Patricia Duffy
Founder, Gymnastics Now
1. Oklahoma (+4)
Now that the dust has settled following Michigan’s upset win over Oklahoma… I still think the Sooners are the No. 1 team in the nation, if because of nothing else than the fact that they have been performing at a postseason level literally all year – they were pushing 198 in Week 1! But they’re beatable, and there’s multiple teams that could beat them. Let’s talk about them…
2. Cal (+7)
Ooh buddy, I’ve been waiting on this one! Back in the first Power Rankings of the season, I put Cal at the top, and I feel like my choice has been validated. This team put up two scores of 198+ in a matter of less than 72 hours last weekend. They’re peaking at the right time and are exceptional on beam.
3. UCLA (-)
It was another 198+ for the Bruins this week and a 10 and the highest all-around total in the country this season for Jordan Chiles. The Bruins are rolling, and you can’t help but root for them under first-year head coach Janelle McDonald. While I think Cal has the edge right now in momentum, I think this team could realistically win its first national title since 2018.
4. Michigan (-3)
Eh, Michigan’s 197.825 against Georgia isn’t really anything that concerns me. Still think they’re a title contender, just an off week… if you can call a near-198 “off.”
5. Florida (-3)
Look, the 198+ from Florida was yet another impressive mark, and we all know the Gators are title contenders, but the real story this week is Miss Riley McCusker, who went 9.95 on beam and 9.925 on bars after missing lineup spots much of the season. The entire gymternet is rooting for the Toe Point Queen who narrowly missed a spot on the U.S. Olympic team and has been through hell and back in her career. If there is a sign the world (or at least gymnastics) is healing, this is it.
6. LSU (+1)
I’m in the same boat as Hannah – how this team is doing this is beyond me, but gosh, it’s impressive. That being said, this is the one time a week I can give my opinion so I’m giving it: I respect Haleigh Bryant and her ability to perform flawless routines, but the three 10s last week was a reflection of how bad the judging has gotten in NCAA and the dire need for reform. The athletes, fans, and sport deserve more than this. Rant over.
7. Utah (-1)
I debated on whether to put Utah or LSU in this spot, especially since Utah was the victim of some asinine judging at Oregon State last weekend… *side eye* … but vault is clearly still a concern, so they’re staying put in my rankings.
8. Denver (-4)
I knew last week’s 198.150 performance from the Pioneers was more of a high than an average, but I still gave them credit for putting together a stellar meet. That being said, they were back to the low-197s this week, so for me, the jury’s still out on whether this team has what it takes to make it to nationals.
9. Michigan State (-1)
The Spartans have returned to a little bit more realistic scoring after their 197.800 at home against Northern Illinois in Week 10.
10. Oregon State (unranked)
Despite the Beavers’ egregious home scoring last weekend, I’ve got them rounding out my top 10 over Kentucky because they’ve hit 198 this season… Also, there social media manager deserves a raise.
