**Chris Murray’s AP Top 25 Ballot Shifts Dramatically After Exciting Weekend**

In the latest reshuffling of his AP Top 25 ballot, Nevada Sports Net columnist Chris Murray sees significant changes in college football rankings, notably within the Mountain West and Southeastern conferences.

The Mountain West Conference has emerged with a new top contender after Alabama's significant win over Georgia, with the top-ranked Crimson Tide overpowering the Bulldogs in an explosive first half and sealing the victory with a late touchdown to clinch a 41-34 triumph at home. Lane Kiffin, known for his offensive prowess and a product of Mountain West, continues to prove his coaching mettle. Highlighting the conference, Murray remains bullish on UNLV, placing the Rebels at No. 15 on his ballot, anticipating their inaugural entry into the AP Top 25. Additionally, Boise State climbs to No. 20, propelled by running back Ashton Jeanty's impressive stats—845 yards and 13 touchdowns in just four games, including a phenomenal 259-yard, four-touchdown performance against previously undefeated Washington State in a decisive 45-24 win.

Ole Miss, which previously stood strong in Murray's top 10, plunged in the rankings following a home defeat to Kentucky. The Rebels, who were No. 6 last week, sit at No. 25 now while suffering from a thin résumé. Despite winning four games against Furman, Middle Tennessee, Wake Forest, and Georgia Southern, those opponents collectively held a dismal 2-10 record against FBS teams, with both wins attributed to Georgia Southern. After narrowly losing to Kentucky 20-17, a team that also came close against Georgia, the Rebels dropped 16 spots. Utah too experienced a significant drop, moving from No. 9 to No. 24 after a home loss to Arizona, a game played with a backup quarterback.

Chris Murray's fresh ballot reflects the dynamic nature of college football, with new teams rising to prominence and formidable programs being tested each week. His keen insights and latest rankings provide a glimpse into the shifting landscape of the 2023 season.