Final AP Poll: The Shocking Upsets and Celebratory Moments That Defined the Season

The Unforgettable 2022-2023 College Football Season: Final AP Poll Showcases Upsets and Triumphs

As the 2022-2023 college football season comes to a close, the Associated Press (AP) released its final poll, revealing a season of shocking upsets, thrilling finishes, and celebratory moments that will be etched in the memories of fans and players alike. The AP poll, which has been a benchmark for college football rankings since 1936, provides a snapshot of the season's most pivotal moments, highlighting the triumphs and tribulations of the nation's top programs.

The 2022-2023 season was marked by several seismic upsets, which shook the very foundations of the college football landscape. Teams that were expected to dominate, but ultimately fell short, left fans and pundits alike scrambling to reevaluate their teams' chances. These upsets not only showcased the unpredictability of college football but also underscored the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.

One of the most stunning upsets of the season was the loss of No. 1 Alabama to No. 3 Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. The Crimson Tide, who had been projected as one of the top contenders for the national title, were ultimately defeated by the Bulldogs 33-18. This loss sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, with many experts questioning whether Alabama had what it took to make a deep run in the playoffs.

The Rise of Upset Specialties

Several teams rose to prominence in the second half of the season, capitalizing on the momentum from their early-season successes. For instance, the Oregon Ducks, who were 2-4 at the midpoint of the season, went on to win six of their final eight games, including a 31-28 overtime thriller over the No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide. This upset showcased the Ducks' newfound swagger and their ability to punch above their weight class.

Other teams, such as the Michigan State Spartans and the Wisconsin Badgers, also made significant strides in the latter half of the season, using their second-half resurgence to catapult themselves into the national conversation.

Players to Watch: The Standout Performers of the Season

Several players made a significant impact on the 2022-2023 season, leaving an indelible mark on their respective teams and the college football world as a whole. Some of the most notable performers include:

• Quarterback Drake Maye of North Carolina, who threw for 4,964 yards and 48 touchdowns, leading his team to a surprising top-10 finish.
• Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba of Ohio State, who hauled in 128 receptions for 1,795 yards and 18 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the nation's top wideouts.
• Defensive end Will Anderson Jr. of Alabama, who racked up 21.5 sacks and 12 forced fumbles, dominating opponents on the field and earning national defensive player of the year honors.

Celebratory Moments: The Most Memorable Finishes

The 2022-2023 season was marked by numerous thrilling finishes, each of which captured the hearts of fans and players alike. Some of the most memorable moments include:

• The Michigan State Spartans' 31-24 upset victory over the No. 5 Ohio State Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship Game, which sent shockwaves throughout the college football world.
• The Penn State Nittany Lions' 28-21 upset win over the No. 4 USC Trojans in the Rose Bowl, which marked a historic triumph for the program.
• The TCU Horned Frogs' 51-27 rout of the No. 9 Baylor Bears in the Big 12 Championship Game, which capped off a dominant season for the Horned Frogs.

Coaches on the Hot Seat: The Firing Line for 2023

Several coaches faced significant pressure in 2023, with some ultimately facing the axe. Some of the most notable coaches on the hot seat include:

• Mike MacIntyre of Oregon, who was fired after a 9-4 season that saw the Ducks miss out on the playoffs.
• Frank Solich of Nebraska, who was let go after a 4-8 season that saw the Cornhuskers struggle on both sides of the ball.
• Kalen DeBoer of Washington, who was fired after a 6-7 season that saw the Huskies fail to live up to expectations.

The Impact of Transfer Portal on College Football

The 2022-2023 season saw the college football transfer portal continue to grow in importance, with numerous players making the move to new schools and shaking up the landscape. Some of the most notable transfer portal winners include:

• WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who transferred from Ohio State to Michigan and went on to catch 100 passes for 1,795 yards and 18 touchdowns.
• DE Will Anderson Jr., who transferred from Alabama to Tennessee and racked up 10 sacks and 5 forced fumbles.
• QB Ty Davis-Thomas, who transferred from USC to Oregon and threw for 2,917 yards and 27 touchdowns.

Transfer Portal Impact on Recruiting

The 2022-2023 season saw the transfer portal continue to influence recruiting, with top prospects increasingly considering the possibility of transferring mid-season. Some of the most notable recruits who considered the transfer portal include:

• LB Daxton Hill, who ultimately stayed at Michigan but entered the transfer portal before the 2024 season.
• WR Gabe Brooks, who transferred from Michigan to Arkansas and caught 38 passes for 492 yards and 5 touchdowns.
• DT Fabian Luper, who transferred from Tennessee to Louisville and went on to start 13 games for the Cardinals.

The Road Ahead: What to Expect in 202