Introduction to the AP Poll

In the realm of college football, the AP Poll stands as a respected barometer of team performance. Compiled by a panel of dedicated sportswriters and broadcasters, the poll offers fans and teams a snapshot of the competitive landscape. Since its inception in 1936, the Associated Press (AP) Poll has been pivotal in shaping conversations around college football rankings, providing a consistent and respected measure of team performance throughout each season.

The History and Evolution of the AP Poll

The AP Poll has a storied history tracing back to when the Associated Press began ranking football teams in order to create more structured narratives around the sport. Over time, the methodology and the individuals behind the poll have evolved, allowing it to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of college football. Understanding its historical context helps illuminate why the poll holds such prestige and influence today.

Methodology: How the AP Poll Works

The AP Poll’s methodology involves a panel of 62 sportswriters and broadcasters from across the nation. Each panelist submits a ballot ranking the top 25 college football teams, with points assigned to each team based on their position in the individual ballots (25 points