Tulane Football Makes History as Preseason Top 25 Ranked Team
Tulane’s football team has achieved a historic feat by being ranked 23rd in the USA Today preseason coaches’ poll. This marks the first time in the program’s history that they have been ranked before the start of the season since the coaches began releasing preseason rankings in 1978. The recognition comes after a remarkable 2022 season, where the Green Wave finished with a record-breaking 12-2 and secured victory over USC in the Cotton Bowl. They ended the season at an impressive ninth place in the final coaches’ poll.
The Green Wave continues to make waves in the college football landscape as they were also picked as the preseason favorites to win the American Athletic Conference, receiving the media vote to repeat as conference champions. Tulane received 225 points from the ballot of 66 voters, making them the only team outside of a current power five conference (plus Notre Dame) to make it to this year’s top 25. Texas-San Antonio, a new member of the AAC and back-to-back Conference USA champion, narrowly missed the cut at 29th place with 59 points.
In contrast, the three teams that left the AAC for the Big 12 this year – Houston, Cincinnati, and Central Florida – only garnered a combined total of three points, all of which went to Houston. Cincinnati and Central Florida did not receive any points in the preseason rankings.
Under the guidance of head coach Willie Fritz and with a strong roster, including senior quarterback Michael Pratt, four starting offensive linemen, the entire starting defensive front, and first-team All-AAC cornerback Jarius Monroe, Tulane is receiving well-deserved recognition. This year’s preseason ranking is a significant improvement from their last ranked season in 1998, where they finished seventh in the coaches’ poll but received zero points in the following preseason rankings due to coaching and personnel changes.
Looking ahead, Tulane is gearing up for their season opener on September 2 against South Alabama at Yulman Stadium. They will then face off against Ole Miss on the following Saturday, with Ole Miss holding a spot ahead of Tulane at No. 22 in the rankings.
Despite losing some key receivers from last season, head coach Fritz expresses confidence in Tulane’s wide receiver group. Senior Jha’Quan Jackson and Notre Dame transfer Lawrence Keys, both sure starters, lead the talented group. Additionally, players like Chris Brazzell, Dontae Fleming, Yulkeith Brown, and Phat Watts are all competing for significant roles, showcasing the depth and potential of Tulane’s receiving corps.
Tulane’s preseason ranking in the coaches’ poll is a testament to the team’s success and growth. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the Green Wave will undoubtedly look to build upon their achievements and continue making history in the college football world.
Please note: The Associated Press preseason poll will be released on August 15th.
