Conference strength has never been just a talking point -- it's often the story of the season itself. Heading into 2025, the debate over which leagues deserve respect continues to simmer, especially after last year's College Football Playoff field sparked heated arguments that even spilled over into media days this summer.

Not all schedules are created equal. Some college football teams have much more difficult roads. We look and the 10 most-challenging.

Now that the dust has settled following both respective polls' release, it is time to take another look at the initial rankings. Among those offering their own takes on the opening standings is USA TODAY Sports writer Paul Myerberg,