New Mexico earned its first-ever AP Top 25 ranking, 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 as the initial College Football Playoff rankings approach.
AP voters also made notable adjustments elsewhere. Ohio State fell nine places to No. 11 after a 30-18 loss at USC, its second defeat 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 chances have dimmed.
South Carolina climbed into the rankings as the highest-placed three-loss team after winning three consecutive SEC games. The Gamecocks own top-25 victories over Florida and Tennessee and could force their way into the CFP conversation with upcoming games against Georgia and Clemson.
Missouri rose four spots to No. 19 following a 34-10 win at Arkansas. The Tigers benefited from the return of running back Ahmad Hardy and face a critical stretch beginning with a home game against Texas. Quarterback Austin Simmons has thrown for 1,952 yards with 16 touchdowns and two interceptions, while Missouri's scoring defense ranks fifth in the SEC despite offseason losses such as edge rusher Damon Wilson II to Miami.
