End of year football on-field rankings always have some surprises. When it comes to uniforms, there are few exceptions to that rule—especially as schools and their technical become more experimental and special-edition one-off kits become more commonplace.

In 2012, the breadth of uniforms reached unparalleled heights. Whether honoring celebrated teams of the past or paying tribute to our Nation's armed forces, gridiron players were conduits not for the history of the game and cutting-edge technology, as well. This all comes into play when correlating the final rankings. Considerations of the best articulations of classic looks and most inventive uniforms hold equal weight. In the end, success in the win/loss column plays a small part...but ultimately, success in holding visual attention reigns supreme.

The 25 Best Uniforms of the 2012 College Football Season

RELATED: The 25 Best College Football Uniforms of All Time

RELATED: The 25 Best Snowboard Graphics Right Now