Way Too Early: USA Today calls Baylor a top 25 team heading into 2019
We are less than 24 hours removed from the conclusion of the 2018 College Football Season and the first and way too early rankings for the 2019 season are already being released. On Tuesday morning, USA Today’s Paul Myerberg released his first top 25.
In total, four Big 12 teams were listed in his release, including No. 4 Oklahoma and No. 5 Texas. Iowa State also made an appearance at No. 17 despite losing key playmakers David Montgomery and Hakeem Butler from the offensive side of the ball.
The most surprising team on the list, however, was Baylor. Ahead of the likes of TCU, Oklahoma State and West Virginia, Baylor was the final team listed in the poll at No. 25.
25. Baylor
Baylor's chances hinge on whether coach Matt Rhule returns in 2019, as he could be a contender for NFL openings. But the program's trajectory — from one win in 2017 to seven this past year — says a big step forward is in the offing.
Baylor will return quarterback Charlie Brewer, the majority of their offensive line, their top three rushers, and a large chunk of their defensive unit.
In addition, the Bears will welcome a total of nine mid-year prospects including top junior college prospects Blake Bedier and Niadre Zouzoua on the offensive and defensive line.
Full List
1. Alabama
2. Clemson
3. Georgia
4. Oklahoma
5. Texas
6. Ohio State
7. Michigan
8. LSU
9. Washington
10. Texas A&M
11. Oregon
12. Central Florida
13. Notre Dame
14. Florida
15. Southern California
16. Iowa
17. Iowa State
18. Stanford
19. Penn State
20. Army
21. Nebraska
22. Syracuse
23. Wisconsin
24. Boise State
25. Baylor