Clemson, Georgia and Ohio State, the defending national champs, lead the way with four picks. Alabama, LSU, Penn State and Texas are next with three apiece. Here is The Athletic ’s 2025 preseason All-America team.

Neither The AP or USA TODAY had Illinois football players on their preseason all-America lists — the highest ranked team to be shut out.

Though college football is undergoing constant change with the transfer portal, NIL and conference realignment, the collection of talent in the sport has never been better. Player development and retention has given us a top tier of stars that are,

Jeremiah Smith, along with two other Buckeyes honored on the preseason USA TODAY Sports All-America team recognizing the top players in country.

The Associated Press All-America college football teams have been a staple for a century, showcasing the evolution of the game.