured quarterback Grayson McCall through the transfer portal, a three-time Sun Belt Player of the Year with over 11,000 yards of offense and 108 total touchdowns in his career. Additionally, NC State added tight end Justin Jolly and wide receiver Noah Rogers, enhancing their offensive arsenal. Defensively, while the team lost six starters, the coaching staff is confident in the depth and talent of the returning players.
2025 Outlook
With an experienced quarterback and a bolstered offense, NC State is poised to challenge for the ACC title. The combination of a dynamic offense and a resilient defense positions the Wolfpack as a dark horse contender for the College Football Playoff.
Conclusion
These teams have positioned themselves as potential disruptors in the 2025 college football landscape. Through strategic planning, effective use of the transfer portal, and strong leadership, they each have the tools necessary to challenge for conference titles and make a case for inclusion in the College Football Playoff.