As the dust settles on the 2025 college football season, it’s honestly never too early to peek ahead at what 2026 might bring. Spring football is already in full swing on a bunch of campuses, and with the transfer portal finally closed, teams are starting to look like, well, actual teams again.
So what should we expect? Here are some bold predictions for the 2026 college football season, with a spotlight on Texas, Ohio State, LSU, BYU, and a few others that might surprise you. These ideas are pulled from Brant’s deep-dive over at Rotoballer, and honestly, it could be a wild ride this year.
USC’s Tanook Hines to Emerge as a Biletnikoff Finalist
Tanook Hines might not be a household name yet, but that could change fast at USC. After a freshman year where he grabbed 34 balls for 561 yards and two touchdowns, Hines looks ready to break out.
With Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane off chasing NFL dreams, Hines probably becomes Jayden Maiava’s top guy. Don’t be surprised if his stats rival Lemon’s, putting him in the Biletnikoff Award conversation.
Why Hines is the Man to Watch
He’s got that slick route-running and legit speed that makes him dangerous in this Trojans offense. Sure, USC added NC State’s Terrell Anderson and five-star freshman Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, but Hines already has a connection with Maiava, and that’s tough to beat.
LSU’s Offense to Resemble the Legendary 2019 Squad
Lane Kiffin’s debut in Baton Rouge could be a show. People are already whispering about the 2019 Joe Burrow vibes, and it’s not totally out of left field.
Transfers like Jordan Seaton (Colorado) and Sam Leavitt (Arizona State) boost the Tigers’ offense. Harlem Berry and Caden Durham are back at running back, and the receiver room is loaded with guys like Eugene Wilson III (Florida) and Winston Watkins (Ole Miss).
Key Players to Watch
- Jordan Seaton: Colorado transfer, anchoring the line.
- Sam Leavitt: Veteran QB who’s seen a lot.
- Trey’Dez Green: A 6-foot-7 tight end who’s a matchup nightmare.
- Winston Watkins: Explosive transfer from Ole Miss.
Boise State Primed for a CFP Return
After a rough 2025, Spencer Danielson’s Broncos look set for a bounce-back in 2026. Quarterback Maddux Madsen leads the way, with Dylan Riley and Sire Gaines forming a tough running back duo.
They’re bringing back five defensive starters, which should help stabilize things. A Pac-12 title run isn’t out of the question.
Challenges Ahead
The non-conference schedule isn’t doing them any favors—opening at Oregon and then hosting Memphis. If they can split those, though, the rest of the slate isn’t nearly as scary, and a CFP return feels within reach.
Ohio State to Face Uncharted Territory
Ohio State fans aren’t used to losing more than two games, but 2026 could be a reality check. The Buckeyes’ schedule is rough, and the defense is in flux after losing stars like Caden Curry and Caleb Downs.
They’ll have to lean on some untested players and a few transfers to fill the gaps. It’s a big ask, honestly.
Key Matchups
- At Texas
- At Iowa
- At Indiana
- At USC
- Vs Oregon
- Vs Michigan
Michigan’s New Era Under Kyle Whittingham
After the whole Sherrone Moore mess, Michigan got a steady hand in Kyle Whittingham. Sophomore QB Bryce Underwood looks promising, and there’s a solid supporting cast around him.
The defense should be tough, too, especially with Utah transfers John Henry Daley and Smith Snowden coming over. Not a bad foundation at all.
Games to Watch
Michigan’s got tough home games with Oklahoma, Iowa, Penn State, and Indiana, plus road trips to Oregon and Ohio State. Winning four out of those six probably gets them into the CFP.
BYU’s Quest for a CFP Berth
BYU’s been flirting with a CFP spot for a couple of years. With Bear Bachmeier back at quarterback and LJ Martin returning for his senior season, this could be their shot.
The defense is experienced, with starters returning at every level. That consistency could make all the difference.
Critical Matchups
- Vs Notre Dame
- Vs Arizona
- At TCU
- At Utah
Ole Miss vs. LSU: The Game of the Year
Lane Kiffin heading back to Oxford to face his old team is just too good. Both Ole Miss and LSU are making their SEC debuts, and the hype is real.
Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss, somehow in his sixth season, will be one to watch. This one’s got fireworks written all over it.
Players to Watch
- Trinidad Chambliss: Ole Miss quarterback.
- Kewan Lacy: Running back.
- Deuce Alexander: Receiver.
- Lucas Carneiro: Star kicker.
Alabama’s Lotzeir Brooks to Surpass Ryan Williams
Ryan Williams had a breakout freshman year at Alabama but struggled with drops last season. Lotzeir Brooks, though, looked like a future star from day one.
He’s expected to take over as the main guy for the Tide. Brooks just feels more reliable, especially when the pressure is on.
Why Brooks is the Future
He came up big in the CFP comeback against Oklahoma, which says a lot. With another year under his belt, Brooks is ready for the spotlight and should be Alabama’s top target.
Notre Dame vs. Miami: A Monumental Matchup
Notre Dame and Miami meeting in early November could be massive. If both teams are 8-0 as expected, this matchup will shape the whole season.
Miami’s Mario Cristobal has worked the transfer portal well, while Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman brings back loads of talent. It’s hard not to get excited about this one.
Key Players
- Darian Mensah: Miami quarterback.
- Mark Fletcher Jr.: Miami running back.
- CJ Carr: Notre Dame quarterback.
- Leonard Moore: Notre Dame cornerback.
Arch Manning and Texas: Ready for the Big Stage
Arch Manning, with 15 career starts now, is set to take Texas up a level in 2026. He’s got a loaded receiver group, including Auburn transfer Cam Coleman, and a tough running back duo to work with.
The defense, led by EDGE rusher Colin Simmons, shouldn’t be overlooked either. Texas feels like a legit title threat—maybe this is finally their year?
Challenges on the Road
Texas isn’t getting any breaks this season. They’re set to play Ohio State, Tennessee, Missouri, LSU, and Texas A&M.
That’s a brutal lineup. Still, with the talent and experience stacked on their roster, you’d be hard-pressed to count them out against anyone.
If you want to dive deeper, the full article’s over at Rotoballer.
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