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Top Teams Facing Toughest Paths to Perfection in 2025 Season
24 Aug
Summary
- Only 5 programs have achieved perfect seasons since college football's playoff era began
- Likelihood of an unblemished campaign is low due to expanded playoff and longer season
- Several top contenders, including Penn State, Ohio State, and Georgia, face challenging schedules

As the college football landscape continues to evolve in the playoff era, the likelihood of a team completing an undefeated season has become considerably lower. According to the article, only five programs have managed to achieve perfect seasons and claim a national championship since the playoff system was introduced.
However, the 2025 season may see a team emerge as the new "best-ever" if they can navigate their challenging schedules and finish the year without a loss. Several top contenders, including Penn State, Ohio State, and Georgia, are facing daunting paths to perfection.
Penn State, led by head coach James Franklin, is expected to field its best roster in decades, but the Nittany Lions will have to overcome an eight-game losing streak against Ohio State and a tough matchup against Oregon. The Buckeyes, under Ryan Day, have managed a pair of unbeaten regular seasons in the past, but four consecutive losses to their arch-rival Michigan have prevented them from achieving that feat again. Meanwhile, Georgia, the reigning national champions, will face one of the SEC's toughest schedules, making it difficult for Kirby Smart's team to repeat their unblemished success.
With the expanded playoff format and the possibility of teams playing up to 16 games on their way to the title game, the road to an undefeated season has become increasingly treacherous. The 2025 campaign may witness a new standard for college football's elite programs, as they strive to navigate the obstacles and potentially cement their place in history.