The 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With 14 teams in the mix, each faces unique challenges and questions that must be answered to secure the national championship. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors for each contender:

Penn State Nittany Lions (+650)

• If Drew Allar can elevate his game: Allar showed improvement in 2024, but Penn State needs him to reach elite levels to compete for the title.
• If the new receivers can step up: With key departures, the Nittany Lions’ receiving corps must prove they can handle the pressure.

Alabama Crimson Tide (+1100)

• If Ty Simpson can deliver: Alabama’s success hinges on Simpson’s ability to lead the offense effectively.
• If the pass rush improves: The Tide’s defense needs to generate more pressure to support their strong secondary.

Ohio State Buckeyes (+550)

• If the new coordinators can perform: With new offensive and defensive coordinators, Ohio State’s coaching staff must prove their worth.
• If the rebuilt lines hold up: The Buckeyes’ success depends on their ability to replace key players on both the offensive and defensive lines.

Texas Longhorns (+550)

• If Arch Manning lives up to the hype: Manning’s performance will be critical for Texas’ title hopes.
• If the young receivers develop: The Longhorns need their young receiving corps to step up and support Manning.

Georgia Bulldogs (+800)

• If Gunner Stockton can lead: Stockton’s ability to take over the starting role will be crucial for Georgia.
• If the veteran receivers improve: The Bulldogs need their experienced receivers to make more big plays.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (+1100)

• If CJ Carr is ready: Carr’s development will be key for Notre Dame’s offense.
• If the new receiving corps can deliver: The Irish need their new receivers to replace the production lost from last season.

Texas A&M Aggies (+4000)

• If the passing game improves: The Aggies need more explosiveness in their passing game to compete.
• If the pass rush steps up: Texas A&M’s defense must generate more pressure to support their strong secondary.

Clemson Tigers (+900)

• If the run defense improves: Clemson’s defense must stop the run more effectively.
• If the pass rush returns to form: The Tigers need their pass rush to be more impactful.

Oregon Ducks (+1100)

• If Dante Moore can lead: Moore’s ability to take over the starting role will be crucial for Oregon.
• If the rebuilt lines hold up: The Ducks’ success depends on their ability to replace key players on both lines.

LSU Tigers (+1800)

• If new star receivers emerge: LSU needs their young receivers to step up and replace key departures.
• If the rebuilt lines hold up: The Tigers’ success depends on their ability to replace key players on both lines.

Michigan Wolverines (+3000)

• If the quarterback situation stabilizes: Michigan needs consistent quarterback play to compete.
• If the rebuilt skill corps delivers: The Wolverines need their young skill players to step up.

Florida Gators (+4000)

• If DJ Lagway can lead: Lagway’s development will be critical for Florida’s success.
• If the young defenders mature: The Gators need their young defenders to take the next step.

Miami Hurricanes (+4000)

• If Carson Beck can lead: Beck’s ability to take over the starting role will be crucial for Miami.
• If the new receivers step up: The Hurricanes need their young receivers to replace key departures.

Ole Miss Rebels (+4000)

• If Austin Simmons can lead: Simmons’ development will be key for Ole Miss’ offense.
• If the rebuilt lines hold up: The Rebels’ success depends on their ability to replace key players on both lines.

In a season filled with uncertainty, these 14 teams have the talent and potential to compete for the 2025 CFP crown. However, each must address critical questions and challenges to emerge as the national champion.