As the dust settles on the 2025 college football season, it’s never too early to start thinking about 2026. Now that the transfer portal has closed, we can finally get a clearer look at which teams have the best rosters heading into next year.
Blue-blood programs like Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas are already popping up in early College Football Playoff (CFP) predictions. CBS Sports analyst Chip Patterson has weighed in with his take on the potential 12-team playoff lineup, considering everything from roster construction to scheduling quirks—and, yeah, a bit of conference bias too.
So, which teams are actually set to shake things up in 2026? Let’s dig into the early predictions and see who might make some noise.
Top Contenders for the 2026 College Football Playoff
This offseason has been pretty wild in terms of roster changes. Those shifts have definitely shaped the way folks are predicting the 2026 CFP field.
Patterson thinks several teams that missed out on the 12-team field last fall are primed for a comeback. Interestingly, two SEC programs that won a playoff game in 2025 might not make the cut next season.
Notre Dame
Notre Dame looks like a top contender for 2026. The Fighting Irish have been a powerhouse for as long as anyone can remember, and their roster for next season is looking especially strong.
They’ve brought in a solid recruiting class and snagged some key transfers, so it’s hard not to see them making a real run at the playoffs.
Ohio State
Ohio State is right there in the mix, too. The Buckeyes always seem to reload with talent, and their history of success speaks for itself.
Their schedule is tough, but they tend to thrive in big moments. Would anyone really bet against them?
Texas
Texas is another team to keep an eye on. The Longhorns have made real progress lately and have put together a roster that can hang with the best.
With a favorable slate of games and some key players coming back, Texas could be a serious threat in the playoff race.
Teams on the Rise
Beyond the usual suspects, a few teams that missed the playoffs in 2025 are looking to break through in 2026. It’s honestly refreshing to see some new faces in the mix.
Oregon
Oregon is a team that could surprise people. The Ducks have landed some important recruits and transfers, including four-star defensive lineman Anthony Jones out of Irvine, California.
With those additions, Oregon’s got a shot at being a real contender this season.
Other Notable Teams
- Michigan: The Wolverines have a deep roster and a schedule that might work in their favor. Definitely a team to keep tabs on.
- USC: The Trojans have made some big moves and could be right in the thick of the playoff conversation.
- Florida State: The Seminoles have a talented group and seem ready to push for a playoff spot.
Factors Influencing the Predictions
Patterson’s playoff picks for 2026 lean on a handful of big factors. Roster construction, schedule strength, and good old conference bias all play a part.
Roster Construction
How a team builds its roster really matters. Squads with strong recruiting classes and impactful transfers have a clear edge.
Notre Dame and Ohio State, for example, have stacked their teams with talent. That alone puts them in the playoff conversation.
Scheduling Strength
Schedule strength is another biggie. Facing tough opponents and coming through in clutch games can make or break a season.
Texas, with a schedule that looks pretty manageable, could ride that to a deep playoff run if things break their way.
Conference Bias
And then there’s conference bias—can’t really ignore it. Teams from the SEC and Big Ten tend to get the benefit of the doubt from the selection committee.
But sometimes, that bias backfires. Just look at the two SEC teams that won a playoff game last year but might miss out this time around. College football, right?
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season is already looking wild. Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas are still the teams to beat, but Oregon and Michigan are creeping up fast.
Chip Patterson over at CBS Sports has been digging into roster moves, schedules, and the usual conference politics. His playoff projections are worth a look if you’re curious about which teams might sneak into the new 12-team bracket.
Honestly, it’s anyone’s guess how it’ll shake out. Fans are in for some chaotic Saturdays and probably a few surprises along the way.
For more detailed predictions and analysis, check out the full article on 247Sports.
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