As an RV travel enthusiast with 30 years on the road, I’ve learned that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Today, I want to talk about a big change coming to college football—something that could shake up your next RV adventure.
By 2026, college football will look a lot different. There’ll be 138 FBS teams, all ranked and sorted into different tiers.
This shift should add a new twist to the sport, especially for those of us who plan RV trips around college football games. Honestly, it’s shaping up to be a pretty intriguing time for fans and travelers alike.
The Future of College Football: 138 FBS Teams in Tiers
So, what’s actually changing? In 2026, those 138 FBS teams will get organized into clear tiers. The idea is to make things more competitive and interesting for everyone involved.
If you travel by RV, this means even more chances to check out new places and catch the energy of college football in all sorts of settings. Who wouldn’t want that?
Understanding the New Tiers
Teams will get placed into tiers based on how they perform, what resources they have, and the size of their fan base. This should help make games more evenly matched and, hopefully, more exciting to watch.
For RV travelers, it’s a fresh opportunity to see high-stakes games up close. It’s a new layer to the adventure, honestly.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the new tiers:
- Tier 1: Top teams with the most resources and biggest fan support.
- Tier 2: Strong teams, but not quite at the very top.
- Tier 3: Competitive teams that have room to grow.
- Tier 4: Programs still developing and building momentum.
Planning Your RV Trips Around College Football
The tier system opens up new ways to plan your trips. You can visit more campuses, soak in the local vibe, and really get a feel for each college town’s personality.
Top Destinations for Tier 1 Games
If you’re after the biggest matchups, Tier 1 games are where it’s at. These games should have the most buzz, and honestly, they’re a blast for any college football fan.
- Tuscaloosa, Alabama: University of Alabama—always a powerhouse, always a scene.
- Columbus, Ohio: Ohio State University brings an electric game-day atmosphere and plenty to do around town.
- Austin, Texas: University of Texas has deep football roots and a ton of things for RVers to check out.
Exploring Tier 2 and 3 Matchups
But let’s not forget about Tier 2 and 3 games. Sometimes, these matchups deliver just as much excitement, with emerging teams and a bit less chaos around town.
Plus, you might find it’s easier to relax and really enjoy the local scene. Here are a few spots worth considering:
- Madison, Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin has die-hard fans and a beautiful campus.
- Eugene, Oregon: University of Oregon—gorgeous scenery and a solid football tradition.
- Raleigh, North Carolina: NC State offers southern charm and some great football.
Maximizing Your RV Experience
If you want to make the most of RV season during college football, keep these tips in mind:
Plan Ahead
Big games will draw big crowds. Book your RV campsite early if you want a good spot near the action.
Also, double-check local rules and what amenities you’ll get at each place. It’s not always obvious what’s available until you look.
Explore Local Attractions
Every college town has its own flavor. Try the local restaurants, check out a museum, or wander through a park—you might stumble onto something memorable.
Engage with Fellow Fans
Meeting new people is half the fun. Strike up a conversation at a tailgate or in the RV park.
Swapping stories with other fans can make your trip even more special, and you never know who you’ll meet along the way.
Conclusion
By 2026, college football will split into new tiers. That alone should shake things up and bring a fresh kind of excitement to the sport.
If you travel by RV, this shift opens up all sorts of new adventures. You can roll into unfamiliar towns, catch wild games, and dive into college football’s wild culture firsthand.
Maybe you’ll chase a Tier 1 clash. Or maybe you’ll stumble into a Tier 3 matchup that surprises you. Either way, watching the season unfold from your RV just feels right.
Curious about all the changes? Take a look at the full rankings and tiers on ESPN. Safe travels—hope you catch a great game out there!
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