The 2026 college football season is already starting to heat up, even though we’re still a ways out. Early preseason rankings and predictions are everywhere, and fans are already talking about what might be in store.
Teams are gearing up, and there’s plenty of buzz about top contenders, returning stars, and the ever-present possibility of wild upsets. Let’s dig into the key storylines and projections for this coming season, with a closer look at the teams that could really shake things up.
Preseason Rankings and Early Favorites
As the 2026 season creeps closer, a few teams are already popping up as favorites in the early rankings. Ohio State, Texas, and Miami are leading the pack, each with their own storylines and some pretty stacked rosters.
Ohio State’s Quest for Redemption
Ohio State spent most of last season at No. 1 in the AP Poll, but that all changed after a loss to Indiana in the Big Ten title game. Now, the Buckeyes are out for redemption, with Heisman finalist Julian Sayin and possible 2027 No. 1 pick Jeremiah Smith leading the charge.
The defense took a hit with some big departures, but new playcaller Arthur Smith has the offense looking scary as ever. Can they rebuild on defense and keep up the fireworks on offense? We’ll see.
- Key Players: Julian Sayin (QB), Jeremiah Smith (WR)
- Challenges: Rebuilding the defense under Matt Patricia
- Key Games: Season opener against Ball State, barometer game following week
Texas Longhorns: Aiming for the Top
Texas kicked off 2025 as the preseason No. 1, and here they are again, right back in the spotlight. Quarterback Arch Manning is at the center of it all, and if he gets hot early, the Heisman talk will only get louder.
Texas’ Early Challenges
The Longhorns have a tough start, with an Ohio State rematch and a tricky game against Tennessee. Still, with a fierce pass rush and transfer running back Hollywood Smothers in the mix, Texas looks ready for the challenge.
- Key Players: Arch Manning (QB), Hollywood Smothers (RB)
- Challenges: Tough early schedule
- Key Games: Ohio State, Tennessee, Oklahoma
Miami Hurricanes: Rising to the Occasion
Miami is definitely a team to keep an eye on, especially after last season’s big run. The Hurricanes knocked off Notre Dame to snag the No. 1 spot for the first time since 2002, and they’re chasing a sixth national title now.
The offense is dangerous, and the schedule sets up pretty well for them. If things fall their way, Miami could be in for a big year.
Miami’s Path to the Top
They’ll face Duke, Virginia Tech, and Boston College down the stretch, and the ACC title game could end up being a huge moment. Miami’s offense has the firepower, but can they keep the momentum rolling all season?
- Key Players: TBD (Key players for Miami not specified in the source text)
- Challenges: Maintaining momentum through the season
- Key Games: Notre Dame, Duke, Virginia Tech
Other Contenders and Key Matchups
Ohio State, Texas, and Miami might be the early favorites, but you can’t count out teams like Georgia, Notre Dame, and Oregon. Any of these could shake up the rankings if things break their way.
Georgia Bulldogs
Georgia won’t play Texas during SEC play this year, but there’s a real chance they’ll meet in the SEC Championship Game. The Bulldogs are always tough, and plenty of folks will be watching to see how they handle the season.
- Key Players: TBD (Key players for Georgia not specified in the source text)
- Challenges: Navigating the SEC schedule
- Key Games: SEC Championship Game potential
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame started strong and could jump to No. 1 with a win over BYU. But with road games at Oregon and Indiana, the Irish will have to stay sharp if they want to stay in the mix for the top spot.
- Key Players: C.J. Carr (QB)
- Challenges: Tough road games
- Key Games: BYU, Oregon, Indiana
Oregon Ducks
Oregon could be unbeaten heading into November—wouldn’t that be something? Their matchups with Illinois and Michigan are going to be absolutely critical for their playoff hopes.
- Key Players: TBD (Key players for Oregon not specified in the source text)
- Challenges: Maintaining an unbeaten record
- Key Games: Illinois, Michigan
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be a wild one. You’ve got Ohio State, Texas, and Miami all looking like serious threats at the top.
Georgia, Notre Dame, and Oregon aren’t just background noise either. They’re ready to shake things up and maybe steal the spotlight.
Honestly, it’s hard not to get a little hyped. Will one of the favorites run away with it, or does someone crash the party late?
If you want more projections and the latest updates, check out the full article on CBS Sports.
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