ncaa football rankings release time

2 min read 22-11-2024

The release of the NCAA football rankings is a highly anticipated event for fans, coaches, and players alike. These rankings significantly impact the college football landscape, influencing playoff contention, bowl game selections, and team prestige. But when exactly are these rankings released? Let's break down the timing for the major ranking systems.

The Major Ranking Systems and Their Release Schedules

Several organizations publish NCAA football rankings, each with its own methodology and release schedule. The most influential include:

1. College Football Playoff (CFP) Rankings

Release Schedule: The CFP rankings are typically released on Tuesdays, beginning in late October and continuing through the regular season. There are usually six or seven total releases.
Release Time: The exact time varies slightly from year to year, but generally falls between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM ET. It's always best to check the official CFP website closer to the release date for the precise time.
Importance: These are the rankings that ultimately determine the four teams that will compete in the College Football Playoff. They are the most crucial rankings of the season.

2. Associated Press (AP) Poll

Release Schedule: The AP Poll is released weekly throughout the regular season, typically on Sundays.
Release Time: The release time is usually in the afternoon, around 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET, though this can fluctuate depending on news cycles. Checking the AP Sports website is recommended for the most precise timing.
Importance: The AP Poll is one of the oldest and most respected polls in college football, providing a historical perspective and valuable insight into public opinion on team rankings.

3. Coaches Poll

Release Schedule: Similar to the AP Poll, the Coaches Poll is also released weekly throughout the regular season, typically on Sundays.
Release Time: The Coaches Poll is often released around the same time as the AP Poll, typically in the afternoon between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM ET. Again, consult the official NCAA website or sports news outlets for the precise time.
Importance: The Coaches Poll offers another perspective on team rankings, reflecting the opinions of college football coaches across the country. While not directly used for playoff selection, it remains an important indicator of team strength.

Where to Find the Rankings

Staying updated on the latest rankings is easy. You can find them on the official websites of:

College Football Playoff (CFP): www.collegefootballplayoff.com
Associated Press (AP): apnews.com/hub/college-football (look for the weekly poll releases)
NCAA: www.ncaa.com (they often feature links to the polls)

Many sports news websites and apps also provide up-to-the-minute coverage of the rankings' release, including analysis and commentary.

Factors Affecting Release Times

While the general release times are consistent, minor variations can occur. News events, unforeseen technical issues, or changes in the scheduling of the announcements can all slightly affect the precise time of the release. Always check the official sources mentioned above for the most accurate and up-to-date information close to the release date.

Conclusion

The release of the NCAA football rankings is a significant moment in the college football season. Knowing the typical release times for the CFP, AP Poll, and Coaches Poll allows fans to be prepared and ensures they don't miss the crucial updates that shape the playoff race and the overall landscape of college football. Remember to check the official websites for the most accurate and current information closer to the release dates.