Image source: screengrab via ThatDataDude
© 2025 Blaze Media LLC. All rights reserved.
Is there something in Mississippi's water?
In an interactive map posted online Friday, Leon Lovett — "That Data Dude" — breaks down the Associated Press Top 25 college football teams by their players' hometowns.
The map, drawing data from ESPN, reveals that many southern schools including Mississippi State...
Image source: screengrab via ThatDataDude
...and the University of Georgia remain regional centers, primarily pulling players from a tight cluster of nearby states.
Image source: screengrab via ThatDataDude
On the other hand, western schools including the University of Southern California...
Image source: screengrab via ThatDataDude
...and the University of Arizona pull players from all across the country.
Image source: screengrab via ThatDataDude
While it might seem that schools that take in players from all over the country would have an advantage, it's worth noting that the top three schools on the AP's list — Mississippi State, Florida State and Ole Miss — are three of the most fiercely regional southern schools.
Play with the map below to explore the entire list.
—
Follow Zach Noble (@thezachnoble) on Twitter
Want to leave a tip?
We answer to you. Help keep our content free of advertisers and big tech censorship by leaving a tip today.
Want to join the conversation?
Already a subscriber?
