Top 10 Rankings: Week 7
Can Washington sustain its success into a CFP run? Photo: Lindsay Wasson, Associated Press
Michigan, 7-0
The Wolverines thrashed Indiana 52-7 and continue to steamroll through their schedule to this point. Next up is a rivalry game but expect more of the same from the Maize and Blue machine.
Next: @ Michigan State
Washington, 6-0
What a game. Probably the best of the year so far and possibly a preview for a second matchup later in the Pac-12 title game as the Huskies took down Oregon 36-33. Washington earns my #2 spot by owning the combination of eye test and resume building win. They’ll stay in their friendly confines in Seattle this week.
Next: vs. Arizona State
Georgia, 7-0
Another less than inspiring score line from the Bulldogs as they beat Vanderbilt 37-20. Losing Brock Bowers in the process could prove to be vital as their schedule toughens up for the last half. They will get a couple weeks of rest before that, however.
Next: BYE
Oklahoma, 6-0
The Sooners had the week off after their win in Red River. Second half of the schedule starts with what should be another romp.
Next: vs. UCF
Ohio State, 6-0
There was no look ahead game as the Buckeyes took care of Purdue on the road 41-7. Now is where the real season begins and we find out more about this year’s Ohio State team. The game of the week with Penn State awaits.
Next: vs. #6 Penn State
Penn State, 6-0
The Nittany Lions won their scrimmage, er, game against UMass 63-0. Time to get back to some real football. Can James Franklin finally beat a top 10 opponent on the road? If so, it’ll be time to start taking Penn State seriously.
Next: @ #5 Ohio State
Florida State, 6-0
A 41-3 hammering of Syracuse has the Noles on a nice roll as they improve to 6-0. With Duke starting QB Riley Leonard questionable for the matchup, FSU has a good chance to take a 7-0 record into a pretty soft closing stretch.
Next: vs. Duke
Texas, 5-1
I’m not necessarily buying what the Seminoles are selling, but given some of the upcoming matchups, they will slide up as they continue to beat up on inferior ACC opponents. A 39-17 victory over Virginia Tech moved them to 5-0 on the season.
Next: vs. Syracuse
North Carolina, 6-0
The Tar Heels make their first appearance in my top 10 after a 41-31 win over Miami that wasn’t that close to improve to 6-0 on the season. This team is a real threat to Florida State in the ACC. Toughest remaining games are probably a back-to-back stretch of Duke and Clemson in November.
Next: vs. Virginia
Oregon, 5-1
The Ducks were oh, so close to sending the game with Washington into overtime. It begs the question of whether they would have the upper hand on a neutral field. Win out and they’ll probably have the opportunity to prove just that. Their next opponent, Wazzu, was just hammered by Arizona but shouldn’t be overlooked.
Next: vs. Washington State
Alabama, 5-1
The Tide really can’t crack my top 10 again just yet. It was another survival, this time against Arkansas 24-21 as they improved to 6-1. They’ll have their opportunity to move up if they keep winning, regardless of style points. Nick Saban will be looking to avenge last year’s loss in Knoxville this week.
Next: vs. Tennessee
Dropped out: USC
