2025 College Football: Top Teams’ Key Areas of Vulnerability

Ole Miss, Oklahoma Face Key Questions as Fall Camp Looms

OXFORD, MS & NORMAN, OK – As college football programs nationwide prepare for the grind of fall camp, both Ole Miss and Oklahoma are navigating critical position battles and uncertainties that could define their 2025 seasons. ESPN reports highlight distinct areas of focus for each team as they aim to build on recent successes and address lingering concerns.

Ole Miss: Rebuilding the Run Game & QB Transition

The Rebels’ offensive fortunes appear heavily reliant on their running back room. Lane Kiffin’s squad boasts a blend of experience and high-potential newcomers. Mississippi State transfer Mario Craver,who demonstrated promise with 368 rushing yards as a freshman,joins returning players Ashton Bethel-Roman,and highly touted recruits Jerome Myles (four-star) and Terry Bussey (five-star). Bussey, in particular, is expected to contribute in multiple facets of the offense, mirroring a versatile “all-purpose” role from last season. Analysts suggest the performance of this backfield will be a key indicator of overall offensive success under Kiffin.

Though, the biggest question mark surrounding the Rebels centers on the quarterback position. Replacing Jaxson Dart, a first-round NFL draft prospect, is no small task. Austin Simmons, possessing dual-sport athleticism (also committed to Ole Miss baseball), has shown flashes of potential. A standout drive against Georgia last year, were he orchestrated a 75-yard touchdown march while Dart was sidelined, offers a glimpse of his capabilities. But the transition from a proven commodity like Dart inevitably introduces a degree of uncertainty.

Evergreen Insight: Accomplished quarterback transitions often hinge on a strong supporting cast. Ole Miss’s investment in its running game and receiving corps will be crucial in easing Simmons’s burden and maximizing his potential. The ability to establish a consistent running attack will also dictate how defenses approach the passing game,perhaps opening up opportunities for Simmons to thrive.

Oklahoma: Tight End Uncertainty Clouds Offensive Outlook

For Oklahoma, the tight end position remains a persistent area of concern.Despite offensive struggles last season, finding consistent production – both as receivers and blockers – from the tight end spot is viewed as a significant need. The Sooners enter preseason camp without a clear-cut starter.

A trio of players are expected to compete for the role: transfers Will Huggins (Kansas and Pittsburg State) and Carson Kent (Kennesaw State), alongside Jaren Kanak, a converted linebacker. The lack of a defined leader at tight end adds another layer of complexity to an offense integrating numerous new faces.

Evergreen Insight: The tight end position has evolved dramatically in modern football. Beyond customary blocking duties, tight ends are increasingly relied upon as receiving threats, creating matchup problems for defenses. Oklahoma’s ability to identify and develop a versatile tight end will be critical to unlocking the full potential of their offensive scheme. The success of converted linebackers at the position often depends on their ability to quickly adapt to the nuances of route running and pass catching.

Both Ole Miss and Oklahoma face pivotal fall camps.Addressing these key position battles and uncertainties will be paramount as they prepare to compete in a rapidly evolving college football landscape.

How will Washington’s running game effectiveness influence the new quarterback’s development?

Georgia Bulldogs: Offensive Line Consistency

Georgia remains a national championship contender, but cracks are appearing in what was once a dominant offensive line. While talent is plentiful, integrating new starters and maintaining peak performance throughout a grueling season is a significant concern.

Key Weakness: depth at Guard. Losing key players to the NFL draft leaves a void that needs immediate filling.

Impact: A struggling offensive line hinders the running game,putting more pressure on quarterback Carson Beck and potentially leading to increased sacks.

Mitigation Strategy: Aggressive development of younger offensive linemen during fall camp and a reliance on quick passing schemes early in the season. Focus on run-blocking schemes that emphasize quick hitting and gap integrity.

Ohio State Buckeyes: Defensive Backfield Depth

Ryan day has built a powerhouse in Columbus, but the Buckeyes’ secondary, while talented, lacks proven depth.Injuries or unexpected underperformance could expose vulnerabilities against potent passing attacks. This is a critical area for enhancement in college football rankings contention.

Key Weakness: cornerback Depth. Beyond the starters, the buckeyes have unproven commodities at the cornerback position.

Impact: Opposing offenses could exploit mismatches in coverage, leading to big plays and increased scoring.

Mitigation Strategy: Prioritize safety help over the top and utilize press coverage to disrupt timing. Develop a rotation system to keep starters fresh and provide valuable reps for backups.

Alabama Crimson Tide: New Offensive Coordinator Integration

Following the departure of Bill O’Brien, Alabama has brought in a new offensive coordinator. While the talent remains remarkable, integrating a new system and establishing a consistent offensive identity will be a challenge. This impacts their CFP odds substantially.

Key Weakness: Offensive System adaptation. Players need time to learn and execute a new playbook effectively.

Impact: Early-season struggles and inconsistent offensive output. Potential for turnovers and stalled drives.

Mitigation Strategy: Simplify the initial playcalling and gradually introduce more complex concepts. Focus on utilizing Jalen Milroe’s strengths – his running ability and arm talent – while he adjusts to the new system.

Michigan Wolverines: Post-Harbaugh Transition & Offensive Line Replacements

The Sherrone Moore era begins with high expectations, but replacing Jim Harbaugh and several key offensive linemen presents significant hurdles. Maintaining the Wolverines’ physical style of play will be paramount. Their success will be a major talking point in college football news.

Key Weakness: Offensive line Continuity. Replacing multiple starters on the offensive line is never easy, especially when maintaining a power-running attack.

Impact: Reduced effectiveness in the running game, making the offence more predictable. Increased pressure on the quarterback.

Mitigation Strategy: Emphasize double-team blocks and utilize tight ends as extra blockers. Develop a strong running back rotation to keep legs fresh.

Oregon Ducks: Defensive Consistency Under New Leadership

Dan Lanning has elevated Oregon into a national power, but the defense needs to consistently perform at a high level. While the Ducks have added talent, translating that into on-field results is crucial for a championship run.

Key Weakness: Linebacker Play. The linebacker corps lacks a proven, dominant presence.

Impact: Difficulty stopping the run and covering tight ends and running backs in the passing game.

Mitigation Strategy: Utilize pre-snap reads and disguise coverages to confuse opposing offenses. Focus on gap discipline and tackling fundamentals.

Texas Longhorns: Pressure to Perform in the SEC

Texas enters the SEC with immense hype, but the increased competition will expose any weaknesses. The Longhorns need to prove they can consistently compete with the conference’s elite programs. Their football recruiting class will be under scrutiny.

Key Weakness: Defensive Pass Rush. Generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is essential in the SEC.

Impact: Giving opposing quarterbacks too much time to throw, leading to more completions and scoring opportunities.

Mitigation Strategy: Implement more blitz packages and utilize creative pass-rush schemes. Develop individual pass-rush moves and techniques.

Washington Huskies: Sustaining Offensive Firepower

Washington’s explosive offense carried them to the national championship game, but replicating that success will be challenging with a new quarterback and several key departures. Maintaining offensive efficiency is key to remaining a top 10 college football team.

Key Weakness: Quarterback Transition. Replacing Michael penix Jr. is a monumental task.

Impact: potential for offensive stagnation and decreased scoring output.

* Mitigation Strategy: Lean on a strong running game and utilize play-action passes to create opportunities for the new quarterback. Simplify the passing game initially and gradually introduce more complex concepts.

LSU Tigers: Defensive Tackle Depth

Brian Kelly has built a strong program at LSU, but the defensive line,