By Mark Pszonak
Indiana and Arizona State both came out of nowhere in 2024 to make the playoffs. Here are three P4 candidates that have the potential to make a significant jump in 2025.
1. Nebraska
Historically, Nebraska is an elite football program, however on the field they have been a disappointment for most of the last decade. In 2024, the Huskers did make their first bowl game since 2016, but that could only be considered a baby step as they finished 7-6. But a big jump is very possible in 2025. There are two main reasons for this. First is head coach Matt Rhule. During his previous two collegiate jobs, with Temple and Baylor, both programs saw an epic improvement during his third season. Temple was a combined 8-16 before going 10-4 in 2015 while Baylor was a combined 8-17 before going 11-3 in 2019. The Huskers have gone a combined 12-13 during Coach Rhule’s first two seasons in Lincoln, so will his third-year magic happen again? If it does, a big part of that will be because of the improved play of sophomore quarterback Dylan Raiola. As a true freshman, Raiola had a solid performance, but considering the hype he arrived with, more is expected. If he does take the jump many expect, the Huskers can quickly make a move up the Big Ten ladder.
2. Texas Tech
The Red Raiders have been a solid program in recent years, making four consecutive bowls while combining for a 30-22 record during this time. But are they poised to make a jump to the next level? Few schools have taken advantage of the NIL era more than the Red Raiders, as they have aggressively splashed cash to help their high school and transfer recruitment. This was especially evident during this off-season’s portal success, where Texas Tech has reeled in numerous impressive additions. On top of that, they return quarterback Behren Morton, who passed for 3,335 yards, 27 touchdowns and only eight interceptions in 2024. There are challenges in the conference schedule though, as trips to Utah, Arizona State, Kansas State and West Virginia will all be tests.
© Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images
3. Georgia Tech
Since Brent Key took over the program during the 2022 season, Georgia Tech has shown life. While they have only gone 18-16 during this time, consecutive 7-6 seasons has put the program back on firm footing. Now it is up to them to take it to the next level. Haynes King returns as one the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the country, while running back Jamal Haynes has the potential to be one of the top backs in the ACC, which once again looks pretty open. On the schedule, the Yellow Jackets avoid Miami and Louisville, while they host Clemson in their conference opener on September 13th. Also, the season opening trip to Colorado on August 29th will likely show everyone if Georgia Tech has the potential to be a Cinderella in 2025.
