As we approach the 2025 season, the American Athletic Conference (AAC) continues to show its competitive nature, with teams like Army and Navy surpassing expectations last year and shaking up the rankings.
Both programs stunned college football, with Navy defeating Memphis 56-44 early in the season, while Army dominated their early games.
Despite midseason stumbles, both teams bounced back and made impressive runs, pushing other AAC teams like Tulane, Memphis, and UTSA to step up their game.
In this preview, we’ll dive into the predicted winners of the 2025 season and analyze the teams, trends, and key players to watch.
Top Contenders in the 2025 AAC Race
Tulane Green Wave
Tulane continues to be a standout team in the AAC, with a strong recruiting and transfer haul for 2025. Despite losing some star players to power-conference teams, head coach Jon Sumrall has built a team full of depth.
With a revamped roster, including key additions like quarterbacks Kadin Semonza and Brendan Sullivan, and running back Zuberi Mobley, Tulane remains one of the favorites to win the conference.
Memphis Tigers
Memphis is another top contender, though they’re facing a significant overhaul of their roster. Despite losing several starters, including their offensive linemen and key defensive players, the Tigers have reloaded through the transfer portal.
The arrival of quarterback Brendon Lewis, who has experience with Colorado and Nevada, could give Memphis the offensive boost they need to stay competitive in the AAC.
UTSA Roadrunners
UTSA also remains a team to watch, especially after an impressive late-season run last year. With quarterback Owen McCown returning, along with a solid offensive line, the Roadrunners look poised to build on their success.
While their defense has had its struggles in the past, the return of key players and several new transfers could make a significant difference in 2025.
Navy Midshipmen
Navy had a remarkable 2024 season and will look to continue their momentum in 2025. Led by quarterback Blake Horvath, who had over 1,200 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns last year, the Midshipmen have a solid offensive and defensive foundation.
Their consistency on both sides of the ball makes them a strong contender in the AAC.
Army Black Knights
Army had an outstanding 2024 season, going 12-2, but they face the challenge of replacing their star quarterback Bryson Daily.
Despite losing key players, Army has built a solid program under head coach Jeff Monken. They’ll rely on their deep running back rotation and solid defense to remain competitive.
Teams Looking for Breakout Seasons
South Florida Bulls
South Florida has shown improvement under head coach Alex Golesh. After a rough few years, the Bulls managed to finish 7-6 in 2024.
With a highly-ranked returning production rate, South Florida is expected to improve once again in 2025, potentially securing a spot in a bowl game.
East Carolina Pirates
East Carolina made a strong midseason turnaround last year, and their defense has become more reliable. While the offense loses several key players, they still have potential with returning quarterbacks and explosive wideouts.
With stability in their coaching staff, the Pirates could challenge for a top-tier finish in the AAC.
North Texas Mean Green
North Texas has been a high-scoring team under head coach Eric Morris. Despite defensive struggles, the Mean Green’s offense has been explosive, ranking near the top in successful plays. If their defense can improve under new coordinator Skyler Cassity, North Texas could surprise a few teams in the AAC.
Teams Undergoing Major Rebuilds
UAB Blazers
UAB has had a tough time under coach Trent Dilfer, but they have made moves to rebuild their roster. After disappointing seasons, the Blazers are bringing in a large number of transfers and aiming to improve their performance. However, with just two projected wins as favorites, UAB faces an uphill battle.
Florida Atlantic Owls
Florida Atlantic is in a rebuilding phase under new head coach Zach Kittley. After a few seasons of underperforming, Kittley is looking to re-establish an offense capable of competing in the AAC. With a roster full of transfers, 2025 may be a year to develop for future seasons.
Temple Owls
Temple’s struggles continue, with a significant drop-off in performance over the past five years. However, the hiring of veteran coach K.C. Keeler, who led Sam Houston State to success, brings hope to Temple’s program. Despite the challenges, Keeler’s experience could be a game-changer for the Owls.
Charlotte 49ers
Charlotte has been in decline over recent seasons, but the hiring of Tim Albin as head coach could bring a fresh approach.
With an influx of transfers, the 49ers may be looking to develop long-term success. But for 2025, their odds of success are slim as they adjust to a new system.
The AAC in 2025 is shaping up to be as competitive as ever, with a mix of teams returning talent, reloading with transfers, and undergoing major rebuilds.
Tulane, Memphis, and UTSA are the favorites to challenge for the conference title, but teams like Navy, Army, and South Florida could play spoilers.
With unpredictable changes in coaching and player movement, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for the AAC, and it will be fascinating to see how these teams adapt and perform.
