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30 Facts About AP Poll Football

Windy Hinz

Written by Windy Hinz

Published: 03 Nov 2025

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Newsweek.com

Ever wondered how the AP Poll Football rankings work? You're not alone! The AP Poll, short for Associated Press Poll, has been a cornerstone of college football since 1936. It ranks the top 25 teams in the nation based on votes from a panel of sports writers and broadcasters. These rankings can make or break a season, influencing everything from bowl game invitations to national championship hopes. But how much do you really know about this influential poll? From its historical roots to its modern-day impact, here are 30 facts that will give you a deeper understanding of the AP Poll Football rankings. Buckle up, football fans!

Table of Contents
01The Origins of the AP Poll
02Evolution Over the Years
03Impact on College Football
04Controversies and Criticisms
05Memorable Moments
06Fun Facts
07Modern Era and Technology
08The Future of the AP Poll
09Historical Records and Milestones
10Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts
11The Final Whistle

The Origins of the AP Poll

The AP Poll has been a cornerstone of college football rankings for decades. Here are some fascinating facts about its beginnings and evolution.

  1. First Published in 1936: The Associated Press (AP) released its first college football poll in 1936. It was a simple ranking of the top 20 teams in the nation.

  2. Initial Purpose: The poll aimed to provide a national ranking system for college football teams, helping fans and analysts gauge team performance.

  3. Voter Panel: Initially, the panel consisted of 35 sportswriters from across the country. Today, it includes 62 members.

Evolution Over the Years

The AP Poll has undergone several changes since its inception. These changes reflect the evolving landscape of college football.

  1. Top 10 to Top 20: The first poll ranked only the top 10 teams. By 1968, it expanded to include the top 20 teams.

  2. Top 25 Format: In 1989, the AP Poll adopted the current format of ranking the top 25 teams.

  3. Weekly Updates: The poll is updated weekly during the college football season, providing a dynamic snapshot of team standings.

Impact on College Football

The AP Poll has significantly influenced college football, affecting everything from team morale to bowl game selections.

  1. Bowl Game Selections: Historically, the AP Poll played a crucial role in determining which teams received invitations to prestigious bowl games.

  2. National Championships: Before the advent of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) and the College Football Playoff (CFP), the AP Poll often determined the national champion.

  3. Media Coverage: Teams ranked in the AP Poll receive extensive media coverage, boosting their visibility and recruiting efforts.

Controversies and Criticisms

Like any ranking system, the AP Poll has faced its share of controversies and criticisms over the years.

  1. Bias Accusations: Critics often accuse the poll of regional or conference bias, arguing that certain teams receive preferential treatment.

  2. Preseason Rankings: Some argue that preseason rankings create an unfair advantage for teams ranked highly before the season starts.

  3. Subjectivity: The poll relies on the subjective opinions of sportswriters, leading to debates about its accuracy and fairness.

Memorable Moments

The AP Poll has been part of many memorable moments in college football history. Here are a few highlights.

  1. First No. 1 Team: Minnesota was the first team to be ranked No. 1 in the inaugural 1936 poll.

  2. Longest No. 1 Streak: Miami holds the record for the longest streak at No. 1, maintaining the top spot for 55 consecutive weeks from 2001 to 2003.

  3. Biggest Upset: In 2007, Appalachian State shocked the world by defeating No. 5 Michigan, marking one of the biggest upsets in AP Poll history.

Fun Facts

Beyond the serious business of rankings, the AP Poll has some fun and quirky aspects worth noting.

  1. Most Appearances: Ohio State has appeared in the AP Poll more times than any other team, with over 900 appearances.

  2. Most No. 1 Rankings: Alabama holds the record for the most weeks ranked No. 1, with over 130 weeks at the top.

  3. Unranked to No. 1: In 1984, BYU became the first team to start the season unranked and finish as the No. 1 team.

Modern Era and Technology

The digital age has brought new dimensions to the AP Poll, making it more accessible and interactive.

  1. Online Presence: The AP Poll is now available online, allowing fans to access the latest rankings instantly.

  2. Social Media Influence: Social media platforms amplify the reach and impact of the AP Poll, sparking debates and discussions among fans.

  3. Data Analytics: Advanced data analytics and metrics are increasingly used to supplement traditional voting methods.

The Future of the AP Poll

As college football continues to evolve, the AP Poll will likely adapt to new trends and technologies.

  1. Integration with CFP: While the College Football Playoff has its ranking system, the AP Poll remains a respected and influential voice in the sport.

  2. Global Reach: With the growing popularity of college football worldwide, the AP Poll's influence extends beyond the United States.

  3. Fan Engagement: Future innovations may include more interactive features, allowing fans to participate in the ranking process.

Historical Records and Milestones

The AP Poll has a rich history filled with records and milestones that highlight its significance in college football.

  1. First Integrated Team: In 1947, Penn State became the first integrated team to be ranked in the AP Poll.

  2. First Black Coach: In 1979, Dennis Green of Northwestern became the first Black head coach to have a team ranked in the AP Poll.

  3. Women Voters: The panel now includes female sportswriters, reflecting the growing diversity in sports journalism.

Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts

Some lesser-known facts about the AP Poll add depth to its storied history.

  1. Tie Rankings: There have been instances where teams tied in the rankings, most notably in 1978 when Alabama and USC shared the No. 1 spot.

  2. Non-Football Schools: Occasionally, schools known more for other sports, like basketball, have made surprising appearances in the football rankings.

  3. International Teams: While rare, international teams have received votes in the AP Poll, showcasing the global appeal of college football.

The Final Whistle

AP Poll Football has a rich history filled with fascinating facts. From its inception in 1936 to the controversies and changes over the years, it’s clear this ranking system has left a significant mark on college football. The poll has seen dynasties rise and fall, witnessed the birth of rivalries, and sparked endless debates among fans. Understanding these facts not only deepens your appreciation for the sport but also gives you a glimpse into how college football has evolved. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, these nuggets of information add layers to your game-day experience. So next time you watch a game, remember the legacy and stories behind those rankings. They’re more than just numbers; they’re a testament to the passion, history, and excitement that make college football truly special.

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