UCLA and USC have both climbed in the latest Associated Press Top 25 college football poll, boosting their College Football Playoff aspirations and improving their championship odds. The Los Angeles rivals' upward movement reflects strong recent performances as the regular season enters its critical final weeks.
The ranking improvement comes after USC quarterback Jayden Maiava led the Trojans in their November 23, 2024 matchup against the Bruins at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Both programs have positioned themselves favorably in the playoff conversation with key victories down the stretch.
The AP Top 25 serves as a key indicator of national perception and can influence playoff selection committee deliberations. With conference championship games approaching, both UCLA and USC control their destiny in the race for a coveted playoff berth.
