when are the ncaa football rankings updated

2 min read 27-02-2025

when are the ncaa football rankings updated

The anticipation is palpable. Game day is over, and you're eager to see how your favorite team fared in the latest NCAA football rankings. But when exactly do these crucial rankings get updated? It's not a single, simple answer, as different ranking systems operate on varying schedules. This comprehensive guide will clarify the update schedules for the major NCAA football rankings.

The Major NCAA Football Ranking Systems and Their Update Schedules

Several prominent organizations release weekly NCAA football rankings, each with its unique methodology and update frequency. Understanding these differences is key to staying informed.

1. College Football Playoff (CFP) Rankings

Update Schedule: The CFP rankings are released weekly, typically on Tuesday evenings throughout the regular season. These rankings are arguably the most important, directly impacting the selection of teams for the College Football Playoff semifinals.
Importance: The CFP rankings determine which four teams compete for the national championship. They are the definitive rankings for the playoff.
Where to Find Them: The official CFP rankings are released on ESPN and the official CFP website.

2. Associated Press (AP) Poll

Update Schedule: The AP Poll is also released weekly, typically on Sundays. This poll is based on a vote by sportswriters and broadcasters across the nation.
Importance: The AP Poll is one of the oldest and most respected polls in college football, offering a broader perspective on team performance than the CFP rankings.
Where to Find Them: The AP Poll is published on ESPN and various sports news websites.

3. Coaches Poll

Update Schedule: Similar to the AP Poll, the Coaches Poll is updated weekly, generally on Sundays. This poll involves coaches from across the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) voting on their rankings.
Importance: The Coaches Poll provides another valuable perspective on team strength, complementing the AP Poll and offering a slightly different view compared to the media's perspective.
Where to Find Them: The Coaches Poll is released on ESPN and other sports news outlets.

4. Other Rankings

Several other ranking systems exist, including various computer rankings and smaller publications' polls. These often update on a weekly basis, but their schedules can vary. It's best to check the specific website of the ranking system you are interested in to find the exact update schedule.

Factors Affecting Ranking Updates

The specific timing of ranking updates can sometimes be affected by unforeseen circumstances. For example, if there are significant upsets or unexpected results on a particular weekend, the rankings release might see a slight delay. However, this is relatively uncommon.

Staying Up-to-Date on NCAA Football Rankings

To stay informed about the latest NCAA football rankings, consider these strategies:

Subscribe to sports news alerts: Many sports websites and apps offer push notifications for ranking updates.
Follow official ranking accounts: Follow the official Twitter or social media accounts of the CFP, AP Poll, and Coaches Poll for immediate announcements.
Check reputable sports news websites: ESPN, CBS Sports, and other major sports outlets provide comprehensive coverage of college football rankings.

By understanding the update schedules and utilizing the resources mentioned above, you can ensure you're always in the know about the latest movements in the NCAA football rankings. Remember to check the specific sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.