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Jesse Palmer argues Texas A&M over Ohio State at No. 1 in College Football Playoff rankings after win over Missouri

IMG_0985by: Griffin McVeigh15 hours agogriffin_mcveigh
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© Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

Texas A&M went into Columbia with, maybe, some outside nerves about an upset taking place. Those got squashed well before the clock hit zero in the fourth quarter, taking care of business against Missouri. Which led to ESPN play-by-play commentator Joe Tessitore asking if the Aggies should move up to No. 1 in the College Football Playoff rankings.

“I know Ohio State is a really good-looking football team. And they’ve passed the eye test. But this is going to be another ranked win for A&M on the road in the SEC and they look really good too. Is there an argument to be made that Texas A&M, to this point of the season, should have a one next to their name?”

Jesse Palmer was the one who answered the question, with the short version being yes. But Palmer broke down the resume put together by Texas A&M to this point of the season. He even looked ahead once the regular season is over, saying Mike Elko‘s bunch has a great case to make if they finish undefeated.

“I think you can make that argument, absolutely. Because of what you just said. But when it’s all said and done in the regular season — if you go to Notre Dame and you go to LSU, here at Missouri. If they go to Texas, get that win. Nobody else is doing that, from a scheduling standpoint.”

Texas A&M would have to jump more than just Ohio State to take the top spot on Tuesday night. Indiana debuted in the 2025 rankings at No. 2, barely coming away with a win on Saturday against Penn State. Maybe some movement takes place there.

Either way, this is the highest the Aggies have ever been in the CFP rankings. They previously got up to No. 4 back in 2016 when Kevin Sumlin was running the program. Jimbo Fisher also brought them into the top five in 2020, finishing one spot too low during the four-team era.

Getting to No. 1 is just a little different, though. You know everyone in College Station would appreciate the accomplishment, showcasing the progress made under Elko since he took over last year.

For now, all attention remains on the task at hand. Week 12 brings a matchup against the South Carolina Gamecocks before hosting Samford to close out nonconference play. And then, as Palmer mentioned, a trip to Austin for the Lone Star Showdown.