The first AP Preseason Poll Top 25 of the 2025 season is out, and Clemson Football will start the year ranked No. 4 in the nation.
Released Monday, the AP poll gave the Tigers four first-place votes and 1,398 total points, their highest preseason ranking since 2022. Clemson is one of only five teams to receive first-place consideration in the opening poll.
Tigers in Elite Company
Texas claimed the No. 1 spot for the first time in program history, narrowly edging Penn State in one of the closest preseason votes in decades. Ohio State came in at No. 3, just ahead of Clemson.
The top five:
- Texas
- Penn State
- Ohio State
- Clemson
- Oregon
Why Clemson Is in the Top Four
The Tigers are coming off a 10-4 season that included a second-place finish in the ACC and a postseason bowl win. The roster returns veteran leadership on both sides of the ball, including an experienced quarterback and a deep defensive front.
National outlets have labeled Clemson one of the most complete rosters in the country heading into 2025, citing experience, depth, and balance as key reasons for their top-four placement.
Season Opener: Clemson vs. LSU
Clemson’s ranking will be tested immediately when No. 9 LSU comes to Memorial Stadium on August 30. The matchup is one of the most anticipated games of Week 1 and could have early playoff implications in the first year of the 12-team College Football Playoff.
A win would solidify Clemson’s position in the national conversation. A loss wouldn’t end their title hopes but would make the path to the postseason more challenging
Kickoff vs. LSU is set for Saturday, August 30 7:30 PM, in Clemson.
