New Mexico earned its first AP Top 25 ranking in program history, debuting at No. 22 in the Week 10 poll released Sunday. The Lobos have won five straight games since a 14-6 loss at Oklahoma on Sept. 19 and sit three spots behind Group of Six leader Boise State. The latest AP rankings appear closely aligned with the upcoming initial College Football Playoff rankings, suggesting voters paid close attention to Saturday's results.
Ohio State falls out of top 10
Ohio State dropped nine places to No. 11 after a 30-18 loss at USC, marking the program's second loss of the season and fourth in its last 10 games under coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes also lost quarterback Julian Sayin to a season-ending arm injury, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith's Heisman Trophy hopes have diminished. Ohio State's remaining schedule includes games against Oregon (Nov. 14), Northwestern (Nov. 21), Nebraska (Nov. 28) and Michigan.
South Carolina climbs as highest-ranked three-loss team
South Carolina entered the poll as the highest-ranked team with three losses after winning three consecutive games following an 0-3 start in SEC play under Shane Beamer. The Gamecocks own top-25 victories over Florida and Tennessee and led Kentucky by 17 points in September before losing in overtime. With quarterback LaNorris Sellers leading a potent offense, South Carolina could force its way into the CFP conversation by winning out, which would require victories over Georgia and Clemson.
Missouri gains notice after convincing win
Missouri rose four spots to No. 19 following a 34-10 victory at Arkansas, rebounding from a 28-point loss at Ole Miss earlier in the month. The return of running back Ahmad Hardy bolstered the Tigers, who now have one ranked win (Florida) and face three consecutive top-10 opponents starting with Texas as a narrow home underdog. Quarterback Austin Simmons ranks among the SEC passing leaders with 1,952 yards, 16 touchdowns and two interceptions, while Missouri's defense ranks fifth in the conference in scoring despite losing edge rusher Damon Wilson II to Miami.
