The upcoming release of the AP Top 25 college football rankings for the 2026 season promises to be a fascinating affair, with a potential Big Ten takeover in the top five. Here's a breakdown of the projected rankings, complete with personal commentary and analysis.
Ohio State: The Buckeyes are expected to maintain their top spot due to the continuity of their coaching staff, quarterback, and star player. The team's impressive record and consistent performance make them a strong contender for the No. 1 ranking.
Oregon: Dan Lanning's Ducks have a high floor and a talented roster, making them a top-four contender. Their ability to finish inside the top four in the past two seasons adds to their credibility.
Texas: The Longhorns, led by Steve Sarkisian, have a talented team and a buzz surrounding Arch Manning's second year. Their potential to crack the top four or five is significant.
Indiana: The Hoosiers' rise under Curt Cignetti is a testament to the program's potential. Their second-most first-place votes in the Coaches Poll suggest a strong case for a higher ranking.
Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish's schedule and squad make them a national title contender. However, the team's ranking may depend on how many voters predict the final rankings and their preferences for top teams from the previous season.
Georgia: Kirby Smart's program might get more respect from peers than the media. Their stability and recent success in the SEC make them a strong contender.
Miami: The Hurricanes have a strong case for a top-five ranking, but they may face challenges in ballot-by-ballot tiebreakers. Their 23 wins and six losses across the last two seasons are impressive.
Oklahoma: The Sooners' playoff appearance in 2025 and general support for Brent Venables' group make them a contender. Their ranking could be anywhere from No. 8 to No. 13.
Ole Miss: Pete Golding's program has set a standard for a modern SEC power. Their transition and success make them a contender in 2026.
Texas A&M: The Aggies' undefeated record and multiple road wins against ranked teams in 2025 should have earned them more first-place consideration. Their ranking may be influenced by the distrust from the previous season.
Texas Tech: The Red Raiders' talent and potential to be excellent along the lines of scrimmage make them a contender. Their ranking could be anywhere from No. 8 to No. 13.
LSU: The Tigers' excitement and transfer portal additions have caught the attention of voters. Their ranking may split the difference between the Coaches Poll and the AP voters.
Alabama: The Tide's high talent level and indecision at the quarterback position could impact their ranking. Their ability to settle the position will be crucial.
USC: The Trojans' star quarterback and 9-win campaign in 2025 solidify their spot in the top 15. Their media day confidence adds to their narrative boost.
Michigan: Kyle Whittingham's arrival at Michigan brings a Hall of Fame-worthy profile. The team's success and Whittingham's coaching caliber make them a contender.
BYU: The Cougars' consistency and top-20 finishes under Kalani Sitake make them a strong contender. Their ranking could be influenced by continuity and consistency.
Penn State: Matt Campbell's program's talent and schedule make them a top-25 contender. Their free-fall from the top five in 2025 adds an interesting dynamic.
Tennessee: The Vols' benefit of the doubt and consistent offense under Josh Heupel make them a top-20 standard. Their quarterback battle and talent level are key factors.
SMU: The Mustangs' ACC play and Rhett Lashlee's success make them a top-25 contender. Their quarterback and roster match talent and fit.
Washington: The Huskies' dynamic quarterback play and game-changers at linebacker make them a threat. Jedd Fisch's coaching and quarterback combination give them an edge.
Iowa: The Hawkeyes' rock-solid consistency under Kirk Ferentz and their top-25 rankings make them a contender. Their offensive linemen, run game, and defense are key strengths.
Florida: Jon Sumrall's hire and his success at Troy and Tulane add pop to Florida's ranking potential. The Gators' retention of talent and portal additions make them dangerous.
Missouri: Eli Drinkwitz's program's consistency and high floor make them a regular top-25 contender. Their recent history and preseason honors are significant.
Utah: The Utes' carryover from Kyle Whittingham's standard and defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley's promotion make them a contender. Their ranking may be influenced by their obligations and lack of pop.
Louisville: The Cardinals' consistency and star running back Isaac Brown make them a contender. Their quarterback's arrival and recent success add to their case.
