The 2026 college football season is creeping up, and fans all over are buzzing with hope. Still, as the offseason drags on, it’s probably time to take a harder look at what might actually trip up the top teams.
Joel Klatt, FOX Sports’ lead college football analyst, has been talking about the biggest questions facing the top 12 teams in his post-spring top 25 poll. He points to things like replacing key players and fixing weak spots that could decide how a season turns out.
Let’s check out what Klatt thinks are the most pressing issues for these top squads.
Michigan: Can Bryce Underwood Replicate Devon Dampier’s Rushing Impact?
Michigan’s new offensive coordinator, Jason Beck, has a bit of a puzzle on his hands. Can he turn quarterback Bryce Underwood into a runner like Devon Dampier?
Beck leaned hard on quarterback runs at Utah, but the Big Ten is a different beast. If Underwood can really help in the run game, Michigan might end up running the conference.
Oklahoma: Will the Running Backs Support John Mateer?
For Oklahoma, head coach Brent Venables needs his running backs to take some heat off quarterback John Mateer. Last year, Mateer did way too much on the ground, and that took a toll.
If the backs can step up, maybe Mateer stays healthier—and Oklahoma could make some real noise in the SEC.
USC: Is the Defensive Line Ready?
USC’s defensive line has been shaky under Lincoln Riley. Even with all their offense, the defense just hasn’t stopped the run when it matters.
Any improvement up front could make USC a legit threat. Sometimes, even a small step forward can mean everything.
Texas A&M: Can Marcel Reed Perform in Big Games?
Texas A&M needs quarterback Marcel Reed to show up when it counts. He started strong last season but seemed to disappear in the biggest moments.
If Reed can be steady under pressure, the Aggies could finally break through.
LSU: Can Lane Kiffin’s New Roster Gel Quickly?
Lane Kiffin’s first year at LSU comes with a flood of new faces—40, thanks to the transfer portal. That’s almost a brand-new team.
The real question is whether these guys can come together fast and buy into Kiffin’s style. Early games against tough opponents will say a lot.
Texas: Is the Run Game Fixed?
Texas couldn’t get the run game going last season, and that left quarterback Arch Manning carrying too much. Steve Sarkisian’s best teams always run the ball well.
If they can fix that, Manning won’t have to do it all himself.
Miami (Fla.): How Will They Replace Key Linemen?
Miami has to replace three first-round linemen, which is no small task. Head coach Mario Cristobal is known for developing linemen, but this is a big test even for him.
Staying strong in the trenches is everything if Miami wants to keep up at the top.
Georgia: Where Are the Playmakers?
Georgia’s still the SEC’s top dog, but their postseason stumbles show they’re missing something on offense. Losing stars like Brock Bowers doesn’t help.
They need new playmakers to step up if they’re going to win those wild, high-scoring games.
Indiana: Who Will Replace D’Angelo Ponds?
Indiana leaned heavily on cornerback D’Angelo Ponds last year. His versatility allowed them to get creative on defense.
Finding someone to fill his shoes is crucial if they want to keep that defensive edge.
Ohio State: Is the Offensive Line Fixed?
Ohio State’s offensive line has let them down in big games. Protecting quarterback Julian Sayin and getting the run game going are top priorities.
New offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has experience, but will it be enough to turn things around?
Notre Dame: Can They Replace Their Star Running Backs?
Notre Dame’s got to figure out how to move on from two first-round running backs, including Heisman finalist Jeremiyah Love. That’s a tall order.
They’ll need to develop new talent fast if they want to keep their offense balanced and dangerous.
Oregon: Can They Overcome Issues in Big Games?
Oregon’s defense has struggled at the worst possible times. They gave up big points in recent College Football Playoff losses.
Head coach Dan Lanning has brought in new coordinators. The hope? That they’ll finally tighten up the defense in big games and give their explosive offense some backup.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, a lot hangs in the balance for Oregon. If you’re curious about what else could shape the year, the full article’s over at FOX Sports.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
