The 2026 college football season looks like it’s going to be a wild ride. Several powerhouse teams—Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas—are already popping up in top-12 predictions.
This post digs into those early forecasts and what they might mean for fans, especially folks hitting the road in their RVs who also love college football.
Top Contenders for the 2026 College Football Season
Looking ahead, a handful of teams are already standing out as likely frontrunners. Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas all bring strong traditions and serious talent to the table for 2026.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame’s been a college football powerhouse for decades. With a solid recruiting class and experienced coaches, the Fighting Irish seem ready for another playoff run.
If you’re following them on the road, you might want to stop by Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. That place is legendary.
Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State’s always in the mix. Their high-powered offense and tough defense make them a real threat every year.
Fans traveling in RVs should experience a game at the Horseshoe in Columbus, Ohio. It’s a must-see if you’re a Buckeyes fan.
Texas Longhorns
The Texas Longhorns look like they’re on the verge of a big comeback. With a talented roster and some favorable matchups, they could really shake things up in 2026.
If you’re rolling through Austin, Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium is a great spot to soak up the Longhorns’ energy on game day.
Other Teams to Watch
Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas might grab the headlines, but there are a few other teams you can’t ignore this season. Some are perennial powerhouses, while others are rising fast and could catch fans off guard.
Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama’s always in the playoff conversation. They just know how to recruit and reload every year.
If you’re heading to Tuscaloosa, Bryant-Denny Stadium offers a game-day atmosphere that’s tough to beat.
Georgia Bulldogs
Georgia’s been climbing for a while now, and 2026 could be their big moment. With a balanced team and a sharp coaching staff, the Bulldogs might go deep in the playoffs.
Sanford Stadium in Athens is a fantastic stop for RV travelers wanting to catch a Bulldogs game.
USC Trojans
Don’t sleep on the USC Trojans. They’ve got a rich history and keep pulling in top recruits, so they’ll be a tough opponent in 2026.
Catching a game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum lets you enjoy both football and that classic LA weather.
Key Matchups to Watch
Some games in 2026 could totally change the playoff picture. These are the ones you’ll want to circle on the calendar—perfect for both diehard fans and RV travelers chasing the best matchups.
Notre Dame vs. Ohio State
This early-season clash between Notre Dame and Ohio State could set the tone for everything that follows. Both teams have a shot at the top, so this one’s huge.
If you’re up for it, hitting either South Bend or Columbus for this game would be unforgettable.
Texas vs. Oklahoma
The Red River Showdown never disappoints. In 2026, with playoff stakes on the line, it’ll be even more intense than usual.
The party in Dallas during this rivalry is something every college football fan should see at least once.
Alabama vs. Georgia
Alabama and Georgia could be previewing the SEC Championship when they meet. Both teams are expected to be right in the playoff hunt.
Whether you’re in Tuscaloosa or Athens, the energy for this matchup is off the charts.
Planning Your RV Trip Around College Football
If you love college football and road trips, why not combine the two for the 2026 season? With a little planning, your fall could be unforgettable.
Book Early
Big games mean big crowds. RV spots in places like South Bend, Columbus, and Austin fill up fast, so you’ll want to reserve your spot as early as you can.
Plan Your Route
Map your route ahead of time so you can catch the games you care about most. Planning around key matchups helps you make the most of your travels.
Enjoy the Local Culture
Every college town has its own vibe. Take some time to explore, try the food, and really soak up the game-day atmosphere.
It’s those little moments that make an RV trip like this stick in your memory.
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season looks like it’ll be a wild ride. Several top teams are chasing the national championship, and honestly, it’s tough to pick a clear favorite right now.
No matter if you root for Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas, or someone else, there’s something for everyone. If you plan your RV trip to hit the best matchups, you get the energy of game day plus the freedom of the open road.
Want more predictions and hot takes? Check out the full college football playoff predictions for the 2026 season.
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