Ranking 134 college football teams after Week 8: BYU can no longer be ignored

The Athletic 134 presents its weekly FBS college football team rankings, highlighting some significant developments in the season. Notably, BYU has climbed to No. 7, despite being undefeated and defeating strong teams like Kansas State and SMU. Although polls have yet to recognize their strength, BYU's rankings reflect a growing acknowledgment of their achievements.

This week also sees movement for Georgia, jumping to No. 2 following a win over Texas, while Texas falls to No. 6. Miami overtakes Ohio State, bolstered by a victory against Louisville. Ohio State's upcoming faceoff with Penn State is expected to impact the rankings.

Tennessee and LSU have entered the top 10 after impressive victories. Indiana's recent dominant performance against Nebraska raises them to No. 11, though they're challenged by the loss of quarterback Kurtis Rourke due to injury. Despite this, their path to achieving at least 10 wins remains plausible.

Illinois makes a return to the top 25 after overcoming Michigan. Other notable risers include Syracuse, UNLV, South Carolina, Memphis, Army, Duke, and Cincinnati, now within the top 35. 

Colorado, at 5-2, maintains its spot at No. 38, showcasing significant progress under their current coach. Meanwhile, USC experiences a decline to No. 52, struggling after losing to Maryland. Louisiana and Georgia Southern continue to rise in the Sun Belt, showing strong performances.

In lower rankings, Baylor unexpectedly advances to No. 76, while Auburn drops to No. 80 after a setback against Missouri. The bottom ranks feature a notable win by UTEP over FIU, leaving only two winless teams in the FBS.

This summary captures the latest shifts and surprises in college football rankings, providing a condensed overview of the season's current dynamics.