In a stunning turn of events, college football’s traditional powerhouses have been upended by the rise of lesser-known programs. The transformative effects of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal have changed everything.
The latest college football playoffs feature an unexpected Final Four: Ole Miss, Indiana, Oregon, and Miami. This shift highlights just how much these new rules are shaking up the sport.
The New Era of College Football Parity
The 2026 college football playoffs really show how much things have changed with NIL and the transfer portal. Alabama, Ohio State, and other giants aren’t dominating like they used to.
Instead, teams like Indiana and Ole Miss are grabbing headlines. The new rules have made it possible for more programs to compete for the spotlight.
Indiana’s Meteoric Rise
Indiana, long known more for basketball, has used the transfer portal and NIL to build a legit football program. The Hoosiers clinched their first outright Big Ten championship since 1945 by defeating Ohio State.
They also pulled off a huge win over Alabama in the Rose Bowl. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza became the first Hoosier to win the Heisman Trophy—no small feat.
Ole Miss: Breaking New Ground
Ole Miss hadn’t won an SEC title since 1963, but suddenly they’ve built a roster that can topple giants like Georgia. Their success this season, with former head coach Lane Kiffin now at LSU, says a lot about how fast things can change.
With NIL and the transfer portal, Ole Miss can attract top-tier talent that might’ve gone elsewhere in the past. It’s honestly making college football a lot more interesting.
The Role of Financial Backing
Financial resources matter more than ever in this new era. Oregon, for example, has long benefited from the deep pockets of Nike founder Phil Knight.
While the Ducks haven’t won a national championship yet, their financial muscle keeps them in the mix year after year. Money isn’t everything, but it sure helps.
Oregon’s Steady Ascent
With a wealthy backer, Oregon keeps attracting top talent. Their spot in this year’s playoffs shows how they’ve used NIL and the portal to their advantage.
They haven’t clinched a national title yet, but you get the feeling they’re always on the verge. Maybe it’s just a matter of time.
Miami’s Resurgence
Miami, a program with five national titles but none since 2001, is back in the conversation. The Hurricanes haven’t won a conference championship since 2003, but NIL and the transfer portal have given them new life.
Miami’s return to the national stage feels like proof these new rules can help revive even the biggest names that had faded.
Other Notable Examples
The impact of NIL and the transfer portal goes way beyond just the Final Four. Programs like Texas Tech, Vanderbilt, and BYU are also seeing the benefits.
Texas Tech’s Rise
Texas Tech has gone from obscurity to real contender status. They’re likely to finish the season ranked higher than both Texas and Texas A&M.
The Red Raiders’ rapid rise shows just how much NIL and the transfer portal can do for a program.
Vanderbilt’s Unprecedented Success
Vanderbilt, better known for academics than athletics, has made big strides in both football and basketball. Their 10-2 football season, including a blowout win over Tennessee, is something nobody saw coming.
It’s wild to see the Commodores leveling the playing field like this.
BYU’s Strategic Moves
BYU, navigating life as a football independent, has leaned into NIL and the transfer portal. The Cougars’ recent success in football and basketball—including a 22-4 football record over the last two seasons—shows how strategic they’ve been.
They’ve managed to stay competitive without losing sight of their core values. That balance seems to be working out pretty well for them.
Challenges and Opportunities
NIL and the transfer portal have sparked some positive changes, but let’s not pretend it’s all smooth sailing. National oversight feels necessary to keep things fair and functional.
Even so, the opportunities here are pretty massive for programs all over the country. There’s a sense that the future of college football will be shaped by how teams adapt to these new rules.
Some schools will figure out how to make the most of these tools, no matter what their past looks like. If you’re curious for a deeper dive, the full article’s over at Deseret News.
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