1 of 13

John Raoux/Associated Press

25. Tennessee Volunteers

After all the "sinking Titanic" comments early in the season, Tennessee won its final five games to become the unofficial "Watch out for those guys next year" team. Don't forget, the Volunteers picked up former Maryland quarterback Kasim Hill from the transfer portal, which might finally solve the dilemma that has plagued Tennessee since Josh Dobbs graduated in 2016. If not, at least Jeremy Pruitt still has a good-looking defense.

24. Indiana Hoosiers

Indiana won at least eight games for the first time since 1993, but it might just be the beginning. The Hoosiers don't lose much aside from two offensive linemen, two starters on defense and their fourth- and fifth-leading receivers. Life in the Big Ten East will likely saddle them with at least three losses once again, but Tom Allen has a sleeper brewing.

23. Oregon Ducks

Oregon won the Pac-12 and finished at No. 6 in the CFP rankings, but there are few things more frightening in way-too-early rankings than a new, unproven quarterback behind an offensive line that graduates four starters and a key reserve. That said, if the Ducks don't lose any early entrants to the NFL, the defense should remain in great shape, and the unproven QB will have two solid running backs and a pair of wide receivers who made at least 50 catches this year.

22. Iowa Hawkeyes

Someone other than Nate Stanley will be the starting quarterback at Iowa for the first time since 2016. Assuming A.J. Epenesa declares for the NFL draft, the Hawkeyes have some question marks along the defensive line too. But the majority of starters will be back for what should be the second-best team in the Big Ten West.

21. UCF Knights

Will McKenzie Milton return? It might be a while before we know, but sticking with Dillon Gabriel at quarterback would be fine. The freshman threw for 3,393 yards and 27 touchdowns, even though we spent the summer thinking either Brandon Wimbush or Darriel Mack Jr. would hold down the job. Losing receiver Gabriel Davis and running back Adrian Killins will hurt, but try not to be surprised when the Knights get back to flirting with perfection.