Quinshon Judkins, Jeremiah Smith Highlight AP All-College Football Playoff Team
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is the culmination of the NCAA football season, bringing together the best teams from across the country to determine the ultimate champion. As the spotlight shines on these elite teams, some players emerge not only as key contributors to their team’s success but also as stars in their own right. The Associated Press (AP) All-College Football Playoff team is an annual recognition of the standout players who made an impact during the postseason, and for the 2025 edition, two names have risen to the top: Quinshon Judkins and Jeremiah Smith.
Both Judkins and Smith were instrumental in their teams’ success during the College Football Playoff, and their inclusion in the AP All-Playoff team is a testament to their incredible performances. These players, along with others, demonstrated remarkable talent, leadership, and resilience throughout the postseason, helping their teams achieve greatness.
Quinshon Judkins: A Dominant Force in the Backfield
Quinshon Judkins, the standout running back from the Ole Miss Rebels, was one of the most dominant players in the 2025 College Football Playoff. His performance throughout the postseason earned him a spot on the AP All-College Football Playoff team, and it was easy to see why.
The Rise of Quinshon Judkins
Judkins’ journey to stardom began well before the playoff, as the sophomore running back had an exceptional regular season. With over 1,500 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, Judkins was one of the most dangerous running backs in the nation. His physicality, vision, and breakaway speed made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. As Ole Miss entered the College Football Playoff, Judkins’ reputation only grew stronger.
During the playoff, Judkins was consistently a focal point in the Rebels’ offense, dominating with his ability to both power through defenders and make explosive plays. His vision allowed him to read the field perfectly, finding gaps and taking advantage of even the smallest openings. In the semifinal game, Judkins rushed for over 150 yards and scored two touchdowns, leading Ole Miss to a commanding victory. His performance was a critical reason why the Rebels were able to make a deep run into the playoff, and it solidified his place on the All-Playoff team.
Judkins’ Impact on the Championship Game
In the national championship game, Judkins was not just a contributor; he was the heart and soul of Ole Miss’ offense. Going up against one of the best defenses in the country, Judkins delivered a sensational performance, rushing for 180 yards and scoring three touchdowns. His ability to grind out tough yards, wear down the opposing defense, and make plays when his team needed him most was unmatched. Although Ole Miss ultimately fell short of the title, Judkins’ performance throughout the playoff earned him a spot among the best players in college football, as his name was etched onto the AP All-Playoff team.
Jeremiah Smith: A Wide Receiver Who Made History
Jeremiah Smith, the wide receiver from Ohio State, is another player who made a lasting impact during the 2025 College Football Playoff. Smith’s incredible athleticism, route running, and ability to make spectacular catches made him one of the most exciting players to watch during the postseason. His performances in both the semifinal and national championship games elevated his stock, and he quickly became one of the most talked-about players in college football.
Smith’s Explosive Season
Smith entered the 2025 College Football Playoff as one of the top wide receivers in the country, and his performances during the regular season had already placed him on the radar of NFL scouts. With over 1,500 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, Smith was a go-to target for the Ohio State offense, often making big plays at critical moments.
But it was during the College Football Playoff that Smith truly cemented his legacy. In the semifinal game against a tough opponent, Smith delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career. With the game on the line, Smith hauled in a remarkable 12 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning catch in the final seconds to propel Ohio State to the national championship. His ability to consistently get open, create separation from defenders, and make spectacular catches in crucial moments made him a standout player of the playoff.
Jeremiah Smith’s Championship Performance
The national championship game was a fitting conclusion to Smith’s incredible postseason run. Facing a fierce defense, Smith once again proved that he was one of the best wide receivers in the country. He recorded another impressive outing, catching nine passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to win one-on-one battles with defenders, along with his spectacular catches, helped Ohio State stay in the game despite facing adversity. Smith’s dynamic playmaking ability was critical in keeping Ohio State’s offense alive during crucial moments, even when the team faced significant pressure.
Despite Ohio State’s defeat in the national championship, Smith’s individual performance in the playoff was nothing short of extraordinary. His record-setting yardage and game-winning plays during the postseason were enough to earn him a well-deserved spot on the AP All-College Football Playoff team.
Other Notable Performances
While Judkins and Smith were undoubtedly two of the standout players during the 2025 College Football Playoff, they were far from the only players who made a significant impact. The AP All-Playoff team features a number of exceptional performances that helped define the postseason.
Quarterbacks Who Took Control
A number of quarterbacks showcased their elite skills and leadership during the playoff. Bryce Young, who led Alabama to another successful playoff run, was one of the top quarterbacks of the postseason. His ability to make clutch throws, extend plays with his legs, and guide his team to victories helped him earn a spot on the AP All-Playoff team.
Similarly, C.J. Stroud of Ohio State had an impressive postseason, with his calm under pressure and pinpoint accuracy making him a key player in Ohio State’s national title chase. Both quarterbacks demonstrated their ability to perform in high-pressure situations, solidifying their places among the top players of the postseason.
Defensive Standouts
The College Football Playoff also saw some exceptional defensive performances, with players like Will Anderson Jr. of Alabama and Jalen Carter of Georgia making major contributions. Anderson’s relentless pass rush and ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him a place on the AP All-Playoff team, while Carter’s ability to clog up running lanes and apply pressure from the interior defensive line was pivotal in helping his team make a deep playoff run.
On the secondary side, Kelee Ringo of Georgia was an absolute lockdown corner during the playoff, often shadowing top receivers and making key interceptions. His physicality and ability to shut down the opposing team’s passing game were crucial in Georgia’s defensive success during the postseason.
Other Offensive Stars
Alongside Judkins and Smith, there were other offensive stars who earned recognition for their remarkable performances. Jahmyr Gibbs of Alabama, who racked up impressive yardage both rushing and receiving, was another key player on the AP All-Playoff team. Gibbs’ versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the offense made him an essential piece for his team’s playoff success.
Marvin Harrison Jr., another Ohio State wide receiver, was also a standout player in the playoff. His impressive route running and ability to make difficult catches in the biggest moments were critical for Ohio State’s offense, earning him a spot among the best players of the postseason.
Conclusion: The Impact of Quinshon Judkins and Jeremiah Smith
The 2025 College Football Playoff showcased a number of players who rose to the occasion and delivered unforgettable performances. Quinshon Judkins and Jeremiah Smith were two of the standout stars who helped define the postseason. Their individual efforts, along with those of many other talented players, proved that the College Football Playoff remains one of the most exciting and high-stakes events in sports.
Judkins’ dominant performances in the backfield, along with Smith’s spectacular catches and route running, solidified their places among the best of the postseason. Their inclusion on the AP All-College Football Playoff team is a testament to their exceptional talent, leadership, and resilience.
As college football moves forward into future seasons, fans will no doubt continue to look forward to the standout performances that emerge from the College Football Playoff. The players who rise to the occasion on the biggest stage will always be remembered, and Judkins and Smith are among those who will leave their mark on the 2025 postseason.
