My AP Top 25 Preseason Ballot

First things first, let me agree with you. I’m an idiot.

That’s likely to be the sentiment of some fans when they see (or don’t see) their teams in my AP Top 25 preseason poll. So to those fans who might utter that I lack mental acuity, I agree with you. I’m an idiot.

Preseason polls don’t mean much. Other than to give graphics departments placeholders for teams, preseason polls should be viewed as a starting point based off of last season’s accomplishments.

Sure I looked at what a team has coming back, who departed, etc. etc. etc. But largely these preseason polls are determined by a team did last year first and foremost.

Alabama is tops for me. The roster is loaded. A starting quarterback returns for the first time since 2013. I’ve learned my lesson against underestimating Alabama.

Washington is a team I really like and I suspect the Huskies will rise in my poll if they perform.

Penn State is another team I’m anxious to see this season. Saquon Barkley is as fine a back as there is in the country.

Auburn cracks my top 10. Most of that is due to the reports coming out about Jarrett Stidham. Time will tell if that was foolish or wise.

I plan to keep my rankings fluid from week to week based on a team’s performance. But to be clear, there likely will be weeks when my poll disappoints some and enrages others. So again, I agree with you. I’m an idiot.

Aaron Suttles AP Top 25 Preseason Poll