Attached are the USCHO’s initial college hockey rankings for the 2025-26 season. 2024-25 national championship Western Michigan University is in the top spot, followed by national runner-up Boston University. Also, Big Ten teams claim six of the top 20 spots, led by Michigan State at number 3. The Spartans have the opportunity very soon to leapfrog BU in the rankings, as they travel to the east coast in mid-October for a weekend set against the Terriers.
Not surprising given their recruiting success, Penn State, Michigan & Michigan State all received first-place votes. However, I am a bit surprised that the Wolverines did not land in the top ten given the significant upgrade between the pipes via the addition of Nashville 2025 second-round pick Jack Ivankovic. Time will tell how he and his teammates affect the college hockey landscape.