Hold onto your helmets, because Kirk Herbstreit’s latest top-five rankings are here, and they’re shaking things up in a big way! After Week 7, there’s a brand-new No. 1 team that’s turning heads and challenging assumptions. But here’s where it gets controversial: Herbstreit’s choices aren’t just about wins and losses—they’re about momentum, resilience, and the ability to prove doubters wrong. Let’s dive into his bold new list and the stories behind it.
On the latest episode of Nonstop, Herbstreit teamed up with Joey Galloway to unveil their top-five rankings, and the results are anything but predictable. From a team that silenced its critics with a stunning road victory to another that’s quietly dominating its schedule, these rankings are a testament to the unpredictability of college football. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about who’s winning—it’s about how they’re winning.
Here’s Herbstreit’s Week 7 top-five, with a few surprises that are sure to spark debate:
1. Indiana Hoosiers
Yes, you read that right. The Hoosiers are Herbstreit’s new No. 1 after their jaw-dropping 30-20 victory over No. 3 Oregon in Eugene. Herbstreit admitted he’d been skeptical, even as recently as this weekend, but Indiana’s performance changed everything. ‘They did more in 60 minutes to change my mind than they’ve done in the past year and a half,’ he said. Is Indiana truly a contender, or is this just a fluke? Let’s discuss in the comments.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes remain undefeated after a solid 34-16 win over No. 17 Illinois, but Herbstreit believes Indiana’s resume is slightly stronger—for now. ‘By December, this could be a totally different conversation,’ he hinted. Are the Buckeyes being underrated here, or is Herbstreit onto something?
3. Miami Hurricanes
Despite being on their second bye in three weeks, Miami has done enough to secure a spot in the top three. With wins over Florida State, USF, Florida, and Notre Dame, the Hurricanes are undefeated and looking unstoppable. Can they keep this up, or will their schedule catch up to them?
4. Texas A&M Aggies
Herbstreit calls the Aggies ‘the quietest top-five team I’ve ever seen.’ With wins over Notre Dame, Auburn, Mississippi State, and Florida, they’re undefeated and flying under the radar. ‘They’ve got everything they need to contend,’ Herbstreit said. But will their lack of spotlight hurt them in the long run?
5. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Rounding out the list is Texas Tech, who continue to roll through the Big 12 with a 42-17 win over Kansas. Herbstreit acknowledges their success, but some might argue they don’t belong here just yet. Is Texas Tech a legitimate top-five team, or are they benefitting from a weaker schedule?
Herbstreit’s rankings aren’t just a list—they’re a challenge to rethink what we know about this season’s contenders. Who do you think deserves the top spot? And which team is flying under the radar? Let’s debate it in the comments!
