TDS Top 25: FSU debuts as preseason No. 1

by TopDrawerSoccer

August 17, 2015

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Even in the midst of a decent amount of turnover, last season's national champions Florida State begin the start of the 2015 season as the No. 1 team in the TopDrawerSoccer.com preseason Top 25.

Even as the Seminoles lost stalwarts Dagny Brynjarsdottir and Kristn Grubka, a slew of returning starters should have the Seminoles firmly in the title race once again. Cheyna Williams is back to wreak havoc up front, while Kirsten Crowley is back in the middle of the defense and Isabella Schmid brings bite and skill to the midfield.

2014 runners up Virginia begin the season at No. 2. Only two starters graduated from last year's squad, though they leave massive holes in the midfield, as Morgan Brian and Danielle Colaprico have swiftly moved on to bigger and better things at the next level.

Pac-12 preseason favorites Stanford saw some talent depart after last fall's College Cup appearance. But one of the best spines in the country is back however, with Jane Campbell in goal, Maddie Bauer and Laura Liedle in defense and a midfield anchored by Andi Sullivan.

After just missing out on a spot in the College Cup in 2014, Penn State brings back a slew of veteran leaders that combines well with sensational sophomore and freshman talent.

Rounding out the top five is North Carolina. The ACC program is aiming to return to the summit of college soccer, boasting a talented roster bolstered by senior Katie Bowen, with a dash of younger talent around her, such as Joanna Boyles, Summer Green and Megan Buckingham.

Here's a look at the complete TopDrawerSoccer.com Preseason Top 25.

Related Topics: Atlantic Coast, Big Ten, Pacific 12