AP Polls ranks Washington at 5, first time since 2017

In a thrilling victory against Oregon, Washington climbed to No. 5 in The Associated Press college football poll on Sunday, marking their highest ranking in six years. Additionally, Air Force, who remains undefeated, earned their first ranking since 2019.

The top four teams in the nation remained unchanged, with Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State, and Florida State securing their positions after dominant wins. Georgia received 43 first-place votes, while Michigan received 16, and Ohio State and Florida State each received one.

Washington received two first-place votes, surpassing both Oklahoma and Penn State to claim the No. 5 spot. This achievement marks their highest ranking since October 8, 2017, and the first time a Pac-12 team has reached the four-team playoff since 2016, when Washington made it.

Huskies move up 2, Ducks drop down 1

Washington's victory over Oregon, with the Ducks missing a field goal on the game's final play, resulted in Oregon dropping to No. 9, swapping places with No. 8 Texas. Meanwhile, North Carolina rose two spots to a season-high No. 10 after defeating Miami 41-31.

Southern California experienced their first loss of the season against Notre Dame, resulting in an eight-spot drop to No. 18, while Notre Dame jumped six places to No. 15.

Air Force's win against rival Wyoming propelled them into the rankings at No. 22, as they remain undefeated.

Alabama maintained their position at No. 11 after defeating Arkansas, extending their streak of being outside the top 10 for five weeks. Despite winning five straight games since their loss to Texas, Alabama has been unable to break into the top 10. This marks the longest period they have spent outside the top 10 since 2007.

Next week, Alabama will face No. 17 Tennessee, which will determine whether they can regain their top 10 status or potentially fall further. Following that, they will have a week off before hosting No. 19 LSU.

Air Force's appearance in the rankings is notable as they have not been ranked since the 2019 season and have not started a season 6-0 since 2002. In contrast, the other teams entering the Top 25 this week have previously been ranked earlier in the season.

Washington State, Kansas, Kentucky, and Miami all dropped out of the rankings after suffering their second losses of the season.