A Sell Signal for Traditional Powerhouses
Bleacher Report analyst David Kenyon recently released a "buy or sell" breakdown of the top 2026 College Football Playoff contenders, and his verdict on two historic programs reads like a cautionary note. Both USC and Michigan earned a "sell" designation, a label that reflects the outlet’s view that their paths to the expanded 12‑team bracket are far from guaranteed.
The new playoff format, which now accommodates twelve teams, has opened the door for more schools to chase a national championship, but it also amplifies the importance of schedule strength and roster continuity. Kenyon points out that USC will navigate a brutal Big Ten slate that includes matchups against Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State and Washington, while Michigan’s agenda features games against Oklahoma, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon and Ohio State.
USC’s outlook hinges on the return of quarterback Jayden Maiava, who posted 3,711 passing yards, 24 touchdowns and 10 interceptions last season. The Trojans also welcome the nation’s top recruiting class and retain 17 starters, yet they must replace key contributors such as Husan Longstreet, Devan Thompkins and Makai Lemon. Adding to the defensive overhaul, former TCU Horned Frogs head coach Gary Patterson has taken the role of defensive coordinator, bringing a fresh scheme to a unit that will need to fill the void left by departed stars.
Across the country, Michigan is undergoing its own transition. New head coach Kyle Whittingham has reshaped the staff, parting ways with six assistants, and will rely on sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood, who logged 11 touchdowns against nine interceptions in the previous campaign. The Wolverines’ schedule is equally demanding, featuring contests with Oklahoma, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon and Ohio State, and analysts project an 8‑4 record for the team, which currently sits at No. 15 in the post‑spring too‑early top‑25 rankings.
The combined effect of tough conference slates, roster turnover and the heightened stakes of a twelve‑team playoff has led Bleacher Report to treat both programs as sell candidates. While the predictions are not definitive, they underscore how even traditional powerhouses must prove resilience before earning a guaranteed spot in the championship chase.