Joel Klatt Names Multiple College Football Teams Poised for First Playoff Appearances in 2025

College football analyst Joel Klatt has identified several teams with strong potential to make their first College Football Playoff (CFP) appearances in 2025, highlighting the challenges posed by their tough schedules. Florida is praised for its talent and coaching but faces a brutal schedule where even a 9-3 record might be necessary to reach the CFP. South Carolina is noted for its star power, including quarterback LaNorris Sellers and pass rusher Dylan Stewart, but also confronts a demanding slate with multiple top opponents late in the season. Missouri, despite offensive questions, benefits from a comparatively easier SEC schedule, positioning them well to finally break through after recent near misses. Clemson is considered a frontrunner in the ACC with high returning production and experience but must improve defensively to translate conference dominance into a deep playoff run. Overall, the path to the CFP in 2025 requires both talent and resilience against some of the most challenging schedules in recent college football history.