What Time Does The AP Poll Come Out? A Comprehensive Guide

What Time Does The AP Poll Come Out? A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding when the AP Poll comes out is crucial for sports enthusiasts, particularly college football and basketball fans. The AP Poll is one of the most respected rankings in collegiate sports, and knowing the release time can help fans stay updated with their favorite teams’ standings. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the AP Poll, including its significance, the schedule for its release, and how it impacts college sports. Whether you're a casual observer or a die-hard fan, this guide will provide valuable insights into the world of college rankings.

The Associated Press (AP) Poll has been a staple in college sports since its inception. It serves as a benchmark for teams and plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, media coverage, and even playoff selections. College football and basketball teams strive to secure a high rank in this poll, which can significantly affect their postseason opportunities and overall success.

Throughout this article, we will cover various aspects of the AP Poll, including its history, the methodology behind the rankings, and the specific times when the polls are released each week. By the end of this guide, you will have a thorough understanding of what time the AP Poll comes out and its importance in the collegiate sports realm.

Table of Contents

History of the AP Poll

The AP Poll was first introduced in 1936, making it one of the oldest college sports rankings in the United States. Initially, the poll was conducted using a simple voting system among sportswriters who would submit their top ten team rankings. Over the years, the methodology has evolved, but the core idea remains the same: to provide a consensus ranking based on expert opinions.

Methodology Behind the Rankings

The AP Poll ranks teams based on a combination of factors, including win-loss records, strength of schedule, and expert votes. Here’s how it generally works:

  • Votes are collected from sportswriters and broadcasters across the country.
  • Each voter submits a list of their top 25 teams.
  • The total points accumulated by each team determine their rank.

This approach ensures that the rankings reflect a diverse set of opinions, making the AP Poll a reliable source for team rankings.

AP Poll Release Schedule

Fans often wonder, "What time does the AP Poll come out?" Typically, the AP Poll is released every Monday during the college football and basketball seasons. The exact time may vary, but it generally becomes available in the early afternoon (around 1 PM EST). This schedule allows fans to digest the rankings before the week’s games begin.

Key Dates for the AP Poll

  • College Football Season: The AP Poll starts in late August and runs through early January.
  • College Basketball Season: The AP Poll begins in mid-November and continues until the NCAA tournament concludes in early April.

Impact of the AP Poll

The AP Poll has a significant impact on college sports for several reasons:

  • **Media Coverage**: Teams ranked high in the AP Poll receive more media coverage, which can enhance their visibility and recruitment efforts.
  • **Playoff Selection**: In college football, the playoff committee often considers the AP Poll when selecting teams for the playoffs.
  • **Fan Engagement**: The rankings generate excitement among fans, leading to increased attendance at games and heightened interest in the sport.

How to Follow the AP Poll

Staying updated with the AP Poll is easy. Fans can follow these methods:

  • **Official AP Website**: The AP website provides the latest rankings and analysis.
  • **Social Media**: Follow the AP on platforms like Twitter and Facebook for real-time updates.
  • **Sports News Outlets**: Major sports networks, such as ESPN and CBS Sports, regularly cover the AP Poll and provide insights.

Notable Characters in the AP Poll

Several sportswriters and broadcasters have played a significant role in shaping the AP Poll over the years. Here’s a brief overview of some notable figures:

NameAffiliationContribution
Grantland RiceThe New York TimesOne of the first and most influential sportswriters in the AP Poll’s history.
Bob RyanThe Boston GlobeRenowned sports columnist who has influenced public opinion through his rankings.

Common Questions About the AP Poll

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the AP Poll:

  • **How is the AP Poll different from the Coaches Poll?** The Coaches Poll is based on votes from college coaches, while the AP Poll relies on sportswriters and broadcasters.
  • **Can teams drop in ranking after a win?** Yes, if teams that are ranked lower perform exceptionally well, they can leapfrog ahead in the rankings.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the AP Poll is essential for anyone interested in college sports. Knowing what time the AP Poll comes out allows fans to stay engaged with their favorite teams and the broader sports community. Be sure to check the AP Poll every Monday during the season to keep up with the latest rankings and analysis.

We encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to explore more articles on our site for further insights into college sports!

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you back on our site for more engaging content!

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