Tulane University’s athletic department achieved its second-highest fall ranking in the history of the Learfield Directors’ Cup, according to data released by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USA Today. The annual award measures collegiate athletic success based on each institution’s performance in NCAA Championships.
For the 2025 fall season, Tulane accumulated 137 points, tying for 48th place nationally. This result leads all schools in the American Athletic Conference and ranks second among Group of 6 programs, with only New Mexico from the Mountain West Conference placing higher at 23rd with 195 points.
Tulane’s previous best fall ranking was a tie for 43rd in 1998, when its football team completed an undefeated season and won both a conference title and a bowl game.
“Congratulations to our incredible fall sports teams on their outstanding performances and dedication this season,” said Ben Weiner Director of Athletics Chair David Harris. “Seeing our programs shine is a testament to the hard work, teamwork, and spirit of excellence that defines Tulane Athletics.”
The football program contributed significantly with 56 points after finishing its season with an 11-3 record. The team secured its second American Conference championship and made its first appearance in the College Football Playoff. The Green Wave ended the year ranked 18th in both the Associated Press Top 25 and USA Today Coaches Poll.
Men’s cross country added another strong showing by winning the South Central Region Championship and finishing 21st at both the NCAA Championship Meet and in national coaches’ rankings. Bernard Cheruiyot became Tulane’s first male All-American in cross country following his performance at nationals.
Women’s cross country earned points as well by capturing its second conference title in three years and qualifying Blezzin Kimutai for nationals.
The cross country coaching staff received top honors within their conference, while head coach Adrian Myers was named Men’s South Central Region Coach of the Year through the Johnny Morriss Award.
A detailed breakdown of current scoring structures for the Directors’ Cup can be found on NACDA’s official website: https://nacda.com/sports/2018/7/17/directorscup-nacda-directorscup-scoring-html.aspx
