"That's a Joke": College Football Fans React to AP Top 25

"That's a Joke": College Football Fans React to AP Top 25 originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The preseason AP Top 25 dropped Monday, and one team’s absence stole the headlines. The USC Trojans were missing in action, dropped from the list entirely.

That omission caused a stir among college football fans, especially those who are rivals of USC.

A popular Trojans fan account didn’t hold back responding, “That’s a joke…” quickly igniting reactions across social platforms.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish fans, quick to chime in against their longtime rival, fired back, noting USC’s forgettable 7-6 season in 2024. Meanwhile, USC is sitting just outside the rankings, listed fifth in the “others receiving votes” category — roughly placing them at No. 30 heading into 2025.

USC’s Roller-Coaster Seasons Under Lincoln Riley

The Trojans are entering their fourth season under head coach Lincoln Riley, following back-to-back middling years in Los Angeles. After a promising debut season in 2022, which included Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams and an 11-3 record, success has since slipped.

USC went 8-5 in 2023 and stumbled to 7-6 in their first Big Ten season in 2024. Many of those losses were close, but the recurring problems, such as late-game collapses, inconsistent offensive line play and defensive miscues, left loud questions hanging over the program.

That’s a joke…

— Trojan Football ✌️ ᶠᵃⁿ (@TrojanFBx) August 11, 2025

Still, optimism remains. Analysts point to offseason improvements, including key transfers on defense, such as defensive lineman Keeshawn Silver from the Kentucky Wildcats.

The Trojans will feature a revamped backfield with the addition of transfers Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders. Add in a stabilizing presence in the quarterback room from returning starter Jayden Maiava, and the Trojans are hoping to enjoy their first double-digit win season since 2022.

Some even projected USC to rise in unexpected ways. But for now the message is clear: Talk is cheap without results.

Fans React and the Trojans Look Ahead

The online backlash was swift.

“Maybe don’t go 6-6 next time,” one fan reminded the Trojans of their record, although the commenter forgot to include the team's Las Vegas Bowl win.

Another added, “Lmao same team that went 7-6 and you think that deserves a top 25 ranking, I’m dead.” One critic simply posted, “The Lincoln Riley Experience,” a shorthand jab at the inconsistency of his tenure.

Some feedback mixed the burn with encouragement. “Y’all gotta earn y’all stripes in the Big Ten. Use this as motivation,” one reply read.

However, being grouped with the “others” signals national skepticism. The team’s tough schedule — including date nights with the Michigan Wolverines, Oregon Ducks, Illinois Fighting Illini and Notre Dame — won’t make proving itself any easier.

The Trojans’ legacy brand buys them time, but not unlimited grace. This season is shaping up as a turning point, especially for Riley.

USC's exclusion from the poll provides proof that in college football, prestige can’t carry you past performance. A team's real ranking is derived from what happens on the field.

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 11, 2025, where it first appeared.