The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff saw Ohio State emerge as the national champion. But how many teams are truly in contention for the title in 2025?
For FOX Sports’ Joel Klatt, the answer appears to be nine.
Appearing on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, the college football analyst was shown the latest Coaches’ Poll and asked to give his list of nine teams that can win the national title this season.
After a quick look at the poll, Klatt asserted that the nine teams at the top were all his picks. That list consists of Texas, Ohio State, Penn State, Georgia, Notre Dame, Clemson, Oregon, Alabama and LSU.
“Those top 9 teams. If things go the right way they could easily play for or win the national championship,” Klatt said.
"Those top 9 teams. If things go the right way they could easily play for or win the national championship."@colincowherd and @joelklatt discuss which CFB teams can win it all this season pic.twitter.com/dQyD6mGkoF
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) August 5, 2025
Cowherd was inclined to agree with Klatt, pointing out that NIL deals have made it easier than ever for more teams to get into contention than ever before. The two agreed that in years past there were maybe only 3-4 teams that could realistically win a title prior.
Klatt did also note that the advent of NIL has “magically” begun reducing the strength of the SEC overall.
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As for the particular teams that Klatt mentioned, he’s probably right on the money as far as the picks go. It would be extremely surprising if any team other than that top nine wound up winning the national title.
Texas, Georgia, Alabama and LSU are expected to rule the SEC this year while Ohio State, Penn State and Oregon will probably run the Big Ten (unless a team like Illinois or Michigan surprises everyone).
Clemson will probably surpass Miami in the ACC while Notre Dame can keep doing their own thing. As for the at-large bids, only time will tell.
Are those the only teams that can realistically win the national team?
Related: Joel Klatt Predicts Trade For No. 1 Overall Pick In 2025 NFL Draft
